startrek-ml/Data/StarTrekTheNextGeneration/221.txt

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                      "The Perfect Mate" 
                          #40275-221 
                              
                           Story by 
               Rene Echevarria and Rueben Leder 
                              
                          Teleplay by 
                Rueben Leder and Michael Piller 
                              
                          Directed by 
                          Cliff Bole 


THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.

Copyright 1992 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.

                         FINAL DRAFT

                      FEBRUARY 10, 1992

        STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                      "The Perfect Mate" 

                             CAST                               
                                
                PICARD               BRIAM
                RIKER                ALRIK
                DATA                 KAMALA
                BEVERLY              QOL
                TROI                 PAR LENOR
                GEORDI               MINER #1
                WORF                 MINER #2
                                     MINER #3
                TRANSPORTER OFFICER
                                              
                Non-Speaking         Non-Speaking
                  SUPERNUMERARIES      HAROD IV MINERS
                  MEDICAL TEAM       
                  NURSE              

        STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/91 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                      "The Perfect Mate" 
                        
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                  EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE             USS ENTERPRISE
              MAIN BRIDGE
              CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
              OBSERVATION LOUNGE
              TRANSPORTER ROOM
              VARIOUS CORRIDORS
              CARGO BAY
              SICKBAY
              TURBOLIFT
              TEN FORWARD
              PICARD'S QUARTERS
              KAMALA'S QUARTERS
              FERENGI QUARTERS
          
            HOLODECK
              TEMPLE OF AKADAR CEREMONIAL CHAMBER

       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/12/92 - PRONUNCIATION         

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                          "The Perfect Mate"     
                      
                      PRONUNCIATION GUIDE                       

                 LES EYZIES      lay-ZAY-zee
                 ALRIK           AWL-rik
                 BRIAM           BREE-um
                 FINIIS'RAL      fin-is-RAHL
                 KAMALA          kah-MAH-lah
                 KRIOSIAN        kree-OHSH-ee-an
                 LAPEONGICAL     lah-pee-ONJ-ih-kahl
                 LUDUGIAL        luhd-DOOG-ee-all
                 PAR LENOR       pahr lehn-OHR
                 PALORIS         pahl-OHR-is
                 QOL             KWOHL
                 TARGHEE         tar-JZEE
                 TORZE-QUA       TORHRZ-kwah
                 VENTANAN        ven-TAHN-un

     STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - TEASER 1-1A.       

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                      "The Perfect Mate"                           
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	leaving orbit around the planet Krios.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, stardate 45761.3.
			In an effort to bring an end to
			their centuries-long war, Krios
			and Valt Minor have agreed to
			a Ceremony of Reconciliation, to
			be held aboard the Enterprise at
			a point mid-way between their
			two systems.

2    INT. READY ROOM

	PICARD and the Kriosian Ambassador, BRIAM. Briam is
	tall, almost frail-looking, and his people have dark skin
	and hair, much in the manner of those from Earth's
	Indian subcontinent. Picard hands him a cup of tea.

					PICARD
			I apologize for the delay in our
			arrival; we had to stop at Harod
			Four and pick up a group of
			stranded miners.

					BRIAM
			Please, Captain. We are grateful
			that the Federation has taken as
			much interest as it has in this
			matter.

					PICARD
			Was Mister La Forge able to
			provide the special cargo handling
			provisions you requested?

					BRIAM
			Indeed he was. However... until
			we reach our rendezvous with the
			Valtese, may I ask that the cargo
			bay be declared off-limits to all
			but the most essential personnel?

     STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - TEASER 2-2A.       

2    CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			I trust, Ambassador, that this
			cargo is not in any way dangerous?

					BRIAM
			Nothing of the sort. It is a
			gift... for Alrik, the Valtese
			leader. I am cautious only
			because it is quite fragile...
			and quite irreplaceable.

					RIKER's COM VOICE
			Bridge to Captain Picard...

					PICARD
			Go ahead.

									INTERCUT

3    INT. MAIN BRIDGE

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			We've picked up a distress call
			from a Ferengi shuttle...

	Picard frowns.

					PICARD
				(rises)
			Set a course to intercept...

					RIKER
			Aye, sir...

4    INT. CAPT. READY ROOM

	As they rise to EXIT...

					BRIAM
			Captain, the timing of our
			ceremony with Alrik is critical.
			It cannot be delayed...

					PICARD
			We'll be at the rendezvous on
			schedule, don't worry.

5    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	coming out of warp...

    STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - TEASER    3.

6    INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Picard has joined RIKER, WORF and DATA on the bridge.

					DATA
			The Ferengi report their
			containment field is collapsing...

					WORF
			We are within visual range.

					PICARD
			On screen.

	The image on the VIEWSCREEN is magnified and the
	shuttle is revealed... a trail of some emissions can
	be seen, the ship seems to be drifting...

					DATA
			Their reactor core is unstable,
			Captain...

					PICARD
			How many on board?

					DATA
			Two, sir.

					RIKER
				(to com)
			Bridge to transporter room three.
			Boost your output and lock on
			to the two Ferengi on board the
			shuttle. We may have to attempt
			a long-range transport.

					TRANSPORTER OFFICER'S COM VOICE
			Standing by.

	On the VIEWER, a small explosion aboard the Ferengi
	ship...

					PICARD
			Energize!

	Suddenly the entire ship goes.

7    INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)

	As the TRANSPORTER OFFICER works his controls. Two
	figures MATERIALIZE on the pads...

					TRANSPORTER OFFICER
			Got them, sir.

8    ON TRANSPORTER CHAMBER

	where TWO FERENGI now stand, smiling their toothy
	grins.

      STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - TEASER      4.

9    INT. MAIN BRIDGE

					RIKER
			Mister Worf, escort our Ferengi
			guests to quarters...
				(afterthought)
			... not too close to mine.

					WORF
			Understood.

	He EXITS...

10   INT. CORRIDOR

	As Worf comes around a corner leading the Ferengi...

					WORF
			Unless you can arrange for your
			own transport, you will have to
			remain on the Enterprise until
			we have completed our mission...

					QOL
			That will not be a problem.

					PAR LENOR
			We are in no hurry.

					QOL
			We look forward to enjoying the
			comforts of your fine ship.

	Worf leads them to a door which opens into...

11   INT. FERENGI QUARTERS

	As they ENTER...

					QOL
			Quite acceptable. Not what we're
			used to, you understand... but
			it will do.

					PAR LENOR
			Perhaps your captain would care
			to invite us to join him for
			dinner this evening...

					WORF
			The captain dines alone.

      STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - TEASER      5.

11   CONTINUED:

					QOL
			A pity.

	Worf grunts an acknowledgement and leaves. As the
	doors close, the Ferengi exchange a glance and laugh.

					QOL
			That was too easy!

	And on their laughter...

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

   STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT ONE   6.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

          (NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)            

12   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	At warp.

13   INT. CORRIDOR

	Picard, Geordi and Briam arrive outside the holodeck...

					GEORDI
			We've been working from your
			drawings, Ambassador... I hope
			we're in the ballpark...

