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STAR TREK: ENTERPRISE
"The Price of Peace"
Written by ALEXANDER DIEHL
Copyright (c) 2001 Alexander Diehl
=====================================================================
FADE IN:
EXT. EARTH - STARFLEET HEADQUARTERS (OPTICAL)
Lively as always. We can see N.D.s walking outside the building,
wearing 23rd century Starfleet uniforms. From the scenery, it's yet
another day with beautiful weather.
SUPER: 2296 - STARDATE 1753.9
STARFLEET HEADQUARTERS
SAN FRANCISCO, EARTH
DISSOLVE TO:
CLOSE ON STARFLEET INSIGNIA
REVEAL WE ARE IN:
INT. STARFLEET HEADQUARTERS - HALLWAY
where N.D.s walk up and down the corridor, carrying PADDs, studying
them on the walk - it's all a center of business and activity. And
there's another person heading toward a specific door - it's JONES.
CUT TO:
INT. ADMIRAL'S OFFICE - DAY
Decorated like the office of someone who is a magnificient Starfleet
dignitary. There's an elder STARFLEET ADMIRAL working on something,
sitting at his desk. We hear a COMM SOUND.
COMM VOICE
(female)
Admiral, Captain Jones is here to
see you.
ADMIRAL
Let him in, Betty.
The door to his office SLIDES OPEN, and Jones ENTERS.
JONES
Admiral.
ADMIRAL
Captain! Be welcome.
He moves over to Jones, they shake hands.
ADMIRAL (CONT'D)
It's been a long time since we last
saw you and your ship around here.
JONES
(smiles)
Well, it's always good to have a
few days shore leave after such a
long test flight...
(down to business)
But you told me we had to come for
an important reason. I don't want
to press anything, sir, but I'm
not here for happy holidays.
ADMIRAL
I take it you aren't too eager to
stay longer.
JONES
Right. Earth always reminds me of
some very hard personal decisions.
ADMIRAL
You mean... the family you left
when you decided to become a
Starship Captain?
(Jones nods)
Well, anyway, I'm happy to give you
an encouraging start.
The Admiral takes one last beat to gain Jones' full attention. He
watches the Admiral, listens, waits for something to come. Then:
ADMIRAL (CONT'D)
The Romulan Empire and the Federation
will finally make peace.
OFF Jone's stunned reaction...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
EXT. EARTH - STARFLEET HEADQUARTERS (OPTICAL)
as before.
CUT TO:
INT. ADMIRAL'S OFFICE
Moments later. Jones ponders what he just heard, as the Admiral
watches his reaction.
ADMIRAL
You shouldn't be too surprised,
Jones.
(beat)
We knew this day would come. We
were at war with the Romulans for
too many years.
Jones still needs more time to consider this revelation - he doesn't
really believe it at the moment.
JONES
So, a peace treaty with the
Romulans... wasn't that always
rather impossible?
ADMIRAL
Maybe it was. But things have
changed since your last encounter.
The Romulans reconsidered a few
things, and I think we can be happy
about that.
JONES
It sounds like this was something
a few diplomats achieved in a few
hours. If we're talking about the
end of a long, cold war, I think
you're taking this a little easy,
Admiral.
ADMIRAL
I know you're always the one who
says nobody should trust the Romulans.
Maybe you had good reasons to say
that. But things have changed. Keep
it in mind during your assignment.
Jones reacts.
JONES
"Assignment?"
ADMIRAL
The Romulans will send an official
negotiator. You're going to escort
that ambassador to a peace conference.
Jones reacts, doesn't feel well about this anyway. It's all just
getting worse at the moment... the Admiral recognizes it, stops his
speech.
ADMIRAL (CONT'D)
What is it?
JONES
Nothing, Admiral.
The Admiral looks at Jones, deeply, recognizing that's not the truth.
ADMIRAL
When James T. Kirk was ought to
help establish peace with the
Klingons, he most likely made the
same face...
(beat)
But through all the hell, he was
successful. And so will you.
He takes a beat, then slaps Jones on the shoulders, saying goodbye.
ADMIRAL (CONT'D)
Good luck.
Jones reacts, still a little shaky inside:
JONES
Thanks, Admiral.
They shake hands for the last time. Then Jones moves towards the door
and EXITS. As the Admiral watches him go, we...
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. SPACEDOCK - THE U.S.S. ENTERPRISE NCC-1701-B (OPTICAL)
docked and sitting still for the moment. Minor refits of the ship
have taken place.
CUT TO:
INT. BRIEFING ROOM (OPTICAL)
The inner structure of the spacedock can be seen in the b.g. outside
the windows, as the crew discusses the newest events. Unlikely, the
senior officers all stand in their own corners, their own places in
this room. Nobody is calm enough to sit down at the table. JONES (the
Captain/m.), ACKLEY (First Officer/fem.), VERIK (Alien Science
Officer/m.), MIARA (Andorian Ops Officer/fem.), FINNINGS (Chief
Engineer/m.), LANSING (Chief Medical Officer/fem.), DEMORA SULU
(Helmsman/fem.).
LANSING
I only want to know... which self-
righteous Federation council member
had this idea.
(beat, adding)
This terrible idea.
MIARA
From what I know, they were Vulcans.
Everbody turns to her - she seems to know things the others don't.
MIARA (CONT'D)
Ambassadors Sarek and Spock were
the leading diplomats in this matter.
I heard they had long conferences
via subspace.
LANSING
So, it's the "Vulcan guys for inter-
galactic peace" thing again. Like
they played it with the Klingons.
VERIK
(to Jones)
I'm still curious, Captain. How
could they convince the Romulans
to negotiate?
JONES
That's a good question, Lieutenant.
LANSING
Must have been something about the
ears...
An awkward beat. Jones just stares at the Doctor, expressing he
doesn't like her very humor - not at this time. Then:
FINNINGS
So, how do we come into this...
collaboration?
JONES
We will escort a Romulan ambassador
to a peace conference. And on the
way through our territory...
(wry)
...well give him and his people our
full diplomatic courtesy.
LANSING
(deadpan)
A few flowers could do the job.
JONES
(annoyed)
Doctor, would you--
Lansing reacts. She knows she crossed the line.
LANSING
Yes, yes, of course. Excuse me. I'm
sorry to be here.
Jones doesn't say a word in return. Surprised about how harsh the
Captain cut her off this time, Lansing stays quiet. Maybe it's better
for her to keep silent for a while.
JONES
(down to business)
We're starting out of the dock
tomorrow at oh-seven-hundred. Our
complaints will have to wait.
Dismissed.
The crew heads out of the briefing room - not a very sorted walkout.
Everybody seems to be troubled by the events. The world they knew
could be changed... Lansing stays back.
LANSING
(to Jones, serious)
I didn't want to offend you.
He just nods, and she walks out, looking back at Jones, who stands
there, staring out of the window, into the spacedock - emotions
inside that hardly come to the surface for now...
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. SPACEDOCK - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as before.
