startrek-ml/Data/StarTrekTheNextGeneration/197.txt

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                          "The Host" 
                  (f.k.a. "E Pluribus Unum") 
                          #40274-197 
                              
                          Written by 
                         Michel Horvat 
                              
                          Directed by 
                          Marvin Rush 


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 1991 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.

                         FINAL DRAFT
 
                        MARCH 1, 1991
 

             STAR TREK: "The Host" - 3/7/91 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                          "The Host" 

                             CAST                               
                              
                PICARD             AMBASSADOR ODAN
                RIKER              GOVERNOR LEKA
                DATA               KALIN TROSE
                BEVERLY            LATHAL BINE
                TROI               
                GEORDI             
                WORF               
                KAREEL             
                NURSE ALYSSA OGAWA 
                ENSIGN TAGGERT'S COM VOICE
                COMPUTER VOICE     

                Non-Speaking       
                  NURSE              
                  BLUE BARBER        
                  SUPERNUMERARIES    

             STAR TREK: "The Host" - 3/1/91 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                          "The Host" 
                      
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                  EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE             USS ENTERPRISE
              MAIN BRIDGE
              CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM     SHUTTLECRAFT
              OBSERVATION LOUNGE
              CORRIDOR                 UNMARKED SHUTTLECRAFT
              SICKBAY
              BEVERLY'S OFFICE         PELIAR ZEL TWO SYSTEM:
              BEVERLY'S QUARTERS         ONE PLANET
              DATA'S QUARTERS            TWO MOONS
              ODAN'S GUEST QUARTERS
              SHUTTLE BAY
              TEN-FORWARD
              TURBOLIFT
              BARBER SHOP
          
            SHUTTLCRAFT

        STAR TREK: "The Host" - 3/8/91 - PRONUNCIATION 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                          "The Host" 
                       
                      PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

              EOSINOPHILIA           eh-yuh-sin-oh-FEE-lee-ah
              KALIN TROSE            kay-lin TROSE
              KAREEL                 kah-REAL
              LATHAL BINE            lay-thl BINE
              LEKA                   LAY-kuh
              ODAN                   oh-DAHN
              PELIAR ZEL             peh-lee-ar ZEHL
              SYMBIONT               SIM-bee-nt
              TRILL                  trill

        STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - TEASER        1.

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                          "The Host"                               
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	travelling through space.

					BEVERLY (V.O.)
			Doctor Beverly Crusher, Personal
			Log, Stardate 44821.3. Began
			an analysis today of the
			respiratory problems being
			experienced by the populations on
			the two moons of Peliar Zel.
				(beat)
			Finally got an actual letter from
			Wesley... topped the class in
			exo-biology, but he's still
			struggling in Ancient
			Philosophies.
				(beat)
			And... there's... a new man in
			my life.

									CUT TO:

2    CLOSE ON BEVERLY AND ODAN KISSING

	A passionate kiss of some duration which, when they
	break, leaves them both flushed and breathing deeply.
	They stare into one another's eyes for a brief instant,
	and then start as they hear a door opening.

3    INT. TURBOLIFT - WIDER SHOT

	We now realize they are in a turbolift, the doors of
	which have opened to admit DATA, who greets them with
	delighted surprise. If he notices their flushed and
	rumpled condition, he gives no indication.

					DATA
			Ambassador Odan... Doctor
			Crusher... I was just on my way
			to see you.

        STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - TEASER        2.

3    CONTINUED:

	Beverly tries to compose herself, resisting the impulse
	to smooth her hair and check her lipstick. Odan, on
	the other hand, seems perfectly comfortable.

					BEVERLY
			Hello, Data...

					DATA
			I have completed my study of the
			atmospheric variations which have
			occurred on the moons since the
			new technology was implemented.

					ODAN
			Thank you, Commander. That will
			be most helpful in my efforts to
			mediate the quarrel.

					DATA
			I could go over them with you now.
			It would not require more than
			two hours.

	A brief, electric silence.

					BEVERLY
			We do appreciate it, Data... but
			the Ambassador and I have set
			aside this time... to analyze
			the incidence of lung disease
			among the moons' inhabitants.

					DATA
			Then it is perfect timing, Doctor
			-- what better occasion to
			integrate my results into your
			study?

	Another silence, as Beverly and Odan exchange glances
	past Data's innocent eyes. Her message: "You get rid
	of him."

					ODAN
			Now that I think about it,
			Commander... you're absolutely
			right. Unfortunately, I'm not
			feeling well... perhaps Doctor
			Crusher could get you started,
			inputting your information... but
			I must I return to my quarters.

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - 3/1/91 - TEASER           3.

3    CONTINUED: (2)

					BEVERLY
				(picking it up)
			Ambassador, are you still having
			those awful headaches?
			I'll bring you a hypospray to take
			care of it...

					ODAN
				(rubbing temples)
			I would be most grateful...

	The turbolift stops, and Beverly takes Data by the arm,
	steers him out of the turbolift.

4    INT. CORRIDOR (CONTINUOUS)

	as Beverly and Data exit. She turns back to Odan.

					BEVERLY
			Put a cold cloth on your forehead
			and lie down, Ambassador. I'll
			be with you shortly.

	And the turbolift doors shut on Odan, unable to resist
	an anticipatory smile. Beverly pulls Data down the
	corridor at a good clip.

					BEVERLY
			I'll set you up at the medical
			monitor, Data... it'll take you
			a while to input the figures,
			won't it?

					DATA
				(puzzled by the speed)
			At least an hour... but I do not
			believe much time can be saved
			from that estimate by exhibiting
			such haste now...

					BEVERLY
			Data... there are times... when
			every second does count.

	And she propels him down the corridor, oblivious to
	his perplexed expression.

        STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - TEASER        4.

5    INT. ODAN'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)

	Odan ENTERS and begins removing his shirt. He is a
	handsome, strapping man with a well-defined
	musculature. He moves toward the mirror, and places
	his hand on his diaphragm.

	A grapefruit-sized area on his mid-section begins to
	change color... then it swells into a purplish,
	green-veined lump. Odan takes a device from the
	counter, aims it toward the bulbous protuberance, and
	envelops it in a spray of light. The growth throbs
	there for a moment, then begins to recede again.
	Whatever it is, Odan has just fed it, and it is content
	once more.

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

        STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - TEASER        5.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

5A   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	drops out of warp.

6    INT. ODAN'S QUARTERS

	Beverly is donning her jacket, stops in front of the
	mirror to run her fingers through her hair. Odan puts
	on a robe and comes up to her, putting his arms around
	her from behind. In the background, the bed is
	discreetly rumpled.

					ODAN
			Somehow, I had an unnatural fear
			that Data was going to barge in
			and ask to discuss the peripheral
			effects of magnetospheric energy
			taps.

	Beverly giggles and he kisses her hair.

					BEVERLY
			If I don't get back and look at
			his projections, he might come
			looking for me.

	She pulls loose, but he turns her around, facing him,
	not letting go.

					ODAN
			When I first met the formidable
			Doctor Beverly... I thought to
			myself... "This woman is ice...
			through to her bones... "

	He puts his face in her neck, murmuring.

					ODAN
			Who would have dreamed... that
			instead of ice, there is fire...

	Beverly closes her eyes, yielding to his soft nuzzling.

					BEVERLY
			I can't believe this has
			happened... in just a week...

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT ONE       5A.

6    CONTINUED:

					ODAN
				(kissing her face)
			Stay here... don't go...

	Blood is coursing now, but Beverly manages to pull away
	slightly.

          STAR TREK: "The Host" - 3/1/91 - ACT ONE          6.

6    CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			Odan... are we... is this...
			interfering? With your work on
			the Peliar Zel problems?

					ODAN
			Fortunately I've done about as
			much as I can until we get there.
				(bending to her again)
			Because I wouldn't be able to
			keep my mind on work now...

