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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"When the Bough Breaks"
#40271-118
Written by
Hannah Louise Shearer
Directed by
Kim Manners
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 1987 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 This script is not for publication or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.
2ND. REV. FINAL DRAFT
DECEMBER 11, 1987
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"When the Bough Breaks"
CAST
PICARD ALDEANS
RIKER RASHELLA
BEVERLY RADUE
DATA DUANA
TROI ACCOLAN
TASHA LEDA
WORF MELIAN
GEORDI
WESLEY Non-Speaking
GAREN
COUPLE
HARRY THREE ADULTS
DR. BERNARD
TOYA Voice-Over
ALEXANDRA CUSTODIAN'S VOICE
KATIE
Non-Speaking
ROSE
TARA
MASON
CREWMEMBERS
PARENTS
CLASSMATES
Voice-Over
COMPUTER VOICE
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/10/87 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"When the Bough Breaks"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
CORRIDORS
MAIN BRIDGE PLANET - ALDEA
CLASSROOM
FAMILY QUARTERS
KATIE'S BEDROOM (CORNER OF)
OBSERVATION LOUNGE
TURBOLIFT
BEVERLY'S OFFICE
TRANSPORTER ROOM
PLANET - ALDEA
FIRST UNIT CHAMBER
RASHELLA'S QUARTERS
FIRST UNIT CHAMBER FOYER
TELEPORT ARCH
COMPUTER (CUSTODIAN) ROOM
ARTISTS' UNIT
WESLEY'S ROOM
MELIAN'S MUSIC ROOM
KATIE'S QUARTERS
CORRIDORS
POWER ROOM
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"When the Bough Breaks"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 INT. ENTERPRISE - CORRIDOR
Riker ENTERS the corridor as he is PAGED.
COMPUTER VOICE
Commander Riker, report to the
bridge.
RIKER
On the way.
2 INT. ANOTHER CORRIDOR
as Riker HURRIES to the turbolift. HARRY, a smallish
ten-year-old boy, runs down the corridor, head down,
colliding with Riker.
RIKER
What's your hurry, Harry?
Harry looks up at him, not believing what he's done.
HARRY
Oops. Sorry, Commander. I was,
um, just...
DR. BERNARD
Harry!
Harry's father, HARRY BERNARD, SR., APPEARS and is
furious with his son.
DR. BERNARD
I'm sorry if he bothered you.
RIKER
No bother, Doctor Bernard.
Riker limps slightly as he walks toward the turbolift.
HARRY
I'm not going back. I hate that
teacher. And I hate calculus.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
DR. BERNARD
Everyone needs an understanding
of basic calculus, whether they
like it or not.
HARRY
Why?
Riker REACTS to Harry's question with a smile.
3 RIKER'S POV
From inside the turbolift, Riker watches Dr. Bernard
take his son by the hand and lead him back down the
corridor as the turbolift doors CLOSE.
4 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Riker LIMPS OFF the turbolift. PICARD is at the Aft
Station. The other CREWMEMBERS are at their positions.
BEVERLY is also at the Aft Station.
BEVERLY
You're limping.
RIKER
A small run-in with an aspiring
sprinter.
PICARD
Ah, Number One.
RIKER
A problem, Captain?
PICARD
A curiosity. For the past several
hours we have been tracking faint
energy readings in an attempt to
locate the source. It's been like
following a trail of bread crumbs.
Riker steps over to the Aft Station.
PICARD
(continuing)
The path lead here and stopped
-- which is what I knew would
interest you.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - TEASER 3.
4 CONTINUED:
RIKER
(to Geordi)
What's our position?
GEORDI
The Epsilon Mynos system.
RIKER
(with a look of
surprise)
Really? Thank you, Captain;
you're right... I wouldn't miss
this for anything.
TASHA
What's so interesting about this
system?
RIKER
Aldea.
Tasha still doesn't get the point.
RIKER
(continuing; to Tasha)
Tasha -- I'm surprised. You mean
you've never heard the stories
about Aldea? A wonderous mythical
world -- like Atlantis on ancient
earth... or Neinman on Xerxes
Seven... with an advanced culture,
centuries old. Self-contained,
peaceful, with incredible
technical sophistication which
provided for every citizen's daily
needs, allowing them to devote
themselves to culture and art,
which was beautiful beyond compare
and valued beyond price.
TASHA
Where is it supposed to be?
RIKER
Ahh -- that is the myth -- somehow --
so the legend goes -- the Aldeans
were able to cloak their planet
in darkness and go unseen by
marauders and other hostile
passersby who might rob and
plunder.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - TEASER 4.
4 CONTINUED: (2)
Tasha LAUGHS.
TASHA
A wonderful fairy tale.
DATA
Scanners still show nothing, sir.
Troi is concentrating, puzzled.
TROI
Scanners may show nothing,
Captain, but I am sensing
something very strong.
(a beat)
Thousands of minds, sir.
5 VARIOUS SHOTS OF THE CREW
REACTING with interest and curiosity.
PICARD
Where?
TROI
Very close.
6 BACK TO SHOT
PICARD
All stop.
GEORDI
Answering all stop.
PICARD
Anything?
WORF
Captain, I am recording a
distortion in quadrant one, mark
nine-zero.
PICARD
On screen.
7 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL)
There is nothing specifically visible on the Main
Viewer, except a SLIGHT BLURRING in the center.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - TEASER 5.
8 REACTIONS
as the crew puzzles over the unusual effect.
PICARD
Shields and deflectors up.
TASHA
Aye, sir.
9 BACK TO SHOT (OPTICAL)
Suddenly, with a great, low-decibel NOISE like
BLANKETED THUNDER, which draws everyone's attention, a
huge planet begins to APPEAR on the viewer, clearing
until it's visible. It is a LIGHT GREEN, peaceful and
inviting, necklaced with a LIGHT FILM. Everyone stands
amazed, in awe.
RIKER
(almost breathless)
Aldea, Captain... It has to be.
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT ONE 6.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
10 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as she maintains orbit around Aldea.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 41509.1.
Either by chance or intent, we've
been led to the mythical planet
of Aldea, which appeared out of
nowhere, hidden behind a
sophisticated shielding device.
11 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Everyone is at stations.
DATA
Captain, the sensors indicate that
the shield is electromagnetic. A
complicated light refracting
mechanism.
PICARD
A cloaking device.
DATA
Yes, sir.
GEORDI
To hide an entire planet it's
gotta be pretty sophisticated.
Picard, Riker and Troi watch the planet.
WORF
(from Aft Station)
We're being scanned, sir.
PICARD
Let's let them know our peaceful
intent. Open hailing frequencies,
Lieutenant Yar.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT ONE 7.
11 CONTINUED:
Before Tasha can comply, a WOMAN'S IMAGE MATERIALIZES
on the viewscreen, startling everyone. RASHELLA, a
melancholy beauty with almost translucent skin, is
shrouded in DIM LIGHT. She emanates a quiet tensile
strength, her body covered by the simplest utilitarian
clothes.