					BRIAM
			Ball - park... ?

					PICARD
			An old Human expression... Mister
			LaForge hopes we've come close
			to achieving what you wanted...

					GEORDI
			Computer, run holodeck program
			Krios One.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Enter when ready.

	The door opens to reveal the interior of an opulent,
	golden ceremonial temple... Briam gasps an
	appreciation...

					BRIAM
			Astonishing. It is the ancient
			Temple of Akadar.

	As they ENTER, the door closes and pan down the
	corridor to find the two Ferengi peeking around the
	corner... seeing that the ambassador has disappeared
	into the holodeck... Par Lenor nods to Qol to get
	going... Qol moves away down the perpendicular corridor
	as Par Lenor stays...

13A
thru	OMITTED
13B

   STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT ONE   7.

14   INT. HOLODECK - TEMPLE

	Still in awe, Briam inspects the setting...

					BRIAM
			It is this temple that bonds Krios
			and Valt, gentlemen... two
			brothers once ruled a vast empire
			from this site... until they were
			torn apart by their love for an
			extraordinary woman. This is
			where the wars began. And this
			is where they shall end.

15   INT. CARGO BAY

	as Qol slips inside. The room is dimly lit, he looks
	around to make sure he is alone. His eyes widen as
	he gets his first look at the "gift" he has come to
	steal.

16   REVERSE ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	Suspended several feet off the ground in a zero-gravity
	field is a pod about the same size as an Egyptian style
	sarcophagus; its decorations, though alien-looking, are
	every bit as elaborate. The gravity field casts a
	shimmering light on it, giving this floating jewel an
	almost magical look.

17   QOL

	reacts, excited...

18   INT. CORRIDOR

	As the door opens and Picard, Briam and Geordi emerge
	from the holodeck...

					BRIAM
			There are details of course to
			be added...

					PICARD
			Mister La Forge is entirely at
			your disposal, Ambassador...

					GEORDI
			Just let me know what you need...

      STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT ONE      8.

18   CONTINUED:

					BRIAM
			Yes, of course... I must consult
			several of the historical volumes
			that I brought with me...
			perhaps we can reconvene later
			this...

	Par Lenor suddenly appears in front of them... delaying
	the Ambassador's exit...

					PAR LENOR
			Excuse me... excuse me... is it
			true? Is a Kriosian ambassador
			aboard this vessel?

					BRIAM
			Yes. Can I help you?

	Picard steps in, trying to help the ambassador avoid
	the headaches he knows a Ferengi invariably brings...

					PICARD
			The ambassador is very busy...

					PAR LENOR
			Ah, do you schedule his
			appointments?

					PICARD
			I am the captain of this ship.

	Picard moves the Ambassador down the corridor... the
	Ferengi follows...

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			What is it you want?

					PAR LENOR
			Allow me to present myself. Par
			Lenor of the Ferengi Trade
			Mission. We are pleased to hear
			that you have at last negotiated
			peace with the Valtese,
			Ambassador. Peace is good for
			trade... unless you happen to be
			an arms merchant!

	Par Lenor bursts into an exaggerated laugh.

   STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/10/92 - ACT ONE   9.

19   INT. CARGO BAY (OPTICAL)

	Qol stacks crates and canisters and climbs up to get
	a better look at the sarcophagus...

19A  INT. CARGO BAY - ANGLE ON FERENGI (OPTICAL)

	looking across sarcophagus.

20   INT. CORRIDOR

	At the turbolift, Picard waits impatiently for the lift
	to arrive... shoots Geordi a look as the Ferengi
	continues to drill the Ambassador...

					PAR LENOR
			... in return for the exclusive
			rights to transport all Kriosian
			products to the Valt system...

					PICARD
			May I suggest that you arrange
			to meet at another time, after
			the ceremony?

	The turbolift doors finally open... as Picard ushers
	in Briam...

					BRIAM
			Perhaps that would be best.

					PAR LENOR
			But...

					GEORDI
				(takes his arm)
			Listen... have you been down to
			see the dolphins yet? You really
			shouldn't miss them...

	Picard gives Geordi a grateful look as he says...

					PICARD
				(to com)
			Deck seven.

	The door closes in the Ferengi's face.

21   INT. TURBOLIFT

	Picard hits his combadge.

					PICARD
			Picard to Worf.

					WORF (V.O.)
			Worf, here.

     STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT ONE     10.

21   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			One of the Ferengi just waylaid
			Ambassador Briam. Keep a short
			leash on them, Lieutenant.

22   INT. BRIDGE

	WORF at tactical.

					PICARD (V.O.)
				(continuing)
			I don't want them disrupting this
			conference.

					WORF
			Aye, sir.

	Worf begins calibrating the ship's internal sensors.
	Reacts as he sees something...

					WORF
			Security to cargo bay one.

					RIKER
			Lieutenant?

					WORF
			One of the Ferengi.

	Riker reacts as Worf EXITS into the turbolift...

23   INT. CARGO BAY (OPTICAL)

	As Worf leads in his security team... sees Qol up on
	the makeshift ladder near the sarcophagus... taking
	readings with a Ferengi tricorder...

					WORF
			You! What are you doing?

	The sudden intrusion startles Qol and as he turns to
	their arrival, the support under him wobbles and falls
	backwards, kicking the crates he's standing on into the
	sarcophagus... the energy field crackles and shorts
	out... and the sarcophagus falls and as it hits the
	floor, it cracks open, causing bright shafts of light
	to shoot out... and slowly the shell dissolves
	(indicating that the casing is constructed from some
	sort of "solid" energy).

     STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT ONE     11.

23   CONTINUED:

					QOL
			This is a misunderstanding... I
			was looking for the barbershop...
			Apparently I made an incorrect
			turn -- and...

24   ANGLE

	he's interrupted by Picard, Riker and Briam's
	arrival... Briam reacts with horror...

					BRIAM
			No...

					RIKER
				(to Worf, re: the
				 Ferengi)
			Get him out of here. Confine both
			of them to their quarters and put
			a guard on the door.

	Worf acknowledges, EXITS with the Ferengi...

					PICARD
			What is happening?

					BRIAM
			Emergence...

25   ON POD (OPTICAL)

	The outer shell is now completely gone, revealing a
	cocoon-like structure underneath, as if a Human figure
	were wrapped in some sort of organic matter. This, too,
	begins to dissolve away. The figure underneath the
	organic casing is now becoming visible.

26   ON PICARD AND THE OTHERS

	They can only stare in amazement.

27   ON THE FIGURE (OPTICAL)

	now revealed to be the most exotic and beautiful woman
	we have ever seen. Her green eyes are set off by her
	dark skin and hair; she wears a long, diaphanous gown.

     STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT ONE     12.

28   SCENE

	She looks around the room, and though her features seem
	to indicate that she was expecting to emerge into an
	entirely different setting (the reconciliation
	ceremony), she never loses her serene, almost regal
	composure.

	Picard steps forward, and she focuses her attention
	on him.

