STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                     "Unnatural Selection" 
                          #40272-133 
                              
                          Written by 
                   Mike Gray and John Mason 
                              
                          Directed by
                           Paul Lynch


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 1988 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 This script is not for publication or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

                      NOVEMBER 10, 1988

    STAR TREK: "Unnatural Selection" - DRAFT 11/10/88 CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                        "Unnatural Selection"   
                       
                             CAST 

                PICARD             RINA
                RIKER              DR. SARA MANDEL
                GEORDI             CAPTAIN TAGGERT
                PULASKI            CREWMEMBER
                WESLEY             TRANSPORTER OPERATOR
                TROI               MEDIC
                DATA               
                WORF               
                Non-Speaking       Voice-Over
                USS ENTERPRISE     COM PANEL/COMPUTER VOICE
                  2 CREWMEMBERS    TRANSPORTER COM VOICE
                                   
                USS LANTREE        
                  CREWMEMBER (DEAD)
                  CAPTAIN TELAKA (DEAD)
                  2 TWENTY-YEAR OLD "CHILDREN"

   STAR TREK: "Unnatural Selection" - DRAFT 11/10/88 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                     "Unnatural Selection" 
                        
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                   EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE              USS ENTERPRISE
              BRIDGE
              CAPTAIN'S QUARTERS        USS LANTREE
              TEN FORWARD
              MAIN ENGINEERING          DARWIN RESEARCH STATION
              ENGINEERING CONTROL ROOM
              TRANSPORTER ROOM
              CORRIDOR
              SICKBAY
              SICKBAY SCIENCE LAB
              CONFERENCE ROOM
              TROI'S OFFICE
              OBSERVATION LOUNGE
              CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
              SHUTTLE BAY
              SHUTTLE BAY CONTROL ROOM
              SHUTTLECRAFT
              PULASKI'S QUARTERS
              TURBOLIFT
          
            USS LANTREE
              BRIDGE
              CORRIDOR
              SICKBAY
              CAPTAIN'S QUARTERS
          
            DARWIN STATION/LABORATORY BUILDING
              ISOLATION LAB/OBSERVATION AREA
              ISOLATION CHAMBER

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                     "Unnatural Selection" 
                     
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

	EXT. DEEP SPACE (OPTICAL)

	The USS ENTERPRISE moves through the galaxy at warp
	speed.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, Stardate 42303.7.
			The Enterprise is bound for Star
			Station India to rendezvous with
			a Starfleet courier.

	INT. ENTERPRISE - BRIDGE

	The lights on the bridge are down, with only the OPS
	and CONN stations illuminated. An n.d. crew goes quietly
	about it's business.

	NOTE: THIS DIALOGUE HAS TO BE REWRITTEN:

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Hopefully the mission will
			provide an opportunity to
			evaluate our newest staff
			officer...

	INT. CAPTAIN'S QUARTERS

	A pensive CAPTAIN JEAN-LUC PICARD paces restlessly,
	pausing in front of the antique brass ship's barometer
	mounted on the bulkhead.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			In the short time she's been
			aboard, Doctor Pulaski has
			distinguished herself as a
			meticulous and competent
			physician. But can someone so
			focused on her own specialty also
			assume the broader duties of the
			ship's Chief Medical Officer?

	CONTINUED:

	Absently, Picard raps the barometer's face plate with
	his knuckle. Surprisingly, the needle moves --
	pointing to "STORMY."

	INT. TEN-FORWARD

	COMMANDER RIKER, GEORDI and several male crewmembers
	from Engineering are seated around a table near the
	bow ports. The center of attention is clearly the new
	Specialist Trainee, RINA, an arrestingly beautiful
	young woman.

					RINA
			... warp drive theory always came
			easy for me, but I'm looking
			forward to some hands on
			experience.

					RIKER
			I'm sure we'll be able to
			accommodate you.

	Rina is well aware that Riker is flirting with her,
	but she's not flattered. She concentrates on finishing
	her drink.

	Geordi, on the other hand, seems oblivious to the
	tension.

					GEORDI
			I know what you mean. It's a
			really electrifying experience
			to be down there where the action
			is. Whenever I push the drive
			past warp six I still get a lump
			in my throat.

	Riker takes Rina's empty glass from her hand.

					RIKER
				(standing)
			Can I get you another?

					RINA
			Tell me Commander. Is it the
			custom on the Enterprise for the
			First Officer to wait on
			trainees?

	CONTINUED:

					RIKER
				(smiling)
			If they were all like you, I'm
			certain it would be.

					GEORDI
				(to Rina)
			What's it like these days at the
			academy? Is Tsiolkovski still
			teaching Propulsion Theory?

					RINA
			Are you kidding? They'll have
			to tear down the building around
			him. The first time I saw him...

	MOVE WITH RIKER as he heads for the bar carrying two
	empty glasses. He slides them across the bar to an
	n.d. bartender.

					RIKER
			Same again.

	In the b.g. we see DOCTOR KATHERINE PULASKI leave her
	table and approach Riker.

					PULASKI
			Good to see you, Commander. When
			you missed your test this morning
			we all feared the worst.

					RIKER
				(turning)
			My apologies, Doctor. A minor
			crisis...
				(beat)
			in Engineering.