RASHELLA
I'm Rashella. Welcome to Aldea.
PICARD
I am Captain Jean-Luc Picard of
the USS Enterprise. We come in
peace.
RASHELLA
We know.
PICARD
We've heard the stories about
Aldea, but frankly never thought
they could possibly be true.
RASHELLA
(laughing)
Our shield has confused outsiders
for millennia, Captain.
PICARD
A very long time to have that kind
of technology. Why are you
revealing yourself now?
RASHELLA
We're eager to meet in person to
discuss that, and other subjects
of mutual interest.
PICARD
We're ready anytime.
RASHELLA
Excellent!
Instantly, THREE ALDEANS MATERIALIZE on the bridge.
The crew is stunned. Rashella; GAREN, a large
fierce-looking man; and behind them, RADUE, pale,
older, stately-looking, with great authority and kindly
eyes, and a squint at the brightness of the bridge.
They carry baskets filled with fruits and flowers.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT ONE 8.
12 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
REACTIONS from the bridge personnel. All are taken
aback.
RASHELLA
(reacting to their
astonishment)
Our arrival seems to have startled
you.
RADUE
We mean no harm.
PICARD
It was a little sudden
RADUE
I'm Radue, First Appointee of Aldea.
PICARD
Welcome aboard.
BEVERLY
Captain, they haven't been through
decontamination.
Picard waves her off.
PICARD
It's all right.
(to the Aldeans)
Our medical doctor is concerned
you didn't go through our regular
transporting procedure.
RASHELLA
You couldn't transport us. The
only way through our shield is
our way, Captain. Our cloaking
device may be off, but our shield
is operating. We've brought you
small tokens of welcome.
She hands Picard a basket of flowers and bows her head
to him slightly, then gestures to Garen, who offers his
basket of fruit to Tasha.
RADUE
And our personal invitation to
a celebration on Aldea.
PICARD
We'd be delighted. Number One,
assemble your away team.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT ONE 9.
12 CONTINUED:
RADUE
We will prepare for your arrival,
Commander Riker.
RIKER
How did you know...
RADUE
... your name? We've been
monitoring your ship's
communications. We must return
now to Aldea. Our eyes are very
sensitive to bright light.
Rashella, Garen.
They use their arm devices and the three DISAPPEAR
from the bridge. Picard looks at Troi and Riker.
PICARD
Amazing. Only to exist in
mythology and suddenly they're
here, right in front of us.
Number One?
RIKER
Now you know who placed the
bread crumbs. We're not here by
accident.
PICARD
Counselor? What do you sense?
TROI
Only the obvious. They want
something from us.
RADUE'S COM VOICE
Commander Riker, is your party
ready?
The away team, not as normally constituted, DISAPPEARS
off the bridge. It includes only Riker, Troi and
Beverly, selected by the Aldeans. Picard looks around
at who is missing.
PICARD
Interesting choices.
13 INT. ALDEA - FIRST UNIT CHAMBER (OPTICAL)
The away team MATERIALIZES in a spartan, white-walled
room with ancient hanging tapestries.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT ONE 10.
13 CONTINUED:
(From now on, throughout the script, every room on Aldea
has a Teleporting Arch which allows the Aldeans to move
from place to place on their planet simply by stepping
in and identifying their destination.) Rashella, Radue
and DUANA, an older woman who is very pale and slight,
greet them.
RADUE
I hope Duana and I know how to
greet you properly, Commander.
"May your light shine through the
ages."
Radue's hand begins to shake uncontrollably.
RADUE
(continuing)
My apologies. Age has no respect
for the body.
Beverly and Troi exchange worried glances.
14 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
WESLEY has joined Picard on the bridge.
WESLEY
How do they cloak the planet?
DATA
The theory is simple. The shield
bends light rays around the
planet's contour -- similar to the
Romulan cloaking device -- but the
implementation is very difficult.
A BEAM OF ENERGY PENETRATES the bridge at that moment.
It searches until it finds Wesley, then SURROUNDS him.
He can't move away from it. He closes his eyes and
relaxes into it.
PICARD
Wesley!
GEORDI
Sir, the energy beam is
originating from Aldea.
PICARD
Shields up. La Forge, contact
Commander Riker. Worf, check
all other decks.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT ONE 11.
14 CONTINUED:
DATA
Shields inoperable, sir. All
decks are being probed in a
methodical pattern.
PICARD
All decks? Everything? The entire
ship?
DATA
Aye, sir!
GEORDI
Captain, I can't get through to
Commander Riker. We're being
blocked.
The ENERGY BEAM STOPS as suddenly as it appeared.
Wesley shakes his head, as if to brush it off.
PICARD
Are you all right, Wesley?
WESLEY
(nodding)
It was scary at first, but I
really didn't feel anything.
WORF
Sir, similar incidents, all decks,
(surprised)
but only with the children.
15 INT. ALDEA - FIRST UNIT CHAMBER (OPTICAL)
The hosts are getting down to business as they all sit
around a table laden with food.
RADUE
Yes, Commander, we are an ancient
power. But we've suffered for
it. Our history is littered with
the deaths of those people who
craved more and more things.
Nothing was ever enough. So,
we've evolved a very simple way
of living: for whatever is taken,
something is given in return.
RIKER
It seems an equitable code.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT ONE 12.
15 CONTINUED:
RADUE
It's given us peace.
Unfortunately, there are very few
of us left to enjoy it.
TROI
Why?
RADUE
That is some of what we wish to
discuss. We need help from the
Federation to rebuild our
heritage... we need a younger
generation, strong and healthy,
following in the Aldean
traditions.
RIKER
I don't understand. How can the
Federation help influence your
children in your traditions?
RADUE
Because we have no children,
Commander. Rashella was the last
child born on this planet.
Rashella watches the away team for its reaction. They're
shocked.
BEVERLY
And your medical community can
do nothing?
RASHELLA
They've tried, Doctor Crusher.
And failed.
BEVERLY
Perhaps we can help...
Troi senses something ominous and makes a signal to
Riker who quickly and correctly interprets it.
RIKER
Radue, exactly why have we been
invited to Aldea?
RADUE
We propose a trade. One which
will solve our problem and give
something back to the Federation.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT ONE 13.
15 CONTINUED: (2)
RIKER
And the nature of this trade?
RADUE
We need some of your children.
In payment, we will give you the
kind of knowledge which would take
you centuries to acquire.
16 REACTIONS
from Riker, Beverly and Troi.
RIKER
That might be acceptable to some
other races, but humans are
unusually attached to their own
offspring.
17 BACK TO SHOT
RIKER
We sympathize with your situation,
Radue. But what you ask is not
possible.
RADUE
And that's your final answer?
RIKER
It's my only answer. If we can
be of help in some other way...
RADUE
I am sorry you are intransigent.
Radue nods at Rashella and touches his arm band. The
three Enterprise officers are immediately GONE from the
room.