					BEVERLY
			Odan... I have to get back...

					ODAN
			Promise me we'll be together
			tonight...

					BEVERLY
			I promise...

					ODAN
			Then go, Doctor Beverly...

	She reaches out fingertips, touches his lips.

					BEVERLY
			It's just Beverly...

					ODAN
			Not just Beverly. It's Beverly's
			smile and her kindness, her
			beauty, within and without. So
			much more than just Beverly...

	He takes her wrist, turns it and kisses it gently on
	the inside. Then --

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			Picard to Ambassador Odan...

	The two lovers jump guiltily apart. Odan reaches for
	his tunic, presses the com badge.

					ODAN
			Yes, Captain? This is Odan...

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			The Federation representative from
			Peliar Zel has come on board.
					(MORE)

        STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT ONE        7.

6    CONTINUED: (3)

					PICARD'S COM VOICE (Cont'd)
			Could you meet us in the
			Observation Lounge?

					ODAN
			I'll be right there, Captain.

	He and Beverly exchange smiles.

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			And Ambassador... if you should
			run into Doctor Crusher, would
			you ask her to join us as well?

					ODAN
			By all means. If I run into her.

	He turns smiling to her and, though feeling a little
	like a naughty child who's been found out, she smiles
	back.

7    INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE - A BIT LATER (OPTICAL)

	Picard is already there, standing with LEKA, a
	representative of the Federation planet Peliar Zel,
	RIKER, TROI, and Data. Beverly ENTERS, nods toward
	Picard, who nods back, expressionless. She moves
	toward a seat next to Troi.

					TROI
				(sotto)
			Where've you been?

					BEVERLY
				(likewise)
			With a patient. Minor emergency.

	Troi nods and then -- from the opposite door -- Odan
	walks in.

					PICARD
			Ambassador Odan, this is Governor
			Leka Trion, of Peliar Zel.

					LEKA
			Ambassador... thank you for
			coming.
				(beat)
			I knew your father.
					(MORE)

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT ONE       7A.

7    CONTINUED:

					LEKA (Cont'd)
			His efforts helped keep our
			people at peace for several
			generations.

					ODAN
			I would hope to serve you as well
			as he.

	Picard has gestured people to their seats; Odan finds
	himself next to Data, who leans to him and says, in
	an aside:

        STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT ONE        8.

7    CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA
			I hope Doctor Crusher was able
			to help you with your headache.

					ODAN
			Thank you. Actually, she was.

	A little flicker between Odan and Beverly.

					PICARD
			Governor Leka has intercepted us
			before we reached her planet in
			order to update us on the
			situation.

					LEKA
			It has grown progressively worse.
			The people on our moons have been
			in discord ever since they
			migrated from the planet five
			centuries ago. For us on the
			planet... it is like having two
			squabbling children. We try to
			help settle their arguments
			without taking sides... but this
			time, we are at a loss.

					ODAN
			I've been studying the information
			you sent... If I understand
			correctly, the people of Alpha
			moon have found a way to tap
			directly into the magnetic field
			of your planet, and now rely
			exclusively on that energy
			source.

					LEKA
			Yes. But the Beta moon seems to
			be suffering some environmental
			damage as a result.

					DATA
			My design models suggest that Beta
			will begin to experience rising
			temperatures... erratic tide
			surges... and in general the
			beginnings of global warming.

        STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/8/91 - ACT ONE        9.

7    CONTINUED: (3)

					BEVERLY
			The impact on the health of the
			Betan people is clear. There
			will be profound medical
			repercussions.

					LEKA
			Alpha is unwilling to lose their
			new-found energy source... Beta
			accuses them of intentionally
			courting genocide... our efforts
			to find a compromise have failed.
			And now --
				(beat)
			-- we've received intelligence
			that both sides are arming for
			war. If that happens... the
			people of my planet will begin
			to take sides... the outcome can
			only be disastrous.

					PICARD
			We will be in orbit around Peliar
			Zel within six hours. If you can
			arrange for the representatives
			of Alpha and Beta to be there,
			Ambassador Odan can beam directly
			to the planet.

	Picard rises, indicating an end to the meeting.

					ODAN
			Excuse me, Captain... I would
			prefer to shuttle to the surface.

					LEKA
			I would not recommend it. There
			are many radical factions involved
			in this dispute. It would be
			difficult to guarantee your
			safety.

					ODAN
				(good-natured)
			I'm sure I'm not the first who
			has expressed discomfort with the
			idea of molecular transport.
			Thank you, but I much prefer to
			keep myself intact. I'll shuttle
			down.

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT ONE       10.

7    CONTINUED: (4)

					PICARD
			As you like.

	The group files out.

8    ANGLE - TROI

	quietly watching the room empty. Picard sees her,
	approaches, curious.

					PICARD
			Counselor... ?

					TROI
			It's Ambassador Odan... I continue
			to feel such... fluctuations...
			of emotion from him.

					PICARD
				(dryly)
			Maybe it's just spring, Deanna...
				(off her look)
			Or perhaps these sensations are
			perfectly normal among the Trill.

					TROI
			It could be... we know so little
			about them...

	She shakes her head as though to rid it of a nagging
	doubt.

					TROI
			But he seems a lovely person...
			very much a gentleman, don't you
			think?

					PICARD
			Yes. Quite.

	Troi leaves and we stay on Picard.

9    INT. BARBER SHOP - LATER (OPTICAL)

	Our blue barber works on N.D. crew in the background.
	Beverly reclines on a lounge, either hand draped in a
	bowl of translucent liquid. Her feet are bare, toes
	freshly painted, held apart by a special little drying
	rack.

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/8/91 - ACT ONE       11.

9    CONTINUED:

	A cloth of special astringent is folded across her
	eyes. Troi ENTERS, spies her, goes to an adjacent
	lounge. She speaks nonchalantly...

					TROI
			Is that the colgonite astringent
			you have on your eyes? I've never
			tried it...

	Beverly starts a bit... lifts one corner of the
	cloth... sees Troi looking at her innocently. Beverly
	feels a little embarrassed to be found cosseting
	herself.

					BEVERLY
			Yes... I mean, I guess it is...
			someone just put it on me...

					TROI
			I never knew you even came in
			here...

					BEVERLY
			I don't. I mean, not usually...

					TROI
			But sometimes it feels good just
			to indulge yourself...

					BEVERLY
			I guess so...

					TROI
			Especially when you haven't done
			so for a while...

	Beverly pulls the cloth off, gives her a look. Is
	there a double meaning here?

					BEVERLY
			What's that supposed to mean?

					TROI
			Beverly... you're in love.

	Beverly is nonplussed. Is it that obvious?

					BEVERLY
			How... how did you know?

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT ONE       12.

9    CONTINUED: (2)

					TROI
				(gently)
			I don't really think it's much
			of a secret.

					BEVERLY
			It isn't?

					TROI
			No. You've been -- glowing.

	Beverly gives her a look, then, realizing Troi is
	absolutely right, she smiles... luxuriating in the
	feelings.

					BEVERLY
			"Glowing... " Well, yeah... that's
			just how I feel, Deanna...

	She looks to Troi for approbation... but sees something
	else... a doubt, a misgiving...

					BEVERLY
			What... ?

					TROI
			Nothing --

					BEVERLY
			Yes, there is, I can tell. What
			is it?

					TROI
			Just... something I sense in Odan.

					BEVERLY
			What? What do you sense?

					TROI
			I'm not sure how to describe it...
			and I'm not saying there's
			anything wrong, it's just...
				(beat)
			Beverly... how well do you really
			know him?

					BEVERLY
			I... I feel like I know him better
			than anyone I've ever known...
			but...

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT ONE       13.

9    CONTINUED: (3)

	She sits up, her overwhelming feelings now tapped, and
	pours out a litany of vacillation.