	She gives him a smile so radiant that he is momentarily
	struck mute. She approaches him, her eyes locked on
	his.

					KAMALA
			I am for you, Alrik of Valt.

	Off Picard's reaction...

									FADE OUT

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

     STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT TWO     13.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

29   INT. CARGO BAY

	Continuous action.

					BRIAM
			No, Kamala... this is not Alrik.
			This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard
			of the Federation Starship
			Enterprise.

	Kamala takes a curious beat to study Picard and then
	laughs charmingly, embarrassed... (NOTE: with Picard,
	she is articulate, direct, thoughtful, wry, Marietta
	Tree.)

					KAMALA
				(with humor)
			That explains why you don't look
			at all like your holographs. I
			apologize, Captain. As an empath,
			I could sense your authority.
			I assumed that you were
			Chancellor Alrik...

					PICARD
			I'm afraid I require an
			explanation...

					KAMALA
			As do I, Ambassador. Why have
			I been brought out of stasis
			prematurely?

					BRIAM
				(to Kamala)
			There was an accident...
				(to Picard)
			Captain, this is quite
			complicated, perhaps we should...

	As she senses that Picard wants straight answers...

					KAMALA
			It is not complicated at all,
			Briam. And the Captain has no
			tolerance for prevarication.
				(to Picard)
			I am a gift to Alrik of Valt.

	Picard reacts... Briam knows that he has a diplomatic
	problem on his hands...


     STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT TWO     14.

29   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
				(to Briam)
			You've been using this ship to
			transport a sentient being as
			property?

	During the following, Kamala looks Riker up and down...
	measuring him, curious about him, almost as though she
	is undressing him in her mind... he feels uncomfortable
	with it... a sexual tension is present...

					BRIAM
			Not as property... as a gift...
			I was concerned that you would
			not entirely understand...

					PICARD
			Your concern was justified,
			Ambassador...

	Kamala turns back to Picard...

					KAMALA
			You're angry. Why?

	And during the following, she does the same thing to
	Picard as she did to Riker. Again there is a sexual
	tension. Picard absolutely ignores it... which only
	interests her more...

					PICARD
			There is a provision within the
			Federation Constitution that
			protects an individual's
			fundamental rights... once you
			were brought aboard this
			starship...

					KAMALA
				(realizing, charmed)
			You are coming to my rescue! What
			a kind and generous purpose. But
			Captain, I do not need to be
			rescued...

					BRIAM
			Kamala is the key to peace between
			our two worlds...

					RIKER
			Why?

   STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT TWO   15.

29   CONTINUED: (2)

					KAMALA
			In our history there was a woman
			known as Garuth who was loved by
			the brothers Krios and Valt with
			such passion that an empire
			fell...

					BRIAM
			The wars began when Krios
			kidnapped Garuth and took her to
			our planet...

					KAMALA
			Like her, I am an empathic
			metamorph. The first female
			metamorph born on my world for
			over a hundred years.

					PICARD
			A "metamorph"?

					KAMALA
			A mutant. A biological curiosity,
			if you will. With the ability
			to sense what a potential mate
			wants... what he needs... what
			gives him the greatest pleasure...
			and then to become that for him.

					RIKER
				(reacts)
			You mean... you change according
			to whatever man you're with...

					KAMALA
			Until I reach the stage of
			bonding... When I must imprint
			upon myself the requirements of
			one man... to serve as his perfect
			partner in life.

	Her eyes remain fixed on Picard as...

					BRIAM
			Male metamorphs are somewhat
			common but a female appears only
			once in seven generations...
			obviously, they are highly sought
			after as mates...

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT TWO  15A.

29   CONTINUED: (3)

					RIKER
				(to Picard)
			Which explains our Ferengi's
			interest...

					BRIAM
			This mating to Alrik was arranged
			at her birth... by leaders of
			both worlds; in the hopes of
			restoring peace...

   STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT TWO   16.

29   CONTINUED: (4)

	Picard takes a breath, frowns, finding this all very
	distasteful but...

					PICARD
			You do this of your own accord?

					KAMALA
				(nods)
			It is my sole purpose in life.

					PICARD
			Commander Riker will show you to
			quarters. You need not travel
			in a cargo bay.

					BRIAM
			Kamala, remain in your room. I
			will speak to you shortly.

	She acknowledges and Riker leads her out.

30   INT. CORRIDOR

	Kamala and Riker walk...

					RIKER
			Why were you in stasis?

					KAMALA
			Metamorphs have a long and complex
			sexual maturing process. I am
			in the Finiis'ral, the third and
			final stage. It can be an
			uncomfortable transition... Not
			only for me, but for the men
			around me...

					RIKER
			In what way?

					KAMALA
			My body is producing an unusually
			elevated level of what you would
			call pheromones. The effect can
			be quite... provocative. Perhaps
			you sense it...

					RIKER
				(resisting)
			Ah, unfortunately, I'm not an
			empath...

   STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/13/92 - ACT TWO   17.

30   CONTINUED:

					KAMALA
				(flirtatious)
			Oh, I think you are more empathic
			than you admit... at least when
			it comes to women...

					RIKER
			I think you have me at a
			disadvantage...

	They reach her quarters... (NOTE: with Riker, she's
	open, flirtatious, tactile, available, Roxanne
	Pulitzer... FURTHER NOTE: These are primarily internal
	personality changes but subtle physical changes can
	occur... in terms of eyes, hair, general makeup as well
	as the way she walks and sounds and carries herself.
	Instant Sybil.)

31   INT. KAMALA'S QUARTERS

	As they enter...

					RIKER
			The replicator is here...
			companel here... the sonic shower
			is through there... you can adjust
			the lights by verbal commands...
			and if you have any questions,
			just ask the...

	As he turns, he finds her standing there... really
	close...

					RIKER
				(beat)
			...the... computer...

	And she leans in to him and gives him a passionate
	kiss... as their lips part...

					RIKER
			I'm beginning to sense those
			elevated pheromones you were
			talking about...

					KAMALA
			You were curious, weren't you?

					RIKER
			Curious isn't exactly the way I'd
			describe it.

					KAMALA
			Do you know what is remarkable
			about empathic metamorphs?

     STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT TWO     18.

31   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			You mean, there's something even
			more remarkable about you?

					KAMALA
			We learn so quickly what
			stimulates a man... that the
			second time is even better than
			the first...

	And if the first was passionate... send the affiliates
	a message on this one... she bites his lower lip and
	then goes in for the kill...

32   OMITTED

33   HIS FACE

					RIKER
			Listen... this has been...
			educational... but I've made it
			a policy never to open another
			man's gift...

					KAMALA
			I know my role in history,
			Commander... but it's going to
			be a long voyage...

					RIKER
				(ironic)
			It certainly is.
				(beat, "get me out of
				 here")
			We'll try to make you as
			comfortable as possible.

	And he exits.

34   INT. CORRIDOR

	As the door slides closed behind Riker, he catches his
	breath... beads of sweat on his brow, his collar
	tight... he hits his combadge...

					RIKER
			Riker to bridge. If you need me,
			I'll be in holodeck four.