					PULASKI
				(not buying it)
			You know, a Rheinman tissue
			sample sounds a good deal worse
			than it is. I can assure you
			there's no discomfort involved.

					RIKER
			It's not that! It's just... my
			duties are so diverse.
				(beat)
			Suppose we leave the appointment
			open?

	CONTINUED: (2)

					PULASKI
			Spontaneity is the sand in the
			clockworks of science.

					RIKER
			But it's just an unimportant
			detail...

	A raised eyebrow from Pulaski tells Riker this is a
	dead-end.

					PULASKI
			If I didn't consider it important
			I wouldn't insist. Don't force
			me to relieve you of duty to make
			my point.

					RIKER
			You can't be --
				(beat)
			I'll work something out. But
			my schedule is tight for the next
			three or four days...

					PULASKI
				(smiles)
			So I see.

	They both glance toward the table where Rina and Geordi
	are still in conversation.

	BEYOND THE PORTS the stars streak toward us at warp
	speed.

	Rina has a clear view.

					RINA
			Beautiful, isn't it?

	GEORDI'S POV -- He "sees" the ship's navigational
	shield as a gossamer scrim of shimmering color, and
	beyond, countless waves of energy bursting from
	exploding suns.

					GEORDI
			The most beautiful thing I know.

	ON RINA as she turns to face him. She's not used to
	hearing men talk like this.

	INT. CAPTAIN'S QUARTERS

	Picard stands in the darkness, his face bathed in
	starlight. He's staring out the port at the same view
	that facinates Rina.

	A CHIME SOUNDS.

					PICARD
				(to com panel)
			Picard.

					COM PANEL VOICE (V.O.)
			Captain, this is the bridge.
			We're receiving a distress signal
			on an open sub-space frequency.

					PICARD
				(to com panel)
			Sound emergency stations, and
			respond on the same frequency.

	Picard rushes for the door.

	EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The great ship sweeps past at warp speed.

	INT. BRIDGE

	ENSIGN WESLEY CRUSHER emerges from the turbolift
	adjusting his uniform and rubbing the sleep from his
	eyes.

	WE FOLLOW as he stops at the food slct, grabs a cup
	of tea, and moves to replace the n.d. crewmember at the
	CONN.

					PULASKI (O.S.)
				(from com panel)
			Sickbay on full emergency
			status, Captain.

	Picard is on his feet with Riker and COUNSELOR TROI
	next to him. COMMANDER DATA is at the OPS station and
	WORF is at TACTICAL.

					PICARD
			Stand by, Doctor. Commander
			Data. Have we locked on to the
			signal yet?

	CONTINUED:

					DATA
			Yes, sir. A voice only
			transmission from the USS
			Lantree, a Federation supply
			ship.

					PICARD
				(to viewscreen)
			Lantree, this is Jean-Luc Picard
			of the USS Enterprise. What
			is the nature of your emergency?

	A long beat of silence as they wait anxiously for a
	response.

					VOICE (V.O.)
				(from viewscreen)
			-- can't hold out any -- dying
			-- too many -- help ...
				(silence)

	Riker and Worf glance at each other.

					DATA
			Sir, we are still recieving their
			signal. There is simply no
			message.

	CLOSE ON Picard's worried expression.

					PICARD
				(to viewer)
			Lantree! Are you under attack?

										FADE OUT:

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

	EXT. ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	Underway at warp speed.

	INT. BRIDGE

	Picard and the others are at their stations.

					PICARD
				(to com panel)
			USS Lantree, this is the
			Enterprise, come in, Lantree.

	Nothing.

					PICARD
			Replay that last transmission.

	The Lantree's last desperate call is replayed.

					VOICE (V. O.)
				(from viewscreen)
			-- can't hold out any -- dying
			-- too many -- help ...
				(silence)

					PICARD (CONT.)
				(to Troi)
			Counselor?

					TROI
			Great stress is all I'm able to
			sense.

					RIKER
			Have we got a fix on her?

					DATA
			Two point two milli-parsecs,
			bearing three-zero at one-four-
			five degrees.

					PICARD
				(to Riker)
			Number One?

	CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			We better take a look.
				(to Data)
			What vessel is it?

	Data accesses the computer.

					DATA
			USS Lantree, a class R Starfleet
			supply ship assigned to Gamma
			seven seven, Captain L.I. Taleka
			commanding. Normal complement,
			twenty-six officers and crew.

					RIKER
			Armed?

					DATA
			Class three defensive only.

					RIKER
			Is she still underway?

					DATA
			Indeed. She is at maximum speed.

	Picard and Riker glance at each other.

					PICARD
			Alter course to intercept.

					WESLEY
				(enters course)
			Course to intercept.

					RIKER
			Execute.
				(to Worf)
			Let's go to Yellow Alert.

					WORF
			Yellow Alert, sir.

	The KLAXONS SOUND.

					RIKER
			Engineering?

	INT. ENGINEERING

	KLAXONS continue as the crew moves to alert stations.

	CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Engineering.

	Geordi replaces an n.d. crewmember at the command console.

					RIKER (V.O.)
				(from com panel)
			Give us maximum warp.

					GEORDI
			Maximum warp, sir.
				(to crew)
			Let's show 'em what we've got.

	The crew springs to action. Rina is electrified.

					GEORDI (CONT.)
				(to Rina)
			Go to the backpanels and give
			me a direct reading of the
			dilithium temperature spread.