					BEVERLY
			Am I being foolish? I don't think
			so... and yet... it's only been
			a couple of weeks... Of course,
			maybe that means it's just
			infatuation... but I'm a grown
			up, I know the difference between
			love and infatuation...

	Troi regards her with amused tolerance. She is happy
	that her friend is re-capturing some long dormant
	feelings. Surely that's more important than that
	nagging sense that Odan isn't what he seems...

					BEVERLY
			But one thing I'm sure of... is
			that I haven't felt like this in
			a long time...

					TROI
			And you like it...

	Beverly looks at her, smiles.

					BEVERLY
			I like it.

	And Troi returns the smile. Love covers many
	blemishes.

10   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	in orbit around a large planet; two moons are also in
	evidence.

11   INT. READY ROOM

	Picard at his desk; the door Chimes.

					PICARD
			Come.

	The doors open and Odan ENTERS.

					ODAN
			You wanted to see me?

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT ONE       13A.

11   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Yes, Ambassador. We've entered
			orbit... the shuttle will
			transport you to the surface in
			a few minutes.

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT ONE       14.

11   CONTINUED: (2)

					ODAN
			I am ready, Captain.

					PICARD
			How will you proceed once you're
			there?

					ODAN
			I cannot answer that. I never
			know until I am into the
			situation... meet the people
			involved. I work very much by
			instinct, not by pre-arranged
			plan.

					PICARD
			It seems to work well for you.

					ODAN
			I do like to go into a situation
			as well informed as possible...
			and your staff has been quite
			helpful in briefing me on the
			problems involved here.
				(beat)
			Particularly Doctor Crusher.

					PICARD
			My staff is quite capable. I'm
			glad they've been useful.

					ODAN
			Your Doctor Beverly is an
			extraordinary person... both as
			a scientist... and as a woman.

	Picard is becoming uncomfortable with the frank nature
	of this discussion.

					PICARD
			I'm sure that's true. Well...
			shall we make our way to the
			Shuttlebay?

					ODAN
			Captain... you know her better
			than I... do you have any idea
			how -- committed -- she is to
			remaining with Starfleet?

	This catches Picard by surprise. Is Odan planning to
	take Beverly off the Enterprise?

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/8/91 - ACT ONE       15.

11   CONTINUED: (3)

					PICARD
			I wouldn't presume to speak for
			her.

					ODAN
			Of course not. I just thought...
			you've known her for so long...

	But before Picard can answer --

					ENSIGN'S COM VOICE
			Ensign Taggert to Captain
			Picard...

					PICARD
			Yes, Ensign?

					ENSIGN'S COM VOICE
			The shuttle is ready to transport
			the Ambassador.

					PICARD
			Very well.

					ODAN
			I can find my own way, Captain.
				(beat)
			I hope to bring good news when
			I return.

	And he is gone. Picard stares after him, discomfited
	by this conversation.

12   INT. SHUTTLEBAY

	Odan moves with Geordi toward the shuttle, where Riker
	and Beverly wait. Odan carries a small case.

					GEORDI
			Commander Riker asked to pilot
			you himself, Ambassador.

					ODAN
			I am honored.

	But his eyes are on Beverly, and he goes to her, takes
	her aside from the others.

					ODAN
			I don't know when I'll be back...

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT ONE       16.

12   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			I know... have a safe trip.

	He smiles warmly, puts his arms around her as though
	it were the most natural thing in the world, even with
	the crew nearby.

					ODAN
			I will stay safe, Doctor
			Beverly... I have good reason
			to return...

	He opens his case, withdraws a rose... lovely and
	graceful.

					ODAN
			I have researched earth customs.
			This flower is given to express
			love.

					BEVERLY
			Yes, it is...

	She takes the rose, touched by this romantic gesture.
	They smile at each other... he takes her wrist, turns
	it to the inside, and kisses it. Then he moves toward
	the shuttle. Beverly sniffs the heady fragrance of the
	rose.

13   INT. BRIDGE

	Picard, Data, Worf, SUPERNUMERARY at Conn.

					DATA
			Initiate shuttle pre-flight
			sequence.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Pre-flight under way...
			counting to clearance...

	There is a beat; then --

					DATA
			Shuttle has cleared the Bay door.

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT ONE       17.

13   CONTINUED:

	Beverly ENTERS from the turbolift, takes a seat to view
	the proceedings.

					WORF
			Commander Riker, you will be out
			of shield range in five seconds.

14   INT. SHUTTLECRAFT - INTERCUTTING (OPTICAL)

	Riker piloting; Odan at his side.

					RIKER
			Acknowledged, Lieutenant. We'll
			be entering the upper ionosphere
			in two minutes, twenty seconds.

					WORF
			Captain... an unidentified ship
			is emerging from the limb of the
			moon.

					PICARD
			Hail the vessel.

					RIKER
			I have visual contact. I don't
			recognize it.

	Worf works his controls.

					WORF
			Sir, it claims to be an escort
			vessel from the Beta moon.

					PICARD
			There was no mention of an
			escort... request a security
			clearance code.

	A beat as Work does so...

					WORF
			They do not answer, sir.

					PICARD
			Commander, stand by to return to
			the Shuttlebay.

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT ONE       18.

14   CONTINUED:

					WORF
			Captain -- the escort ship is
			loading its phaser banks!

					RIKER
			Increasing power to the shields...
			coming about...

15
thru	OMITTED
16

17   EXT. SPACE - THE SHUTTLE AND THE ESCORT (OPTICAL)

	The shuttle banks to return to the Enterprise, but the
	strange ship unloads phasers. The shuttle takes a hit.

18   INT. SHUTTLE

	The impact throws Odan from his seat; he strikes his
	head on the bulkhead and lands unconscious. Riker
	struggles to control the helm.

					PICARD
			Engage tractor beam. Number One
			-- report.

					RIKER
			We've lost the port thruster and
			both back-up stabilizers... I'm
			losing control...

					PICARD
			We're bringing you in.

19   EXT SPACE - SHUTTLE AND ESCORT SHIP (OPTICAL)

	The tractor beam has locked on to the shuttle. The
	other ship has turned and is headed once more to the
	moon.

19A  INT. SHUTTLE - INTERCUTTING

					RIKER
			Captain, the shuttle hull has been
			weakened. We're breaking up...
			you can't tow us. Better beam
			us directly on board...

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT ONE       19.

19A  CONTINUED:

	Odan, on the floor, raises his head at this.

					ODAN
				(weak)
			No... don't do it...

					RIKER
			I can't stabilize the shuttle...

					ODAN
			If you transport me, it will kill
			me... please...

	Riker stares at him, swiftly weighing the elements.

					PICARD
			Number One... we're ready to beam
			you aboard.

					RIKER
			Belay that, Captain. I'm going
			to bring her in manually.
				(beat)
			Advise Doctor Crusher we have a
			medical emergency.

	Beverly pales at this, realizing it could mean only one
	thing.

20   INT. SICKBAY

	Beverly and NURSE OGAWA work over Odan's nearly
	lifeless body. He has a gash in his head and various
	contusions to the upper body.

					BEVERLY
			He's in shock... he's lost a lot
			of blood... but that doesn't
			account for these readings...

	She passes the Tricorder over him again, disturbed by
	what she reads.

					BEVERLY
			Eosinophilia in the cerebrospinal
			fluid at forty-six percent.


       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT ONE       20.

20   CONTINUED:

					NURSE OGAWA
			Sedimentation rate is
			twenty-nine... but his lymphocytes
			are intact...

	Beverly looks up at her.

					BEVERLY
			It's as though there's a parasite
			at work...

	Odan stirs and groans; Beverly leans in to him.

					BEVERLY
			Odan... I have to do exploratory
			surgery. You may have a parasitic
			infection...

	His hand reaches out and grasps her wrist.

					ODAN
			You must not.