	He moves down the corridor...

   STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT TWO   19.

35   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	at warp.

36   INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)

	Close on a teacup... The voices are sharp...

					BEVERLY
			How can you simply deliver her
			like a courier into a life of
			virtual prostitution...

					PICARD
			Beverly, arranged marriages have
			been the basis of political
			alliances in many cultures,
			including our own...

					BEVERLY
			I'm surprised at you.

					PICARD
			She knows exactly what she's
			doing.

     STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT TWO     20.

36   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			She has been conditioned since
			the day she was born to believe
			that it is perfectly acceptable
			to exist only to please men...

					PICARD
			Beverly, she was born this way...

					BEVERLY
			... and bred by those people to
			seal a treaty with a seductive
			coup de grace...

					PICARD
				(angry now, with
				 frustration and
				 sarcasm)
			By all means, we should throw the
			Prime Directive to the wind...
			detain her against her will...
			destroy any chance these worlds
			have for peace... interefere with
			their society, with their
			customs...

					BEVERLY
				(interrupting)
			That slave trader who calls
			himself an ambassador has confined
			her to her quarters... she's a
			virtual prisoner in there...

					PICARD
			I didn't know that...

					BEVERLY
			It's your ship. Maybe there are
			a few things you should find out
			about.

					PICARD
			I'll speak with her.

					BEVERLY
			Good. ... Lovely breakfast.

					PICARD
			Indeed.

	She exits and on his face...

     STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT TWO     21.

37   INT. KAMALA'S QUARTERS

	As the door slides open to reveal Picard... Kamala
	greeting him...

					KAMALA
			Captain Picard, what a delightful
			surprise. Come in.

					PICARD
			Are you comfortable?

					KAMALA
			Reasonably. Under the
			circumstances.

	They sit.

					PICARD
			It has come to my attention that
			you have been told to remain
			here...

					KAMALA
			That's true, I'm afraid.

					PICARD
			Against your wishes.

					KAMALA
				(qualifying)
			At the request of the ambassador
			who believes I might be...
			disruptive to your crew.

					PICARD
			My crew's performance is not the
			business of the ambassador.

	She studies him. She smiles with warm appreciation.

					KAMALA
			You care about my well-being.
			Thank you, Captain.

					PICARD
			I care about what happens on board
			my ship.

					KAMALA
				(studying him)
			Yes, I know. This ship is very
			important to you, isn't it... ?

   STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT TWO   22.

37   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
				(ready to change the
				 subject)
			Yes...

					KAMALA
			Are all captains' lives so...
			solitary? Or just yours?

					PICARD
			Don't.

					KAMALA
			What?

					PICARD
			Do this.
				(off her look)
			What you do... with men.

	She smiles.

					KAMALA
			I'm afraid my premature emergence
			from stasis has left me a
			little... vulnerable to the
			desires I sense from men.
			Nevertheless, this is who I am,
			Captain. You might as well ask
			a Vulcan to forgo logic... or a
			Klingon to be nonviolent. I
			cannot change, and I don't want
			to until it's time for me to
			bond with my permanent mate.
				(beat)
			Why does it bother you?

	A beat as he decides how to continue...

					PICARD
			Frankly, it is difficult for me...
			for many of us... to easily accept
			that a sentient being could live
			only to be what someone else wants
			them to be...

	She reacts with curiosity... this is the first time the
	issue's been raised with her...

					KAMALA
			But that's what gives a metamorph
			pleasure...

   STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT TWO   23.

37   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			What about your wishes? Your
			needs?

					KAMALA
			They are fulfilled by what I give
			to others.

					PICARD
			And what about when there are
			no others, when you are
			alone... ?

					KAMALA
			I am incomplete.

	A beat.

					KAMALA
			What curious questions, Captain...

					PICARD
				(a beat)
			I'm sorry. Under the
			circumstances, I felt it would
			help to learn more about you.

					KAMALA
			But you know me better than you
			realize...

	Off Picard's reaction...

					KAMALA
			I am independent, forceful,
			brilliant, and adventurous.
				(beat, casual)
			Exactly as you would have me be.

	A long look between them... Picard finally rises.

					PICARD
			I will speak with the ambassador
			about easing your restrictions.

					KAMALA
			Thank you, Captain.

	He exits. Hold a beat on her thoughtful musing...

									FADE OUT

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT THREE  24.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

A38	EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	coming out of warp.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, stardate 45780.3.
			We have reached the designated
			coordinates for the conference
			and await the arrival of
			Chancellor Alrik.

38   INT. HOLODECK - THE CEREMONIAL CHAMBER

	Briam is sitting at a percussive instrument, striking
	the chimes in a strict cadence, practicing a definite
	order...

					BRIAM
				(imperious)
			No, I forbid it.

					PICARD
				(displeased)
			"Forbid" it... ?

					BRIAM
			It is too dangerous. She must
			remain in her quarters.

					PICARD
				(controlled)
			You cannot confine her against
			her will, Ambassador... not on
			board this ship...

	Briam stops what he's doing, stands... moves across the
	room to a torah-like scroll on an ornate table...

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT THREE  25.

38   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			She is requesting some freedom
			of movement... and I intend to
			give it to her...

	Briam shakes his head, disapproving...

					BRIAM
			She is still in the Finiis'ral...
			the height of her sexual allure,
			Captain... every man on the ship
			will be fighting over her...

	Picard frowns, muses... a beat... getting an idea...

					PICARD
			Not every man...

39   INT. KAMALA'S QUARTERS

	Close on Kamala...

					KAMALA
			A chaperone... ?

	Moving to reveal Data and Picard...

					DATA
			I would be pleased to escort you
			around the ship.

	She measures him... senses nothing...

					KAMALA
				(almost to herself)
			What sort of man is this?

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT THREE  26.

39   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			I am an artificial lifeform.

					KAMALA
			A blank page.

					DATA
			Your empathic powers do not
			perceive anything because I have
			no emotions.

					KAMALA
				(disappointed)
			But I was hoping we might spend
			more time together, Captain.

					PICARD
			Unfortunately, I'm quite busy with
			the arrangements for the
			conference.

					KAMALA
			I am very knowledgeable about
			Valt. I could be helpful.

	Determined to put a distance between them --

					PICARD
			I think you should enjoy the
			hospitality of our ship. Mister
			Data will see to your every
			comfort... if you will excuse
			me...

	He exits... Kamala and Data look at each other... he
	cocks his head a beat...

39   INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE TEN FORWARD

	CLOSE on Data and Kamala as they walk toward Ten
	Forward...

					DATA
			Your empathic powers do not
			perceive anything because as an
			android, I have no emotions...

					KAMALA
			I can understand why Captain
			Picard chose you to be my
			chaperone...

	And they EXIT to...

40   INT. TEN FORWARD

	As Data and Kamala enter... the bar is crowded... some
	of those miners we picked up on the way are lined up at
	the bar... they haven't seen a woman in seventeen
	months, let alone a woman like this... and as Data and
	she move slowly by, each male's head turns as those
	pheromones wallop them...

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT THREE  27.

