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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Gambit, Part I"
#40277-256
Story by
Christopher Hatton
and
Naren Shankar
Teleplay by
Naren Shankar
Directed by
Peter Lauritson
THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
Copyright 1993 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
FINAL DRAFT
JULY 26, 1993
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Gambit, Part I"
CAST
PICARD BARAN
RIKER BARTENDER
DATA CHEKOTE
BEVERLY GIUSTI
TROI NARIK
WORF SANDERS
GEORDI TALLERA
COMPUTER VOICE VEKOR
YRANAC
TRANSPORTER CHIEF (V.O.)
Non-Speaking Non-Speaking
N.D. SECURITY N.D. BAR PATRONS
N.D. CREWMEMBERS
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Gambit, Part I"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
BRIDGE
READY ROOM MERCENARY SHIP
RIKER'S QUARTERS
OBSERVATION LOUNGE PLANET SURFACE -
SICKBAY CLEARING
YRANAC'S QUARTERS
DESSICA TWO
BAR
MERCENARY SHIP
BRIDGE
RIKER'S QUARTERS
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Gambit, Part I"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
BARAN buh-RAN
BARRADAS buh-RAD-us
DEBRUNE deh-BROON
DESSICAN DESS-i-kan
GIUSTI JOOS-tee
GLYPH GLIFF
NAFIR nah-FEAR
NARIK NAH-rick
SAKETHAN suh-KETH-en
TALLERA ta-LARE-uh
VEKOR veh-KORE
YADALLA yuh-DOLL-uh
YRANAC yuh-RAN-ick
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"Gambit, Part I"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 INT. A BAR
It's a rough, wretched watering-hole, just the kind of
place you'd expect on a frontier world at the edge of
Federation space. The patrons are a hard and nasty
bunch -- if you're looking for trouble, this is a good
place to find it.
2 TROI
is at the counter, speaking with the BARTENDER, a
large, intimidating male alien. Deanna is not in
uniform and instead is wearing clothes that look
perfectly normal in this place.
There's a teasing, insouciant quality to Troi -- the
bartender is attracted to her and she knows it; she's
using it.
BARTENDER
Tell me... why is it so important
that you find this man?
Troi smiles, hinting at mystery.
TROI
We had some business dealings...
he owes me money.
BARTENDER
(suggestively)
If we had business dealings, I can
tell you I wouldn't disappear...
TROI
Maybe we should discuss that
possibility. But first, I have to
find him... collect the money I'm
owed...
BARTENDER
Let me guess... you and your
friend were smuggling relics from
the ruins of Nafir...
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/27/93 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
TROI
(maybe)
Mmmmmm...
BARTENDER
A dangerous game.
TROI
Maybe I like danger.
He eyes her for a moment, hoping that's an invitation.
BARTENDER
Then you've come to the right
place.
(leans toward her)
I'll be closing in a few hours.
Perhaps we can discuss this...
more privately.
Troi would rather have a tooth drilled, but she smiles
sweetly at him.
TROI
If I can't find him, I'll have to
move on. Are you sure you haven't
seen him?
BARTENDER
Human... two meters tall... smooth-headed...
no, I don't remember
anyone like that.
Troi eyes him.
TROI
You're lying...
BARTENDER
And you're Betazoid... I thought
so.
He leans in to her, speaks quietly.
BARTENDER
The people who come here count on
a certain amount of... anonymity.
If I started answering questions
about them... even to a very
beautiful woman... I wouldn't be
in business very long.
He sets another drink in front of her.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - TEASER 3.
2 CONTINUED: (2)
BARTENDER
As a businesswoman, I'm sure you
understand.
And he moves off, leaving a frustrated Troi.
3 RIKER
is in another part of the room. He is with a group of
people who are in a raucous, merry mood. He laughs
heartily with them, presumably at a tale that has just
been told, claps one of them on the back, and
withdraws.
RIKER
Great story... I'll have to
remember that the next time I'm in
a knife fight...
He turns to encounter WORF, and the two move aside and
talk quietly.
RIKER
(continuing)
Any luck?
WORF
I think the one over there knows
something.
Worf looks casually toward a table in the background,
and Riker's gaze follows.
4 YRANAC - THEIR POV
A sleazy male Yridian sits alone at a table, sipping a
drink and watching the scene around him furtively.
5 BACK TO SCENE
WORF
He wouldn't admit to having seen
the Captain... but he said that
anyone who visited the ruins of
Nafir would probably come here
eventually... I suspect he knows
more.
RIKER
Let's go.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - TEASER 4.
5 CONTINUED:
Riker moves immediately toward the table; Worf tries to
tell him something.
WORF
(loud whisper)
Commander -- I told him --
But Riker is out of earshot. Worf follows him to the
table where Yranac is sitting. The man looks up a bit
nervously as they approach and sit with him.
RIKER
My friend here tells me you might
know about the man we're looking
for.
Yranac's eyes dart around the room, as though checking
to see if he's being observed.
YRANAC
The only reason I'm talking to
you... is that I have a sister,
too.
Riker glances at Worf, puzzled.
WORF
(covering for Riker)
I explained to him... that we are
looking for the man who
impregnated your sister.
There is a brief beat as Riker looks at Worf, stifling
his response (is that the best story you could come up
with?); then he turns back to Yranac.
RIKER
You can imagine how much this
means to me.
YRANAC
Family honor is important... If
someone had defiled my sister...
I would do anything... pay
anything... to find the one
responsible.
Yranac's message is clear: he's selling this
information.
RIKER
I see. And just how much would
"anything" be?
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - TEASER 5.
5 CONTINUED: (2)
YRANAC
As much as... five bars of goldpress
latinum.
But before Riker can respond, a hand snakes around
Yranac's neck, pulling him up and off the chair.
BARTENDER
I think you've had too much to
drink. You'd better leave.
The patrons in the immediate vicinity glance at the
incident, and move away slightly. They're used to
these unpleasantries and don't want to get involved.
BARTENDER
On your way, Yranac.
Suddenly a phaser comes into frame and presses against
the bartender's head.
BEVERLY'S VOICE
I'm sorry... but I think he wants
to stay.
The bartender flickers his eyes toward BEVERLY, who is
also dressed in local clothes, and who holds the
phaser. The bartender lets go of Yranac.
BEVERLY
(to Yranac)
Sit down.
Yranac does. Beverly keeps the phaser trained on the
bartender. Riker leans in to Yranac.
RIKER
This --
(gestures to Beverly)
-- is my sister.
(beat)
She's angry.
(beat)
She has a vicious temper. I
wouldn't cross her.
Troi joins them and positions herself on the other side
of Yranac.
BARTENDER
You talk and you're a dead man,
Yranac.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - TEASER 6.
5 CONTINUED: (3)
Yranac looks from one to the other, assessing. To
Riker:
YRANAC
Perhaps there is an element of
risk here that I did not fully
appreciate.
WORF
And how much more latinum will it
take to offset that risk?
YRANAC
This isn't about latinum.
(spreads his hands)
As a man with a sister -- a sister
with a temper -- I can sympathize
with you. But...
(beat)
How did you come here? Do you
have a ship in orbit?
RIKER
Yes...
YRANAC
Then take me with you. You can
drop me anywhere you like.
Riker and Worf exchange a look.
RIKER
Agreed. Now talk.
Yranac takes a breath.
YRANAC
The man you're looking for was
here several weeks ago. There was
a group of aliens sitting at this
table... he was asking them
questions.
WORF
Who were these aliens?
YRANAC
I don't know. But they looked
dangerous.
(beat)
They attacked him. He managed to
incapacitate three of them before
he was knocked down.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - TEASER 7.
5 CONTINUED: (4)
He points to the wall behind him.