	INT. ENGINE ROOM

	Rina enters...

	And up on the catwalk, one of the crewmember is distracted
	by her; he trips, and tumbles over the railing onto
	the main deck.

	The automatic ALARM SOUNDS. Rina and several others
	rush to the man's aid. His leg is broken.

	Geordi runs in.

					GEORDI
			What happened?

					CREWMEMBER
			My fault, sir. Missed the turn.

	Geordi looks up at the catwalk, then down at the
	crewmember. Then he looks at Rina.

					GEORDI
				(pained)
			Ensign... maybe you better stay
			in the control room.

	Rina recoils as if she'd been slapped. But she says
	nothing. Wounded, she gets to her feet and exits.

	EXT. ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	In the distance is the USS Lantree, underway at warp
	speed. The Enterprise is closing on her slowly.

	INT. ENTERPRISE - BRIDGE

	The bridge crew is at stations. On the viewscreen is
	the Lantree.

					PICARD
			Open hailing frequencies.

					WORF
			Hailing frequencies open.

					PICARD
			Lantree, this is the Enterprise.

	No response.

					PICARD (CONT.)
			Captain Telaka, this is Picard,
			USS Enterprise. Do you read me?

	Only the EMPTY WHISTLING TONE of the Lantree's carrier
	signal answers. The bridge crew is uneasy.

					DATA
			No life signs, Captain.

					PICARD
			Nothing?

					DATA
			Nothing, sir.

					WORF
			This could be an ambush.

					RIKER
			Force fields up. Arm photon
			torpedoes.

					WORF
			Force fields up.

					CREWMEMBER
			Torpedoes armed and ready.

					RIKER
			Red alert.

	The KLAXONS SOUND.

	CONTINUED:

					RIKER (cont.)
			What else have we got in the
			neighborhood?

					WESLEY
			No other vessels of any kind
			within two parsecs.

	The Lantree is now larger in the viewscreen.

					PICARD
			No battle damage.

					DATA
			All systems seem functional,
			Captain. Everything is in perfect
			order.

					PICARD
			And no life signs.

					DATA
			No life signs.

	Picard turns to Riker.

					PICARD
			We're going to have to board her,
			Will.

	EXT. SPACE

	The Enterprise and the much smaller Lantree streak
	along together at warp speed.

	INT. ENGINEERING

	Riker talks to Geordi. Rina is here as well.

					RIKER
			The only way we can wind up in
			the same starfield is if you
			bring us out of warp speed at
			precisely the same instant as
			the Lantree.

					GEORDI
			First I have to get control of
			the her engines. Very tricky.

	CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			That's why we gave you the job.
				(friendly pat)
			Let me know as soon as you're
			set.

					GEORDI
			Will I be on the away team?

					RIKER
				(aware of Rina)
			Too dangerous for a valuable man
			like you.
				(smiles)
			Fortunately, first officers are
			expendable.

	He starts out, then turns to Rina.

					RIKER (cont.)
			Just in case we don't make it
			back...
				(kisses her hand)
			It was a pleasure.

	He exits.

	Geordi turns to the crew.

					GEORDI
			I'll man the bridge station.
			Our first problem is to gain
			control of the Lantree's drives.
				(to Rina)
			Come on. You'll get a chance
			to see what the bridge is like
			on alert.

	Her eyes widen.

	INT. BRIDGE

	The first team is on the bridge as Geordi enters,
	followed by Rina.

					GEORDI
			Ready to give it a try, Captain.

	Geordi sits at the console with Rina watching over his
	shoulder.

	CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			First we have to download the
			Starfleet access codes for the
			Lantree...
				(punches buttons)

	Not even Picard is immune to Rina's beauty.

					PICARD
				(smiling)
			Ensign?

	Rina is flattered at being noticed by the captain, but
	she's still trying to keep an eye on what Geordi is
	doing.

					RINA
			Yes, sir.

					PICARD
			Perhaps you'd like to take a look
			from down here.
				(indicates the area
				 in front of the
				 viewscreen)

	Frustrated again; but she has no choice.

					RINA
			Thank you, Captain.

	INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM

	Worf, Riker, Data and a couple of n.d. crewmembers are
	preparing to be transported.

					RIKER
			We're going in amidships
			protected by an isolation
			forcefield. We'll take one quick
			look. Fifteen seconds. If we
			don't like what we see, we beam
			back immediately.

					GEORDI (V.O.)
				(from com panel)
			We have a lock on the Lantree,
			Commander.

					RIKER
				(to com panel)
			Okay, let's drop out of warp
			speed. And see if you can keep
			us in the same galaxy.

	EXT. SPACE

	The Enterprise and the Lantree travel side by side.

	AS THE TWO SHIPS DROP OUT OF WARP SPEED, they wind up
	separated by some distance.

	INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM

	Riker and his team are ready.

					GEORDI (V.O.)
				(from com panel)
			Sorry about that. We got as
			close as we could.

					RIKER
			That's okay, Geordi. What's a
			light year among friends?

	Riker turns to the others.

					RIKER
			If it looks secure at first
			glance, we'll proceed to the
			bridge.
				(beat)
			If we find anyone alive, the
			medical team will beam over.

					WORF
			Set phasers for kill.

	They set phasers.

					RIKER
			Let's do it.