18 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard is surprised when the away team abruptly APPEARS
on the bridge. As Wesley turns in reaction, a BEAM
ENGULFS him and he DISAPPEARS from the bridge.
Beverly's anguished face is stunned as she reaches out
to the empty place where he was standing.
BEVERLY
Wes!
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT ONE 14.
19 INT. CLASSROOM (OPTICAL)
HARRY BERNARD DISAPPEARS in front of his classmates.
One by one, TWO other CHILDREN DISAPPEAR: ROSE and
TARA, eight-year olds.
20 INT. CORRIDOR (OPTICAL)
MASON, a nine-year old, walking with his parents,
DISAPPEARS.
21 INT. FAMILY QUARTERS (OPTICAL)
ALEXANDRA, carrying a stick-em toy in one hand,
DISAPPEARS in front of TOYA, her terrified mother.
22 INT. CORNER OF KATIE'S BEDROOM (OPTICAL)
where KATIE, a twelve-year-old, playing something that
looks like a violin, VANISHES. The instrument she was
holding FALLS to the floor.
23 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard sits. Beverly is next to him, like a statue,
gripping the chair.
WORF
Saucer Section reports six more
children are gone.
RIKER
It's the children. That's why
we've been brought here. That's
what they wanted.
PICARD
And that's what they have.
FADE OUT:
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT TWO 15.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
24 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The crew is in turmoil.
PICARD
Status!
TASHA
Aldean shields still up. Hailing
frequencies open. No response.
PICARD
Keep trying, Lieutenant.
Counselor, gather the parents.
TROI
They'll need to talk to you as
well, Captain.
Radue's image APPEARS on the Viewscreen.
RADUE
Captain, your children are with
us.
Picard fighting his outrage.
PICARD
... Go on.
RADUE
My word of honor... no harm will
ever come to them.
PICARD
Harm has already been done.
RADUE
Captain, let us begin discussions
regarding appropriate
compensation.
PICARD
(angrily)
Compensation! You steal our
children -- from their classrooms
-- their bedrooms -- and you talk
about compensation. Return
them... now!
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT TWO 16.
24 CONTINUED:
RADUE
We will continue this discussion
when you've calmed down.
The viewscreen GOES BLACK.
PICARD
I shouldn't have lost my temper.
He and Beverly exchange looks. Their faces are tight.
25 INT. ALDEA - FIRST UNIT CHAMBER
Wesley stands in the middle of the room with most of
the children huddled around him. He watches Harry
wander around, looking at the tapestries on the wall,
while Alexandra toddles aimlessly.
KATIE
Wesley, I'm frightened.
WESLEY
I know. We all are, but it's
going to be all right. Everyone
knows where we are. No one is
going to hurt you. I promise.
(then to the toddler)
Alexandra, don't go too far!
KATIE
She's not afraid of anything.
Harry feels the texture of a magnificent wall-hanging.
WESLEY
(continuing)
Harry, don't touch that!
HARRY
I'm not gonna hurt it.
WESLEY
I know that. But maybe they
don't.
All the children move closer together.
KATIE
Who?
Wesley runs after Alexandra. He holds onto her hand.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT TWO 17.
25 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
I don't know who.
HARRY
Why are we here?
WESLEY
I don't know that either.
The children suddenly realize there is someone watching
them. Radue SWEEPS majestically INTO the room,
Rashella and Duana FOLLOWING. He stares at the
children. Wesley steps forward in front of the group
and stares back at Radue.
RADUE
Greetings, Wesley Crusher.
WESLEY
How did you know my name?
(realization)
Oh, through that energy beam.
RADUE
Excellent analysis. The Custodian
indicated you would be the leader.
WESLEY
The Custodian -- who is the
Custodian?
RADUE
The Custodian is not a person.
RASHELLA
We have brought you to Aldea as
our guests. We'll provide
anything you need or want.
WESLEY
We want to go home.
RADUE
Wesley, all of you have been
chosen because you are special.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT TWO 18.
25 CONTINUED: (2)
DUANA
Children, we are starting on a
wonderful adventure.
RADUE
Exactly... Just ask for anything
you want, and you shall have it.
Radue WHISKS OUT of the room, leaving the children more
confused than they were before. Alexandra follows him
to the door and waves.
ALEXANDRA
Bye-bye.
Rashella looks down at this creature and can't help but
smile. She reaches out her hand and Alexandra smiles
and takes it.
26 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard stands in front of a table where the children's
tense, hostile parents sit with Troi. TOYA stands
defiantly, like an Amazon facing the only enemy she can
find.
TOYA
What happened to Alexandra and
the other children, Captain? How
are you getting them back?
Beverly gently rebukes Toya.
BEVERLY
Toya, sit down... You're
reacting out of fear.
(gently)
We all knew what the risks were
when we signed on. And that's
the choice we made. Captain
Picard will do everything possible
to bring our children back.
Picard acknowledges Beverly's support.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT TWO 19.
26 CONTINUED:
PICARD
The Aldeans are anxious to discuss
"compensation." That will buy
us time. I've asked Doctor
Crusher to be involved in the
negotiations as your
representative.
The parents MURMUR. Picard looks around the table at
his frightened personnel.
DR. BERNARD
Why were these specific children
taken?
PICARD
We can't be sure. We do know the
Aldeans can't have children of
their own.
DR. BERNARD
Then they won't let them go
easily.
PICARD
I won't insult you by pretending
it will be easy. I can only say
the Enterprise will not leave them
behind. Be assured of that.
DR. BERNARD
Can we talk with our children?
Give them some reassurance. Let
them know that we are here, and
that they will be safe.
PICARD
I will do my best to arrange it.
Toya and the others do their best to believe Picard.
DR. BERNARD
The last time I saw him I yelled
at him.
They all understand his pain.
27 INT. ALDEA - RASHELLA'S QUARTERS
A spartan area, seemingly empty. Until Alexandra pops
her head around a corner. Rashella JUMPS OUT of
hiding.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT TWO 20.
27 CONTINUED:
RASHELLA
There you are!
Alexandra GIGGLES and pretends to run away, letting
Rashella catch her.
RASHELLA
(continuing)
I have you now!
28 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard ENTERS the bridge from the lounge.
PICARD
Any response from Aldea,
Lieutenant Yar?
TASHA
Not yet, sir.
RIKER
Captain, Data has found something
interesting. The Aldean shield
gives evidence of sporadic
fluctuations, weakening its
structure in isolated sections.
PICARD
You're saying there are holes in
their defense system?
RIKER
In essence, yes. It is surprising
after all these eons that the
Aldeans' use of their technology
is not perfect. One would assume
they would be aware of the
weakness and repair it.
PICARD
Can we beam down an away team
through one of these so-called
holes?
RIKER
It is a possibility. It would
have to be perfectly timed -- and
there are no guarantees.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT TWO 21.
28 CONTINUED:
DATA
We may be more successful in
deciphering the code they use
to transport through the magnetic
shield.
PICARD
Can you do that?