CUT TO:
INT. JONE'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)
Some hours later. Jones sits at his desk, a TABLET with FOOD next to
him, along with a cup of tea - lunch time. He is reading something on
a DESKTOP MONITOR as the door CHIMES.
JONES
Come in.
Ackley ENTERS. Jones looks up from his monitor.
JONES (CONT'D)
What can I do for you?
ACKLEY
Well... actually, I thought I could
do something for you. You were a
little edgy during the briefing.
(beat)
Shall we have a tea together?
Jones indicates the teacup standing on his desk, next to the food.
JONES
One more cup, and I'll freeze.
Ackley smiles slightly, then sits down on a chair on the opposite
side of Jones' desk.
ACKLEY
(re: monitor)
Studies?
JONES
(nodding)
I tried to do some... preparations.
ACKLEY
Any luck?
Jones turns the monitor around so we and Ackley can read the caption:
"STARFLEET DATABASE - JAMES T. KIRK."
JONES
I don't know how to deal with this
mission. The question is, how can
the greatest enemy of a race come
to guide them into peace?
(indicates the
monitor)
I tought the answer would be here.
ACKLEY
(reading)
In James T. Kirk's biography.
JONES
He's been the Klingons' nemesis
for so many years. Maybe his life,
the decisions he made, could give
me a hint how to take on this. We're
the same thing for different races.
ACKLEY
Certainly, you're not their friend.
Jones nods, continues. We learn he's completely unhappy with his role
at the moment.
JONES
And yet, they send me out to escort
this ambassador.
(beat)
These are the times when I don't
like to command a Starship.
ACKLEY
What do you mean?
Now we get to the more intense questions.
JONES
How naive is the Federation council?
Do they really think the Romulans
are going to accept this if I'm the
one holding the olive branch?
ACKLEY
Well, they must think that, 'cause
they send us to meet the Ambassador.
(beat)
But don't you think that they're
right? Don't you think their plan
will work?
JONES
No.
ACKLEY
What do you mean with "no?"
JONES
No - I don't think so.
Calm, but pointed, Ackley asks on:
ACKLEY
And why not?
JONES
Because Sarek and Spock made one
big mistake.
An awkward moment of silence between them, as Ackley recognizes how
her Captain stands to this matter. Then:
ACKLEY
And why do you think they are...
"mistaken?"
JONES
Because they forgot history! If the
Romulans were an honorable race,
this whole mission would never have
to take place. We don't need to
sign a peace treaty. We signed one
more than hundred years ago.
ACKLEY
I really don't want to teach you
a lesson, but, you know... to make
peace always means taking risks.
JONES
All right, and what if I know the
risk isn't worth the effort?
A beat, as she thinks, disappointed - Jones' pro-warfare attitude
both surprises and saddens her.
ACKLEY
You're so one-sided.
She heads for the door. Jones seems agitated, reacts.
JONES
What?
Ackley stops, turns around to face him for the last time.
ACKLEY
During the briefing, your face was
so unclear I couldn't know... but
now it seems you wouldn't care if
the whole Romulan population would
disappear from this galaxy.
Now that's like dropping the bomb, finally. Jones gets up from his
chair, speaks emotional, loud:
JONES
Tell me what the hell do you mean.
ACKLEY
If it's peace with the Romulans,
you want to retire from active duty.
If it'd be war, if they'd call for
one Captain to fight at the front
lines... you'd volunteer.
JONES
(angry)
Get out, Commander. GET OUT!
ACKLEY
You don't see what I mean.
She heads for the door at last and EXITS. Jones watches her go,
doesn't know what to say or how to continue. Desperately, he sinks
back down into his chair. It's still a long way to go.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. EARTH - STARFLEET HEADQUARTERS - NIGHT
Still the same impressive building, but now, it's dark outside, and
we can only see it through the darkness.
CUT TO:
INT. STARFLEET HEADQUARTERS - NIGHT
The hallway (we saw it in the Teaser) is dimly lit now. It's a mix
between lights and shadows. No N.D.s walking up and down now.
A beat. A FIGURE EMERGES OUT OF A SHADOW. It's clearly a person, but
we can't see her face. It's COVERED with some kind of disguise. The
identity of that person stays unknown, as it carefully moves over to
one of the doors, pulling some kind of DEVICE out of her pockets
as we...
CUT TO:
INT. ADMIRAL'S OFFICE - NIGHT
Nobody there. The lights are turned down. Suddenly, the doors of the
office are PULLED OPEN, revealing the Person, putting away the device
and taking out a beacon.
She moves over to the Admiral's DESKTOP MONITOR, pulls aside the
cover disguising her face. A HUMAN FACE, a woman, mid-twenties and
obviously very familiar with the place. She taps a control and the
monitor comes to life.
NEW ANGLE - THE DESKTOP MONITOR (VPB)
As it shows the text: "ACCESS DENIED. IDENTIFICATION CODE REQUIRED."
RESUME SCENE
The Woman pulls out her device again, makes some adjustments, then
ATTACHES it to the monitor so it can override the safety locks.
THE MONITOR (VPB)
changes the text to: "ACCESS GRANTED." Then, a long LIST of FILES
appears on screen. The Woman reads the information, knows almost
instantly what she wants:
WOMAN
Computer - subject: "Romulan
negotiations."
COMPUTER VOICE
Displaying data.
Another smaller list of files appears on screen. The Woman adjusts
her device one more time. Lights on the device begin to FLASH, as
information RACES across the screen faster than we can read - texts,
star charts, images of Romulans, Vulcan diplomats and Starfleet
officials. A beat. Then the screen shows the first, long list of
files again. The computer BEEPS in acknowledgement.
COMPUTER VOICE
All available data has been trans-
mitted.
Satisfied for now, the Woman RELEASES the device from the monitor as
it BLACKS OUT. Quickly, she turns around and LEAVES the office
through the open door.
What could she want? Who could she be? We don't know yet as we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
INT. STARFLEET HEADQUARTERS - MORNING
The lights back to normal, as well as the business of the people.
The N.D.s are back on the corridor, and so is the Admiral (as we've
seen him in the Teaser and Act One). He walks up to a door and
ENTERS:
INT. SECRETARY'S ROOM - MORNING
we see sunlight out the window, and THE ADMIRAL'S SECRETARY sitting
at a desk, working a desktop monitor - it's the same woman we've seen
at the end of Act One.
However, the Admiral doesn't seem to know about this yet, greets her
friendly like every day.
ADMIRAL
Good morning, Betty.
With a friendly smile, she replies:
BETTY
Good morning, sir.
ADMIRAL
Any transmissions for me?
BETTY
Yes, just a couple dozend guys from
the press with questions. They want
to know everything you know.
(smiles knowingly)
I told them you'd have one important
meeting after another these days.
ADMIRAL
Thank you. But that's not necessary.
You can relay the transmissions to
my office.
BETTY
(reacts)
But sir... you once said "the press
is my enemy."