	The controller touches the panel and they beam away.

	INT. USS LANTREE

	The away team materializes adjacent to the central
	computer. Phasers at the ready, they find no one in
	sight.

	Data plugs a memory module into the computer, touches
	a few buttons, then takes the module with him.

					DATA
			I have the ship's logs, sir.

	Riker scans the area. He glances at Worf.

	CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Let's see if anbody's home.

	Cautiously, they open the door to the adjacent area.
	It's empty.

	INT. CORRIDOR

	Worf emerges. He checks the corridor. Still no one
	in sight. Riker, Data and the others follow him out.

	Slowly they move on. They come to the sickbay door.
	Worf opens it, glances in--and freezes.

					RIKER
			What is it?

	INT. SICKBAY

	Every bed contains a body. Worf guards the entrance
	as Data scans the bodies with a tricorder.

					RIKER
			How's the environment?

					DATA
			No abnormal viral or bacterial
			forms.

	Riker goes to the nearest bed and looks at the dead
	crewmember's face. The man is wrinkled and ancient.

					RIKER
			They were carrying passengers?

					DATA
			He is not a passenger. He is a
			crewmember.

					RIKER
			But he's nearly two hundred years
			old!

					DATA
			It would seem they all are.

	Riker looks around the room in astonishment. The other
	corpses are equally antique.

	Riker looks from one to the other in horror.

	They back away.

	INT. CAPTAIN'S QUARTERS

	The door opens and there is Worf at the ready with his
	phaser. Data and Riker enter the room.

	CAPTAIN TELAKA is sprawled across his desk, face down.
	His hand still holds a communications device. Riker
	looks down at it. The hand is thin, bony, and
	wrinkled.

					RIKER
			How old was Captain Telaka?

					DATA
			Thirty-two earth years.

	Riker reaches down and gently turns Telaka's head--knowing
	what to expect, and still shocked by what he
	sees.

	The face is withered, and the transparent skin is
	stretched over a toothless skull.

	INT. LANTREE BRIDGE

	The door opens and Riker enters, phaser at the ready.
	Worf and Data follow him in.

	At the CONN station, a crewmember is slumped over the
	console. Like the others, he is wrinkled and ancient.

	Grim, Riker moves to the console and touches a panel.

					RIKER
			Enterprise... this is the USS
			Lantree.

	Picard appears on the viewscreen.

					PICARD
				(from viewscreen)
			Enterprise here.

					RIKER
			Captain, the entire crew has been
			wiped out.

					PICARD
			What happened?

	Riker looks down at the corpse of the toothless hag
	in the first officer's chair.

	CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			It looks like they were in a
			battle with time, and lost.

										FADE OUT:

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

	EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)

	The Enterprise drifts through space alongside the
	smaller supply ship, Lantree.

					PULASKI (V.O.)
			Chief medical officer's log.
			Extensive autopsies performed
			on the crew of the Lantree reveal
			a gamut of primary organ failures
			as the direct cause of death.

	INT. ENTERPRISE - SICKBAY

	One of the ancient looking Lantree corpses is lying
	on a platform surrounded by a forcefield. The platform
	moves slowly through a twenty-fifth century CAT scanner
	as Dr. Pulaski and her assistants study the readouts
	with growing frustration.

					PULASKI
				(to com panel)
			Transporter Room, we're finished
			here. Thanks for your help.

					TRANSPORTER COM VOICE
			You're welcome, Doctor.
			Energizing now.

	The corpse sparkles briefly then disappears. One of
	the technicians touches a control panel and the area
	inside the forcefield is flushed with an electric blue
	light. Then the protective field is dropped.

					PULASKI
				(to com panel)
			Captain. We've returned the last
			of the Lantree crew to their
			ship.

					PICARD (V.O.)
				(from com panel)
			How soon will you have an autopsy
			report, Doctor?

					PULASKI
				(beat)
			From everything we can see...
			they all died of natural causes.

	INT. BRIDGE

	Picard is seated at the command station.

					PICARD
			Natural causes? What in nature
			could kill an entire crew at the
			same time?

					PULASKI'S COM VOICE
			For the record Captain, these
			people died of old age.

	Data, at the OPS station, enters a query into his
	console, and swivels to face Picard.

					DATA
			Sir, according to the Lantree
			logs the oldest crew member was
			seventy-three, and the mean age
			of the crew was thirty-two point
			six six.

	INT. CONFERENCE LOUNGE

	All of the regulars are seated around the conference
	table.

					PICARD
			Doctor?

					PULASKI
			Every member of the Lantree crew
			had a complete examination at
			the beginning of their last duty
			cycle just eight weeks ago.
				(glances at Riker)
			They were in perfect health.

					TROI
			Nothing since then? No geriatric
			symptoms reported?

					PULASKI
			A single medical entry noting
			that the first officer was
			treated for Thelusian flu five
			days ago.

					PICARD
			Thelusian flu?

	CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
				(shakes her head)
			An exotic, but harmless rhinal
			virus. And there was no evidence
			of infection in the first
			officer's autopsy.

					RIKER
			If we don't know what we're
			looking for, how can we be
			certain the Lantree is safe?

					PULASKI
			We can't. We'll have to assume
			whatever caused this is still
			aboard.

	Picard clenches his jaw.