DATA
Eventually, sir. I am working
on it now but the number of
permutations is almost endless.
PICARD
Keep trying.
(turning to Riker)
Number One, while he's doing that,
you find a way of getting through
one of those holes because one way
or the other we have to get an away
team on that planet, locate the
power source of that shield and
neutralize it.
RIKER
You're certain they'll negotiate?
PICARD
Oh, they'll negotiate, Number One.
Or call it that. They took what
they wanted, now they'll
rationalize it by throwing us some
sort of bone.
Data is puzzled by this.
DATA
A bone, sir? In exchange for the
children?
Picard just looks at him.
DATA
(continuing)
Oh. A metaphor.
RIKER
And when we don't accept their
offer?
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT TWO 22.
28 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
The minute they believe we will
accept no compensation for the
children, they will end all
discussion and disappear behind
their shield... locking us out
and the children in -- forever.
That's why I have to keep them
talking.
29 INT. ALDEA - FIRST UNIT CHAMBER FOYER
Wesley, Katie and Harry are sitting in the hallway,
waiting. Tara COMES OUT of the room with an ALDEAN
COUPLE. The woman is holding Tara's hand. Tara looks
back at the boys, pleadingly.
WESLEY
Excuse me, sir, where are you
taking Tara?
They continue walking down the hall, leaving Wesley
behind. Harry turns accusingly to Wesley.
HARRY
What's happening? I thought you
said the captain was going to
rescue us!
WESLEY
He will. It just might take him
a little while.
Radue opens the door and gestures the boys to enter.
They hesitate.
RADUE
Come in.
30 INT. ALDEA - FIRST UNIT CHAMBER
THREE other ADULT ALDEANS are waiting inside. They are
all extremely pale and thin.
RADUE
Don't be alarmed. The other
children have been assigned to
their units.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT TWO 23.
30 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
Units?
RADUE
A unit is a group where people
of similar talents and interests
live together.
WESLEY
Like a family.
RADUE
Yes, you could call it that.
WESLEY
We already have families.
Radue gently pulls Harry forward. Harry nervously
shuffles his feet.
WESLEY
(continuing)
Does Captain Picard know what you
are doing?
RADUE
We are keeping nothing from him.
Accolan and Leda can barely control their happiness as
they close in on Harry.
LEDA
We have been waiting for you so
long, Harry. We are artists, just
like you.
HARRY
I'm not an artist.
ACCOLAN
You will be. And a great one.
LEDA
This way, Harry.
31 ANGLE ON TELEPORT ARCH (OPTICAL)
Accolan and Leda lead Harry into the Arch.
LEDA
Unit B -- three seven five.
And the three DISAPPEAR.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT TWO 24.
32 BACK TO SHOT
RADUE
Katie.
Katie steps forward to meet MELIAN, a middle-aged
Aldean, very distinguished looking. Melian reaches
out his arthritic, crippled hand to clasp Katie's.
MELIAN
I am honored.
KATIE
Thank you.
RADUE
Melian is the foremost musician
on Aldea.
MELIAN
Music speaks its own language...
I know we'll have much to learn
from each other.
Katie looks at Wesley.
MELIAN
(continuing)
Don't worry, Katie. You'll be
seeing Wesley soon.
He puts his arm around Katie and takes her OUT OF FRAME.
Wesley stands alone, almost defiant. He stares at Radue,
forcing him to speak first.
RADUE
We're the only ones left, Wesley.
Does that tell you something?
WESLEY
Do you want me to guess?
DUANE
No. You'll be staying with Radue
and me. As First Unit we require
someone with innate leadership
ability -- and a great mind. You
have both. We need you, Wesley.
WESLEY
What about me? Don't I have a
say in this?
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT TWO 25.
32 CONTINUED:
RADUE
Wesley, sometimes things happen
which we just must accept. You
and the other children are now
members of this society. That
will not change. It's up to you
to make the transition as easy
as possible for the others. You
are their leader. It's your duty.
Help them accept it -- because
nothing you, or those on the
starship can do will change it.
Because like you, we also have
no choice.
DUANA
We'll do our best to see you're
happy here. And I promise you
one thing: the secrets of Aldea's
power will one day be yours.
Before he can answer, Alexandra BURSTS INTO the room,
chased by Rashella, who's a little breathless.
RADUE
Where have you been Rashella?
Zena and Aran are waiting to take
Alexandra.
RASHELLA
No.
Radue shows surprise at her rebellion.
RADUE
No? I told you...
RASHELLA
No, Radue. They can't have her.
Rashella picks Alexandra up and holds her tightly.
RASHELLA
(continuing)
I will never let her go.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT THREE 26.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
33 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
still in orbit around Aldea.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental. We
remain in orbit around Aldea.
It's becoming all too evident that
talk will not effect the return
of our children. We must
neutralize the Aldean shield.
Until then we are helpless.
34 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The crew is at their regular posts.
TASHA
Sir, Radue is hailing us.
Radue APPEARS on the Main Viewer.
RADUE
Captain Picard.
PICARD
Doctor Crusher and I are ready,
Radue.
RADUE
Are you ill, Captain?
PICARD
No. Doctor Crusher is a Staff
Officer, Radue. Starfleet
Regulation 6.57 requires at least
two staff officers to be present
during any treaty or contract
negotiations.
RADUE
Very well.
Radue's image DISAPPEARS from the Viewscreen.
RIKER
Not much on pleasantries, is he?
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT THREE 27.
34 CONTINUED:
DATA
I am not aware of Regulation 6.57,
sir.
PICARD
Neither am I, Data.
DATA
Oh. I see.
PICARD
Doctor Crusher, report to the
bridge... Now we'll see what they
have in mind.
35 INT. ALDEA - COMPUTER (CUSTODIAN) ROOM (OPTICAL)
Duana and Wesley APPEAR in the Teleporting Arch, which
has a DISTINCTIVE SOUND. The room is very simple. It
doesn't look as advanced as the Enterprise's computer.
Wesley looks around, unimpressed. He notices a massive
door at the end of the room that looks as though it's
never been opened.
DUANA
Over here, Wesley.
Wesley moves to a table in the center of the room.
Duana speaks into a panel.
DUANA
(continuing)
Custodian, Wesley Crusher's voice
will be entered into the
authorized file -- for Third Level
clearance.
CUSTODIAN VOICE
Proceed, Duana.
Wesley listens to the sounds and speed of the
Custodian.
DUANA
Announce yourself to the
Custodian.
WESLEY
Hello, Custodian. I'm Wesley
Crusher.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT THREE 28.
35 CONTINUED:
CUSTODIAN VOICE
Hello, Wesley. Your voice will
now activate Third Level
clearance.
WESLEY
Thank you. What does that mean?
CUSTODIAN VOICE
You may ask any questions you
wish.
WESLEY
Thank you. Duana, what does the
Custodian do?
DUANA
It frees us from all burden. It
takes care of all our needs. It
regulates our lives.
WESLEY
Who built it?
DUANA
The Progenitors.
WESLEY
When?