					BEVERLY
			But... you won't survive...

	Still holding her with one hand, Odan places the other
	over his diaphragm.

21   ANGLE - ON ODAN

	as the purplish lump begins to rise. Beverly stares in
	stunned amazement.

					BEVERLY
			What is that... ?

					ODAN
			Beverly... that... is me...

					BEVERLY
			What... ?

					ODAN
			This body... is just a host. I
			am that parasite... and that is
			what must survive.

          STAR TREK: "The Host" - 3/1/91 - ACT ONE          21.

21   CONTINUED:

	Beverly stares at him, then at the throbbing,
	green-veined thing on his chest. She is horrified.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/8/91 - ACT TWO       22.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

22   INT. SICKBAY

	Beverly and Odan; the nurse has departed.

					ODAN
			It has always been this way...
			the Trill are a joined species...
			a host and a symbiont... and in
			this fashion we have survived for
			millenia...

					BEVERLY
			You're dying... what can I do?

					ODAN
			The host body is dying... You must
			contact the Trill quickly... tell
			them I need another host. They
			will send a replacement.

	He holds her wrist tightly.

					ODAN
			I know it is hard to accept...
			but I beg you, Doctor Beverly...
			help me... this mission must be
			completed.

	He grips her wrist and she smiles down at him, rocked
	by his revelation, but her love undiminished.

23   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE - LATER

	Beverly, drained and exhausted, sits at the table with
	Picard, Riker, Troi, Geordi and Worf. She has been
	recounting the bizarre tale, and the others listen
	quietly in various states of contained amazement.

					BEVERLY
			Odan's host body died of the
			injuries just over an hour ago.
			But the symbiont being...
			Odan... is still alive.

	Even for a staff used to unusual life forms, this is
	unique.

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/8/91 - ACT TWO       22A.

23   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			Odan is the one who negotiated
			the last treaty. The man everyone
			thought was his father was just
			another host body.

					RIKER
			And the reason Odan refused the
			transporter...

					BEVERLY
				(acknowledging)
			It would have damaged the
			symbiont.

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT TWO       23.

23   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
				(to the others)
			We have contacted the Trill.
			Another host will arrive within
			forty hours.

					BEVERLY
			I've placed Odan in stasis.
			He can survive for an hour...
			maybe two... but not beyond that.

					DATA
			Is it possible I could serve as
			a temporary carrier?

					BEVERLY
			No, Data. The relationship
			requires a biological being.

	There is a small silence.

					PICARD
			We are at a desperate impasse with
			the situation in the Peliar
			system. The attack on our
			shuttlecraft has inflamed the
			dispute.

					TROI
			Who was responsible, Captain?

					PICARD
			No one will admit anything. Each
			side accuses the other and threats
			are mounting. We need Odan...

					RIKER
			Doctor... could a human host carry
			him?

	All eyes turn to him, realizing what he's suggesting.

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT TWO       24.

23   CONTINUED: (3)

					BEVERLY
			I... believe so. From Odan's
			description of the process... it
			should be possible. But --

					RIKER
				(rising)
			Then I volunteer.

					BEVERLY
			There's been no precedent for a
			human host. I couldn't guarantee
			what... what might happen.

					PICARD
			Would you be able to remove the
			symbiont when the new host
			arrives?

					BEVERLY
			In theory, yes. I just don't know
			what might happen to a human body
			in the process.

					PICARD
			Commander... the risk is too
			great.

					RIKER
			Weigh it against the prospect
			of war.

	Picard hesitates, considering the options. Finally --

					PICARD
			It is your choice, Will.

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT TWO       25.

23   CONTINUED: (4)

					RIKER
			Then let's get to it.

	And he heads for the door.

24   INT. SICKBAY (OPTICAL)

	Riker lies on a bio-bed with his shirt off. On a
	nearby table is a containment dome which holds the
	purplish blob that is Odan. Beverly plays a Tricorder
	over Riker.

					BEVERLY
			I've given you a local
			anesthetic... but you must be
			conscious while the implantation
			takes place. Drugs might damage
			the symbiont.

					RIKER
			I understand.

	Beverly looks toward Nurse Ogawa.

					BEVERLY
			Laser scalpel.

	Ogawa hands her the instrument and Beverly activates
	it, then bends toward Riker, making an incision in the
	navel. She completes the incision, then reaches for
	the glass container, lifts the domed lid, and takes the
	blob... Odan. She places it on the area in which she
	has made the incision.

25   CLOSE ON RIKER - INTERCUTTING (OPTICAL)

	as he draws a deep breath. Ogawa sponges off his
	forehead.

					BEVERLY
			How are you feeling? Is there
			pain?

					RIKER
			No... just... strange
			sensations...

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT TWO       25A.

25   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
				(to Ogawa)
			Vital signs?

					NURSE OGAWA
			Heart rate one hundred ten...
			blood pressure ninety over
			forty...

	She exchanges a concerned glance with Beverly. Riker's
	teeth are clenched and he is drenched in perspiration.

					BEVERLY
			I can't close yet... the
			assimilation isn't complete...

					NURSE OGAWA
			Pulse one thirty... and
			climbing... E.E.G. erratic.

					BEVERLY
			He's going to start fibrillating.
			Two hundred milligrams
			metrazene...

	Ogawa turns to an instrument cart.

					BEVERLY
			Will... hang on...

	He draws a deep shuddering breath and goes unconscious.
	Ogawa hands Beverly the hypospray and she administers
	it.

					BEVERLY
			I'm closing...

	She bends to Riker with a laser suture, repairs the
	incision.

					NURSE OGAWA
				(reading tricorder)
			No change...

					BEVERLY
			The metrazene should have
			stabilized him... I'll give it
			ten seconds more before we go
			in again.

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT TWO       26.

25   CONTINUED: (2)

	There is an agonizing wait as Beverly finishes
	suturing. Then --

					NURSE OGAWA
			Blood pressure leveling off...
			I think he's stabilizing.

	Bev now takes a tricorder and scans.

					BEVERLY
			That's better... signs are
			returning to normal.

	Beverly strips off her gloves.

26
thru	OMITTED
27

28   ON RIKER'S CHEST

	where the parasite is now completely assimilated.
	There is no indication of it whatsoever.

29   ANGLE - RIKER

	as Beverly sponges off his forehead. He stirs, rolls
	his head... his eyes flicker a bit...

					BEVERLY
			Will... it's Beverly. Can you
			hear me?

	Now his eyes are open, slightly glassy... then looking
	around the room... focusing on Beverly. A little
	smile.

					RIKER
			Hello...

          STAR TREK: "The Host" - 3/1/91 - ACT TWO          27.

29   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
				(smiling back)
			You're going to be all right.
			How do you feel?

	Riker reaches out and holds her wrist.

					RIKER
			I am just fine... but you look
			tired, Doctor Beverly.

	Weakly, he turns her wrist to the inside and kisses
	it. Beverly stares at him... realizing that Odan is
	now very much alive -- in Riker's body.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

      STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT THREE      28.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

30   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	in orbit around Peliar Zel.

31   INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Riker stands with Picard before the viewscreen,
	addressing Governor Leka.

					RIKER
			I realize it will be disturbing,
			Governor... but you must convince
			the inhabitants of the moons that
			I am Odan... I have his thoughts,
			his memories, his skills...

					LEKA
			They will perceive you as a
			Starfleet officer... perhaps with
			your own agenda...

					RIKER
			The man they knew as my father...
			the man who stands before them
			now... both are merely hosts.
			It is your task to help them
			understand.

					LEKA
			I will try. I cannot promise they
			will listen. They are more
			factionalized than ever, and
			listening is a skill which seems
			to have evaporated in the heat
			of argument.

      STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT THREE      29.

31   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Speak softly, Governor. People
			who cannot hear an angry shout...
			will often strain to hear a
			whisper.