					PICARD
			Lieutenant Worf. You know what
			to do.

					WORF
				(standing)
			Sir.

	Worf exits.

					DATA
			Captain, the Lantree's last port
			of call was three days ago. The
			Darwin Genetic Research Station
			on Gagarin Four.

	Picard and Riker look at each other.

					PULASKI
			At the very least they deserve
			a warning.

					PICARD
				(frowning)
			I was thinking of a quarantine.

					PULASKI
			I'll consider that possibility.

					PICARD
			You'll con --

	CONTINUED: (2)

					PULASKI
			Captain. If Starfleet had wanted
			you to make the medical
			judgments they wouldn't have
			assigned you a medical officer.

	Picard gets to his feet, swallowing hard.

					PICARD
			Number One. Set course for
			Gagarin Four. Warp nine. We'll
			depart the moment our security
			officer returns.

	INT. LANTREE - BRIDGE

	Worf, surrounded by a protective force field, stands
	in front of the Lantree's security station.

					WORF
				(to com panel)
			Codename Firestorm. Access A-D-
			three-three-two-four-nine.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Federation security code
			recognized. Access confirmed.

	Worf takes a last look around the bridge. With great
	sadness, his eyes move from one crewmember's body to the
	next -- comrades in arms -- slain by an enemy they
	never had a chance to fight.

					WORF
			Set auto-destruct. Twenty second
			delay.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Auto-destruct active. Eighteen
			seconds... sixteen seconds...

	Worf pauses for a moment, a silent salute to the
	bravery of the Lantree crew. he touches his insignia.

					WORF
			Energize.

	He's transformed into glittering energy and vanishes.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Twelve seconds... ten seconds...

	EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)

	For a moment the two ships drift together as before.
	Abruptly the Enterprise warps away. In almost the same
	instant the supply ship, Lantree, is engulfed in a
	blinding flash.

	INT. ENTERPRISE - TRANSPORTER ROOM

	Worf steps off the transporter platform and heads for
	the door.

					TRANSPORTER OPERATOR
				(good naturedly)
			Cutting it a little close weren't
			y--?

	Worf turns to him, eyes burning. The operator's smile
	fades.

	INT. ENGINEERING

	Geordi approaches the maintenance table where Rina is
	working on an exotic piece of equipment about the size
	of a basketball. Two enthralled ENGINEERING CREWMEMBERS
	are watching her work.

					GEORDI
			Find it?

					RINA
			All set. It was the sensor
			contact.

					GEORDI
				(overlapping)
			-- sensor contact.
				(smiling)
			Just like you said it would be.
			Let's get it back in the panel
			and do a quick line test.

					RINA
			Yes, sir!

	Rina lifts the unit off the table. The two crewmembers
	rush to help her carry it -- and the delicate device
	is knocked from Rina's hands. Geordi lunges and
	manages to catch it inches from the deck. Slowly he
	gets to his feet, trying to check his anger.

	CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
				(to Rina)
			Come with me.

	The embarrassed crewmembers begin packing up the test
	equipment as Rina follows Geordi into the corridor.

	INT. ENGINEERING - EQUIPMENT BAY

	Geordi and Rina are working together to re-install the
	unit.

					GEORDI
			Running the Engineering Section
			is no different than running the
			drive system. I've got to keep
			everything in balance. To get
			maximum efficiency out of --

					RINA
			Don't bother, I've heard it all
			before. It's not your problem,
			anyway. It's me.

	Geordi turns and studies her. He doesn't need to "see"
	her face to read the disappointment in her voice. It
	makes what he has to say next even harder.

					GEORDI
			That's right. You've got plenty
			of aptitude, but you're
			attitude's not makin' it.

					RINA
			What do you know about my
			attitude? How'd you like it if
			people always behaved as if
			you're some kind of freak?!

	Geordi finishes the installation. He closes the access
	panel a little harder than he needs to.

					GEORDI
				(tapping his VISOR)
			What do you think this is? My
			ticket to success?

	He starts past her, but she reaches out and grabs his
	arm.

	CONTINUED:

					RINA
			Wait.
				(withdraws her hand)
			I'm... sorry. Maybe I'm the one
			who's blind.

					GEORDI
			What you are is maybe the most
			talented engineer to come out
			of the Acadamy since... well
			since me. Doing this job's in
			your blood. Now all we've got
			to do is convince the rest of
			'em.
				(extends his hand)
			Deal?

					RINA
				(shakes his hand)
			Deal.

	EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)

	The Enterprise flashes past at maximum warp.

	INT. BRIDGE

	Picard faces the viewscreen flanked by Doctor Pulaski
	and Riker. The rest of the bridge crew are at their
	stations.

					PICARD
			Open hailing frequencies.

					WORF
			Hailing frequencies open.

					PICARD
				(to viewscreen)
			Darwin Station. This is Captain
			Jean-Luc Picard of the USS
			Enterprise, on course for Gagarin
			Four.

	After a moment DOCTOR SARA MANDEL, a woman in her
	fifties, appears on the viewscreen. She's haggard and
	exhausted.

	CONTINUED:

					MANDEL
				(from viewscreen)
			Enterprise, this is Darwin
			Station. I'm Doctor Mandel.
			We've just declared a state of
			emergency here. We need your
			help, but you must stand off.

	Picard and the others glance at each other.