YRANAC
He was thrown against that wall...
and fell there.
Yranac points to a spot on the floor near the wall.
Beverly hands the phaser to Troi, who keeps it trained
on the bartender. She pulls out a tricorder and scans
the wall and floor.
BEVERLY
I'm picking up some Starfleet
fiber traces... and human cellular
debris.
RIKER
Can you establish a DNA sequence?
Beverly taps a few commands into her tricorder; she
looks puzzled.
BEVERLY
There's something strange here.
The cell structures are badly
distorted. It looks as if they've
been exposed to some kind of high
energy field.
WORF
A weapon discharge?
BEVERLY
It could be. There are faint
traces of micro-crystalline damage
in the floor material. But I'm
not familiar with the pattern.
Yranac stares at her. He's realizing this group is
other than what they seem.
YRANAC
Who are you people?
RIKER
You didn't say anything about a
weapon.
Yranac is beginning to look a little nervous.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - TEASER 8.
5 CONTINUED: (5)
YRANAC
(quickly)
I hadn't finished yet. You'll
like this... the man got what was
coming to him. When they knocked
him down, one of them took out a
weapon... and fired.
(hoping this is wellreceived)
He was vaporized.
There's a moment of stunned silence. Yranac looks from
one to the other, anxiously awaiting their reaction.
Troi is staring intently at him. Then she turns to
Riker.
TROI
He's telling the truth.
Off their reactions...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT ONE 9.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
6 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit.
7 INT. SICKBAY
Beverly is staring at an OKUDAGRAM of a DNA sequence
displayed on the wall monitor. Riker ENTERS and
crosses to her.
RIKER
Doctor?
Beverly turns to him; her expression is grim.
BEVERLY
There's no question. It's Captain
Picard's DNA.
Riker is impassive, his expression unreadable, but it's
all Beverly can do to keep from breaking down. It's
hard for her to admit it to herself; she desperately
wants to find some indication she's wrong, but she
knows she isn't.
BEVERLY
(continuing)
I used a multi-base progression to
regenerate the DNA. The technique
is practically flawless...
She continues to give her report, attempting to
submerge her feelings in her work.
BEVERLY
(continuing)
The cellular damage could have
been caused by a variety of energy
fields... it's hard to be
specific. I can't tell whether it
was the field itself that killed
him or if he was already dead
when...
She trails off, unable to continue. Riker wants to
comfort her, but there isn't much to say.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT ONE 10.
7 CONTINUED:
RIKER
I'll need your analysis for my
report to Starfleet.
She hands him a PADD.
BEVERLY
It's all here.
RIKER
Thank you.
(beat)
I'll inform the crew.
Riker EXITS. Beverly returns to her work, trying to
maintain her composure in the face of this tragedy.
CUT TO:
8 INT. RIKER'S QUARTERS
Riker is working at his desk when door CHIMES.
RIKER
Come.
The DOOR OPENS and Troi ENTERS.
TROI
How are you doing?
RIKER
I'm all right.
The words are not convincing.
TROI
The crew is pretty shaken up...
I'm arranging a memorial
service... I think you should be
the one to deliver the eulogy.
There's a long beat before Riker answers.
RIKER
You'd be better at something like
that. Or Beverly. She knew him
the longest...
Troi knows he's avoiding.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT ONE 11.
8 CONTINUED:
TROI
I know it won't be easy... but
it's important for all of us to
face what's happened. You're in
command now. The crew will be
looking to you for guidance --
RIKER
You don't understand. I can't
give the eulogy because I won't be
at the service.
Troi is surprised at the extent of his denial.
Carefully --
TROI
A memorial service helps to give
everyone a sense of completion.
Helps them begin the healing
process...
RIKER
That's exactly the point. I don't
want to heal.
TROI
Wil --
He touches his chest.
RIKER
I've got an open wound in here, it
hurts like hell, and I don't want
it to get better. I don't want to
believe that everything's all
right.
TROI
You're angry...
RIKER
You're damn right. And I intend
to stay angry -- until I find
whoever's responsible for the
Captain's death.
Troi's patience evaporates. She's hurting, too, and
her professional demeanor crumbles under the strain.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT ONE 12.
8 CONTINUED: (2)
TROI
That's pretty selfish, Wil.
(a beat as Riker is
taken aback)
Do you think you're the only one
in pain? That you have a monopoly
on loss? Well, I've got news for
you. We're all hurting... we're
all angry. And like it or not,
you've got a responsibility to the
crew. You can't just indulge your
personal desire for revenge.
RIKER
(harshly)
That's enough, Counselor.
They stare at each other, she still bristling, he
jolted by her anger and vehemence. He regrets his
attack.
RIKER
(continuing, softer)
I'm sorry.
(beat)
Deanna. This isn't about revenge.
It's about justice. The Captain
died in a bar fight... for
nothing. Somebody has to answer
for that.
(beat)
Then I can mourn.
9 INT. BRIDGE
Riker is in the Captain's chair; Worf is at tactical.
Various N.D.s in the b.g. ENSIGN GIUSTI is at Ops.
WORF
Commander. We are receiving a
transmission from Admiral Chekote
at Starbase two-twenty-seven.
RIKER
Put it through to the Ready Room.
WORF
Aye, sir.
Riker EXITS to...
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT ONE 13.
10 INT. READY ROOM (OPTICAL)
As Riker ENTERS, he stops; he stares at Picard's empty
desk for a brief moment, feeling everything it
represents... and then, decisively, he moves and sits
down -- there will be time to remember later.
He activates the desk terminal, and the image of
ADMIRAL CHEKOTE appears on the monitor.
RIKER
Sir.
CHEKOTE
I've read your report, Commander.
My condolences to you and your
crew. Captain Picard's death is
a loss to the entire Federation.
(beat)
I see you've asked to postpone
your mission to the Argus
sector... for what reason?
RIKER
I have a request, sir.
(beat)
I'd like to conduct an
investigation into Captain
Picard's death.
CHEKOTE
The Dessican authorities have
jurisdiction in this case,
Commander.
RIKER
I know that, sir. But frankly, I
don't have much confidence in the
authorities on Dessica Two.
There's every reason to believe
they're corrupt.
CHEKOTE
I suspect you're right. But the
question remains... are you the
one to pursue this?
RIKER
Sir, the Captain's death has hit
me pretty hard. I may not be
completely objective... but no one
is more determined than I am.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT ONE 14.
10 CONTINUED:
RIKER (Cont'd)
I won't quit until we find out
who's responsible.
A beat, then Chekote nods.
CHEKOTE
All right, Commander. I'm
officially placing the Enterprise
on detached duty. Your mission is
at your discretion. Good luck.
RIKER
Thank you, sir.
Off Riker's determined expression...
11 INT. YRANAC'S QUARTERS
Riker ENTERS to find Yranac sitting at a table
surrounded by a huge assortment of food, eating
heartily. Riker is carrying a PADD.
YRANAC
Ah, Commander Riker. I've been
meaning to speak to you. I was
wondering if you could move me to
better quarters. I don't care
much for the decor here.
RIKER
These are the best quarters we
have.
Yranac shrugs and continues eating.
RIKER
(continuing)
Now that you've had some time to
relax, I was hoping you might have
remembered some details about the
aliens you saw... something you'd
forgotten earlier.
YRANAC
Sorry. My memory isn't what it
used to be.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT ONE 15.
11 CONTINUED:
Riker suspects that Yranac knows more than he's
telling, but Yranac's being cagey -- he's protecting
every scrap of information he's got so he has something
to bargain with. Riker's task is to get him to admit
to as much as he can.
RIKER
You said the aliens looked
dangerous. How could you tell?
YRANAC
They killed someone. I'd say that
qualifies them as dangerous.