ADMIRAL
Please. I could order you.
Betty reacts, gives up:
BETTY
Okay. So I relay the transmissions
to your room.
Without further comments, the Admiral heads into his office, as Betty
watches him go, hopes her plan last night was successful...
INT. ADMIRAL'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
The Admiral ENTERS and heads over to his desk, activates the desktop
monitor, enters his authorization code manually. A beat as he works
- then reacts, puzzled.
NEW ANGLE - THE MONITOR (VPB)
shows a list of files again - but some of them are obviously MISSING.
ADMIRAL
Computer, status of files in data
block gamma-six.
COMPUTER VOICE
The files in datablock gamma-six
have been transferred and erased.
The Admiral reacts with even more concern:
ADMIRAL
By whom?
COMPUTER VOICE
Requested information is not
available.
OFF the moment...
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACEDOCK - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as the last DOCKING ARRAYS are REMOVED from the ship, and it hangs
freely in the dock.
CUT TO:
INT. BRIDGE
Ready to go. Jones and Ackley taking their command chairs, Miara,
Demora, Verik, N.D.s at their stations.
VERIK
(off console)
All docking arrays are removed,
Captain. The docking control reports
we're clear to start. They wish us
a safe journey.
JONES
(to Verik)
Send them our regards, Commander.
(to Demora)
Helm, activate thrusters.
DEMORA
Aye, sir.
(works)
Aft thrusters to 100 percent...
starboard thrusters to one third
power, moving forward...
INCLUDE MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
We MOVE FORWARD, make a careful turn to the left, until we're in the
right direction to head out of the spacedock through the opening
gates...
ANGLE ON DEMORA
working her controls, holding the ship steady...
VARIOUS ANGLES
of the crew, looking towards the Viewscreen, waiting...
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as the ship PASSES the gates and LEAVES the dock behind, heading
towards open space...
CUT TO:
INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
We can see a VAST STARFIELD on the Main Viewscreen. Miara doesn't
have to look at her controls to report:
MIARA
We're clear.
ACKLEY
Bridge to Engineering.
FINNINGS
(V.O.)
Warp engines are ready, Commander.
We haven't used them for a while,
but they're still running normal.
ACKLEY
All right. Demora, plot course for
the rendezvous. Warp six.
DEMORA
(nods)
Aye.
ACKLEY
Go to warp.
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Veers off and jumps to warp.
CUT TO:
INT. BRIDGE
JONES
Time until we arrive, Ensign?
DEMORA
Six hours and a few minutes.
Jones reacts, gets up from his chair.
JONES
(to Ackley, formal)
Commander, you have the bridge.
I'll be--
He doesn't have time to carry on, because Miara's console BEEPS. An
alarm. She reacts, checks her console.
MIARA
Sir, a call from Starfleet Command.
It's Admiral Jefferson. He says it's
urgent.
JONES
I'll talk to him in my Ready Room.
MIARA
Yes, Captain.
Jones heads for his room, as we...
CUT TO:
INT. READY ROOM
The Captain sits down at his desk and turns on the desktop monitor.
JONES
Computer, display message.
Admiral Jefferson appears on screen, worried.
ADMIRAL
Hello. Thank god I reached you.
JONES
(reacts)
You're calling on a high-security
channel? Why?
ADMIRAL
It appears to be pretty necessary.
JONES
"Necessary?" For what reason?
ADMIRAL
I have valid evidence that someone
broke in here last night. Data
from my computer has been stolen,
erased.
JONES
What kind of information?
ADMIRAL
All available data about the Romulan
negotiations.
(beat, explaining)
I was Starfleet's coordinator. It
seems we can't bring these files
back.
Jones reacts, takes this in.
JONES
Did you alert Starfleet Security?
ADMIRAL
Not yet. I gave it a thought. But
this was not a simple thief. We
may face something greater.
JONES
(puzzled)
Admiral?
ADMIRAL
You will tell nobody what I tell
you now. This is a highly dangerous
situation. Do you understand?
JONES
Of course, sir.
(beat)
You sound like sensing some kind
of "conspiracy."
ADMIRAL
Whoever stole the data, knows
everything: The place of the peace
conference, the rendezvous point,
the ships involved... it's all in
these special files which were
stolen.
JONES
Only people who are against that
peace would need the information
you talked about.
ANGLE ON: THE DESKTOP MONITOR (VPB)
While the Admiral speaks, the CAMERA ZOOMS IN on his face, so close
we don't see the boundaries of the monitor.
ADMIRAL
Exactly. I have no doubt there's
an opposing force out there. Just
waiting to get into action. Be
careful, Captain. Someone could
try getting in your way.
(beat)
So do I. Good luck. Jefferson out.
Then, the message ends, and is replaced by a Federation symbol and
the text "END TRANSMISSION."
PULL BACK to REVEAL WE ARE IN:
INT. KLINGON BRIDGE (VPB)
We see that the transmission is being displayed on a WALL MONITOR.
A KLINGON N.D. works a nearby console, while an ELDER KLINGON
COMMANDER in a proudly decorated uniform watches the end of the
transmission with him. He's CHA'VENG, leader of an opposing force.
Another Klingon from a standing console turns to him to report.
KLINGON
Sir, we were able to extract the
rendezvous coordinates. The data
from Earth was useful.
CHA'VENG
(to crew)
You all know our next step... we'll
proceed as planned. Send a...
(grins)
..."greeting" to our friend on
Earth.
KLINGON
Understood.
CHA'VENG
Proceed to the rendezvous point.
Maximum warp.
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE KLINGON SHIP (OPTICAL)
as it CLOAKS and RACES to warp, we...
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (STOCK-OPTICAL)
at warp.
CUT TO:
INT. ENGINEERING
Finnings works a station, N.D.s also working in the b.g. We HEAR
the sound of A DOOR OPENING. The camera TURNS to REVEAL:
MIARA
exiting a turbolift, bearing a STARFLEET HANDPHASER, attached to her
uniform. She moves over to Finnings, who reacts, mystified.
FINNINGS
Lieutenant... why do you carry a
weapon?
MIARA
I know how you think about phasers
next to the warp core. But it's
Captain's orders.
(beat)
I believe something strange is
going on.
FINNINGS
Why could they be handing out
weapons all over the ship?
(beat, thinks)
Did anybody threaten to attack us?
MIARA
I don't know. The Captain gave the
order to arm ourselves.
FINNINGS
How fine we're informed last. So,
you came here to bring the news?
MIARA
No. I shall help you with the
deflector modifications.
Finnings reactes, puzzled - he doesn't know what she's talking about.
FINNINGS
"Modifications?" Well, seems like
I don't know about that either.
MIARA
We shall modify the deflector and
attach it to the sensor array to...
enhance sensor range.
FINNINGS
(reacts)
That wouldn't just "enhance" our
sensor range. That'd double it, at
least. What's the purpose of these
"small modifications?"
MIARA
I don't know. Ask the Captain.