					LEKA
				(after a beat)
			I will do what I can.

	Riker nods and the screen returns to the starfield.

					PICARD
			Well done.

	But suddenly Riker stumbles slightly. He reaches out
	to balance himself on Picard's shoulder.

					RIKER
			Sorry... a little dizzy...

					PICARD
			Mister Worf, take the Ambassador
			to his quarters.

					RIKER
			I'll be all right... just need
			to lie down a minute...

	Worf is there, helping him out. Picard watches them
	go for a moment, then --

					PICARD
			Bridge to Crusher...


      STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT THREE      30.

32   INT. SICKBAY - INTERCUTTING

					BEVERLY
			Yes, Captain?

					PICARD
			The Ambassador is not well.
			Please see to him in his quarters.

	She stands for a moment, as though unwilling to face
	what she might encounter. But --

					BEVERLY
			Right away, sir.

33   INT. ODAN'S QUARTERS - MINUTES LATER

	Beverly scans Riker with a Tricorder. She is cool,
	professional, detached.

					BEVERLY
			I'm getting a slightly elevated
			white cell count... six-tenths
			of a degree of temperature...
				(casts a glance toward
				 him)
			... nothing that indicates
			rejection.

					RIKER
			That's good...

					BEVERLY
			But you look awfully pale...

					RIKER
			Just a little weak...
			light-headed...

	Beverly uses an instrument to peer into one of his
	eyes.

					BEVERLY
			Cerebral blood flow looks
			normal...

	He reaches for her hand, puts it briefly in his.
	Beverly becomes extremely uncomfortable, withdraws it,
	moves to pack her Tricorder.

      STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT THREE      30A.

33   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			I'll leave you a metabolic
			booster... use it if the symptoms
			get worse...

         STAR TREK: "The Host" - 3/1/91 - ACT THREE         31.

33   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Beverly...

					BEVERLY
			Beyond that, I don't know what
			to do.
				(beat)
			This is... all new for me.

					RIKER
			For me as well.

	She leaves the hypospray near him, snaps shut her
	medical carrier, and rises.

					RIKER
			Please don't go... we need to talk
			about this...

					BEVERLY
			I... don't know what to say...
			where to begin...

					RIKER
			Nor do I... but I know that
			silence will injure us...

	Beverly looks at him. The shock and discomfort of this
	whole thing rise up in her.

					BEVERLY
			Maybe you should have thought
			about that sooner. Maybe you
			should have told me what you were.
			It didn't bother you to stay
			silent yesterday...

	Riker shrugs in honest puzzlement.

					RIKER
			But... it never occurred to me.
			This is what I am... did you tell
			me you are only a single being?
			Of course not... it is normal
			for you...

	And of course, that's reasonable. Her anger has no
	place to go.

      STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/12/91 - ACT THREE      32.

33   CONTINUED: (3)

					BEVERLY
			I don't know how to handle this...
			I just... don't know who you
			are...

					RIKER
				(sadly)
			I understand... but whoever I seem
			to be... I am Odan... the man who
			loved you... and that has not
			changed. I still love you. I
			can't help that.

	Anguished, she turns away from him.

					RIKER
			But if that causes you pain...
			I will suppress it. I will keep
			my distance, Doctor Beverly. I
			would never hurt you.

	She turns, looks into his eyes, also searching. Who is
	in there... is it the man she loved so desperately?
	She can't tell. Without a word, she turns and EXITS.
	Riker stares after her, in pain both physically and
	psychically.

34   INT. DATA'S QUARTERS - LATER

	Worf, Geordi, and Data play poker. Data deals.

					DATA
			Five card draw. Ante up.

	The door CHIMES and Riker ENTERS the room. Geordi and
	Worf look happy to see him.

					GEORDI
			Commander -- come on in...

					DATA
			Geordi... I believe the correct
			term now would be "Ambassador."

	Riker smiles wanly.

      STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT THREE      33.

34   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			You can call me anything you like.
			I know this must be difficult for
			you.
				(beat)
			May I join you?

					GEORDI
				(too quickly)
			Sure! Sit down... right here...

					WORF
			We are pleased you're here.

	Their eagerness sounds a false note. This is an
	unusual situation for everyone. Riker sits and picks
	up the deck.

					DATA
			Are you familiar with this game,
			Ambassador?

					RIKER
			No.

	He shuffles and ruffs the cards with ease.

					RIKER
			But... I seem to have done this
			before...

	He begins dealing. With his guileless honesty, Data
	gets right to the point.

					DATA
			Ambassador, what is the precise
			nature of the symbiotic joining?
			Are you Odan? Or Commander Riker?
			Or a combination of both?

					RIKER
			I wish I could give you an answer
			as simple as the question.
			Ordinarily, the host body has no
			personality. This time... is
			different somehow.

	He looks down as he deals out the cards -- which he
	does effortlessly and faultlessly.

      STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT THREE      34.

34   CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER
			I've never done this... and yet
			I know how.

	He looks up to see them all looking at him.

					RIKER
			And something compelled me to come
			here tonight... though I didn't
			consciously know what would await
			me. It is as though... Will Riker
			is here with me... I have never
			felt that with other hosts.

	The others regard him with a measure of discomfort. It
	is weird... seeing the Riker who is so familiar to
	them... but hearing someone else discuss him as though
	he weren't there.

					GEORDI
				(rhetorical)
			I guess the question is... will
			the Commander be alright... when
			he comes back?

	A dampening thought. Riker looks around the table...
	realizes his presence makes them uneasy.

      STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT THREE      35.

34   CONTINUED: (3)

					RIKER
			Gentlemen... I am making you
			uncomfortable. Please... continue
			without me.

	He EXITS, and no one argues with his going.

35   INT. TEN FORWARD

	Beverly sits by herself at a table in the corner. She
	gazes out at the brilliant star field, lost in thought.
	Someone approaches the table; she senses, rather than
	sees it, and looks up. Troi stands there.

					TROI
			May I join you?

	Wordlessly, Beverly gestures to a seat, and Troi slides
	in. For a moment the two stare out at the brilliant
	mosaic.

					BEVERLY
				(finally)
			The first man I ever loved
			unconditionally... was named
			Stefan.

	She turns her chair around, plays with her teacup.

					BEVERLY
			He was a soccer player... I would
			watch him race down the field and
			I thought my heart would stop
			because he was so beautiful...

	She stirs her darkening tea.

					BEVERLY
			We married and had three
			children... twin boys, Andrew and
			Alex, and then a girl, Jennifer...
			Stefan became a famous artist and
			created huge, breathtaking metal
			sculptures... I kept house and
			made the world easy for him...
			and he came to adore me as much
			as I worshipped him...

      STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/8/91 - ACT THREE      36.

35   CONTINUED:

	She looks up to see Troi's eyes on her.

					BEVERLY
			At least in my daydreams. Stefan
			was eleven... and I was eight.
			He never even knew I existed.

	A sad little smile from Troi, an unspoken moment
	between them... When Beverly speaks, it is from utter
	vulnerability.

					BEVERLY
			Deanna... I loved Odan. I'm sure
			of that... I had no doubts, no
			fears...
				(beat)
			... and now... I don't know what
			it was I loved. His eyes... his
			hands, his mouth... his body?
			They're gone. If that was all
			it was, I should mourn him and
			go on...

	She hesitates, working the whole strange thing over in
	her mind.

					BEVERLY
			But there was so much more... I
			felt completely free with him...
			unguarded... at ease with
			myself... There were so many
			things that made him special to
			me. Where are they? Are they
			still here... alive in Will Riker?
			I look at Will and I see someone
			I've known for years... a kind of
			brother. But... inside... is it
			really Odan... ?

	She looks imploringly at Troi, a raw wound.

					BEVERLY
			Help me, Deanna... please...