RIKER
But you said that you noticed they
looked dangerous before the fight
even started. What made you think
that? Were they unusually
aggressive... ? Were they heavily
armed... ?
YRANAC
I don't recall.
RIKER
They murdered a man in plain view
of everyone in that bar... and you
can't remember anything about
them?
YRANAC
Now that you mention it, I do
remember one thing...
(beat)
They said they'd kill anyone who
talked about what happened.
RIKER
But you offered to help us.
Yranac shrugs; he feels secure enough to admit this
much.
YRANAC
You're right. I saw a business
opportunity. And besides, they
were gone.
RIKER
Do you know where they went?
Yranac doesn't answer and instead simply smiles.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT ONE 16.
11 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
You know who they are and you know
where I can find them.
YRANAC
Perhaps I do.
RIKER
What do you want?
Yranac thinks he's tantalized Riker enough.
YRANAC
Not a great deal, Commander. Just
a shuttlecraft. I believe I'd
like to travel for a while, see
more of the galaxy. You
understand.
RIKER
A shuttlecraft?
(beat; smiles)
Well, here's my offer. Instead of
a ship, I'm going to give you some
time.
YRANAC
(confused)
Time?
RIKER
If you're lucky, you'll only have
to spend the next five years in
prison instead of the next twenty.
Riker grabs Yranac by the front of the shirt and draws
him to within an inch of his face.
RIKER
(continuing)
You've got twelve outstanding
arrest warrants for fraud and
petty theft in the Klingon Empire.
If you tell me what you know, I'll
pull a few strings... maybe get
them to reduce your sentence after
you're extradited.
Yranac is in a full-blown panic.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT ONE 17.
11 CONTINUED: (3)
YRANAC
You can't turn me over to the
Klingons. They don't just
imprison you... Do you know what
the punishment is for fraud?
Riker knows exactly what it is.
RIKER
Yes. I certainly do.
Yranac is terrified at the prospect, but he's still
trying to bargain his way out.
YRANAC
If I tell you what I know, you
must promise you won't give me to
the Klingons.
RIKER
I'll think about it.
YRANAC
Perhaps you could send me to a
Federation rehabilitation colony
instead.
RIKER
Talk!
Yranac slumps; he's played all his cards and he's lost.
His only chance now is to tell the truth.
YRANAC
The aliens were some kind of
mercenary group. They've been
operating in this sector for the
last six months.
RIKER
Where do we find them?
YRANAC
I heard one of them mention the
Barradas system... I think they
were headed there.
RIKER
You think?
YRANAC
(miserable)
That's all I know.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT ONE 18.
11 CONTINUED: (4)
Riker considers the information for a moment.
RIKER
(taps combadge)
Riker to Data.
DATA'S COM VOICE
Data here.
RIKER
(to combadge)
Take us out of orbit. Set course
for the Barradas system, warp six.
Riker fixes Yranac with a hard stare and EXITS.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT TWO 19.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
12 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
dropping out of warp.
13 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Riker, Data, GEORDI, and Worf.
DATA
Barradas Three is the only M-class
planet in this system, and it is
listed as unpopulated. However,
sensors have detected intermittent
energy signals emanating from its
surface.
RIKER
What's the source?
GEORDI
The signals are difficult to
localize, but... they might be
emissions from some kind of power
converter...
WORF
Which could indicate a base or a
ship.
RIKER
What else do we know about
Barradas Three?
DATA
The planet was an outpost of the
Debrune approximately two thousand
years ago. The Federation
Archaeological survey has
catalogued numerous ruins on the
surface.
Riker considers for a beat.
RIKER
Mister Worf, I want a security
detail to accompany the Away Team
to the surface. I'll lead the
team. Geordi, you're with me...
Mister Data, you have the Bridge.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT TWO 19A.
13 CONTINUED:
DATA
Aye, sir.
As far as Riker is concerned, the meeting's over; he
moves to leave and the others rise as well.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT TWO 20.
13 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA
Sir.
Riker turns back to him.
DATA
(continuing)
As Acting First Officer, I must
question your decision to
accompany the Away Team. If
Captain Picard were here --
RIKER
(tightly)
He's not.
DATA
I realize that, sir. But if he
were, and he wanted to lead an
Away Team, you would tell him that
the Captain's place is --
RIKER
On the Bridge. I know.
(beat)
But not this time.
And he EXITS. Data accepts the dismissal.
14 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
entering orbit around Barradas Three.
15 OMITTED
16 EXT. PLANET SURFACE - CLEARING - DAY
Riker, Geordi, Worf, and two Security Officers, N.D. #1
and N.D. #2, are in a large clearing. The forest has
encroached on a variety of simple ruins; however, in
several places through the site, there are strange
INDENTATIONS in the ground: smooth, circularly-shaped
holes which almost suggest that something was scooped
away.
Geordi, Worf and N.D. #1 are equipped with tricorders;
the entire team is armed with phasers.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT TWO 21.
17 RIKER AND GEORDI
are standing together as Geordi scans the site; the
others continue working in the b.g.
Geordi works his tricorder with frustration; he's
having trouble getting clear readings.
GEORDI
It's tough to get accurate sensor
readings... there's a lot of
interference in the area.
RIKER
From what?
GEORDI
I'm not sure... it's unlocalized.
It could be atmospheric...
RIKER
What do you make of this?
Riker moves near one of the circular indentations in
the ground. Geordi kneels down and examines the ground
with his VISOR.
GEORDI
The ruins are ancient... but I'd
say this indentation was made
fairly recently...
(unconvinced)
There might have been a battle
here...
Riker looks at the indentation.
RIKER
It doesn't look like any blast
point I've ever seen... the shape
is too perfect.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT TWO 22.
17 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
(surprised)
Sir, there's micro-crystalline
damage all through this area.
It's the same kind of pattern
Doctor Crusher picked up in the
floor of that bar on Dessica Two.
WORF (O.S.)
Commander...
18 ANOTHER ANGLE - WORF (OPTICAL)
Worf is standing near the edge of the clearing with
N.D. #1. Riker and Geordi move to join them.
WORF
(continuing)
I have found something.
Worf points down at TWO ARTIFACTS which are lying in
the grass. There are no other ruins nearby, and the
artifacts look completely out of place where they are.
Riker stares at them, puzzled.
RIKER
(musing)
It almost looks as if someone...
dropped them --
Without warning, a PHASER BLAST hits N.D. #1 square in
the chest; he goes down instantly.
Geordi and Worf dive for safety behind some nearby
ruins; Riker and N.D. #2 are forced away from the
others in order to find cover.
19 THE SCENE (OPTICAL)
The phaser fire came from the trees ahead of the Away
Team; as the action plays out, we will see the
attackers. They are a team of THREE ARMED MERCENARIES:
the leader, a Romulan female, TALLERA; a large,
intimidating alien female, VEKOR; and an alien male,
NARIK.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT TWO 22A.
19 CONTINUED:
(Note: while their individual uniforms are different,
all the mercenaries have the same distinctive DEVICE
attached to their necks.)
Protected by covering fire, Tallera rushes out into the
clearing, grabs the two artifacts, and dives back into
cover.
Our people quickly return fire with their phasers, but
the mercenaries have us outgunned -- both halves of the
Away Team are pinned down.
20 GEORDI
taps his combadge as we HEAR continuing fire.
GEORDI
(to com)
La Forge to Enterprise... we are
under attack...
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT TWO 23.
21 INT. BRIDGE
Data is in command; Ensign Giusti is at Ops.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Repeat, we are under attack...
A loud blast of static bursts through the com.
GIUSTI
Commander, we've lost contact with
the Away Team.
DATA
Is there a malfunction?
GIUSTI
(checks console)
No, sir... the com system is being
jammed...