FINNINGS
Once we're done, I'll do it. I don't
like working without knowledge.
As they go to work, we...
CUT TO:
EXT. STARFLEET HEADQUARTERS - DAY
As we saw it before.
CUT TO:
INT. SECRETARY'S ROOM - DAY
Betty works as Admiral Jefferson ENTERS from his office, on the move
to somewhere.
BETTY
You're done with the press guys?
ADMIRAL
(nods)
A horror. Now, I'm going to a staff
meeting.
BETTY
How long will it take?
ADMIRAL
At least until fourteen-hundred
hours.
BETTY
All right, sir, I'm holding down
the fort.
Jefferson returns a smile:
ADMIRAL
Have fun, Betty.
He EXITS, as Betty returns to her work. A beat. Then the doors SLIDE
OPEN again, revealing A MAN who ENTERS the office. He wears a
Starfleet uniform, carrying a WOODEN BOX of some kind. The younger
officer approaches Betty at her desk.
BETTY
Can I help you?
OFFICER
Help me? Oh, yes, you can help me.
I was... said to, uh, deliver this
to a "Betty Logan."
BETTY
(reacts, friendly)
Well, I think that's me, Ensign,
ummm...
She hesitates, thinks about his name - recognizing she naturally
doesn't know who he is. But he reacts too fast to let her get
embarrassed.
OFFICER
Parker. Ensign David Parker.
BETTY
So, where did you get this, "Ensign
David Parker?"
PARKER
Why do you want to know?
BETTY
Maybe it's someone I know?
PARKER
Oh, that... well, it was... it was
just a man at the entrance. Pretty
big guy, said this box was for you.
BETTY
And did "pretty big guy" tell you
his name?
PARKER
No, I mean, not really... that means,
I didn't really ask him, and...
Betty gives him a smile. She knows many young Ensigns like him - he's
not the only one with a little starting problems here. There's
something she likes about these men...
BETTY
Let it go, Ensign, it's okay.
Relieved, he hands her the box, turns, wants to leave.
BETTY (CONT'D)
Ensign Parker?
As if someone fired at him with a phaser, he stops, turns.
BETTY (CONT'D)
Why don't we go have some lunch
together? I'd like to know you a
little.
PARKER
(quiet)
Oh, my.
(embarrassed)
I'm sorry, Miss, uh, Logan... I
got to work. Goodbye.
He turns around and EXITS. Betty looks at the box, still curious.
BETTY
(quiet)
Thank you...
INCLUDE THE BOX
as Betty OPENS it - there's a BLUE CRYSTAL laying inside, embedded
in cotton. Betty takes out the crystal and looks at it, smiles...
CLOSE ON THE CRYSTAL (OPTICAL)
as it starts to SHIMMER in a strange effect, energy building up
inside...
BETTY (OPTICAL)
reacts to the sight, stares at the crystal, buzzing with energy.
Suddenly, SHIMMERING ENERGY CRACKLES OVER HER BODY, causing her to
wince in pain. As blue death becomes her, we...
CUT TO:
INT. STARFLEET HEADQUARTERS - CORRIDOR
We see the Admiral moving down the corridor, when suddenly RED ALERT
LIGHTS all down the corridor start to FLASH, along with a KLAXON.
Then, THREE SECURITY N.D.s come running around a corner, armed and
PHASERS drawn. The Admiral stops them.
ADMIRAL
(to first guard)
Why the Alert?
FIRST GUARD
There's been an energy discharge
in office fifteen-beta.
The Admiral reacts with concern - he knows that office.
ADMIRAL
That's my own office...
He FOLLOWS the N.D.s to his office as fast as possible, they continue
RUNNING down the corridor and we...
CUT TO:
CLOSE ON BETTY'S EYES (OPTICAL)
Wide open, dead. The CAMERA MOVES BACK, away from her, revealing her
face, her body... still SHIMMERING with energy as we HEAR the SOUND
of the DOORS SLIDING OPEN.
NEW ANGLE - ADMIRAL & SECURITY N.D.s
reacting, horrified.
ADMIRAL
My God...
OFF the moment...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
INT. BRIDGE
Verik in the Captain's chair, Demora and N.D.s at their stations.
Miara and Finnings ENTER from a turbolift. Miara takes her station
from an N.D., while Finnings turns to Demora.
FINNINGS
Where's the Captain?
DEMORA
I suppose he's still in the Ready
Room.
FINNINGS
"Suppose?" What does that mean?
DEMORA
(matter of fact)
Nothing.
FINNINGS
(reacts, turns
away)
Fine. Then I'll have a word with
him.
Demora turns around, calls after him:
DEMORA
No! Don't do that!
Finnings stops, turns around to face her. Curious reactions from
Miara as the situation continues.
FINNINGS
Don't do what?
He's waiting for an answer. But Demora hesitates... as Verik speaks,
Finnings' attention moves over to him.
VERIK
As a matter of fact, the Captain
made pretty clear he doesn't want
to be disturbed by any member of
the crew.
Demora reacts, sighs with relief - it's good that this is out, and
she didn't have to say it.
VERIK
Is there anything important you
must tell him?
FINNINGS
(smirks)
Yes. That he can't just hand out
orders to the crew without trying
to explain what's happening.
VERIK
That is his privilege. Giving orders
the crew has to execute.
FINNINGS
What is this? A conspiracy?
VERIK
I really don't know what you mean,
Commander.
FINNINGS
Why does the Captain need to hide
in his room? I think it's because
he's hiding something from his crew
- from us.
(beat)
That can't be right.
Miara checks her console, concerned. It BEEPS an ALARM. Finnings
turns to her.
FINNINGS (CONT'D)
What's that?
MIARA
(off console)
We're receiving a distress call...
(beat, works)
On a Romulan frequency...
Verik checks his console, too.
VERIK
The signature appears to match the
ship we were supposed to meet.
FINNINGS
The source?
DEMORA
(off console)
About two light-years away, on
course zero-six-eight point one-
four-seven.
FINNINGS
Set a course, with maximum warp.
(beat)
Red Alert. Captain and First Officer
to the Bridge.
As the ship goes to Red Alert, we...
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (STOCK-OPTICAL)
at warp.
CUT TO:
INT. BRIDGE
Some time later. Still at Red Alert. Ackley ENTERS from a turbolift
in the b.g., as Finnings watches the Viewscreen. She approaches him.
ACKLEY
(surprised)
You're in command.
FINNINGS
As long as the Captain is busy
writing his biography in his room.
Ackley reacts, takes this in.
ACKLEY
He'll stop writing now, trust me.
She heads for the Ready Room - but at the same time, the DOOR OPENS,
and Jones ENTERS the Bridge. For a moment, they stand there, facing
each other. Then the Captain takes command.
JONES
Report.
ACKLEY
(quiet)
Welcome back, Captain Ahab...
Jones pretends not to hear what she said.
FINNINGS
We received a distress signal from
a Romulan vessel. It's most likely
our diplomatic cruiser.
Jones reacts.