40   CONTINUED:

	She smiles as she looks across the room, sees --

41   ANGLE - RIKER

	sitting with Worf, laughing, drinking an ale... makes
	eye contact with Kamala across the room... reacts,
	knows his duty... downs his drink... standing...

					RIKER
				(to Worf)
			I'll... check in with you later.

	And he runs from temptation in the opposite
	direction...

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT THREE  28.

42   RESUME DATA AND KAMALA

	as her smiles fades... A miner walks up to Kamala...

					MINER #1
			Excuse me, but I'm absolutely
			certain that we met once at
			Paloris Colony...

					KAMALA
				(smiles)
			I've never been to Paloris Colony.

					MINER #1
			Neither have I. Why don't we find
			out what else we have in common.

	He starts to move her away... Data simply takes her
	arm and guides her down the bar...

					DATA
			Extremely rude behavior.

	Looking back at him with a smile...

					KAMALA
			He's just being playful.

	During the following, the whole bar lineup of men seems
	to gravitate toward them... they admire her... she
	smiles back... Data observes them curiously...

    STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT THREE    29.

42   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			May I order you a drink?

					KAMALA
				(to the group of
				 miners)
			What are all of you having?

					MINER #2
			Aldorian Ale's our drink...

					KAMALA
			Then, it's mine too.

	They mutter their approval... and she's a down-home
	girl now... standing differently... flaunting her
	sexuality... a bit coarse... Marlene Dietrich in
	"Destry". Data looks around for a waiter...

					DATA
			There do not seem to be enough
			waiters on duty.

					MINER #3
			They're having a minor problem
			with the replicator...

					MINER #2
			They could use a hand,
			Commander...

					DATA
			Certainly...

	And he takes a few steps, then stops... realizing the
	intent...

					DATA
			No, I think I shall remain here...

					KAMALA
			Mister Data's protecting me
			tonight...

					MINER #2
			Protecting you from what?

					KAMALA
			From you, I guess.

	Laughter...

    STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT THREE    30.

42   CONTINUED: (2)

					KAMALA
				(sexy)
			I told the captain not to worry...
			I just want to have a good time
			like anybody else...

	The crowd responds to her... with a roar of walla and
	ad libs... crushing in closer... as Data reacts...

MINER #1                    MINER #2                 MINER #3
Come on down to          Get rid of the           Do you have any
deck seven,              android and              sisters... ? will
we'll show you           we'll have fun...        you marry me... ?
a good time...

	Pushing his way through the crowd -- the booming voice
	of...

					WORF
			Is there a problem here?

	More ad lib walla:

	MINER #1          MINER #2          MINER #3
	Nossir...       No problem...     Tell him, lady...

					WORF
			Be quiet!

	They shut up... she measures Worf with her eyes... Worf
	looks to Data...

					DATA
			Thank you, Lieutenant Worf, I
			believe the crowd has become a
			little too ebullient for
			comfort...
				(to Kamala)
			... perhaps you'd enjoy a quiet
			visit to the arboretum...

	And as Data starts to move, the miners move en masse...
	along with them... Data and Worf react...

					WORF
				(to the miners)
			Stay here.

	And the disappointed miners go back to their original
	positions...

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT THREE  31.

43   AT THE DOOR

					DATA
			Thank you again, Lieutenant.

	Worf grunts an acknowledgement. Nods to Kamala --

					WORF
			Ma'am.

	She looks up him... and rising out of her throat comes
	a Klingon hiss and guttural growl... Worf reacts,
	surprised, delighted... exchanges a glance with Data
	who pulls her out of the room.

44   INT. READY ROOM

	Close on an entirely different Kamala... gentle,
	conservative, thoughtful... moving to find Picard
	sitting with her... frustrated...

					KAMALA
			Perhaps the ambassador is right.
			Perhaps I should remain in my
			quarters.

					PICARD
			I am confident of my crew's
			self-control. But there are
			civilians and guests on board...

					KAMALA
			I understand. I will volunteer
			to stay in my quarters under one
			condition.
				(off his look)
			That you will visit me.

	He stares at her a beat. Rises.

					KAMALA
			There it is, again.

					PICARD
			What?

					KAMALA
			The wall you put between us.

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/13/92 - ACT THREE  32.

44   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			You are a day away from an
			arranged mating. Why would you
			want me to visit you in your
			quarters?

					KAMALA
			I said a visit. I didn't ask you
			to make love to me.

	She lets that hang there for a moment... measures his
	reaction... she rises, moves about the room, looking
	at things... picks up an archaeological artifact that
	is on Picard's desk, studies it...

					KAMALA
			A Ventanan thimble... early
			Lapeongical period, isn't it?

					PICARD
			Yes...

					KAMALA
			Have you seen the Ventanan woven
			art recovered from the fourth
			colony dig... ?

					PICARD
				(reacts)
			Woven art? Recovered intact?

					KAMALA
			They say the colors are remarkably
			vibrant for their age...

					PICARD
				(enthusiastic)
			I've read about them for years...
			They were so delicate, no one
			expected to find any preserved...
			How did you hear about them?

	She is examining Picard's Shakespeare volume...

 STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT THREE 32A.

44   CONTINUED: (2)

					KAMALA
			I stay informed on a wide variety
			of subjects... after all, one
			never knows when the conversation
			might turn to Ventanan
			archeology... or to the "dark woman
			of raven brows and mournful eyes"
			in Shakespeare's sonnets... or
			to the gardens of Les Eyries near
			the village where you grew up...

					PICARD
			Your empathic powers can tell that
			much about me?

					KAMALA
			Not quite that much. Mister Data
			helped a little.

	She rises, moves closer to him...

					KAMALA
			My empathic powers can only sense
			a man of deep passion, and
			conviction... so disciplined, so
			controlled... I am simply curious
			to know what lies beneath...

	The power of her attraction hits Picard... and he
	resists it valiantly...

					PICARD
			Nothing. Nothing lies beneath.
			I'm really quite dull. I fall
			asleep each night with an old book
			in my hands...

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT THREE  33.

44   CONTINUED: (3)

					KAMALA
				(intimate)
			When a metamorph finds you
			interesting... do not take
			it lightly.

	With great tension in the air...

					PICARD
			I don't take it lightly... I'm
			only...
				(struggling)
			... trying to be as dull as
			possible.

	He moves away. A beat.

					KAMALA
			Will you visit me?

					PICARD
			It would be inappropriate.

					KAMALA
			Is that a yes or a no?

    STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT THREE    33A.

44   CONTINUED: (3)

					PICARD
			I'm sorry.

	A beat. She studies him evenly, rises to leave... at
	the door...

					KAMALA
			Even the walls of Jericho fell,
			Captain.

					PICARD
			Why are you doing this?

					KAMALA
			There can be only one reason.
			Because some part of you wants
			me to.

	She exits... as the door slides closed, Picard is left
	alone with his own thoughts...

    STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT THREE    34.

45   INT. FERENGI QUARTERS

	Par Lenor and Qor react as the door slides open and
	Briam storms in, passing the guard...