DUANA
Before my time. Centuries ago.
WESLEY
... What's its power source?
DUANA
Wesley, why is that important?
It does what we ask it. It always
has. What difference does it make
how it works?
WESLEY
If you don't know how it works,
how can you repair it?
DUANA
(not understanding the
concept)
Why would we want to repair it?
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT THREE 29.
35 CONTINUED: (2)
WESLEY
From time to time, every computer
-- I mean Custodian -- requires
maintainance.
DUANA
(laughing)
Wesley, Radue is right. You ask
questions I can't answer. Ask
the Custodian instead.
Wesley leans towards the terminal.
WESLEY
Custodian, can you show me where
Harry is?
CUSTODIAN VOICE
Yes.
WESLEY
Show me Harry.
A small screen ACTIVATES in the center of the console.
Wesley watches:
36 INT. ALDEA - ARTISTS' UNIT
A workshop that's an artist's dream. Tools of every
kind, small and large, ancient and modern. Leda is
showing Harry the use of an unusual shaped
wood-sculpting tool. Harry watches her work with awe.
She hands him the tool, and he repeats what she did
with only a little difficulty. Leda's pleasure shows
in her face. She pats Harry on the shoulder as he
continues working. He looks up at her happily.
HARRY
I never did this before. It's
fun.
37 INT. ALDEA - CUSTODIAN ROOM (OPTICAL)
Harry and Leda are still ON THE SCREEN.
WESLEY
You are going to make Harry into
a sculptor?
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT THREE 30.
37 CONTINUED:
DUANA
He already is. He has just never
been encouraged properly. The
tool Leda is giving him will allow
him to bring out his visions.
WESLEY
It will take years for him to
learn to do that.
DUANA
Oh, no. It will happen quite
quickly.
He looks at her, wonderingly.
WESLEY
Custodian, show me Alexandra.
Wesley watches.
38 INT. ALDEA - RASHELLA'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)
Rashella is demonstrating to Alexandra how to use a
Plexiglas-type multidimensional set of blocks designed
to enhance her reasoning ability. Rashella is thrilled
that Alexandra repeats what she's been shown -- and then
some. She pushes some buttons and the SHAPES AND
COLORS CHANGE. Alexandra GIGGLES and looks to Rashella
for approval. Rashella gives her a tight hug, then
nods to Garen to take over.
39 INT. ALDEA - CUSTODIAN ROOM (OPTICAL)
Alexandra is still ON THE SCREEN.
WESLEY
Custodian, show me Jason...
DUANA
Stop, Custodian.
The screen GOES BLANK as the Custodian obeys Duana.
DUANA
We must work now... there is much
to learn.
Wesley points to the locked door.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT THREE 31.
39 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
What's in there?
Duana's eyes dart towards the fortress-like wall.
WESLEY
It's probably the power source.
DUANA
I don't know. It's forbidden.
The Custodian allows no one in
there. There's no one left who's
authorized.
40 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Beverly and Picard are ready to be transported.
PICARD
Open hailing frequency, Lieutenant
Yar.
TASHA
Open, sir.
Radue APPEARS on the Viewscreen.
RADUE
Ah, good. You're ready.
Beverly and Picard DISAPPEAR from the bridge.
41 INT. ALDEA - FIRST UNIT CHAMBER (OPTICAL)
Picard and Beverly MATERIALIZE. Rashella and Radue
are waiting.
PICARD
I want to see the children before
we begin.
RADUE
No. We're here to negotiate for
compensation, not to pander to
emotions. This way.
They follow Radue to the same area where they had their
celebration. Radue motions them to be seated.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT THREE 32.
41 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Radue, we do not condone your
actions. You're attempting to
salve your conscience by offering
goods in exchange for our
children.
RADUE
Why do you want them back so
badly? You can always make more.
PICARD
We happen to like these particular
children.
RADUE
Humans have great attachment to
their offspring. But we're
digressing. Returning the
children is non-negotiable.
RASHELLA
I promise you they will have a
beautiful life with us. And
they'll be father and mother to
a new breed born of an ancient
culture.
BEVERLY
What makes you think they'll be
able to have children? You can't.
RADUE
But they will. Our inability to
bear children is a genetic
dysfunction. It's not contagious.
PICARD
Radue, we do sympathize. But
surely there is a solution which
can be mutually satisfactory.
RADUE
For us, the problem is solved.
We are offering you information
on areas of the galaxy you don't
even know exist. What more can
we offer? What more would you
want?
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT THREE 33.
41 CONTINUED: (2)
Picard pretends to be impressed. He waits a moment
before replying.
PICARD
A significant beginning, I think.
But first I must ask again that
Doctor Crusher be allowed to speak
with her son before we continue.
RADUE
You are a very stubborn people.
Ah, well, that can be a positive
trait. You may see him.
42 INT. ALDEA - WESLEY'S ROOM
Duana is at the door as Beverly is BROUGHT IN to see
Wesley.
WESLEY
Mom!
They hug.
WESLEY
(continuing)
I knew the captain would get us
home.
Beverly braces herself to tell him.
BEVERLY
Not yet, Wes.
Wesley tries to accept this like a man.
WESLEY
Oh. I thought... never mind.
BEVERLY
Are you okay? And the others?
WESLEY
Okay, really okay. Everyone's
been assigned their own units...
you know, like families. We're
being treated, well, almost like
gods.
BEVERLY
Don't let it go to your head.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT THREE 34.
42 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
(lightly)
I won't.
Beverly covers her surreptitious tricorder reading of
Wesley -- and of Duana -- with small talk.
BEVERLY
So, what have you been doing?
WESLEY
I'm learning a lot. They have a
computer which they call the
Custodian. It controls
everything.
(lowers his voice)
The captain should know this.
All their defense systems, the
city's environment, everything.
And it's all voice command. So
simple. But the amazing thing
is the Aldeans don't know how it
works. They know how to talk to
it, but they don't even know what
its power source is, and they
didn't do the original
programming.
Wesley looks down at the floor.
WESLEY
(continuing; normal
voice)
They said that later on, when I'm
really an Aldean, I'll know all
their secrets.
Beverly WHISPERS to him.
BEVERLY
That won't happen, Wes. I promise
I won't let that happen.
Duana becomes nervous about all the whispering.
DUANA
You must leave, Doctor Crusher.
Duana escorts Beverly to the door. Beverly looks back
at Wesley.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT THREE 35.
42 CONTINUED: (2)
BEVERLY
Take care of yourself.
WESLEY
I will, Mom.
43 INT. ALDEA - FIRST UNIT CHAMBER (OPTICAL)
Picard looks at Beverly questioningly when she ENTERS.
BEVERLY
Wes seems fine. He says the other
children are too.
Rashella is insulted by their doubt.
RASHELLA
Of course they're well.
RADUE
Captain Picard, you have our
offer. It is final. Rashella.
Rashella touches the instrument on her belt -- and
Picard and Beverly DISAPPEAR.