	Troi feels overwhelmed. She wants to comfort her
	friend... but this whole situation is beyond anyone's
	experience.

      STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT THREE      37.

35   CONTINUED: (2)

					TROI
			What... what do your feelings tell
			you?

					BEVERLY
			I feel the pull... it's
			powerful...

	In her frustration, her anguish, she grasps for
	anything that might have spared her this pain.

					BEVERLY
			I wish he'd never come on this
			ship... I was happy tending
			patients and doing my research...

					TROI
			Don't wish that, Beverly... you
			can never be open to love if you
			won't risk pain...

					BEVERLY
			I don't care... I'd give anything
			not to feel the way I do now...
			there's no happiness that's worth
			this...

	She looks up as though she's heard an unseen voice and
	sees --

36   RIKER

	entering Ten-Forward, looking around, moving toward a
	table.

37   BACK TO TROI AND BEVERLY

	Beverly is pale.

					BEVERLY
			He's here. He just walked in.

	Troi does not turn around. She looks right at Beverly.

					TROI
			Look at him.

      STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 2/8/91 - ACT THREE      38.

37   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			I don't want to look at him...
			Talk to me Deanna, please... keep
			talking.

	Troi looks at her for a brief moment, leans in, takes
	Beverly's hands.

					TROI
			The first man I ever loved... was
			my father. He was strong and
			tall... he carried me when the
			ground was muddy... he chased away
			the monsters who hid under my bed
			at night... he sang to me and he
			kept me safe. And then he went
			away.

	A pause, then...

					TROI
			What I wouldn't give to hear his
			songs again... to feel his arms
			protect me. I never will. But
			I can still feel his warmth, his
			love... as though he were here
			with me.
				(Beverly acknowledges)
			Beverly, if you can feel those
			things from the man we know as
			Will Riker, accept them, accept
			the love.

	Beverly looks at her... feels the strength and
	affection in her grip. Slowly, she turns her head...
	like a homing device, it finds Riker...

38   RIKER - HER POV

	His eyes are on her, his gaze burning into her. Odan's
	eyes.

39   BEVERLY

	feels the pull as though there were a steel cord
	between them.

									FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT FOUR       39.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

40   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	in orbit around Peliar Zel.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's Log, Stardate 44823.8.
			Representative of the moons of
			Peliar Zel have agreed to come
			on board to meet the new
			Ambassador Odan.

41   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	Picard, Beverly, and Riker. Riker doesn't look
	good... weak, pale, and shaky. Beverly scans him with
	a Tricorder.

					BEVERLY
			White count is elevated... it's
			higher every time I read it...
				(beat)
			Are you in pain?

					RIKER
				(lying)
			Not much...

					PICARD
			Ambassador... I can stall the
			representatives...

					RIKER
			No. They would consider it
			deception. I must meet them.

					PICARD
			Surely... to present yourself in
			this condition... will not help
			our cause.

					RIKER
			I promise you, Captain... they
			will not know I am ill.

	At that moment the doors open and Worf ENTERS.

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT FOUR       40.

41   CONTINUED:

					WORF
			Captain... the emissaries.

	Leka ENTERS, followed by two representatives of the
	Peliar moons.

					LEKA
			May I present Kalin Trose, of
			Alpha moon... and Lathal Bine,
			of Beta moon.

					KALIN TROSE
			Thank you for receiving us,
			Captain.

					LATHAL BINE
			Is this Ambassador Odan?

	He moves toward Riker, looking him up and down,
	inspecting him. Riker has pulled it together, looks
	a little pallid but otherwise all right.

					RIKER
			Lathal Bine... It was your aunt
			who represented Beta thirty years
			ago...

					LATHAL BINE
			That is correct.

					RIKER
			A formidable woman. I had the
			utmost respect for her.

	Riker gestures everyone into seats. The two
	representatives sit opposite him, scrutinizing him
	carefully.

					KALIN TROSE
			And who was it who spoke for
			Alpha... so long ago... ?

	Riker smiles at him, easy-going and comfortable.

					RIKER
			It was you, of course, Kalin
			Trose. Then you were a young man,
			bristling with passion and zeal...
					(MORE)

       STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/8/91 - ACT FOUR       41.

41   CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER (Cont'd)
			But wise enough to see that your
			people needed peace to ensure
			their future...

	The two of them look at Riker... surprised by his
	thorough knowledge of them... but still wary.

					KALIN TROSE
			And... how did you manage to
			achieve a compromise... between
			that young man and the iron-willed
			woman of Beta moon?

	A smile from Riker.

					RIKER
			They agreed to trade places for
			a week... understand each other's
			situation with more informed
			eyes... after that -- an agreement
			came swiftly.

					KALIN TROSE
			Nothing you have said is beyond
			what a school child could learn
			from a history book.

					RIKER
			But it's not commonly known...
			that during those negotiations...
			Kalin Trose, you quelled a plot
			by radicals on your moon to
			assasinate the Beta delegation.

					KALIN TROSE
			It... is true.

	There is a pause as the representatives digest this.

					LATHAL BINE
			Perhaps he was wiser in his youth
			than he is now. Odan -- you must
			convince him to stop --

	Riker holds up a hand, stopping him.

					RIKER
			Do you accept me? Will you allow
			me to work with you?

      STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT FOUR      41A.

41   CONTINUED: (3)

	There is a hesitation. The representatives look from
	one to the other. Silence. Then --

					LATHAL BINE
			Yes. The people of Beta moon
			accept you.

					RIKER
			And Alpha moon?

	Kalin Trose stares at him, unresponding. Finally --

					KALIN TROSE
			I will consider it. But I must
			consult others.

					LATHAL BINE
			This is a typical tactic... he
			is an obstructionist, you can see
			that --

					RIKER
			Kalin Trose, you may confer with
			your people. But we must have
			your answer within eight hours.

	The three Peliar aliens rise.

					KALIN TROSE
			You shall have it.

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT FOUR           42.

41   CONTINUED: (4)

	They head for the door, Leka the last out. Before she
	leaves, she turns and smiles at Riker; she is
	encouraged. The doors close. Riker sinks into his
	chair, hands clenching the table. The others hurry
	to him. He looks up, finds Beverly, his eyes frantic
	with pain.

					RIKER
			Beverly... help me...

42   INT. SICKBAY - LATER

	Riker lies on a bio-bed, groggy. Beverly completes
	a final test, and then moves off to the side, out of
	ear-shot, where Picard is waiting.

					BEVERLY
			All his vital functions are
			overworked. His immune system
			is under attack. I can only guess
			that he's going through classic
			rejection syndrome.

					PICARD
			Is there any treatment you can
			give him?

					BEVERLY
			I can administer an
			immunosuppressant. It would help
			with the symptoms... but it
			wouldn't correct the underlying
			cause. He's carrying a foreign
			organism in his body.

	She runs a hand through her hair, tired and frustrated.

					BEVERLY
			I don't know what to do... medical
			school didn't exactly prepare me
			for a situation like this...

					PICARD
			You're doing all you can...

	Beverly gives him a look, a rueful laugh.

              STAR TREK: "The Host" - 3/1/91 - ACT FOUR             43.

42   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			Thank you. I wish that were more
			comforting.

	She takes a breath, shrugs off anguish.

					BEVERLY
			Don't worry about me, Captain.
			I'm fine.

	They lock eyes for a moment, each acknowledging the
	lie. Picard turns to Riker.

					PICARD
			Ambassador... when you feel up
			to it, please join me in my Ready
			Room.

	He EXITS. Beverly goes to Riker, takes a hypospray
	from an instrument table.

					BEVERLY
			I'm giving you something that
			should help you feel better. At
			least temporarily.

	Beverly administers the injection. Riker takes a few
	deep breaths... seems to relax... the pain goes from
	his eyes as he gets relief.

					RIKER
			The pain is gone... thank you...