					BRIAM
			What is the meaning of this?

	He opens his hand and displays five opulent gold
	coins...

					PAR LENOR
			Ah, I see you got our message...

					BRIAM
			If this is some sort of bribe,
			I am not amused...

					QOL
			Oh no, Ambassador... your attitude
			is quite understandable...

					PAR LENOR
			This is just a sample...

					QOL
			The bribe is ten thousand more...

					PAR LENOR
			Ludugial gold, the purest in the
			galaxy...

					QOL
			We know the lifestyle of a
			Kriosian Ambassador is barely
			comfortable...

					PAR LENOR
			You deserve to live a life of
			luxury...

					BRIAM
			I am insulted. How dare you
			suggest...

					QOL
			You drive a hard bargain.

					PAR LENOR
			Twenty thousand, but not an ingot
			more.

					QOL
			We must have the metamorph.

    STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT THREE    35.

45   CONTINUED:

					PAR LENOR
			She is the answer to a Ferengi
			prayer.

					QOL
			A ship is waiting to rendezvous
			with us in three hours... we can
			all transport off together...

					BRIAM
			Thank you for that information.
			I will pass it along to Captain
			Picard.

					PAR LENOR
			You can't do that...

	He grabs Briam by the lapels if he has lapels...

					BRIAM
			Let go of me...

					QOL
			No, wait... let us discuss...

	But Briam pulls violently away and as Qol tries to push
	him away from getting to the door, the Ambassador falls
	and his head smashes heavily into a table that shatters
	under the weight of the fall... immediately the guard
	responding to the noise rushes in, phaser drawn... the
	Ferengi look at each other and down at the unconscious
	Ambassador, who appears seriously hurt and we...

									FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/13/92 - ACT FOUR  36.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

0A   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	waiting at the rendezvous coordinates.

46   INT. SICKBAY

	Beverly and a MEDICAL TEAM are working on the
	unconscious Briam as Picard and an anxious Kamala stand
	off to the side.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, supplemental.
			The Ferengi have been dispatched
			via shuttle to Starbase
			One-one-seven; what charges will
			be brought against them depends
			on whether or not Ambassador
			Briam recovers.

	Beverly finishes a scan and approaches Picard.

					BEVERLY
			We've been able to stabilize his
			condition... If we're lucky he'll
			regain consciousness in a few
			days.

	Beverly moves off with the Nurse...

					BEVERLY
				(continuing, to the
				 nurse)
			I want a level one craniosacral
			display set up...

					PICARD
			I'll advise the Valtese delegation
			that the conference must be
			postponed...

					KAMALA
			That won't be possible.
				(off his look)
			My ability to imprint on a mate
			will only last a matter of hours
			after the completion of the
			Finiis'ral.
					(MORE)

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT FOUR  36A.

46   CONTINUED:

					KAMALA (cont'd)
			If I had not been removed from
			stasis prematurely, a delay might
			have been possible. But now, I
			will have to bond with Alrik
			within two days.

					PICARD
			But there are several points in
			the negotiations that Briam has
			to address...

     STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT FOUR     37.

46   CONTINUED: (2)

					KAMALA
			You are familiar with the
			issues...

					PICARD
			Familiar, yes, but I cannot
			represent your peoples'
			interests...

					KAMALA
			You can represent the interests
			of peace. My people will agree.
			I'm certain of it.

	Picard is not comfortable with it...

					PICARD
			There are customs and rituals with
			which I have no experience at
			all...

					KAMALA
			I told you that I am extremely
			knowledgeable about Valt. I will
			help you prepare.

	Off Picard's reaction...

47   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as before.

48   INT. HOLODECK - CEREMONIAL ROOM

	Close on the percussive instrument... as the small
	hammer strikes the chimes... seven times... pull back
	to see Picard holding it, concentrating... he
	hesitates...

					PICARD
			This is impossible.

					KAMALA
				(directing him to a
				 note)
			Torze-qua...

	Picard takes the cue and moves the hammer to a specific
	chime, hits it and then three more...

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT FOUR  38.

48   CONTINUED:

					KAMALA
			That's right...

	Picard begins to hit the instrument again... during
	which --

					PICARD
			I am reminded of my piano lessons
			as a child... preparing for some
			dreaded recital...

					KAMALA
			Do you still play?

					PICARD
			No. I regret that I gave it up.
			It used to please my mother...

	He hits the chimes one by one in a strict cadence...

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			I did not like to perform in front
			of an audience.

					KAMALA
			Shy...

					PICARD
			No. Just not very good.

					KAMALA
			And shy.

	He hesitates again.

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT FOUR  39.

48   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			Dammit.

	He puts the hammer down.

					PICARD
			Can we come back to this later?

					KAMALA
			Of course.
				(beat)
			Thank you.
				(off his look)
			For letting down your guard.
			If only for a moment.

	Picard quickly cuts her off... and she feels that
	empathically as a sharp rejection... he puts distance
	between them... moves across the room to the torah on
	the table...

					PICARD
			You are going to have to help me
			with the pronuniciations in this
			scroll...

	Kamala moves to him...

					KAMALA
			What is it about me you fear?

					PICARD
			Kamala...

					KAMALA
			Do you find me unattractive?

					PICARD
			I find you unavailable.

	A beat.

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT FOUR  40.

48   CONTINUED: (3)

	Kamala sighs... turns off the seductiveness...

					KAMALA
			I am being terribly selfish.
			I apologize.

	A beat. She moves away, thoughtful...

					KAMALA
			We have something in common,
			Captain. When I was a child, I
			took music lessons, too.

					PICARD
			Really, what instrument?

					KAMALA
			All of them.

					PICARD
			The entire orchestra?

					KAMALA
				(acknowledges)
			Plus a few Valtese Horns that
			sound like braying Targhee
			Moonbeasts. They are said to
			soothe the nerves of Valtese men.
				(off his look)
			My mother never even heard me
			play. I was taken from her when
			I was four... and sequestered
			in a royal village... where I
			was prepared to fulfill my
			destiny.

					PICARD
			It sounds like it was a very
			lonely time for you...

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT FOUR  41.

48   CONTINUED: (4)

					KAMALA
			On the contrary, I had servants
			and tutors at my side
			constantly... you once wanted
			to know what I am like when I
			am alone... I have never been.
			There was always someone there...
			to educate me in literature,
			history, art, sex...
				(beat)
			But I have been alone on this
			journey and I've found myself
			thinking about all the curious
			questions you asked... you
			wanted to know who I am. The
			only answer that comes to me is,
			"I am for you, Alrik of Valt".
			Because that is the truth.
				(beat, melancholy)
			In a day, I will bond with a man
			I've never met... and I will turn
			myself into what he wants me to
			be... for the rest of my life.

	Picard is caught in a bind between political duties,
	Prime Directive and personal feelings for this woman.
	He cannot find it in himself to take an advocate's
	role. The best he can do is...

					PICARD
			I also once asked you if you were
			doing this of your own accord...