DATA
What is the source?
GIUSTI
Somewhere on the surface...
A beat as Data considers.
DATA
Bridge to Transporter Room Two.
Can you get a lock on the Away
Team?
TRANSPORTER CHIEF'S VOICE
Negative, sir. There's too much
interference.
22 EXT. PLANET SURFACE - CLEARING - DAY (OPTICAL)
Riker is crouched low behind a rock with N.D. #2.
Riker indicates a clump of trees a short distance away.
RIKER
I'm going to try to reach those
trees. If I can get there, we
might be able to set up a
crossfire. Keep me covered...
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT TWO 24.
22 CONTINUED:
N.D. #2 nods... and then Riker makes a dash for the
trees, as a PHASER BLAST EXPLODES behind him -- he
catches part of the blast and he falls, unconscious.
23
thru OMITTED
26
27 GEORDI AND WORF
quickly regroup, and joined by N.D. #2, the three
charge forward to try and get to Riker, but...
28 TALLERA, NARIK, AND VEKOR (OPTICAL)
reach Riker first and surround him. An instant later,
the entire group DEMATERIALIZES. (Note: The
mercenaries' Transporter effect should be different
from our own.)
A second later, Geordi, Worf and N.D. #2 reach the spot --
but they're too late. Riker is gone -- the mercenaries
have captured him.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT THREE 25.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
29 EXT. SURFACE - CLEARING - DAY (CONTINUOUS)
Geordi, Worf, and N.D. #2 are at the spot where Riker
and the mercenaries dematerialized seconds before.
DATA'S COM VOICE
Data to Away Team... please
respond...
Geordi reacts, surprised -- the com jamming has
stopped.
GEORDI
(to com)
Data, we've been attacked. We've
got one casualty... and Commander
Riker has been taken captive.
WORF
(to com)
Sir, the mercenaries have
transported away... they must have
a base or a ship nearby. Can you
locate anything on sensors?
30 INT. BRIDGE
Data and Giusti as before.
GIUSTI
(off console)
Commander, we're picking up a
vessel leaving orbit...
DATA
Why was it not detected earlier?
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT THREE 26.
30 CONTINUED:
GIUSTI
(off console)
They could have been using the
planet as a shield...
(urgently)
Sir, they are powering up their
weapon systems.
DATA
Raise shields. Red Alert.
The ship goes to red alert.
31 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE & THE MERCENARY SHIP
(OPTICAL)
As the sleek, dangerous-looking mercenary ship races
away from the planet, it fires on the Enterprise.
32 INT. BRIDGE
as the SHIP SHAKES.
DATA
Damage report.
GIUSTI
Minor hit on the port deflector...
no damage.
(beat)
They're running, sir... their
speed is warp eight-point-seven
and holding. I think they're at
their maximum..
DATA
Take us to warp nine and pursue.
Lock phasers on target.
GIUSTI
Aye, sir... we should be within
phaser range in twenty-three
seconds.
A beat.
GIUSTI
(continuing)
Switching to long-range
scanners...
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT THREE 27.
32 CONTINUED:
GIUSTI (Cont'd)
(off console, concerned)
Commander... the sensor image of
that ship is extremely weak...
it's fading...
Giusti works her console frantically for a beat... and
then she looks up.
GIUSTI
(continuing)
The ship doesn't register on the
long range sensors. I'm sorry,
sir... we've lost them.
Data reacts and moves to Ops.
DATA
Increase the sensor field
bandwidth. Patch in the lateral
sensor arrays to enhance
detection.
GIUSTI
(works console,
frustrated)
It's no good... the signal's
gone... it just... disappeared.
Data reacts to the news, concerned. He considers for
a beat.
DATA
Plot a course and take us back to
Barradas Three. Notify the Away
Team to be ready for transport.
Off Data's concerned expression.
33 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
back in orbit around Barradas Three.
34 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Data, Troi, Geordi, and Worf. Data is standing near
the large monitor which is displaying a graphic of the
mercenary ship and other associated information.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT THREE 28.
34 CONTINUED:
DATA
Starfleet Intelligence has
confirmed that a ship matching
this configuration has been linked
to raids on several other planets
in this sector.
Everyone is frustrated, but Geordi and Worf are
particularly restive; they're upset with what they
perceive to be their failure on the surface, and it's
difficult for them to sit patiently through Data's
careful, measured briefing.
DATA
(continuing)
For the short time it was within
our visual range, we were able to
take sensor readings of the
mercenary vessel.
(beat)
It appears to be encased in an
energy-absorbing material.
Although we can see the ship, this
energy sheath renders it virtually
undetectable to our long-range
sensors.
TROI
There must be some way to track
it.
Geordi consults a PADD in front of him.
GEORDI
Data, I know this is a long
shot... but if I remodulate the
long-range sensor array, I might
be able to increase its
sensitivity enough to detect the
ship.
Data is not convinced.
DATA
Without a full compositional
analysis of the energy sheath, the
chances of finding the correct
remodulation sequence are remote.
(beat)
Furthermore, based on their speed,
they could be as far as two-point-three-seven
light years from this
location.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT THREE 29.
34 CONTINUED: (2)
Troi, Geordi, and Worf react; that's a lot of space to
search. But Worf is not ready to give up yet.
WORF
That means they must still be
within this sector. If we used
all available shuttlecraft to
conduct a level-one search --
DATA
It would still take at least ten
days to complete. In that time
the mercenaries would continue to
distance themselves from us.
Data's logic is relentless -- and a little irritating.
WORF
(frustrated)
Sir. They have taken Commander
Riker. We must do something. We
cannot just sit here.
DATA
On the contrary, Lieutenant, that
is precisely what we must do.
Data continues, unaware of the mounting frustration in
the room.
DATA
(continuing)
Since there are no viable
alternatives, we will return to
the surface and attempt to
determine what the mercenaries
were doing on this planet. An
investigation may reveal some
indication of their purpose.
Notify me when you have assembled
your search teams.
(beat)
Dismissed.
Data has made it very clear just who is in command.
The situation makes Troi, Geordi and Worf a little
uncomfortable, but they all know how to follow orders.
They EXIT unhappily. Off Data's determined expression.
35 EXT. SPACE - THE MERCENARY SHIP (OPTICAL)
coming out of warp.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT THREE 30.
36 INT. MERCENARY SHIP - BRIDGE
Tallera (the Romulan female we saw earlier) is leading
a groggy Riker across the room as he struggles
painfully back to consciousness. Riker's combadge is
gone and there is now a small patch-like device (like
all the other mercenaries wear) at the side of his
throat.
The mercenary bridge is sleek and spare with no wasted
space, just like everything on this ship. A large
Viewscreen dominates the forward section and there's a
small Transporter pad in one corner. The walls are
lined with consoles which are manned by various N.D.
MERCENARIES. The ALERT LIGHTS are active, and there is
a tense, urgent feeling on the bridge.
In the center of the bridge is a raised platform
encircled by a rail and a console. From here, the
Captain commands an unobstructed view of the entire
room. It should feel as though this ship and crew are
always ready for battle.
Tallera pushes Riker against the rail and stares at him
silently.
The mercenary captain, BARAN, stands on his platform.
He's a humanoid male alien, intelligent, muscular -- a
man to be reckoned with. Baran is wearing a small
CONTROL DEVICE at his belt.
Baran is engaged in a heated conversation with the
engineer, Narik, and for the moment, ignores Riker and
Tallera.
NARIK
(upset)
I warned you not to push the
engines so hard. Two of the power
shunts are on the verge of
collapse. We'll be lucky if we
can maintain warp six.
BARAN
How long will it take to repair?
NARIK
I can try to realign the warp
core... it'll take at least
eleven hours.
(beat)
But I'll have to shut the engines
down completely.