					PULASKI
				(stunned)
			Doctor Mandel, what is the nature
			of your emergency?

					MANDEL
				(from viewscreen)
			To whom am I speaking, please?

					PULASKI
			I'm Doctor Pulaski, chief medical
			officer.

					MANDEL
			Katherine Pulaski? "Linear
			Models of Viral Propagation?"

					PULASKI
				(impatient)
			Yes, but that was a long time
			ago.

					MANDEL
			And still the standard.
				(a wave of relief)
			I'm sorry to meet you under these
			circumstances, but I can't
			imagine anyone I'd rather be
			dealing with.

	Picard and the others glance at each other, slightly
	amazed to realize their CMO is famous.

					PULASKI
			Bring me up to speed on your
			situation. What are the factors?

					MANDEL
			Rapid onset of geriatric
			phenomena. One hundred percent
			fatal in the advanced stages.

	CONTINUED: (2)

					PULASKI
			Presentation?

					MANDEL
			Acute arthritic inflammation.
			Pervasive and virtually
			instantaneous.

					PULASKI
			Since Darwin is doing genetic
			research...

					MANDEL
			Our research, here, is limited
			to human genetics. I assure you
			we're not dealing with some
			mutated pathogen that "got away
			from us." We believe the
			infective agent was introduced
			by a supply ship that was here
			three days ago.

					PICARD
			Doctor, we encountered The
			Lantree a few hours ago.
				(beat)
			They lost all hands.

	Mandel doesn't seem surprised by Picard's news.

					MANDEL
			That would seem to confirm our
			analysis. Were you able to
			establish a pathology?

					PULASKI
			Organ failure consistent with
			advanced geriatric --

					PICARD
			Doctor Mandel! Did you hear what
			I said? The twenty-six men and
			women aboard the Lantree are all
			dead!

					MANDEL
			I heard you Captain! And the
			prognosis is alarming. But my
			immediate concern is the
			children.

	CONTINUED: (3)

					PULASKI
				(glances at Picard)
			Children?

					MANDEL
			We have thirty-two children here.
			They've been kept in positive
			isolation since the onset, and
			so far they've shown no symptoms.
			You must evacuate them as soon
			as possible.

	Riker glances at Picard. Picard turns to the
	viewscreen.

					PICARD
				(grave)
			I'm sorry. We'll lend any
			assistance we can, but I won't
			risk the lives of --

					MANDEL
			Doctor Pulaski... you've got to
			convince him.
				(beat)
			These children are more than our
			progeny. They represent all our
			years of advanced genetic
			research. If he can't think of
			humanity, think of science!

					PICARD
			I heard you Doctor. And I
			understand completely. We'll
			reach Gagarin Four in a little
			over three hours. Until then.

	The viewscreen shows a starfield as Picard leaves the
	bridge.

	INT. CONFERENCE LOUNGE

	Picard, Riker, Worf, Troi, and Pulaski are assembled
	around the conference table.

					WORF
			I recommend against contact,
			Captain.

					PICARD
			Number One?

	CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			I agree, sir. I wish there was
			something we could do, but the
			risk is too great.

					PICARD
			Doctor?

	Pulaski is scanning notes on a PADD. She looks up as
	if she hasn't heard any of this.

					PULASKI
			As a first step I'd like to bring
			a couple of the children aboard
			and examine them.

					WORF
			If they're infected... ?!

					PULASKI
			Doctor Mandel has assured us they
			are not.

	Picard turns to Troi.

					PICARD
			Counselor?

					TROI
			Doctor Mandel clearly believes
			the children are safe, but she
			isn't telling us the whole truth.
			I recommend caution.

					PULASKI
			The two children could be encased
			in styrolite. They'll be in
			suspended animation. We can scan
			them for possible infection
			without any danger to
			ourselves...
				(pointedly)
			or to them.

					RIKER
			Until we know what we're facing --

					PULASKI
			Exactly. And we won't know until
			we begin gathering data.

	Pulaski leans across the table to Picard.

	CONTINUED: (2)

					PULASKI (cont.)
			Captain, we're talking about
			saving children's lives. Isn't
			that worth some risk?

					PICARD
			We're always at risk, Doctor.
			You may proceed with your
			examination, but I shall demand
			positive proof that these
			children are harmless before
			placing the lives of my crew in
			jeopardy.

	EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)

	The Enterprise drops out of warp speed in the Gagarin
	system.

	INT. SICKBAY SCIENCE LAB

	Geordi is supervising a flurry of activity as Picard
	and the others look on.

					WESLEY (V.O.)
			Approaching Gagarin Four on
			impulse power, Captain.

					PICARD
				(to com panel)
			Thank you, Mister Crusher.
			Standard orbit.

					WESLEY (V.O.)
			Aye, sir.

	A forcefield containment has been established in the
	center of the room. Geordi turns to Picard.

					GEORDI
			Containment forcefield ready,
			Captain.

					PICARD
			Activate.

	The forcefield engages. Picard nods to Pulaski.

	CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
				(to com panel)
			Doctor Mandel, are you ready to
			transport?

					MANDEL (O.S.)
				(from com panel)
			You have the coordinates. We
			have one male and one female,
			standing by.

	Riker nods to Geordi.

					GEORDI
				(to com panel)
			Transporter, energize.