	Then he takes her wrist, holds it firmly. Beverly
	feels a wave of heat rising in her.

					BEVERLY
			Please... don't...

					RIKER
			Let me touch you... just for a
			moment...

	For a brief moment, she allows herself to yield to the
	feelings. She reaches out... touches his face...
	caresses his cheek... starts to bend to him...

	But she stops herself. This isn't right... Riker is
	like her brother...

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT FOUR           44.

42   CONTINUED: (2)

					BEVERLY
			No... please...

	Never taking his eyes off Beverly, still holding her
	wrist, he sits up. Then, forcing himself, he releases
	her.

43   INT. READY ROOM - A LITTLE LATER

	Riker with Picard.

					PICARD
			It was a fast decision, which we
			must take as positive. The Alphan
			representative has agreed...
			somewhat dubiously... to let you
			mediate the dispute.

					RIKER
			I was sure they would. They are
			reasonable people... just trapped
			in their own anger.

					PICARD
			I have no doubt, however, that
			they will bolt if anything goes
			wrong in your discussions.

					RIKER
				(grinning)
			Then it's up to me to make sure
			nothing goes wrong.

	Picard looks at him curiously; Riker is puzzled.

					RIKER
			Have I said something wrong... ?

					PICARD
			No... it's just... for a
			moment... you sounded more like
			Will Riker.

	There is a brief, uncomfortable moment. Then Picard
	goes on briskly.

					PICARD
			We have received word that your
			new host will arrive in eighteen
			hours. Will you be all right
			until then?

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT FOUR           45.

43   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			The medication which Doctor
			Beverly gave me has helped. I
			will find a way to keep going.

	Picard hears the quaint phrasing of Odan's reference
	to Beverly... it still makes him uneasy. They eye
	each other.

					RIKER
			It is an awkward situation for
			her. As you can imagine.

					PICARD
			Yes. Yes, I certainly can.
				(beat)
			And for you as well.

	Riker looks at him sadly.

					RIKER
			My life has been spent... trying
			to help others find solutions to
			insoluble problems. And now...
			I am confronted with one of my
			own for which there is truly no
			answer.

	Whether for Beverly, for Riker, or for the thoughtful,
	sensitive being who speaks through Riker's mouth --
	Picard feels profound sorrow.

44   INT. BEVERLY'S QUARTERS - THAT NIGHT (OPTICAL)

	Beverly ENTERS, weary from the day's anxieties, wanting
	to unwind. She stretches her arms as she walks across
	the room, then drops her neck and rolls her head. She
	goes to the replicator.

					BEVERLY
			Lemon tea...

	The replicator provides the tea and Beverly takes it,
	sipping as she moves to a comfortable chair. She sits.
	On the end table by the chair is the single rose that
	Odan gave her before taking the ill-fated shuttle.
	She regards it for a moment, then bends to inhale the
	still-heady aroma.

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT FOUR           46.

45   INT. ODAN'S QUARTERS - INTERCUTTING

	Riker paces, agitated.

					RIKER
			Computer... location of Doctor
			Beverly Crusher.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Doctor Crusher is in her
			quarters.

	He starts toward the door, then flops down on a
	chair, staring at nothing.

46   INT. BEVERLY'S QUARTERS - INTERCUTTING

	Beverly holds the rose in her hands, staring at it, as
	though in that way she could somehow leap back in time
	to that day when she was so happy... when all the
	universe was contained in Odan's eyes... She looks
	up... as though hearing something -- someone -- calling
	out to her...

47   INT. ODAN'S QUARTERS

	Riker is up, pacing, unable to sit still. He goes to
	the computer monitor, flips it on, stares at it,
	switches it off again. He goes to his replicator.

					RIKER
			Can you make balso tonic?

					COMPUTER VOICE
			There is no formula on record.
			Please supply a molecular
			structure.

					RIKER
			Never mind.

	Riker looks toward the door... takes a step toward
	it... stops, turns back. He is in an anguish of
	tension and indecision.

	Suddenly, the door CHIMES.

	Riker whirls as though struck. He stares at the door.
	It CHIMES again.

					RIKER
			Come in...

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT FOUR           47.

47   CONTINUED:

	The door opens and Beverly is there. They look at each
	other for a second, and then she ENTERS the room. The
	Rubicon is crossed. During the next, their eyes are
	never off each other.

					BEVERLY
			I thought... I should see how
			you're doing. If you needed
			another hypospray...

					RIKER
			I don't think so... the symptoms
			have not returned...

					BEVERLY
			Ah. Well... that's good.

					RIKER
			Yes.

	They take one more step toward each other.

					BEVERLY
			Tomorrow is an important day.
			Do you feel -- ready for it?

					RIKER
			I think so. I have been
			preparing.

					BEVERLY
			That's good.

					RIKER
			Yes.

	One more step.

					BEVERLY
			I'll check your vital signs in
			the morning... before the
			representatives get here.

	They are very close now... the atmosphere between them
	is as charged as an electrical storm... their eyes are
	locked on each other.

					RIKER
			They must not know I'm taking
			medication...

              STAR TREK: "The Host" - 3/1/91 - ACT FOUR             48.

47   CONTINUED: (2)

					BEVERLY
			You could arrange to take a series
			of breaks...

					RIKER
			That's good...

					BEVERLY
			Yes...

	There is silence, waiting to be filled, but nothing
	more to say. No more small talk. Beverly is all but
	trembling... she must take one more step, just one,
	toward him...

					RIKER
			Beverly... I want you...

	She takes a breath, as though there is suddenly not
	enough oxygen in the room...

					RIKER
			If you are going to leave... you
			must go now...

	One last beat... but she knows the answer.

					BEVERLY
			I'm not leaving.

	And she flows into his arms. Their lips meet, and it
	is as natural, as inevitable, as breathing. For the
	moment she can't remember why she ever resisted.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT FIVE           49.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

48   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	still in orbit.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, Stardate 44824.4.
			The representatives of Peliar Zel
			and its two moons are ready to
			transport on board. We have
			learned that they each have
			troops massed and are ready for
			combat if this final effort at
			peace is not successful.

49   INT. READY ROOM

	Picard, Riker, and Beverly. She is scanning Riker with
	a Tricorder; he looks weak -- pale and clammy.

					BEVERLY
			White count is back up...
			temperature elevated... the
			effects of the medication are
			wearing off faster every time.
				(reaches for her bag)
			I'll administer one now... and
			hope it holds for an hour or
			two...

	But Riker stops her arm.

					RIKER
			No... no more.

	Beverly looks at him, puzzled.

					PICARD
			Ambassador... it's clear you're
			in pain. You can't get through
			the next hours without help --

					RIKER
			I must.

	He looks from one to the other.

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/8/91 - ACT FIVE           50.

49   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			Are the injections damaging the
			host body... Riker's body?

					RIKER
			Yes. I cannot put him at further
			risk.

	Beverly stares at him, helpless, torn... what is the
	right thing to do? Medical ethics never tackled this
	problem...

					BEVERLY
			But how can you function? Conduct
			the meeting?

	He looks at her, gives a wan smile.

					RIKER
			I'll manage.

	The look between them carries many messages... and
	Picard is witness to them. There is an intimacy that
	has never existed between these two before. He turns
	away, feeling somehow an intruder.

					PICARD
			We will respect your wishes.

					RIKER
			Further... I will conduct the
			mediation today... but at the end
			of today, regardless of the
			outcome... I must be removed from
			Riker's body. Even if the new
			host has not yet arrived.

	Beverly is stunned by this.

					BEVERLY
			But... you wouldn't survive...

					RIKER
			Riker will not survive unless I
			am removed. He has given
			enough...

					BEVERLY
			Odan...

					RIKER
			Your word.

              STAR TREK: "The Host" - 3/1/91 - ACT FIVE             51.