					KAMALA
			I am honored to be chosen to serve
			my people as an emissary of
			peace...
				(beat)
			But I find it ironic on the eve
			of this ceremony... which I have
			spent my entire life preparing
			for... that I should meet a man
			like you...

	Off his look... And suddenly her cheeks flush... and
	she turns away... He searches for the right thing to
	say.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Riker to Picard.

					PICARD
			Go ahead.

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT FOUR  42.

48   CONTINUED: (5)

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			The Valtese ship has arrived.
			Chancellor Alrik is ready to beam
			aboard...

	She reacts...

49   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	Close on the back of ALRIK, the man who will wed this
	extraordinary woman... we hear the sound of the door
	opening as Picard ENTERS (o.c.)... and he turns and
	already we don't like him on first sight... he is drab,
	a dull, dull man... he's colorless and stern... and
	far shorter than Kamala... he is about Picard's age.

					ALRIK
			Captain Picard...

	As we go wide...

					PICARD
			Chancellor Alrik, welcome aboard
			the Enterprise...

	Alrik sits at the head of the table... assuming the
	power position.

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT FOUR  42A.

49   CONTINUED:

					ALRIK
			Your first officer has described
			the details of the incident with
			the Ferengi... how is the
			Ambassador... ?

					PICARD
			He hasn't regained consciousness
			yet.

					ALRIK
			A tragedy. Your willingness to
			assist is appreciated by both
			our peoples.

					PICARD
			I will do my best... although I
			have found some of the rituals
			quite demanding...

  STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT FOUR  43.

49   CONTINUED: (2)

					ALRIK
				(shrugs)
			Rituals. I am more concerned
			about the remaining provisions
			in the treaty... the proposed
			trade agreements are not
			acceptable... We still must review
			the uncommitted territories...
			as well as discuss the schedule
			for exchange of technology...

					PICARD
			The Kriosians have authorized me
			to make several compromises which
			are favorable to your position...

					ALRIK
			Good.
				(rising)
			Tomorrow, then.

					PICARD
			Briam has supervised a
			reproduction of the ancient Temple
			of Akadar on our holodeck...

					ALRIK
				(grins, who cares)
			Such a sentimental people, these
			Kriosians... it is hard to believe
			we have a common ancestry...
				(sighs)
			I suppose they've sent the
			metamorph.

					PICARD
			Kamala? Yes. She is looking
			forward to meeting you.

       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT FOUR      44.

49   CONTINUED: (3)

					ALRIK
				(not very interested)
			I'm sure she'll be satisfactory.
			Between you and me, Captain, I'm
			far more interested in the trade
			agreements.

	He EXITS and... and as we linger for a long beat on
	Picard...

									CUT TO:

50   INT. KAMALA'S QUARTERS - KAMALA'S FACE

					KAMALA
				(false cheeriness)
			So, tell me quickly... what is
			he like?

50A  WIDE

					PICARD
			First impressions? A thoughtful
			man... informed...

					KAMALA
			Did he ask about me?

					PICARD
			Yes.

					KAMALA
			What did you tell him?

					PICARD
			That you were looking forward to
			meeting him.

					KAMALA
			When am I to be presented?

					PICARD
			It will be the first order of
			business. Tomorrow. At ten.

	She nods.

       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT FOUR      45.

50A  CONTINUED:

					KAMALA
			Would you like some tea?

					PICARD
			I should prepare for the ceremony.

					KAMALA
			Let me help you with
			pronuniciations.

					PICARD
			I think I can muddle my way
			through...

					KAMALA
				(extremely vulnerable)
			Please. Don't leave.

	A beat.

					KAMALA
			Talk to me. I love the sound of
			your voice. I'll turn out the
			lights and just listen.
				(beat)
			I don't want to be alone.

	Picard reacts, nods, but...

					PICARD
			The lights stay on.

	She smiles.

					KAMALA
				(to the replicator)
			Earl Grey Tea. Hot.

	We hear the replicator work.

					PICARD
				(re: the tea)
			Did you learn that from Mister
			Data as well?

	She smiles, acknowledging.

					PICARD
			I shall have to have a talk with
			him.

	She brings the tea. They sit next to one another...
	he sips his tea... in silence...

       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/18/92 - ACT FOUR      46.

50A  CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			Now that I know you're listening
			to my voice... I can't seem to
			think of a word to say...

					KAMALA
			A starship captain must encounter
			all sorts of lifeforms... am I
			one of the most unique you've ever
			met? Please say yes.

					PICARD
			Yes.

					KAMALA
			What a nice thing to say.

	She tentatively reaches out and gently runs the palm of
	her hand from his brow across his scalp and it is one
	of the most sensual strokes in the history of man...

					PICARD
				(softly)
			Kamala, have I not done everything
			possible to discourage this?

					KAMALA
			Maybe that's the perfect way to
			attract a metamorph.

					PICARD
			I don't wish to use you as other
			men have.

					KAMALA
			But you are not other men. You
			could never use me. That is the
			very reason why I am with you
			tonight.

					PICARD
			I really ought to go. You do have
			an early appointment in the
			morning.

					KAMALA
			Light years away.

	And as they look at each other for a long beat...

									FADE OUT

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT FIVE      47.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

51   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	with the Valtese ship beside it.

52   INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS

	Beverly and Picard again sharing morning tea. A
	parallel scene to the one in Act Two. Picard is lost
	in his own thoughts.

					BEVERLY
			Quiet this morning.

					PICARD
			Sorry.

					BEVERLY
			Penny?

					PICARD
			What?

					BEVERLY
			For your thoughts. Penny for your
			thoughts.

					PICARD
				(smiles)
			You have one?

					BEVERLY
			The replicator ought to have one
			on file.

	Picard would rather get himself lost in light banter
	but it just isn't possible.

					PICARD
			Do you mind if I take off the
			uniform for a moment?

					BEVERLY
				(smiles)
			Captain... !

					PICARD
			I just need to talk to a friend.

       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT FIVE      48.

52   CONTINUED:

	And Beverly studies him seriously.

					BEVERLY
			Of course.

	He stands.

					PICARD
				(tongue in cheek)
			Besides... it's all your fault.

					BEVERLY
			Mine?

					PICARD
			You insisted I look into her
			situation...

					BEVERLY
			The metamorph?

					PICARD
				(sighs)
			The metamorph. Kamala. We have
			spent a lot of time together the
			last few days... you were right
			about several things, Beverly...
			her entire life has been
			orchestrated for this moment...
			but she intends to see it
			through... to help her people end
			this war...

					BEVERLY
				(beat, perplexed by his
				 intensity)
			Are you saying there's nothing
			else that can be done... ?

					PICARD
			It's not that simple.

	And he looks at Beverly and in a beat, she understands
	and he understands she understands... he almost smiles,
	embarrassed...

       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/19/92 - ACT FIVE     48A.

52   CONTINUED: (2)

	She studies him, sorry she ever sent him down there
	in the first place --

					PICARD
			I barely even know who she is
			because who she is changes the
			moment the next man walks in the
			room.
				(beat, softens)
			But suddenly, I find myself
			hoping... the next man doesn't
			walk in.

	A long beat.