Baran fixes Narik with a hard look.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT THREE 31.
36 CONTINUED:
BARAN
We're not stopping. We can't
afford to be sitting helpless in
space. I want warp eight
available in five hours. And I'm
not going to listen to your
excuses.
Narik glares angrily at Baran but does not dispute him.
He nods and moves to a console in the b.g. Baran then
turns and stares coldly at Riker.
BARAN
What were you doing on Barradas
Three?
RIKER
(all I'm saying)
William T. Riker, Commander, SC
two-three-one dash four-two-seven.
Baran cocks his head and regards him. Is he going to
play this silly game?
BARAN
All right. I am Arctus Baran...
and I don't have a number.
(beat)
Now. What were you doing on
Barradas Three -- Commander?
RIKER
We were studying the ruins. It
was a scientific expedition.
BARAN
Don't patronize me. Those ruins
have been studied for centuries.
There's nothing new to learn from
them.
RIKER
Then what were you doing there?
Baran smiles, acknowledging the riposte. Then he takes
the device at his belt and activates it. Riker sinks
to his knees, gasping, in tremendous pain.
Instinctively, he tries to pull the patch off his neck.
BARAN
Don't bother, Commander, you can't
remove it. It's a neural servo.
It's connected directly to your
nervous system.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/30/93 - ACT THREE 32.
36 CONTINUED: (2)
BARAN (Cont'd)
It lets me control precisely how
much pain you feel.
(beat)
This setting is usually
sufficient.
(beat)
However, if necessary it can go
much higher.
Baran lets Riker writhe in pain for a beat before he
shuts off the device. Riker's pain stops and he
groans, barely able to speak, exhausted by the ordeal.
BARAN
These devices were my
predecessor's idea... a convenient
way of enforcing discipline...
RIKER
(weakly)
What happened to him?
BARAN
(I got rid of him)
He failed to discipline me
sufficiently...
The female alien, Vekor, moves near the platform.
VEKOR
This is a waste of time, Baran.
Get rid of him now.
BARAN
You should be more patient, Vekor.
It can be rewarding.
(beat)
We will wait. Let the memory of
his pain argue with him for a
while... maybe it will change his
attitude.
Narik steps forward.
NARIK
Vekor's right -- we should get rid
of him. It's dangerous to have
someone from Starfleet on board.
BARAN
Dangerous? It might be
profitable. A Starfleet Commander
is a valuable hostage.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/30/93 - ACT THREE 32A.
36 CONTINUED: (3)
VEKOR
Starfleet won't negotiate with us.
But they'll pursue us as long as
we have him.
We're beginning to see that this crew is not just one
harmonious, happy team. Everyone is suspicious of the
others and everyone is looking out for himself first.
Baran presses his pain control briefly; Vekor cries out
and staggers back.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT THREE 33.
36 CONTINUED: (3)
BARAN
This discussion is over, Vekor.
Return to your post.
But Vekor meets Baran's gaze and does not move. The
tension is building...
PICARD (O.S.)
They're right, Baran, and you know
it...
The group turns to see...
37 PICARD
As he turns around from one of the consoles to face the
others. He's dressed like one of the mercenaries.
PICARD
(continuing)
I say kill him. Now.
Off Riker's stunned reaction.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FOUR 34.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
38 INT. MERCENARY BRIDGE (CONTINUOUS)
Riker is completely stunned at the sight of Picard, but
he quickly controls himself -- before he says anything,
he has to figure out what's going on here.
Picard, however, doesn't even give Riker a second
glance; his attention is focused entirely on Baran.
PICARD
(re: Riker)
If he has nothing to give us, then
we should kill him now and be done
with it. Everyone seems to
recognize that fact except you.
Picard speaks harshly, with a violent edge that's only
barely restrained.
BARAN
I don't need a consensus to run
this ship, Galen.
This is not the first argument Baran and Picard have
had, and the hostility between the two men is evident.
Picard is about to respond when suddenly, the SHIP
SHUDDERS slightly and the LIGHTS DIM.
BARAN
(quickly)
What's going on?
Narik quickly moves to monitor one of the consoles in
the b.g.
NARIK
We're bypassing the aft plasma
couplings... the power loss should
only last a few seconds...
A short beat passes and the lights return to normal.
Baran returns his attention to Picard.
BARAN
You should learn not to limit your
options. Riker could be useful to
us in the future.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FOUR 35.
38 CONTINUED:
PICARD
He may not be as useful as you
think...
Picard moves toward Riker.
PICARD
(continuing)
... if this is the same Riker I've
heard about.
Riker is deeply confused; he doesn't know what Picard
is doing or how to react to it. For now, he's just got
to try and play along.
RIKER
(to Picard)
And which "Riker" is that?
PICARD
Commander of the Enterprise... ?
Formerly assigned to the USS
Hood... ?
RIKER
That's right.
PICARD
Then you must be the William T.
Riker with a history of
insubordination...
As Picard continues to speak, Riker begins to pick up
something in his tone and manner -- he senses where
Picard's going with this.
PICARD
(continuing)
He was even relieved of duty once,
during the Cardassian incident at
Minos Korva.
Picard's story has thrown Baran off balance.
BARAN
(to Picard)
How do you know all this?
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT FOUR 35A.
38 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
I've been smuggling artifacts out
of Federation sites for years.
It's difficult to avoid developing
a... familiarity with certain
Starfleet personnel...
Picard turns directly to Riker.
PICARD
(taunting)
If we hadn't captured him, he
probably would've ended up in
front of a court martial.
By now, Riker understands what Picard has been trying
to set up, and he plays into it.
RIKER
(hard)
I've gotten out of them before.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FOUR 36.
38 CONTINUED: (3)
Baran looks thoughtfully at Riker.
PICARD
(to Baran)
He's no use to us. Finish him now
or let me do it for you.
But before Baran can reply, the SHIP SHUDDERS again.
For a moment, everyone thinks it's just Narik making
repairs like before... and then suddenly, the ship
LURCHES FORWARD, accelerating rapidly; the ALARM
KLAXONS sound.
Baran reacts, concerned; he shoves Riker toward an ND
Mercenary.
BARAN
(to ND)
Watch him.
The argument is quickly forgotten as Baran, Tallera,
Narik, Vekor, and Picard rush to the consoles. The
WHINE of the ship's engines begins to get louder...
BARAN
(to Narik, accusing)
What have you done?
NARIK
It has nothing to do with my
repairs...
(works console)
I think there's a malfunction in
the engine's intermix chamber...
VEKOR
We're accelerating...
TALLERA
Plasma pressure is rising...
BARAN
Where's the malfunction?
NARIK
It could be any one of thirty
subsystems. It'll take time to
locate...
TALLERA
I don't think you're going to have
the chance. Plasma pressure is
reaching critical levels...
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/28/93 - ACT FOUR 37.
38 CONTINUED: (4)
The whine of the engines increases...
BARAN
Seal off the intermix chamber.
VEKOR
(works console)
I can't... the override sequence
won't engage...
39 ANGLE ON PICARD
as he works his console.
PICARD
It's the antimatter flow
regulator... It's locked open...
As Baran rushes over to inspect Picard's panel, for a
brief moment, Picard manages to make eye contact with
Riker.
40 RIKER
catches the glance -- what's Picard up to now?
41 RESUME SCENE
TALLERA
Plasma pressure has exceeded
maximum levels... eight percent
above critical and rising.
NARIK
We have to jettison the core...
BARAN
No! We'll be stranded here --
PICARD
The flow regulator is frozen...
Riker catches Picard's eye for a moment -- and realizes
what's going on -- Picard has created the malfunction
specifically for Riker to fix.
RIKER
Let me do it.