	Two blocks of transparent plastic begin to materialize
	inside the forcefield.

	Encased within are two unclothed humans... but they
	are not "children" in the usual sense of the word.
	They are physical super-specimens. And they appear
	to be in their early twenties. Worf is the first to
	react.

					WORF
			A trick!

					RIKER
				(to com panel)
			Transporter room. Reverse the
			trans --

					PICARD
			Hold on that, Number One.
			Whoever they are, they're in
			stasis. Lieutenant Worf?

	Worf cautiously scans them with his tricorder.

					WORF
			The styrolite's intact, Captain.

					TROI
			Captain, I...
				(beat)
			There's a definite presence --
			two distinct personalities. Even
			in stasis... It's quite strong.
				(beat)
			They are unquestionably
			telepathic.

	CONTINUED: (2)

	Everyone strains for a closer look.

					DATA
			Earth humans. Somewhat larger
			than normal. Approximately
			twenty years old --

	Doctor Pulaski is transfixed by the Darwinian children.

					PULASKI
			Extraordinary.
				(awe-struck)
			We could be looking at the future
			of humanity.

					PICARD
				(controlled)
			Or at least Doctor Mandel's
			vision of it.

										FADE OUT:

                           ACT THREE                            

	EXT. ENTERPRISE

	In orbit around Gagarin IV.

	INT. SICKBAY SCIENCE LAB

	The two Darwinian children stand frozen in their blocks
	of styrolite. They are being scanned by an array of
	devices as medical technicians study the readouts.

	From across the room, Doctor Pulaski watches, chin in
	hand, thinking.

	Picard enters. She looks up.

					PULASKI
			I want to free them from the
			styrolite.

	Picard crosses to the children and looks them over.
	He turns to Pulaski.

					PICARD
			Are you absolutely certain
			they're safe?

					PULASKI
			These children are in better
			health than we are. Their immune
			system is so advanced, it may
			not even be possible for them
			to contract disease.

					PICARD
			But how can we be --

					PULASKI
			There's no way we can be
			absolutely certain until we know
			what's causing the disease.

					PICARD
			Then until we can answer that
			question, we can't --

	CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
			We don't have that kind of time.
				(beat)
			Captain, look at these children.
			Set aside the fact that they are
			human beings and we are their
			only hope.
				(beat)
			We're talking about a new chapter
			in genetic science.

					PICARD
			But the risk. The risk is --

					PULASKI
			Minimal. They'll continue to
			be isolated inside a forcefield.

	Picard studies her. Finally he turns to the com panel.

					PICARD
				(to com panel)
			Commander Riker, assemble the
			bridge crew in the observation
			lounge in fifteen minutes.
			Doctor Pulaski has a proposal
			she'd like us to consider.

					RIKER (V.O.)
				(com panel)
			Yes, sir.

	He starts out, then turns at the door.

					PICARD
			And Doctor... I'm not one to
			discourage input, but I'd
			appreciate it if you'd at least
			let me finish my sentences once
			in a while.

	He exits.

	She puts a hand to her eyes.

	INT. TROI'S OFFICE

	Troi is working at her desk. She looks up as Doctor
	Pulaski enters.

					PULASKI
			You have a minute?

	CONTINUED:

					TROI
			Of course.

	Pulaski takes a seat, unsure how to begin.

					PULASKI
				(beat)
			Deanna... You've known the
			captain for some time...
				(beat)
			I guess I could use some advice.
			I don't think I'm dealing with
			him very well.

					TROI
			Why do you say that?

					PULASKI
				(shrugs)
			My arguments seem to go right
			past him. We wind up shouting
			regulations at each other.

					TROI
			It takes time to get to know him.
			But he's very fair, and he has
			excellent judgment.

					PULASKI
			I know he's a talented commanding
			officer.
				(beat)
			But he's so caught up in... his
			ship, his responsibility... He
			doesn't seem able to step back...
			to see the whole canvas.

					TROI
				(puzzled)
			Kate, I don't think he would be
			where he is if he couldn't see
			the "whole canvas."

	They are interrupted by the com panel.

					COM PANEL (V.O.)
			Staff officers report to the
			Observation Lounge.

	They stand and head for the door.

	CONTINUED: (2)

					TROI
			Maybe your problem is that the
			two of you aren't all that
			different.

					PULASKI
			What do you mean?

					TROI
			Let's just say you're both well
			established personalities.

	INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	The A-team is assembled. Picard has the floor.

					PICARD
			Doctor Pulaski's studies indicate
			the children are harmless. She
			believes the rest of the colony's
			children should be beamed aboard
			and transported to a new
			environment while there's still
			time to save them.

					RIKER
			Are you sure they're safe?

					PULASKI
			No.

	A murmer of alarm.

					PULASKI (CONT.)
			In the time we have available,
			the only true test is to expose
			the children to another human
			being.

	An audible silence. Everyone is looking at her.

					PULASKI (CONT.)
			I plan to free them from the
			styrolite--inside a forcefield
			containment.
				(beat)
			I'll be inside the containment
			area myself.

	Another murmer of concern.

	CONTINUED:

					WORF
			You would risk yourself?

					PULASKI
			They're living beings and they
			need our help.

					GEORDI
				(shakes his head)
			I don't like it. If we lost the
			force field for some reason...
			we could lose the ship.