44 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Picard and Beverly MATERIALIZE on the bridge. Radue
immediately APPEARS on the viewscreen.
RADUE
Captain, we want you to understand
the nature of your choice. A
small demonstration of our
power...
45 EXT. ALDEA - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
is PUSHED OUT OF ORBIT by a great BURST OF VISIBLE
ENERGY which envelopes the ship.
46 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The crewmembers SHUDDER slightly as the Enterprise
comes to a quick stop.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT THREE 36.
46 CONTINUED:
PICARD
What was that?
DATA
I believe it was a repulsor beam,
sir.
PICARD
Position report.
GEORDI
It's unbelievable, sir. According
to my calculations, we're three
days from Aldea -- at warp nine.
RIKER
They call that a "small"
Demonstration?
PICARD
Geordi, take us back to Aldea
orbit. Warp factor nine.
Radue again APPEARS on the viewscreen.
RADUE
Captain, if you don't accept our
terms, the Enterprise will be
pushed so far away, by the time
you get back, your children will
be grandparents.
Radue DISAPPEARS from the viewscreen. Picard, Riker
and Troi REACT.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FOUR 37.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
47 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as she travels back towards Aldea at warp nine.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 41509.45.
We are twenty hours away from
Aldea, and no closer to a
solution. Their deliberate show
of force pushed us out of orbit
and could have disintegrated the
ship. In the face of that power,
a direct assault on Aldea would
be disastrous.
48 EXT. SPACE - ALDEA (OPTICAL)
ESTABLISHING.
49 INT. ALDEA - MELIAN'S MUSIC ROOM
As spartan as the rest of the Aldean quarters. Katie
holds an instrument awkwardly in her hands, while
Melian uses his pain-ridden hands to show Katie how
to use it. The instrument is small and circular, about
a foot in diameter. There's a pad for the thumb, and
for the fingers. It CHANGES COLORS for each different
SOUND.
MELIAN
Now, hold it a little bit more
firmly.
Katie moves her fingers around.
MELIAN
(continuing)
That's it. Perfect. Now...
think. No, think's not right.
Feel the notes inside your head.
Katie closes her eyes and the instrument SOUNDS A NOTE.
Katie's so startled she drops it.
KATIE
I'm sorry! Did I break it?
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FOUR 38.
49 CONTINUED:
MELIAN
No. It's all right. You can't
break it.
KATIE
It did exactly what I thought...
I mean, felt.
MELIAN
Yes. It's a direct expression
of the music within. Now we just
have to teach you to structure
that feeling...
Katie takes the instrument back from Melian and looks
at it in wonder. Then hands it back. She begins to
play. A beautiful, melancholy TUNE. Melian listens -
enchanted. She STOPS.
MELIAN
(continuing)
That was beautiful. Now play
something happier.
KATIE
(sadly shaking her
head)
That's not how I feel.
(pause)
I don't want to do this anymore.
Melian smiles sadly at her.
50 INT. ALDEA - ARTISTS' UNIT (OPTICAL) 50
Accolan is helping Harry with a wood carving. Harry
pushes the sculpting tool along the block of wood and
a portion of a dolphin is revealed.
ACCOLAN
You see, Harry, I told you you
were going to be an artist.
HARRY
Are you sure? Did I really do
this?
ACCOLAN
Oh, yes. Your talent has always
been there. The sculpting tool
is just helping you develop it.
It's what you were meant to do.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FOUR 39.
50 CONTINUED:
HARRY
You mean I don't have to do
calculus anymore?
ACCOLAN
You don't have to do anything you
don't want to do. What's
calculus?
HARRY
Nothing important. Can I do some
more?
51 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
It COMES out of warp speed.
52 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as it ENTERS orbit around Aldea.
PICARD
Captain's log, supplemental. It
has been three days since the
Aldeans pushed us away. We have
had no contact with Radue since
then.
53 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The crewmembers are in place.
PICARD
Lieutenant Yar, open hailing
frequencies.
TASHA
Frequencies open, sir.
PICARD
Radue, this is Captain Picard.
Radue APPEARS on the Main Viewer.
RADUE
Welcome back, Captain. What have
you decided?
PICARD
There is room for discussion,
Radue.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FOUR 40.
53 CONTINUED:
RADUE
We will bring you down when we
are ready.
Radue DISAPPEARS from the viewscreen.
PICARD
Data, find a way to defeat that
shield.
DATA
That may be impossible, sir.
PICARD
Things are impossible, until
they're not.
DATA
Yes, sir.
54 ANGLE ON TURBOLIFT
Beverly ENTERS from the turbolift.
BEVERLY
Captain, here's what I've learned.
(a beat)
Duana is dying. I have no reason
to believe the rest of the Aldeans
are any healthier.
PICARD
We're all dying, Doctor. Can you
be more specific?
BEVERLY
They're suffering from some kind
of chromosomal damage. It could
be genetic, or environmental.
PICARD
Then that's why they can't
conceive.
BEVERLY
Yes. It also explains their lack
of appetite, their sensitivity
to light, and their extreme
pallor.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FOUR 41.
54 CONTINUED:
PICARD
An entire civilization that's
terminally ill... is it
reversible?
BEVERLY
I won't know until I've found the
cause... and you don't need to
tell me time is running out.
PICARD
Good work, Doctor.
55 INT. ALDEA - FIRST UNIT CHAMBER
Radue and Duana are trying to coax Wesley to eat.
DUANA
I thought growing boys are always
hungry.
WESLEY
You didn't eat anything.
RADUE
We need very little.
DUANA
I know you miss your family. But
you will grow accustomed to us.
I promise. I promise you'll be
happy.
Wesley's clear eyes look at Duana with compassion.
WESLEY
You can keep me here, but you
can't make me want to stay.
You'll never be able to make me
forget. And I'll never be an
Aldean.
56 INT. ALDEA - ARTISTS' UNIT - NIGHT
Leda creams her hands with an ointment as Harry bends
over a table, putting the finishing touches on his
work.
ACCOLAN
Have the lesions gone?
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FOUR 42.
56 CONTINUED:
LEDA
Yes. The medicine worked again.
ACCOLAN
Good. Come see what Harry's
doing.
Harry's hands polish the last bit on his creation:
a carved dolphin.
ACCOLAN
(continuing)
Beautiful!
Harry gives Accolan the finished piece. Accolan
touches it, admiring the workmanship.
HARRY
(surprised)
It really turned out well.
ACCOLAN
It is so graceful and alive. What
do you call it?
HARRY
It's a dolphin.
LEDA
Dolphin?
HARRY
You know, it swims in the ocean.
Like a fish, only it's not a fish.
LEDA
Ah. A fish. We used to have them
in our oceans. I've never seen
one before.
HARRY
I used to live near the ocean.
On Zadar IV. My dad's an
oceanographer. He says... never
mind. It doesn't matter.
Harry turns away, ambivalent.
57 INT. ALDEA - RASHELLA'S QUARTERS - NIGHT
She is holding Alexandra, COOING to her. The baby
falls asleep in her arms.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FOUR 43.