Baran and the others react.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/28/93 - ACT FOUR 38.
41 CONTINUED:
RIKER
(to Baran)
I've had a lot of experience with
these kinds of system failures...
I might be able to do something.
TALLERA
Plasma pressure is eleven percent
above critical... The containment
fields are beginning to degrade...
Baran really has no other option.
BARAN
(to Riker)
Go!
Riker rushes to Picard's console, works the commands,
and quickly studies the readout.
RIKER
It looks like you've got a control
logic lockout in the regulator
subsystem.
He begins to work the panel...
RIKER
(continuing)
I'm going to try to run an active
bypass through the plasma flow
convertor...
He pushes Narik towards another console.
RIKER
(continuing)
Start running a phase-locked
feedback through the regulator...
I'll need about a six second
delay...
Narik angrily shoves Riker away.
NARIK
I don't take orders from you.
BARAN
Do as he says!
Narik glares at Riker and begins to work his console.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/28/93 - ACT FOUR 39.
41 CONTINUED: (2)
TALLERA
Plasma pressure is fourteen
percent above critical...
Riker moves to another station, OPENS A PANEL and
begins working inside it.
BARAN
If you fail--
RIKER
(cuts him off)
We'll all be dead anyway.
(beat, works)
Just a few more seconds...
Riker moves back to a console and makes a final
adjustment... The ship SHUDDERS briefly, and the whine
of the engines quickly drops back to normal.
TALLERA
Plasma pressure is dropping...
(beat)
We're back into safe levels.
There's a moment of relief.
RIKER
(to Baran)
If you want to make sure that
doesn't happen again, you'd better
re-initialize the regulator
subprocessors. A full diagnostic
on the intermix chamber wouldn't
hurt either.
BARAN
(to Narik and Vekor)
Do it.
Narik and Vekor nod and move away; Baran, Tallera, and
Picard are left with Riker.
BARAN
(to Tallera, re: Riker)
Put him in quarters for now.
Riker smiles confidently at Picard.
RIKER
(to Picard)
Still wish you'd killed me?
Picard glares at Riker but says nothing; then he EXITS.
Off Baran's thoughtful expression as Tallera leads
Riker away.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FOUR 40.
42 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
still in orbit around Barradas Three.
43 EXT. PLANET SURFACE - CLEARING (OPTICAL)
Data, Geordi, Worf, and an N.D. Security Team are
exploring the ruins and the site of the battle.
44 DATA
is carefully studying one of the strange, circular
indentations in the ground as Worf and Geordi walk up
to him.
WORF
The search teams have reported in,
sir. They located several
archaeological sites. Each one
has been looted.
Geordi considers.
GEORDI
It's possible that the micro-crystalline
damage I found in
these indentations was the result
of some kind of high-energy
Transporter beam...
(beat)
... but I still don't understand.
There's nothing here that's
particularly valuable. Why would
anyone want to steal any of these
things?
Data considers.
DATA
Perhaps these artifacts have
special value to the Romulans.
WORF
The Romulans?
DATA
These structures were built by the
Debrune. That race was an ancient
offshoot of the Romulans. And the
ruins on the planet where Captain
Picard was killed were also
Romulan in origin.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT FOUR 41.
44 CONTINUED:
WORF
The leader of the group which
attacked us was a Romulan.
(beat)
Perhaps they are controlling the
mercenaries...
DATA
But the question remains: Why are
they stealing these artifacts?
Reactions.
45 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
still in orbit around Barradas Three.
46 INT. BRIDGE - ANGLE ON AFT SCIENCE
In the b.g., Worf is at tactical and Ensign Giusti is
at Ops.
Data and Geordi are looking at the monitor which
displays an OKUDAGRAM of several star systems and
associated information. Several planets are
highlighted.
DATA
There are several archaeological
sites in this sector containing
ruins which are Romulan in origin.
(beat, pointing)
These are the locations which have
been attacked by the mercenary
vessel.
GEORDI
It looks like they've done a
pretty thorough job.
DATA
The only sites which have not been
attacked are on Calder Two,
Yadalla Prime, and Draken Four.
Geordi considers.
GEORDI
Yadalla and Draken are on the far
edge of the sector... but Calder
Two is less than a day from here
at maxiumum warp.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT FOUR 42.
46 CONTINUED:
DATA
That would be their next likely
target.
Geordi studies the display.
GEORDI
According to this, there's a
Federation outpost on Calder Two.
DATA
But it is only a small science
station; it has limited defensive
capabilities.
(beat)
I do not believe it could
withstand an attack by the
mercenary ship.
The implications are clear. Data gets up and moves to
the captain's chair.
DATA
Mister Worf. Send a message to
the Federation outpost on Calder
Two. Advise them that if a ship
matching the mercenary vessel's
configuration approaches, they
should attempt to delay them until
our arrival.
(to Giusti)
Ensign Giusti, take us out of
orbit. Set course for the Calder
system. Warp nine.
GIUSTI
Aye, sir.
47 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
goes into warp.
CUT TO:
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FOUR 43.
48 INT. MERCENARY SHIP - RIKER'S QUARTERS
Riker is alone and thoroughly agitated -- he's got
plenty of questions and no answers. Suddenly, the DOOR
OPENS and Picard ENTERS.
PICARD
We don't have much time...
Picard is rushed and urgent, but he is no longer the
violent, angry character he was on the bridge -- this
is the Picard Riker knows.
PICARD
(continuing)
I hardly expected to see you here,
Wil.
For a brief moment, Riker just stares at him; he's not
sure how to react.
RIKER
I was trying to find the people
who killed you.
(beat)
A witness in that bar saw you
vaporized.
PICARD
These mercenaries use weapons
which activate their Transporter.
It allows them to beam away
objects quickly, by simply firing
at them. That's what they did to
me.
Riker's totally frustrated -- he wants answers.
RIKER
I don't understand any of this.
Who are these people? How did you
get involved with them?
PICARD
One of the sites I wanted to study
had been raided. A lot of
artifacts were stolen... the site
was practically destroyed. I
wanted to find who was
responsible.
(beat)
I tracked them to the bar on
Dessica Two. I suppose I asked
too many questions... They
captured me to find out how much
I knew about their operation...
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT FOUR 44.
48 CONTINUED:
RIKER
But you ended up as part of the
crew...
PICARD
I convinced them I was a smuggler
named "Galen", and I offered to
help them appraise the relics
they'd stolen...
Picard keeps one eye anxiously trained on the door --
he knows someone could walk in at any moment..
PICARD
(continuing)
Wil, these aren't common thieves.
They're stealing Romulan artifacts
from archaeological sites
throughout this sector...
(beat)
Baran has me analyzing each one
for a particular particle
signature. They're looking for a
specific artifact...
RIKER
Why?
PICARD
That's what we have to find out.
And Baran is the key. I believe
he's the only one on board who
really knows what we're looking
for.
(beat)
I want you to try to get close to
Baran... gain his confidence.
Riker begins to catch on.
RIKER
That's why you set up the engine
failure... you knew I'd be able to
fix it...
PICARD
(nods)
He also believes you're a less
than perfect Starfleet officer...
you'll have to play into that
role.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FOUR 45.
48 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD (Cont'd)
(beat)
Baran doesn't care much for me --
he tolerates me because he needs
me to test the artifacts. If you
and I become enemies, there's a
better chance you can become his
friend.
A beat.
RIKER
All right. I'll do what I can --
Suddenly, the DOOR OPENS and Baran ENTERS. Without a
moment's hesitation, Picard PUNCHES Riker in the face.
BARAN
(furious)
What are you doing here?
Picard is trying to make this look like an
interrogation.
PICARD
Getting some answers. Just
because you couldn't get him to
talk --
Suddenly, Picard gasps and grabs his neck; Baran has
activated his pain device. Baran lets it continue for
a beat before shutting it off.