JONES
Anything on sensors?
VERIK
Nothing yet, sir.
Jones turns to Miara.
JONES
(to Miara)
Are they under attack?
MIARA
I don't know.
JONES
(reacts, agitated)
What does that mean, you "don't
know?"
Ackley and Finnings react with concern to how the Captain talks to
Miara. But she tries to react calm.
MIARA
I'm sorry, sir, but I can't just
make something up. It was a general
emergency call, code one.
ACKLEY
(to Jones)
That sounds pretty bad.
DEMORA
(off console)
We're approaching the coordinates,
Captain.
JONES
(to Demora)
Take us out of warp, Ensign.
(to Verik)
Scan for the Romulan vessel.
Verik works his console.
VERIK
(off console)
I have them on sensors.
JONES
On screen.
INCLUDE MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
It shows the ROMULAN VESSEL. It's normally a sleek, fast ship - but
now, its HULL is HEAVILY DAMAGED. FIRES are BURNING on some sections
of the outer hull.
The crew reacts to the jarring image. Only Verik still works his
controls to get more information.
Ackley looks down, away from the Viewscreen. She's shocked. Jones,
however, stays apparently calm in this matter.
JONES
(turns, to Verik)
Lifesigns?
VERIK
I've already tried, Captain, but
the sensors can't penetrate the
outer hull.
(beat)
But I can confirm it's the diplomat's
vessel.
JONES
(reacts)
The Admiral was right... there is
an opposing force.
FINNINGS
Captain?
JONES
No time for long explanations. Just
so much: Admiral Jefferson feared
sabotage. So did I. And as I see,
this fear was justified.
(beat)
Bridge to Sickbay.
LANSING
(V.O.)
Sickbay here.
JONES
Meet Commander Ackley down in
the Transporter Room, and bring a
paramedic.
LANSING
(V.O.)
Understood.
ACKLEY
(reacts)
You want me to lead the Away Team?
JONES
Yes. I'll monitor the situation
from here.
ACKLEY
(getting to it)
And let me deal with the enemy,
right?
Jones doesn't answer - but his face tells us he thinks the same, but
doesn't want to say it.
ACKLEY
Well, I think it's still a long
way to go... Captain.
She looks disappointed again, as she heads for the turbolift and
LEAVES the Bridge.
CUT TO:
INT. ROMULAN VESSEL - CORRIDOR (OPTICAL)
Heavy damage. The light is almost completely down. It's a dark,
dangerous atmosphere - chunks, debris, broken bulkheads as far as we
can see. Smoke and dust from ruptured conduits fills the air, as
the Enterprise Away Team BEAMS IN: Ackley, Lansing and a MEDIC N.D.
carrying a medkit. Lansing takes out her tricorder, scans.
LANSING
I hope there's someone still alive
to be treated.
(beat, off the
tricorder)
Faint life signs... ten meters down
this corridor...
ACKLEY
Lead us there.
She pulls out her phaser. Lansing reacts.
LANSING
Do you really think there'll be
someone who can shoot at you?
ACKLEY
I'm just following Away Team
protocols.
LANSING
(smirks)
"Shoot everyone. The Doctor will
revive the good guys."
The Away Team quickly walks down the corridor when Lansing's
tricorder suddenly BEEPS an ALARM.
ACKLEY
What's that?
LANSING
A life sign. Romulan.
(points forward)
Over there.
Camera TURNS AROUND to show DEBRIS COVERING A BODY. We can see a HAND
reaching out, still moving. Ackley approaches the debris, tries to
move a larger chunk away - she can't do it alone, nods to the N.D.
ACKLEY
Help me.
She tries to pull the chunk away with the N.D. - and it works. Under
the debris, A ROMULAN comes into view. Distinctive. Elderly and wise.
Ackley pulls away some last debris. He's free. Lansing gets closer to
perform a scan with her tricorder.
While she does her diagnostic work, we can take a closer look at the
Romulan. There is an awful wound across his cheek, and his uniform
is covered with dirt from the debris - but he takes this all with
dignity. Ackley kneels down, speaking to him.
ACKLEY
I'm Commander Jennifer Ackley from
the Federation Starship Enterprise.
What's your name?
ROMULAN
Solvak... diplomat of the Romulan
Star Empire, member of the Senate...
our peace is in danger, Commander
Ackley...
He seems to loose consciousness. Ackley looks to Lansing, a question
in her eyes: Will he make it?
LANSING
There's some kind of internal
bleeding... I have to treat him on
Sickbay.
She nods to the N.D., who hands her the medkit. She opens it, pulls
out a hypospray.
LANSING
(to Solvak)
I'll give you something against the
pain.
SOLVAK
You are... friendly... but there
are still people out there... who
want to threaten our peace.
ACKLEY
(reassuring, to
Solvak)
Stay sharp. We'll take care of your
crew, Ambassador.
(to Lansing)
Take him to Sickbay.
(to N.D.)
You're with me, Ensign.
LANSING
You get along here without me?
ACKLEY
For the moment...
(re: Solvak)
He needs treatment, I can see. Do
your best.
LANSING
Yes, Commander.
She hands Ackley the medical tricorder and Ackley heads off with the
medic N.D.
LANSING (CONT'D)
I always do my best.
(to Solvak)
Let's get you to Sickbay.
She takes out her communicator as we...
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND ROMULAN VESSEL (OPTICAL)
The Enterprise goes to impulse again, starts moving away from the
destroyed Romulan vessel.
JONES
(V.O.)
Captain's Log, Stardate 1756.2.
It took more than three hours to
search the Romulan vessel. We were
able to rescue Ambassador Solvak
and a few corpses. For now, we
don't know who attacked his vessel
on the way.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. BRIDGE
Everyone at their stations: Miara, Demora, Verik. Ackley is standing
next to Verik at the Science station, along with Solvak. Jones ENTERS
from a turbolift in the b.g. We can see a sad, shocked expression in
the face of both, as the Captain approaches them.
JONES
You said you've got something?
ACKLEY
(nods, contains
herself)
We extracted the sensor records
from their computer core. At first
we didn't believe our eyes. But
what you see now happened four hours
ago.
She nods to Verik, who taps a few controls. Then, a record begins to
play on a wall monitor. Jones and the others watch:
THE WALL MONITOR (OPTICAL)
It shows the "POV" of the Romulan vessel - like they recorded what
was shown on their Main Viewscreen. A KLINGON VESSEL DECLOAKS and
immediately FIRES at us with strange, powerful weapons.
OFF Jones' stunned reaction...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
CLOSE ON A WALL MONITOR (VPB)
showing the KLINGON CHANCELLOR AZETBUR, agitated by something she was
just told.
REVEAL WE ARE IN:
INT. BRIEFING ROOM
At impulse. The crew sits around the table: Ackley, Miara, Demora,
Finnings, Lansing, Verik and Jones - he's turned around to face the
wall monitor. The Romulan Ambassador Solvak stays a little in the
distance, close to a window showing open space. He watches the talk
with Azetbur.