58 INT. BEVERLY'S OFFICE
Beverly is feverishly working the computer, trying to
make sense out of the disparate information. She
shakes her head.
BEVERLY
No. That doesn't fit the pattern.
Give me a list of the appropriate
medical literature from the
twenty-second century.
The computer shows her a list that's very long.
BEVERLY
(continuing)
There's not enough time!
She looks at it and rubs her eyes. Picard WALKS INTO the
room and sees her. He APPROACHES her carefully and puts
his hand on her shoulder. Beverly covers his hand with
hers.
PICARD
Is there anything I can do?
BEVERLY
You just did, Jean-Luc. Now...
I have to get back to work.
She turns back to her desk.
59 INT. ALDEA - RASHELLA'S QUARTERS - NIGHT
Alexandra is CRYING.
ALEXANDRA
I want Mommy!
Rashella tries to hold and comfort her, but there's
no solace.
60 INT. ALDEA - WESLEY'S ROOM - NIGHT (OPTICAL)
It's dark. Wesley slips out of his bed and opens the
door. There's no one around. He steps into the ARCH.
WESLEY
(quietly)
Custodian's room.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FOUR 44.
61 INT. ALDEA - CUSTODIAN ROOM - NIGHT (OPTICAL)
Wesley APPEARS in the Arch. The room is empty. Wesley
sits at the console. He WHISPERS his instruction.
WESLEY
(whispers)
Custodian, this is Wesley Crusher.
CUSTODIAN VOICE
(normal level)
Proceed, Wesley.
Wesley jumps at the sound.
WESLEY
Show me where all the Enterprise
children are in relation to this
room.
The Custodian FLASHES the children's locations on the
screen. Wesley stares at it, memorizing the locations.
WESLEY
(continuing)
Thank you.
He moves away from the console, then has second
thoughts.
WESLEY
(continuing)
Custodian, what's your instruction
set?
Wesley is nervous, not sure he's authorized. The
Custodian ANSWERS WITH a kind of nonelectronic MUSIC.
Wesley doesn't understand, but goes on.
WESLEY
(continuing)
How can I command your attention?
Do you have a non-maskable
interrupt?
CUSTODIAN VOICE
Yes.
WESLEY
What is its address?
CUSTODIAN VOICE
Zero, twelve, twenty-two,
twenty-one, twenty-three,
twenty-six.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FOUR 45.
61 CONTINUED:
WESLEY
That doesn't make any sense to
me.
Wesley's puzzled, but pushes ahead anyway. He takes
a deep breath before he asks the really important
question.
WESLEY
(continuing)
Custodian, what's in the locked
room next to this one?
CUSTODIAN VOICE
You are not authorized for that
information.
WESLEY
Thank you. Good night.
CUSTODIAN VOICE
Good night, Wesley.
Wesley sits a moment, deep in thought.
62 INT. ALDEA - KATIE'S QUARTERS - NIGHT
Katie's asleep. An arm reaches over her and shakes
her slightly. Katie opens her eyes, startled. Wesley
leans over her, finger to his mouth. He WHISPERS.
WESLEY
I need your help. I have an idea
how we can get home.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FIVE 46.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
63 INT. ALDEA - WESLEY'S ROOM - EARLY MORNING
Welsey, Harry, Alexandria and Katie, are gathered in
Wesley's room. Their VOICES LOW.
KATIE
Why will not talking or eating
make them send us home?
Wesley patiently tries to explain again.
WESLEY
It's called "passive resistance."
We don't do anything they want
us to do and then they won't want
us.
KATIE
Will they get mad at us?
WESLEY
They won't hurt us.
HARRY
But, Wes, I do kind of like them.
WESLEY
So do I, but I don't want to stay
here forever. Do you?
Harry hesitates.
HARRY
(thoughtfully)
No, but I like working with the
wood.
WESLEY
Harry, we all have to do this
together or it won't work.
With some reluctance, Harry agrees.
HARRY
Okay. I'll do it.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FIVE 47.
63 CONTINUED:
Rashella RUSHES INTO the room.
RASHELLA
What are you all doing here
together?
There's no answer.
RASHELLA
(continuing)
What is going on here?
Still no answers. She reaches for Alexandra, but
Wesley picks up the child and shakes his head "no."
RASHELLA
(continuing)
Garen!
Garen RUSHES INTO the room.
RASHELLA
(continuing)
Take the children back to their
units.
64 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE
Beverly STEPS OFF the turbolift. She's exhausted.
BEVERLY
The Aldeans are suffering from
a form of radiation poisoning.
PICARD
And that's what's made the Aldeans
sterile?
BEVERLY
Yes.
PICARD
Is it reversible?
BEVERLY
Of course.
DATA
Captain, these permutations are
going to take a very long time.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FIVE 48.
64 CONTINUED:
PICARD
How long?
DATA
Weeks.
RIKER
Captain, there is another option.
We have identified a weakness in
the shield.
GEORDI
But it's not constant.
WORF
It's a hole.
GEORDI
It's not a hole as much as it is
a fluctuation.
RIKER
Still, there is a chance.
Captain, if we can time it exactly
-- I think we can beam a team
through the hole and onto the
planet.
PICARD
Then why can't we beam the
children up through the hole?
RIKER
The timing would be more
difficult, and the risk greater.
PICARD
What are you suggesting, Number
One?
RIKER
Beam through the hole. Locate
the source of the shield, and
knock it out.
PICARD
I'll try to delay the Aldeans
until you're ready.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FIVE 49.
65 INT. ALDEA - WESLEY'S ROOM
The children sit in silence. Leda COMES IN with a tray
of food for them.
LEDA
Will you at least eat?
They do not answer. She sets the tray down and LEAVES
the room. Alexandra wanders over to the food and looks
at it. Wesley knows that she's hungry. He goes to
Alexandra and kneels down.
WESLEY
I know you're hungry. We all are,
but Alexandra, we are not going
to eat anything. It's our way
of telling them that we want to
go home. Do you understand?
The little girl nods. Wesley puts his arm around her.
Harry comes over, picks up the tray and puts it outside
the door. Wesley acknowledges the act with a smile.
66 INT. - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Radue APPEARS on the viewscreen.
RADUE
Captain Picard. You may come down
now to conclude our discussion,
or your ship may leave. It is
your choice.
67 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
where Riker, Tasha and Data wait to beam down.
RIKER
We are ready, Captain.
68 INT MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
PICARD
Doctor Crusher and I are prepared
to conclude these negotiations.
Beverly and Picard DEMATERIALIZE from the bridge.
WORF
Transporter room, now!
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FIVE 50.
69 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
RIKER
Energize.
Riker, Tasha and Data FADE and DISAPPEAR as the
transporter activates.
70 INT. ALDEA - CORRIDOR (OPTICAL)
Tasha, Riker and Data MATERIALIZE. There is no one
else around. Riker looks around and motions for the
Team to follow him.