BARAN
No one conducts an interrogation
on this ship without my
permission.
(beat)
Is that understood?
Picard returns Baran's stare but does not respond; he
simply EXITS.
Off Riker and Baran's expressions.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT FIVE 46.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
49 INT. MERCENARY BRIDGE
Baran is standing on the central platform briefing the
crew. Picard, Vekor, Narik, and Tallera and other N.D.
Mercenaries are gathered around.
BARAN
Our next objective is located in
the Sakethan burial mounds on
Calder Two.
Picard reacts -- he recognizes the name.
PICARD
Calder Two isn't just another
archaeological site. There's a
Federation outpost there.
BARAN
(dismissive)
I don't see that as a problem.
PICARD
It's defended by Starfleet.
They're not going to just stand by
while we walk in and take whatever
we want.
BARAN
I'm aware of the tactical
situation.
VEKOR
(concerned)
What are their defenses?
BARAN
Nothing to worry about. They have
a type-four deflector shield
protecting the outpost and the
ruins.
PICARD
They'll also have a minimum of two
phaser banks... and possibly even
photon torpedoes. Is that enough
to worry about?
TALLERA
How do you know so much about this
outpost?
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT FIVE 47.
49 CONTINUED:
Tallera studies Picard suspiciously. Picard answers
without breaking stride.
PICARD
I tried to smuggle a Sakethan
glyph stone out of there two years
ago. I barely got away in one
piece.
Baran can feel the group losing confidence in his plan.
He moves quickly to reassure them.
BARAN
Our weapons are more than a match
for their defenses. I anticipate
we'll be able to destroy the
outpost in less than fifteen
minutes. After that, we'll send
in Tallera and the landing party
to secure the relics.
Picard is in very difficult position: he has to protect
the outpost, but at the same time, Picard wants Baran
to succeed with the raid so that he'll be able to
continue his mission.
PICARD
Fifteen minutes is more than
enough time to transmit a distress
call.
BARAN
By the time they're able to detect
us, we'll be jamming their
communications. They'll have no
chance to send a message.
The others mercenaries are not so confident.
NARIK
But our sensors will be useless as
well.
(beat)
Starfleet's already searching for
this ship. They could be on top
of us without our realizing it.
PICARD
He's right. And our landing party
would be stranded on the surface.
BARAN
That's a risk I'm prepared to
take.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT FIVE 48.
49 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
That's because you won't be down
there... your life won't be at
risk.
Baran bristles at the implication.
BARAN
If we don't find what we're
looking for, none of our lives
will be worth anything.
Picard seizes on this.
PICARD
Why? Who are we working for?
Baran has no intention of answering the question.
BARAN
All you need to know is that we
have to attack that outpost. We
don't have a choice.
PICARD
Maybe we do.
(beat)
Why don't we use Riker?
Baran reacts.
PICARD
A Starfleet Commander might be
able to talk us past the outpost
security without raising any
suspicions.
(beat)
Once they drop their shields, we
could beam the artifacts up
without having to leave the ship.
Baran sees that his crew is quickly falling into line
with Picard.
VEKOR
(to Picard)
Why would Riker help us? Just
because he's out of favor with
Starfleet doesn't mean he's ready
to betray them.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FIVE 49.
49 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
If he doesn't help us, we'll
destroy the outpost and kill
everyone on it. He's still a
Starfleet officer... he won't let
innocent people die if he can
prevent it.
TALLERA
(quietly, to Baran)
The last time we engaged
Starfleet, we lost a man. We
can't afford any more casualties.
(beat)
If we can avoid a battle, I think
we should.
A tense beat. Baran has no supporters left here... he
has no other choice.
BARAN
All right. We'll try it.
(beat; to group)
We'll be at Calder Two in
approximately five hours... you
all know your duties. I want this
ship ready for battle...
(pointedly to Picard)
... in case your plan doesn't work.
Baran EXITS. Off Picard's expression.
CUT TO:
50 INT. MERCENARY SHIP - CARGO BAY
The room looks like a cross between an archaeological
museum and a science lab. The walls are jammed with
scientific consoles, and the remaining spaces are
filled with artifacts scattered around the room in and
out of cargo containers.
Picard is working at a console; he has a TRICORDER and
a PADD, and a small relic sits on a SCANNER PAD in
front of him. The scanner pad looks like it was
cobbled-together from several tech-instrument
attachments.
Picard is performing a complex, multi-step analysis.
He scans the relic with his tricorder and works the
console, making several adjustments to the scanner.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/30/93 - ACT FIVE 50.
50 CONTINUED:
He carefully adjusts the scanner with a tool before
he's satisfied -- it's clear this is a difficult and
time-consuming process.
PICARD
Computer. Access spectral
enhancement mode three and begin
scan.
The scanner pad LIGHTS UP, and a short beat later, the
computer BEEPS.
COMPUTER VOICE
Scan complete.
PICARD
Analysis?
COMPUTER VOICE
Terikon particle decay profile
does not fall within specified
reference range. Probability of
match: zero-point-zero-four
percent.
Picard makes a note in his PADD and takes the relic off
the scanner. He picks up another artifact and places
it on the scanner.
PICARD
Computer. Reset diagnostic for
new sample, lot number three-six-nine-A...
The DOOR OPENS and Tallera ENTERS.
TALLERA
Baran wants to see the analysis of
the last lot. He thinks you're
moving a little slowly.
PICARD
Tell Baran if he wants the
analysis done faster, he can do it
himself. If he wants it done
correctly, he can wait.
Picard turns his attention back to the sample, but
Tallera moves to the console and turns off the scanner.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FIVE 51.
50 CONTINUED: (2)
TALLERA
Do you enjoy living dangerously,
Galen? Baran can kill you in an
instant if he activates his
control device...
Tallera's manner is friendly, even seductive. She's
trying to draw Picard out, figure him out.
PICARD
I doubt he'll do that. I've
increased the accuracy of the
identification process by a factor
of ten. I'm the best person here
to analyze these artifacts, and
Baran knows it.
He snaps the scanner back on and places another
artifact on the pad.
PICARD
Computer, begin scan.
TALLERA
He may need you now -- but I know
Baran, and I can tell you he's not
going to back down forever.
(beat)
You accomplish nothing by
provoking him.
Picard turns to her. He might be able to use this
opportunity to get some information himself.
In the background, we hear the computer voice:
COMPUTER VOICE
Scan complete.
PICARD
I don't like operating in the
dark. If I knew what the point of
this mission were... why I'm
scanning these relics...
TALLERA
If Baran felt it were wise to let
the crew know that, I'm sure he
would have.
A beat as Picard assesses her.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FIVE 52.
50 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD
Do you know what this is all
about?
She smiles, an enigmatic smile that suggests a special
relationship between her and Baran.
TALLERA
What Baran knows, I know...
PICARD
Then tell me what we're doing
here. Why are we risking our
lives taking these artifacts? Who
wants them?
TALLERA
I see no reason to tell you
anything... but you can rest
assured I don't necessarily share
everything I know with Baran,
either.
A beat as she moves closer to him.
TALLERA
(softly)
This conversation, for example...
will stay between us.
He gives her a look. Is there a hint of complicity?
Of seduction?
He can't be sure what this mysterious woman is getting
at, but he certainly doesn't trust her.
PICARD
You can tell him every word I've
said. He knows I don't think he's
much of a leader.
Tallera takes a step back, as though feeling a rebuff.
The edge has returned to her voice.
TALLERA
He's been in charge of this crew
for a long time.
PICARD
He wouldn't be captain for five
minutes if he didn't have the
control device.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FIVE 53.