AZETBUR
You talk about something completely
impossible, Captain. My people are
warriors, but we're Klingons. The
Federation is our ally. I gave no
order to interfere with your peace-
making process.
Solvak reacts, joins the conversation.
SOLVAK
These are all lies, Captain. She is
only trying to save her reputation
as a Chancellor against violence.
(beat)
She fears to admit that she's left
the path of her father.
AZETBUR
What a typical Romulan argumentation.
This ship which destroyed the Romulan
vessel was not part of our military.
LANSING
(chiming in)
What do you think it was? Some kind
of ghost ship? The return of the
"Flying Klingonman?"
Jones shoots her a look.
AZETBUR
(reacts)
She just expresses how your people
still think about Klingons...they
don't trust us.
SOLVAK
And they have no reason to do that.
You attacked my ship. The vessel
decloaked and fired right at us. We
had no time to take evasive action
or even return fire.
AZETBUR
A pretty Romulan tactic, as I
recall. But I must repeat, I gave
no order for an attack.
Jones has watched the discussion between the Romulan and the Klingon
so far. But now, he joins in, speaking for his people.
JONES
With all due respect, can you prove
that, Chancellor?
AZETBUR
(reacts)
Is that how you treat a peaceful
ally? Since Camp Kithomer, we never
cheated the Federation, Captain.
JONES
I'm not speaking against our peace.
AZETBUR
But you are siding with the enemy.
JONES
At the moment, I'm not siding with
anybody. I'm just trying to find
out what happened.
(beat)
As a peaceful ally, you could be a
little more cooperative, in finding
this Klingon ship perhaps.
AZETBUR
We will start investigations. But I
request you don't put us under
pressure like this. Azetbur out.
Her image BLACKS OUT and is being replaced by a KLINGON INSIGNIA.
A tense beat, as everyone considers the situation.
SOLVAK
As you saw, Captain, she refused to
be responsible for the incident.
She also lied that her entire species
was not involved.
(beat)
So shall we take it somebody "stole"
a Klingon ship for this?
MIARA
Maybe it's wrong to accuse her of
lying.
ACKLEY
What do you mean?
MIARA
This is not the first time we're in
such a situation. We've had our
experiences with Klingons who fought
against something. The government
didn't support them.
LANSING
(sighs)
I remember a small Klingon with a
fat nose.
FINNINGS
The Lieutenant could be right.
Maybe it's another group of Klingons
building a Rebel army.
SOLVAK
And what? Will they take over the
Empire and strike against peaceful
forces like us?
JONES
Maybe something different happened.
SOLVAK
You have another idea?
A tense beat as Jones gets up, faces Solvak.
JONES
What if you falsified your sensor
records?
VERIK
(chiming in)
Captain, we have no evidence to--
SOLVAK
(cuts him off)
No. Let him speak.
(beat)
I want to know his true thoughts
about us.
JONES
You want to hear my thoughts? My
thoughts are as follows: This all
seems a little bit too easy. Your
ship gets under attack, and surely,
it are the fancy Klingons who're
always eager to fight interstellar
peace.
(beat)
You did that on your own. Admit it.
Be free to tell us. We won't hurt
you. WE are peaceful.
SOLVAK
(pissed off)
I do not have to listen to such an
ignorant theory.
JONES
I'm just thinking, Ambassador.
SOLVAK
And I say your thoughts are filled
with hatred. That is what drives
you at the moment.
(beat)
It seems like there is no basis
for negotiations, Captain.
He EXITS, as Jones stares after him, like his gaze could kill...
ACKLEY
(sarcastic)
Very good. Very very good. You just
broke the olive branch.
A stunned beat, as the crew watches Ackley crossing her Captain right
in front of the senior officers.
ACKLEY
What? You are surprised? Meeting's
over. Take us to the conference,
Demora. Warp nine.
DEMORA
(reacts)
Commander?
ACKLEY
You heard me.
An awful beat as Jones just stares at her with the same gaze as
before.
JONES
Are you in command now?
ACKLEY
If I have to be...
OFF the moment, we...
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. QUO'NOS - THE CAPITAL CITY (OPTICAL)
The KLINGON HOMEWORLD, healthy as ever. It's still got the old-
fashioned, Klingon look we know from many episodes, as the CAMERA
PANS UP to REVEAL:
AZETBUR'S PALACE (OPTICAL)
where the Klingon Chancellor lives and works.
CUT TO:
INT. PALACE - AZETBUR'S OFFICE (OPTICAL)
We can see the Klingon Capital City behind Azetbur, who is sitting
at her desk, musing over a PADD with visible text, written in Klingon
letters. A Klingon SECURITY OFFICER stands at the opposite side of
her impressive desk.
SEC OFFICER
We have searched the entire area
around General Cha'Veng's mansion.
AZETBUR
And did you find him?
SEC OFFICER
(shrugs)
It appears he left the planet.
AZETBUR
Have you locked off the spaceports
to search for his ships?
SEC OFFICER
Not yet.
AZETBUR
(with rage)
Useless P'tagh! With all ships at
his disposal, he could have left
the system for hours! Even days!
(beat, to com)
SECRETARY!
Just after a second, a KLINGON SECRETARY enters the room, fast, being
her servant.
SECRETARY
You called for me, Chancellor?
Azetbur gets up from her voluminous chair, looks out of the window
towards the city kneeling before her.
AZETBUR
Hail the spaceport, and tell them
to make my flagship ready.
SECRETARY
You want to take a flight, highness?
AZETBUR
I will compensate the incompetence
of my security brigade. A ruthless
warrior just escaped.
SEC OFFICER
(laughs loud)
All Klingons are ruthless warriors!
We exist to fight. Don't you know
that?
AZETBUR
You should have been a Klingon when
you had the time. You weren't. Get
out of my palace.
We can almost hear her thoughts as she walks out of her office. "Why
do I always have to do things myself?" She doesn't look very happy as
we...
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)
We see a vast starfield, an M-CLASS PLANET in the b.g. Then, the
CAMERA TURNS AROUND to REVEAL:
THE KLINGON SHIP
as we saw it earlier (in Act Two). It DECLOAKS before our very eyes
and we...
CUT TO:
INT. KLINGON BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
The crew looks at the planet on the Main Viewscreen. Cha'Veng turns
to the Klingon.
KLINGON
We are there, General.
CHA'VENG
Camp Kithomer, at last.
(beat)
No doubt it was a failure to return
to this place for another conference.
KLINGON
Shall I power up weapons?
CHA'VENG
And destroy an empty conference
center? What would be the use of
it? We have to wait until the world
is full of people.
(beat)
That will be our time.
OFF his face, determined, evil...
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (STOCK-OPTICAL)
at warp.
ACKLEY
(V.O.)
First Officer's Log, Commander
Ackley, supplemental. We're not
more than twenty minutes away from
Camp Kithomer, but it seems like
there will be no conference, thanks
to the actions of our Captain.