					PICARD
			But he will, of course. In a few
			hours, the ceremony will begin...
			she will mate with a man who cares
			far more about trade agreements
			than about her. And I think of
			how she will be with him... how
			she will change to accomodate
			him... and...
				(beat, understatement)
			... I don't like it.

	She rises and surprises him with a hug. Picard is
	uncomfortable having revealed his feelings...

					PICARD
			I'm sorry to be bothering you with
			this...

					BEVERLY
			I wish I knew how to help you...

					PICARD
				(with warm appreciation)
			Perhaps I just needed a
			shoulder...

					BEVERLY
			It's there for you, Jean-Luc.
			It always has been.

	These two old friends share a long look and...

       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT FIVE      49.

53   INT. CORRIDOR

	Picard arrives at Kamala's door... a beat... hits the
	chime...

					KAMALA'S VOICE
			Come in...

	And as he moves forward, the door opens and as he
	ENTERS, he has to pause as his eyes are filled with...

54   INT. KAMALA'S QUARTERS

	Kamala in front of a huge mirror... dressed in the most
	incredible gown a woman has ever worn... she is a
	goddess... she turns to Picard... a beat as he takes
	this vision in... he will never forget how she looks
	at this moment.

					KAMALA
			Is it time?


       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT FIVE      50.

54   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Soon.

					KAMALA
			Do you have any questions about
			the ceremony?

					PICARD
			Many.

	They look at each other for a long beat... softly --

					KAMALA
			I will never truly love him.

					PICARD
			You've not even met him.

					KAMALA
			It no longer matters.
				(off Picard's reaction)
			I wish I could convey to you what
			it's like to be a metamorph...
			to feel the inner strength of
			someone... to realize that being
			with him is opening your mind and
			heart to endless new
			possibilities... to hear yourself
			say: I like myself when I am with
			him.

					PICARD
			Kamala...

					KAMALA
			For a metamorph, there is no
			greater pleasure... and no greater
			wish than to bond with that kind
			of mate at the end of the
			Finiis'ral...
				(beat)
			... as I have bonded with you.

					PICARD
			With me?

					KAMALA
			Who I am today, I will be forever.

					DATA'S COM VOICE
			Data to Captain Picard.

       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/13/92 - ACT FIVE      51.

54   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			Not now, Data.

					DATA'S COM VOICE
			But sir, Chancellor Alrik is
			waiting to receive you in holodeck
			seven.

					PICARD
			Acknowledged.
				(a beat)
			You can't go through with the
			ceremony.

					KAMALA
			Would you ask me to stay? And
			ask two armies to keep fighting?

	He doesn't need to answer...

					KAMALA
				(continuing)
			Having bonded with you I've
			learned the meaning of duty.

	A long beat as they look at each other... for once
	Picard is speechless.

					KAMALA
			He'll never know. I am still
			empathic... I will be able to
			please him.
				(beat, smiling)
			I only hope he likes Shakespeare.

	And she moves toward the door and Picard follows...

55   INT. HOLODECK - CEREMONIAL CHAMBER

	Starting on an ornate decoration on the wall... with a
	cymbal crash... and exotic percussive music begins...
	and tilt down to a high angle shot to see the figure of
	Alrik in the center of the room... as the holodeck
	doors open and...

56   ALRIK

	turns to see --

       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT FIVE     51A.

57   PICARD AND KAMALA

	entering... Picard holds her arm... her face is
	veiled...

58   MOVING WITH PICARD AND KAMALA

	as they step forward slowly...

59   WIDE

	as they move closer to Alrik...

       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/13/92 - ACT FIVE      52.

	MOVING WITH PICARD'S EYES - EXTREME CLOSEUP

	A music cue signals the beginning of a fantasy
	sequence:

61   HER HAND ON HIS

	He offers her hand to the hand of Alrik... as he does
	the percussion stops.

62   HER FACE

	as Alrik removes the veil.

					KAMALA
			I am for you Alrik of Valt.

	And as Alrik leans forward to kiss her...

					PICARD
			I'm sorry. I cannot allow this
			to proceed.

	Alrik turns sharply to Picard...

					ALRIK
			What did you say?

					PICARD
			Kamala will be remaining aboard
			the Enterprise... with me...

	Kamala reacts, looks to Picard...

					ALRIK
				(flabbergasted)
			With you?

					PICARD
			Chancellor, the trade agreements
			will be satisfactory... you
			yourself told me that was your
			priority. She is mine. Let us
			begin the real work here of
			establishing a long and just
			peace...

	Alrik takes a moment to regain his composure...

					ALRIK
			Very well, let us begin...

	As she smiles with an expression of love for her
	captain...

       STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT FIVE      53.

63   MOVING WITH PICARD'S EYES - THE SAME EXTREME
	CLOSEUP AS BEFORE

	The music cue ends. This is real... all fantasies are
	over. Only the exotic percussive music program for
	the ceremony.

64   MOVING WITH PICARD AND KAMALA

	step forward slowly... still crossing the holodeck...

65   WIDE

	as they move closer to Alrik...

66   HER HAND ON HIS

	as he offers it to the hand of Alrik... as he does, the
	percussion ends.

67   HER FACE

	as Alrik removes the veil.

					KAMALA
			I am for you Alrik of Valt.

	The colorless man kisses her on the lips...

68   PICARD

	stands away, watches... silently... controlled...

69   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	moving at impulse.

70   INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)

	Briam, still weak, head bruised... enters with
	Picard... a Transporter Officer is on duty...

					BRIAM
			Your service to both our peoples
			is greatly appreciated, Captain...

   STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT FIVE 54-56.      

70   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Your preparation made the
			negotiations simple, Ambassador...
			and Kamala was able to guide me
			through the rituals...

	Picard helps Briam onto the transporter pad. A beat
	as he hesitates to ask what has been on his mind...

					BRIAM
			I have to admit I'm curious...

					PICARD
			Curious?

					BRIAM
			I was chosen for this mission for
			a simple reason... I am two
			hundred years old. The
			temptations of a beautiful
			metamorph do not reach me so
			easily... and yet I would be lying
			if I were to claim, that even at
			my age, they did not reach me at
			all. But you... you had to work
			side by side with her for days...
			how could you resist her... ?

					PICARD
				(evenly)
			Ambassador, have a safe trip home.

	Briam reacts, all the more curious... frowns a
	curmudgeony old frown... looks at the captain...

					BRIAM
			Energize.

	He DEMATERIALIZES. Off Picard's acknowledgement...

71   INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS

	Low lighting... as he enters... pauses once inside to
	feel himself alone... won't allow himself to stay with
	that... moves to the replicator...

					PICARD
			Earl Grey. Hot.

	We hear the replicator... but stay on him as he moves
	to a bookshelf... and picks out a long book that looks
	interesting... studies it as he returns to the
	replicator, and takes his tea... he moves to an easy
	chair and places the tea on a side table... turns on
	the light, sits, opens the book... and reads a few
	words but his eyes leave the book and he leans back...
	thinking and as the book closes in his hands...

72   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	Moves off into warp.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END