50 CONTINUED: (4)
PICARD (Cont'd)
The crew follows him because they
have no choice. Baran's power is
based only on fear and
intimidation.
Tallera regards him gravely, probing, trying to assess
him.
TALLERA
That almost sounds like a prelude
to mutiny...
PICARD
If someone were to challenge Baran --
the crew would follow.
TALLERA
I was right. You do like living
dangerously...
There is a beat as she moves closer to him.
TALLERA
I like you, Galen. I can tolerate
a lot from someone like you... but
only to a point.
(beat)
I intend to complete this mission
successfully and get what's been
promised me. If it looks as
though you're getting in the way
of that... I'll deal with you
myself.
She turns and EXITS. Picard stares after her, trying
to gauge just how formidable she really is.
CUT TO:
51 EXT. SPACE - THE MERCENARY SHIP (OPTICAL)
enters orbit around Calder Two.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FIVE 54.
52 INT. MERCENARY BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard, Tallera, Narik, and Vekor are in the b.g. at
various stations. Riker is talking to a Starfleet
Officer, LIEUTENANT SANDERS, on a monitor at one of the
consoles. Baran stands nearby, out of view of the
screen, watching Riker carefully.
SANDERS
Commander, no one is allowed on
the surface without prior
authorization from the Federation
Science Council.
RIKER
I'm aware of that, Lieutenant, but
the outpost is in imminent danger
of attack. I want to station
security personnel on the surface
to protect you.
(beat)
I am ordering you to drop your
shields.
Sanders takes his time considering.
SANDERS
I'm sorry, sir... but the
regulations are very specific. I
can't do it.
(beat)
If you like, you can remain in
orbit until we contact the Science
Council, but we're experiencing
some communication difficulties
right now, so it might take some
time --
Baran abruptly cuts off the transmission.
BARAN
(angry)
They're delaying on purpose.
Someone has warned them.
Baran gestures to an N.D. at the weapons console.
BARAN
Charge main disruptor array...
destroy the outpost.
Picard sees that although there's no longer any way to
avoid a battle, there might still be a way to save the
people below -- but he has to act quickly. Picard
moves to the weapons console and moves the N.D. out of
the way...
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/28/93 - ACT FIVE 54A.
52 CONTINUED:
PICARD
That would take too long.
Starfleet might be here any
minute...
Picard begins working the console...
BARAN
What are you doing?
PICARD
I'm configuring the disruptors to
fire a phase-resonant pulse... If
I can hit their shield generator
at precisely the right frequency,
I should be able to knock it off-line
with a single shot...
(beat)
Firing...
We hear the SOUND of disruptors firing... A tense
beat...
PICARD
(off console)
Their shields are down...
Baran and Picard exchange a brief glance.
53 BARAN
moves quickly to Tallera's station. Tallera is
studying her console intently.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FIVE 55.
53 CONTINUED:
BARAN
The artifacts should be located in
several small structures...
arranged in staggered
formations...
TALLERA
I'm scanning...
Tallera works the console for a beat.
TALLERA
I think I've found them.
BARAN
Lock the coordinates and start
bringing them up.
Tallera works her console...
54 ANGLE ON TRANSPORTER (OPTICAL)
as several artifacts MATERIALIZE on the Transporter
pad.
55 RESUME SCENE
BARAN
There should be at least two more
pieces down there.
TALLERA
(off console)
I've got them --
Tallera suddenly looks up from her console.
TALLERA
(continuing)
I've lost transporter lock.
Picard breaks in.
PICARD
They've managed to get their
shields back up.
Baran moves to Picard.
BARAN
I need those artifacts. Lock all
disruptors on target... this time
I want that outpost destroyed.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT FIVE 56.
55 CONTINUED: (2)
Picard reacts -- there's no way he can disobey the
order... Picard moves to the weapons control
station...
Suddenly, the SHIP SHAKES -- it's been hit.
56 OMITTED
57 INT. BRIDGE
Data is at command and Troi is at her station; Worf is
at tactical and Giusti at ops.
WORF
Direct hit on their aft deflector,
sir... They are undamaged.
DATA
Ensign, scan for Starfleet
combadge signals. Is Commander
Riker aboard that ship?
GIUSTI
(works console)
I can't tell, sir. Sensors are
unable to penetrate their hull.
DATA
Open a channel.
(to com)
This is the Federation Starship
Enterprise. You are ordered to
stand down...
58 INT. MERCENARY BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
DATA'S COM VOICE
(continuing)
... Drop your shields and prepare
to be boarded.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FIVE 57.
58 CONTINUED:
Baran instantly accuses Riker.
BARAN
You sent them a message... you
told them where to find us.
RIKER
That's ridiculous... when did I
have the chance?
Baran has one option left. He takes out his pain
control device and shows it pointedly to Riker.
BARAN
(re: device)
This is set to kill.
(beat)
Order your ship to disengage.
He shoves Riker in front of the main Viewscreen.
BARAN
(to N.D. Mercenary)
Activate visual.
59 INT. ENTERPRISE - BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Riker appears on the Viewscreen. Reactions all around.
DATA
Commander. Are you all right?
INTERCUT:
60 INT. MERCENARY BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
BARAN
(insistent)
Tell them!
Riker has an idea... he's going to make a desperate
gamble.
RIKER
(hard)
Withdraw the Enterprise, Mister
Data. That's an order.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - 07/26/93 - ACT FIVE 58.
60 CONTINUED:
DATA
(puzzled)
Sir, that is impossible. The ship
you are on has violated a
Federation outpost. It is my duty
to stop it.
RIKER
I'm your commanding officer and
I'm giving you a direct order.
Understood?
Worf and Data exchange a look. What the hell is going
on?
DATA
Commander, if you could explain --
END INTERCUT:
61 INT. MERCENARY BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
RIKER
I've never explained my orders to
you before and I'm not going to
start now.
Riker cuts off the transmission and turns quickly to
Baran.
RIKER
I have no intention of letting
them blow us into space.
(beat)
If I can set up a low energy com
link between the ships... I can
use my personal command codes to
deactivate their shields.
Baran looks at him for a quick beat and then indicates
a nearby console.
BARAN
Do it.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/28/93 - ACT FIVE 59.
61 CONTINUED:
Riker moves to the console and begins working
furiously.
62 INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE
Everyone is still mystified by Riker's behavior.
DATA
Counselor, could Commander Riker
have been drugged or mentally
altered in some way to explain
this?
TROI
I didn't sense anything which
would indicate that...
WORF
(off console)
Commander, we are receiving some
kind of signal from the mercenary
ship...
(beat; astonished)
These are Commander Riker's access
codes... he is attempting to shut
down our shields...
TROI
That doesn't make any sense. He
knows those codes would have been
changed as soon as he was
captured...
A beat as Data considers this strange situation.
Then...
DATA
That is correct, Counselor. He
does know.
(beat)
Mister Worf. Prepare to drop the
shields.
WORF
(astonished)
Sir? We will be totally
defenseless.
DATA
I am aware of that.
STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part I" - REV. 07/27/93 - ACT FIVE 60.
62 CONTINUED:
WORF
The moment they see our --
DATA
That is an order.
A beat.
WORF
Aye-aye, sir.
Reluctantly, Worf works his console.
63 INT. MERCENARY SHIP
Riker, Picard, Baran, and Tallera are gathered around
a console.
RIKER
It worked! Their shields are
dropping...
Baran turns to Picard.
BARAN
Fire!
Picard exchanges a look with Riker... and presses the
button.
64 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND MERCENARY SHIP
(OPTICAL)
The Mercenary ship opens fire on the helpless
Enterprise, scoring a direct hit on the warp nacelles.
FREEZE FRAME.
SUPER: TO BE CONTINUED...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
END OF PART I
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