CUT TO:
INT. BRIEFING ROOM (VPB)
at warp. Solvak paces, as Ackley watches him (we'll get to know
they're waiting for Jones here). Mid-conversation.
SOLVAK
As I said, Commander, I am not going
to talk to your Captain again. He
told me all I want to know.
ACKLEY
And as I said, Ambassador, you must
at least try to understand him.
SOLVAK
(sarcastic)
Which explains why you did not agree
with him.
ACKLEY
I'm a First Officer, not a slave.
I don't have to agree with the
Captain.
SOLVAK
Then why should I have to?
(beat)
You may ignore it... but I am from
a species that always saw a deadly
enemy in you and your people.
ACKLEY
So did we. But isn't it time to get
beyond that? Wasn't that what you
said before you left the room?
(beat)
Where's your noble attitude now?
A beat. Solvak thinks. Then:
SOLVAK
I have not lost it. But I talked
to our government, and they decided
not to sign any treaty. Not at
this time.
(beat)
I have to agree with their opinion.
Just in time, Jones ENTERS the Briefing Room.
JONES
(to Ackley)
Well, I take it there are some
breaking news from the "acting
Captain..."
ACKLEY
Yes. Definitely.
While she speaks, her eyes always switch between Solvak and Jones.
ACKLEY (CONT'D)
The peace we should've helped to
come, will fail. And that began
before the Ambassador's ship was
destroyed.
Jones thinks, can't believe his ears - she's accusing him!
JONES
So you think I'm the reason why the
Romulans back off now?
SOLVAK
Two factors prove that the galaxy
is not ready for this peace yet.
Insiders and outsiders of this
coming agreement rebel, even members
of the Federation do so.
(beat)
Would you really like to die with
them?
JONES
I do have my problems with this
issue, Ambassador, but I refuse to
be for war between our people.
Solvak reacts, almost laughs in a strange way.
SOLVAK
You "refuse?" Oh, Captain, please
do not say you are so naive. You
want to continue the current
relationship between our people.
We are at war.
JONES
And you said the galaxy isn't ready.
Ackley chimes in, has made a decision. Her tone gets critical - she
knows how much is at stake here, and doesn't want this to fail.
ACKLEY
(to Solvak)
Ambassador, will you...
(more friendly)
Would you be so kind to leave us
alone for a moment?
SOLVAK
Of course. But I must tell you that
we will not revise our opinion.
He EXITS. Ackley and Jones are alone with their thoughts, their
attitudes. So, this is the moment Ackley has been waiting for. Now
she will make a last try to make things right again.
OFF the moment...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
INT. BRIEFING ROOM
As before. Jones and Ackley, facing each other.
JONES
I'm sure you're about to tell me
this is the final chance to revise
my own opinion.
ACKLEY
Something like that.
JONES
Then maybe it's time to think about
yours first.
ACKLEY
(reacts)
What do you mean?
JONES
You still think the only violent
thing that happened was the attack
of that Romulan ship.
(beat)
But that's not all. I received a
transmission that Admiral Jefferson's
secretary was found dead, in the
Starfleet Headquarters.
Ackley reacts, listens, shocked.
JONES
But she wasn't just a secretary.
(beat)
She was dealing with information
about the negotiations. Information
she stole from the Admiral's office.
She sold her knowledge.
ACKLEY
And paid with her life?
(beat)
So I think you know for whom she's
been working.
Jones nods, then moves to the wall monitor, taps a few controls.
THE WALL MONITOR (VPB)
shows A 2-D IMAGE of the same BLUE CRYSTAL we saw in the wooden box
Ensign Parker brought to Betty in Act Two.
JONES
(re: image)
That's a Thoron crystal. When you
take it into uncovered hands, it
will emit high amounts of Thoron
energy - nobody would survive such
a pulse.
ACKLEY
And what does this tell us about
the people she's been working for?
JONES
You can get these crystals on many
planets. All of them are on the other
side of the Neutral Zone.
ACKLEY
(getting to it)
You mean... the Admiral's secretary
was killed by Romulans? And they
were even stupid enough to attack
one of their own ships?
JONES
(nods)
No matter how long I think about
this... I can't find any evidence
I'm wrong.
ACKLEY
(smirks)
Of course you don't. Because you're
misguided!
JONES
(tension rising)
"Misguided?" By what?
ACKLEY
(ditto)
I don't know, but I don't think
there's any Romulan involved.
(beat)
Have you noticed that since this
began, you were sensing a Romulan
whenever something went wrong? By
now, you'd even fear Romulan toxin
in your tea if it tasted different.
The ship SLOWS DOWN to impulse. But the talk between them keeps
going. They don't notice.
JONES
What's your point?
ACKLEY
My point? The mistrust of people
like you keeps the war going and
going! Not Romulans, Klingons, or
any other evil race.
(beat)
War starts inside you. And until
you recognize that...
Jones listens, gets to think, perhaps, when suddenly a COMM VOICE
interrupts their loaded discussion:
MIARA
(V.O.)
Bridge to the Briefing Room.
JONES
(eying Ackley)
Go ahead.
MIARA
(V.O.)
We've arrived at Camp Kithomer...
but there are some uninvited guests.
JONES
We're underway.
Jones wants to head out of the Briefing Room, but Ackley stops him.
ACKLEY
Captain...
He stops, turns to her:
ACKLEY (CONT'D)
I must know on which side you're
standing.
Jones thinks, then answers.
JONES
The right one. Whatever it is.
He EXITS. Ackley FOLLOWS him out.
INT. BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS
Miara, Demora, N.D.s at their stations. Verik sits in the Captain's
chair and gets up as Jones and Ackley ENTER from the Briefing Room.
Solvak stands on the Bridge, watching the events, as well as Lansing.
JONES
Status report.
VERIK
We've slowed down to impulse,
Kithomer straight ahead, but the
Klingons are attempting to block
our way.
He moves back to his Science console.
SOLVAK
My people were right with their
decision. Tell them we refuse the
contract, and they will give up.
A beat. Jones considers, does nothing. Demora checks her console,
turns to Jones, worried:
DEMORA
Captain, the Klingon ships are still
closing.
INCLUDE MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
We see A FLEET OF FIVE KLINGON SHIPS coming closer... closer...
MIARA
(O.C.)
They're raising shields, and
powering up their weapons.
RESUME SCENE
Jones still watches the Viewscreen, thinking about how to decide.
Or maybe he's thinking about something to do his First Officer won't
like if he does it.
MIARA
Captain, they're targetting us!
SOLVAK
(to Jones)
They are definitely able to damage
your ship. You better think quick,
Captain - or they will open fire.
And finally, Jones makes a decision.
JONES
(to Miara)
Lieutenant, raise shields, power
up phasers. Target their weapons
array.
Ackley reacts, chimes in before Miara can even touch the console.
ACKLEY
Belay that.
Jones reacts, shocked, angry - stares at Ackley. But Ackley just
looks over to Lansing. She nods to her. Lansing nods in agreement.