71 INT. ALDEA - FIRST UNIT CHAMBER
Beverly and Picard are confronted by Radue.
RADUE
Before we begin, Captain, you must
speak with the children. It seems
they are on some sort of "strike."
I don't understand it. You must
deal with this, Captain. I'm
not very good with children.
Picard is amused for the first time in days.
PICARD
A strike? I'll see what I can
do.
72 INT. ALDEA - WESLEY'S ROOM (OPTICAL)
Picard APPEARS in the Teleport Arch to find Wesley and
the others silent and defiant. The children are
overjoyed to see the captain.
WESLEY
Sir! We knew you'd come!
PICARD
It's not over yet, Wesley.
WESLEY
Captain, I think I figured out
their computer controls -- I'm
not sure, it's a different system
than ours.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FIVE 51.
72 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Good, Wesley. Now...
HARRY
(interrupting)
...Captain.
PICARD
Yes, Harry.
HARRY
If something happens and you have
to leave us here -- tell my Dad...
I'm sorry I made him angry... and
I miss him.
PICARD
I will tell him, Harry, and I will
tell him how much I admire his
son.
Alexandra waddles over to Picard and raises her arms to
be picked up. Picard has no choice but to awkwardly
lift her into his arms. She looks up at him with her
big eyes.
73 OMITTED
74 INT. ALDEA - CUSTODIAN ROOM
As the three officers ENTER the room.
DATA
This is it, Commander.
Data scans the room with his tricorder.
DATA
(continuing)
It is programmed to accept only
authorized voice commands.
RIKER
So we can't override.
DATA
No. But I can intermix the input
so nobody else can.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FIVE 52.
74 CONTINUED:
RIKER
We must find the power supply for
the shield.
75 INT. ALDEA - FIRST UNIT CHAMBER (OPTICAL)
OPEN ON Beverly - then PAN TO Teleport Arch as Picard
and the children STEP FORWARD. Beverly, Radue and
Rashella have been joined by Accolan. Beverly looks
lovingly at her son.
RADUE
What is this?
PICARD
They want to go home.
RADUE
No. They're staying.
PICARD
(his communicator)
Number One.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
We are in position.
PICARD
Hold for orders.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Aye, sir.
BEVERLY
(with persuasion)
The radiation levels on Aldea have
built up over a long period of
time. It is similar to what was
experienced on Earth in the
twenty-first century, when the
ozone layer deteriorated and the
surface of the planet was flooded
with ultraviolet radiation.
PICARD
The shield that protects your
world in one way has weakened it
in another. It's the radiation
of your own sun which is
destroying you.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FIVE 53.
75 CONTINUED:
RADUE
You are trying to confuse the
issue.
BEVERLY
Please listen. You're all
suffering from a kind of
poisoning. Sterility is only the
latest symptom. If the children
remain, they will be affected as
well.
RADUE
It is impossible. Our scientists
would have known.
BEVERLY
How could they? Your scientists
have forgotten how everything
works.
RADUE
No. It's a lie. Send them back
to their ship.
Rashella starts to touch her arm band, then hesitates.
RASHELLA
Wait. No. What if they're right?
Instead of the children being our
hope, what if we are just
condeming them to our fate?
RADUE
They are just protecting their
own interests.
RASHELLA
As are we. But hear them out.
The captain and Doctor Crusher
are saying our entire life is
based on a misconception, and the
very thing which has given us this
wonderful world is the very thing
which has caused this tragedy?
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FIVE 54.
75 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
That is exactly it. The shield
that protects you, has weakened
and your computer has controlled
your lives so completely you've
lost the desire to even question
it.
RADUE
Lies. The discussion is over.
Radue hits his arm band to send them back to the ship.
Nothing happens. Picard touches his communicator.
PICARD
Commander Riker.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Yes, sir.
PICARD
I assume you have control of the
computer.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
We've disabled the system
temporarily and we've found the
power source to the shield and
we've neutralized it.
PICARD
Good.
(using com)
Enterprise, this is Picard. Beam
the children up.
HARRY
Wait.
Harry goes to Accolan.
HARRY
(continuing)
Thank you.
ACCOLAN
Let me get the dolphin for you
to take with you.
HARRY
No. You keep it. I'll make
another.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FIVE 55.
75 CONTINUED: (3)
Harry joins the others.
PICARD
Beam them up.
Harry waves good-bye to Accolan as all the children,
but Wesley, DEMATERIALIZE.
RADUE
You've destroyed us.
PICARD
We are not here to destroy you,
Radue. We can help you.
76 OMITTED
77 INT. ALDEA - POWER ROOM (OPTICAL)
They ENTER cautiously. In the center is a shiny black
box, not very large. It PULSATES with a GLOWING LIGHT.
RADUE
What is it?
PICARD
The legacy your Progenitors left
you, Radue. The source of your
power. And your problems.
DATA
It is reading incredible amounts
of energy, sir. Even more since
we have taken down the shield.
RASHELLA
What are we going to do with it?
RADUE
Learn all over again... all this
time we've been destroying
ourselves. So secure, so sure
of our technological
invulnerability. Now...
PICARD
Will you let us help?
Radue puts his hand out to Picard.
RADUE
Yes. Please.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FIVE 56.
78 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND ALDEA (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise uses a wide angle ENERGY BEAM to "sew up
the hole" in the atmosphere. (To be researched and
revised.)
79 INT. CORRIDOR
Harry and his father walk hand in hand to Harry's
classroom. Harry stops in front of the door.
HARRY
Dad, I want to be an artist. And
I don't want to take calculus
anymore.
DR. BERNARD
You can be anything you want,
Harry. Anything. But you still
have to take calculus.
Harry thinks about it for a moment.
HARRY
Okay. Thanks, Dad.
They hug and Harry goes back to school.
80 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The Main Viewer SHOWS the ship finishing its job on the
atmosphere.
DATA
It worked well, sir.
Beverly ENTERS from a turbolift.
PICARD
Are you finished?
BEVERLY
Yes. They're responding very well
to the treatment, but for this
to work, they can never use their
shield or be cloaked again.
PICARD
The legend will die, but the
people will live.
STAR TREK: "When the Bough... " - 12/11/87 - ACT FIVE 57.
80 CONTINUED:
TROI
And we know they'll make good
parents.
Alexandra WADDLES OFF the turbolift with Wesley. She's
carrying a flower.
PICARD
Wesley!
WESLEY
Sorry, sir. She just wanted to
give you a present for bringing
her back to her mommy.
Picard bends down to accept the flower -- and a hug.
Alexandra waves bye-bye to him and GOES BACK with
Wesley. The entire bridge crew tries not to snicker.
Picard gives them a fierce look to cover his
discomfort.
PICARD
Mister La Forge, out of orbit.
Warp five.
GEORDI
(coughing)
Yes, sir. Certainly, sir.
Picard turns around and the rest of the crew can see
the stick-em toy on the back of his uniform.
80A EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
at sub-warp speed, it heads for its next adventure.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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