49   CONTINUED: (3)

	A pause. Beverly looks to Picard. He holds her look
	for a moment, and then nods. Beverly turns back to
	Riker.

					BEVERLY
			Very well.

					WORF'S COM VOICE
			Worf to Captain Picard...

					PICARD
			Yes, Mister Worf?

					WORF'S COM VOICE
			The representatives have arrived.
			I will escort them to the
			Observation Lounge.

					PICARD
			Thank you.

	Picard turns to Riker, who rises. Taking a breath and
	standing tall, he starts for the door. He passes
	Beverly, stops... looks into her eyes... touches her
	cheek... and EXITS. Beverly looks after him, then turns
	to find Picard's eyes on her. A little embarrassed, she
	becomes brisk and professional, closes up her medical
	case.

					BEVERLY
			I'll stand by with the medication,
			just in case. The pain may become
			so intense --

					PICARD
			Beverly...

	The tone of his voice, not at all that of her Captain,
	makes her look up at him instantly.

					PICARD
			Whatever else I have been to
			you... I am your friend. I cannot
			imagine what you are going
			through... but it must be a kind
			of hell. I want you to know...
			I am here... to help you... in
			any way I can.

              STAR TREK: "The Host" - 3/1/91 - ACT FIVE             52.

49   CONTINUED: (4)

	This unexpected gesture pulls the aplomb right from
	under Beverly. She sinks onto a chair, head bowed,
	unanticipated tears welling in her eyes.

					BEVERLY
			Jean-Luc...

	He comes to her, puts his hand on her shoulder. She
	places her hand on his, and they remain there for a
	moment, two old friends, sharing strength and pain.

50   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	in orbit around Peliar Zel.

51   INT. BRIDGE - LATER

	Picard, Beverly, Data, Worf, SUPERNUMERARIES as needed.
	Beverly is a nervous wreck, trying to maintain control.
	Picard covers better, but is as anxious.

					PICARD
			Computer, what time is it?

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Fifteen thirty five hours.

					BEVERLY
			They've been in there almost six
			hours...

					WORF
			Captain... a message from the ship
			carrying the Trill host...

	Beverly turns to him, eager.

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/8/91 - ACT FIVE           53.

51   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			Are they here?

					WORF
			No. They are experiencing
			difficulty. They do not
			anticipate their arrival for
			another nine hours.

	Beverly goes pale.

					BEVERLY
			Nine hours...

	The door to the Observation Lounge opens, bringing both
	of them to their feet. Riker steps through the door
	and it shuts behind him. Beverly is on her way to him.

					PICARD
			Ambassador...

					RIKER
			It was worth it...

	He staggers, then collapses. Beverly is right there,
	scanning him.

					RIKER
			They will not go to war...

	And he passes out. Beverly looks terrified by what
	she sees on the Tricorder.

					PICARD
			Mister Worf, make sure the
			representatives are safely
			transported off the ship.
				(to Conn)
			Ensign, set a course to intercept
			the Trill ship. Prepare to go
			to warp nine.

					DATA
			Sir, it could take more than two
			hours to reach the vessel.

	Picard looks down at Beverly, working over Riker.

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/8/91 - ACT FIVE          53A.

51   CONTINUED: (2)

					BEVERLY
			I have no choice... I gave my
			word. I have to remove him.
			Let's hope we reach the new host
			in time.

51A  EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	at warp.

                  STAR TREK: "The Host" - ACT FIVE                  54.

52   INT. SICKBAY - LATER

	Picard ENTERS, sees Beverly moving away from Riker's
	bed. She looks exhausted -- ashen and drawn.

					BEVERLY
			Will is all right. His vital
			signs have stabilized... he's
			sleeping now.

					PICARD
			And... how is Odan?

					BEVERLY
			I have placed him in stasis. He's
			fine for the moment.

	Picard nods, assimilating all this.

					PICARD
			You need some rest, Doctor.

					BEVERLY
			No. If Odan is to survive, he
			must be implanted in the host as
			soon as he arrives. I'll wait
			here.

					PICARD
			It will be some time yet.

					BEVERLY
			I know.

	He hesitates a second, then yields to her wishes, turns
	and EXITS. Beverly moves to a stool, next to a domed
	container, and sits like a sentinel next to the
	strange, throbbing mass that is Odan.

									CUT TO:

53   WIDE SHOT OF DARKENED SICKBAY

	where Beverly dozes, head against the wall, near Odan.
	Worf ENTERS.

					WORF
			Doctor...

	Beverly comes awake, stands quickly, getting her
	bearings.

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT FIVE           55.

53   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			Is the Trill host here?

					WORF
			Yes.

					BEVERLY
			Thank goodness... bring him in.

	She takes no notice of Worf's reaction to this, and
	begins readying a bio-bed for the host.

					WORF (O.C.)
			Doctor...

	Beverly looks up, smiling... the smile freezes on her
	face in a moment of astonishment as she sees --

54   KAREEL - HER POV

	Standing with Worf at the door is a beautiful young
	woman. She smiles... a strange, blank smile, empty of
	personality.

					KAREEL
			I am Kareel. I am to become host
			to Odan.

55   INT. BEVERLY'S OFFICE - LATER

	Beverly sits dictating.

					BEVERLY
			... the operation to implant Odan
			into the new host was completed
			at nineteen hundred hours and
			appears to have been successful.
			There have been no difficulties
			with assimilation...

55A  KAREEL

	appears in the doorway. The woman is subtly
	transformed. She is still sinewy and beautiful... but
	there is spark to her eyes and dignity in her bearing.

					KAREEL
			Doctor Beverly...

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT FIVE           56.

55B  ANGLE - BEVERLY

	Beverly turns off the dictation device, turns, sees
	not an empty shell, but a woman of substance and
	feeling.

					KAREEL
			Could we talk for a moment?

	Beverly nods wordlessly and Kareel ENTERS, sits, looks
	at her with sad, understanding eyes.

					BEVERLY
			You should be sleeping. You need
			rest.

					KAREEL
			I've never felt better.
				(a gentle smile)
			Except once or twice...

	This reminder is uncomfortable for Beverly, who looks
	down at her desk.

					KAREEL
			My poor Beverly... this has been
			so hard for you...

	Her voice is throaty, rich... as warm as velvet...

					KAREEL
			I want to thank you... for your
			caring... for standing by me...

					BEVERLY
			I congratulate you. You averted
			a war that would have cost many
			lives...

					KAREEL
			Yes. It seems... everything has
			turned out for the best.

	Beverly gives her a glance... their eyes lock. An
	unspoken question...

					KAREEL
			And yes... I am still Odan... and
			I still love you. I cannot
			imagine that ever changing.

	Beverly doesn't answer. What is she to answer? She
	feels drained, exhausted... it's all been too much, too
	fast.

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/6/91 - ACT FIVE           57.

55B  CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			I'm glad you're all right.

	A silence... disappointment in Kareel's beautiful eyes.

					KAREEL
			Is there to be nothing more?

	Beverly runs her hand through her hair, exhausted.

					BEVERLY
			Perhaps it is a human failing...
			but we are not accustomed to
			these kinds of changes. I
			can't... keep up. How long will
			you have this host? What
			would the next one be? I
			couldn't live with that kind of
			uncertainty...

	Kareel looks at her with sorrow.

					BEVERLY
			Perhaps... someday... our ability
			to love will not be so limited.

					KAREEL
			I understand.

	Kareel rises and starts for the door.

					BEVERLY
			Odan...

	Kareel turns back.

					BEVERLY
			I do love you... please remember
			that.

	Kareel's smile is full of sadness and longing... and
	love. She goes to Beverly, takes her wrist.

					KAREEL
			I will never forget you.

	And she kisses the inside of Beverly's wrist.

           STAR TREK: "The Host" - REV. 3/7/91 - ACT FIVE           58.

56   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	and the Trill ship part company.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END