LANSING
Captain, in my obligation as Chief
Medical Officer, I declare you
unable to command this ship. You're
suspended until I decide different.
Jones is stunned. The whole bridge crew watches with awe. NO ONE
EVEN DARES TO MAKE A SOUND. Then Ackley turns to Miara.
ACKLEY
(to Miara)
Open a channel to their leading
ship.
Miara takes one last look back at the Captain - who doesn't look at
her. Instead, he joins Solvak where the Romulan observes the events.
SOLVAK
(sotto, to Jones)
Off duty, Captain?
Jones just stares back at Solvak, as Ackley has taken command of the
ship.
MIARA
(off console)
The Klingons are returning our
calls!
ACKLEY
On screen.
INCLUDE MAIN VIEWSCREEN (VPB)
as the Klingon General Cha'veng appears on screen. We can see the
N.D.s of his crew working in the b.g.
CHA'VENG
I am General Cha'veng of the Klingon
Defense Army.
DEMORA
(sotto, to Miara)
That organisation doesn't exist...
CHA'VENG
It does now! We can't let this
conference be a success, Enterprise.
If you proceed to Kithomer, we will
destroy your ship.
ACKLEY
(thinks, then
speaks)
Are you allowed to do this, General?
CHA'VENG
I use my right to defend my people
against enemies.
ACKLEY
But, as I know, you're just a few
Klingons, acting against the
politics of their Chancellor.
CHA'VENG
Azetbur doesn't know what it means
to be a warrior!
ACKLEY
Why not? Because she's a woman?
Suddenly, Verik's console BEEPS. Jones reacts, approaches Verik.
He turns to Ackley.
VERIK
Commander, another Klingon vessel
just drops out of warp.
(beat, off console)
It's the Chancellor's flagship!
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - AZETBUR'S FLAGSHIP (OPTICAL)
As it JUMPS out of subspace right behind the other Klingon vessels,
RACING towards them.
CUT TO:
INT. KLINGON BRIDGE (VPB)
We see Ackley and the Enterprise Bridge crew on the Main Viewscreen.
The Klingon Officer speaks to Cha'veng, who sits in his chair.
KLINGON
Sir, we're being hailed.
(beat, off console)
It's Chancellor Azetbur.
Then, we HEAR her com voice:
AZETBUR
(V.O.)
General Cha'veng, surrender your
ships immediately, or we'll open
fire.
CHA'VENG
(to Azetbur)
And kill your own people? No. You
are not BOLD enough to kill us!
AZETBUR
(V.O.)
If you don't stop what you're doing,
I kill all of you. You're traitors,
not warriors.
Cha'vengs fury rises again. He makes a sign to the Klingon with his
hand.
CHA'VENG
(to Klingon)
Shut her off!
The Klingon taps a few controls, and Azetbur isn't heard anymore.
CHA'VENG
Weapons status?
KLINGON
Sir, if we attack now, we'll be--
CHA'VENG
FIRE! THAT'S AN ORDER!
KLINGON
(coughs)
Yes, sir.
He taps a control.
QUICK CUT TO:
INT. BRIDGE
As before. Ackley quickly reacts:
ACKLEY
Shields!
OFF Miara's fingers, flying over control buttons...
QUICK CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE KLINGON SHIPS (OPTICAL)
OPEN FIRE at the Enterprise. The first torpedoes HIT the target, but
the next ones are being ABSORBED by the shields. Azetbur's ship moves
closer to the Klingon vessels and FIRES at the leading ship. A warp
nacelle EXPLODES, and it's drifting lifeless in space.
CUT TO:
INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
Red Alert. Ackley sits in the Captain's chair, looks over to Verik.
ACKLEY
Report.
VERIK
(off console)
Their leading ship has been disabled.
They're drifting, engines destroyed.
(beat)
The other ships are retreating.
MIARA
They're powering down their weapons.
DEMORA
We made it!
LANSING
(smiles)
At least, we're alive.
Relieved sighs all over the bridge as we...
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE & AZETBUR'S SHIP (OPTICAL)
In orbit around Kithomer, as Azetbur's cruiser LEAVES to open space,
while we stay focused on the Enterprise (we just see her ship flying
away).
JONES
(V.O.)
Captain's Log, Supplemental. After
defeating the rebels around Cha'veng,
Solvak and the Romulan Senate were
impressed enough to sign at least a
trading contract with the Federation.
Chancellor Azetbur has returned
home... with General Cha'veng and
his people in the brig.
CUT TO:
EXT. CAMP KITHOMER (OPTICAL)
outside the huge CONFERENCE BUILDING (as seen in "The Undiscovered
Country"). Jones, Ackley and Solvak the Ambassador are walking
through a park. They are all relieved everything played off so well
in the end, even Solvak seems to be satisfied. Mid-conversation.
SOLVAK
Captain... I and my people always
thought humanity could never see
beyond their misjudgements. It is
good to see that, in the end, we
were wrong.
JONES
It's curious that I...
(slightly smiling)
...finally get to say the same about
your people.
(beat)
Perhaps I was too frantic to chase
ghosts from the past.
SOLVAK
Perhaps. Now, I do not want to be
harsh, but... I would prefer to
return to my homeworld. I received
word a transport vessel is waiting
in orbit to take me back.
ACKLEY
I hope you have a safe journey home,
Ambassador.
SOLVAK
I wish you the same, Commander...
Captain Jones. You have always been
the Nemesis of our people.
(beat)
But maybe we were chasing... ghosts
from the past.
He takes out a communicator, taps a control.
SOLVAK
Beam me up.
ROMULAN
(V.O.)
Acknowledged.
Solvak looks at the Enterprise officers one more time and gets BEAMED
AWAY in a strange ROMULAN EFFECT.
OFF Jones and Ackley, watching him beaming away, facing the future
ahead of them, we...
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - ROMULAN VESSEL (OPTICAL)
In orbit around the planet...
CUT TO:
INT. ROMULAN VESSEL - TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)
A Romulan N.D. at the transporter controls. We see the TRANSPORTER
PAD, but oddly, there's only an ENEGRY BEAM, misaligned, incongruous.
We can hardly recognize a HUMANOID FIGURE inside the beam, forced to
change its shape... then the N.D. taps a control, and the transporter
beam just DISAPPEARS. The Romulans just killed their Ambassador.
The N.D. taps a control.
OPERATOR
Transporter Operator to Bridge.
We HEAR the voice of another Romulan of undeterminable age:
COMMANDER
(V.O.)
What is it?
OPERATOR
Mission accomplished, sir. We're
ready to fly home.
COMMANDER
(V.O.)
Acknowledged. Good work.
OFF the Operator, closing the comm channel - he EXITS...
EXT. SPACE - THE ROMULAN VESSEL (OPTICAL)
as it turns away from the planet and LEAPS to warp, course and
motivation still unknown to us. But we can guess the real adventure
is just about to begin as we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
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