					PULASKI
			But the children are in perfect
			health. And we can use double
			redundant forcefields.

					PICARD
			As Geordi says, forcefields can
			fail. And until --

					PULASKI
			Captain, I can understand your
			concern, but --

	She's cut him off again. She glances at him. Picard
	eyes her coolly.

					PICARD
			You say you understand, Doctor,
			but I wonder if you do.

	Pulaski is up against a wall. She stares at the table
	with a hand to her forehead. Picard studies her. He
	softens.

					PICARD (CONT.)
			If you can find a way to prove
			the children are biologically
			harmless without risking the
			crew, I'll do everything in my
			power to assist.

	She nods. She gets up and heads for the exit. Picard
	motions to Troi. The two of them hold back until the
	others are gone.

					TROI
			Captain?

	CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			I'm concerned about our CMO.
				(off Troi's look)
			She's absolutley obsessed with
			the medical viewpoint. She
			doesn't seem able to step back
			and see the overall picture.

	Troi has trouble suppressing a smile.

					PULASKI
			What's the matter?

					TROI
			Nothing, Captain. Perhaps you
			and the CMO just need to give
			each other a little more time.

	INT. BRIDGE

	Pulaski strides onto the bridge and addresses the
	viewscreen.

					PULASKI
			Doctor Mandel, this is Kate
			Pulaski.

	Mandel appears on the viewscreen and Pulaski winces.
	Mandel is visibly older.

					MANDEL
				(from viewscreen)
			Doctor? Do you have a decision?

					PULASKI
				(beat)
			Yes. I'm afraid it's bad news.

					MANDEL
			How can that be?!

	Pulaski stiffens her spine to carry the weight.

					PULASKI
			The risk to our ship and crew
			is too great. Until we're
			absolutely certain of the cause
			of the disease, the children --

	CONTINUED:

					MANDEL
			But the children were never on
			the Lantree!
				(beat)
			You can't do this! For God's
			sake! I demand that you do
			something to save our children.

	Pulaski is under tremendous strain.

					MANDEL (CONT.)
				(spreads her withered
				 hands.)
			We haven't much time.

					PULASKI
				(sets her jaw)
			Stand by. I'll get back to you.

	INT. ENGINEERING CONTROL ROOM

	Geordi is studying a PADD. He's troubled. Rina senses
	something is wrong.

					RINA
			What's the it?

					GEORDI
				(glances up)
			Our error rate is up nearly forty
			percent.

	She looks at him squarely.

					RINA
			You mean: since I came aboard.

	She's angry. She's about to reply, but she's
	interrupted by Pulaski, who comes storming into the
	control room.

					PULASKI
			I need your help. I've got very
			little time. I've got to find
			a way to test the children, to
			make sure they're harmless. And
			I need a fail-safe environment.

					GEORDI
			The problem is, there's no area
			on the ship that can be sealed
			off with absolute certainty.

	CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
			What about the Sickbay?
				(glances at Rina)
			Doesn't the Sickbay have
			isolated systems?

					RINA
			The Sickbay has independant
			systems, but it's not possible
			to totally cut it off from the
			rest of the ship. The only
			truely independent environment
			would be the shuttlecraft, or
			something like --

					PULASKI
			The shuttlecraft?
				(to Geordi)
			Why didn't you say so?

	INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM

	Picard is looking in his microscope when the door chime
	sounds.

					PICARD
			Come.

	Pulaski enters.

					PULASKI
			Captain, I'd like permission to
			take the children aboard the
			shuttlecraft

	Picard reacts.

					PULASKI (CONT.)
			If the experiment is...
			unsucessful, the shuttlecraft
			can simply be abandoned here at
			Darwin.

					PICARD
				(studies her)
			And you along with it.

	She shrugs.

	CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Doctor, you are the chief medical
			officer of the Starship
			Enterprise. You have a
			responsibility to this ship --

					PULASKI
			And to humanity.

					PICARD
			The Starfleet guidelines about
			contact with quarantined --

					PULASKI
			Listen, you don't need to quote
			the rule book --
				(a hand to her mouth)

	She's done it again.

					PULASKI (CONT.)
			You were saying?

	Picard studies her. Finally he gets to his feet.

					PICARD
			Request approved.

					PULASKI
			Captain, you said if I...
				(beat)
			Approved?

					PICARD
			Doctor, I can't condone the
			jeopardy you're assumming, but
			I recognize that you have
			satisfied my conditions.

					PULASKI
				(long beat)
			Thank you.

	INT. SHUTTLE BAY

	The children, still in styrolite, are being loaded
	aboard the shuttlecraft. Pulaski is supervising as
	Data enters.

					DATA
			Doctor? You sent for me?

	CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
			I did, Commander. I assume
			you're qualified to pilot this
			shuttlecraft.

					DATA
			Certainly. I was trained at --

					PULASKI
			I'm sure you were. Please get
			aboard, we don't have much time.

	Data looks at her quizzically. He starts to board as
	Riker rushes into the shuttle bay.

					RIKER
			Doctor, what's going on?

					PULASKI
			We're performing the experiment
			aboard the shuttlecraft.

					RIKER
			The captain approved this?

					PULASKI
			Yes. Now if you'll clear the
			area, please; we haven't much
			time.

					RIKER
			Doctor, I can't allow you to risk
			yourself like this.
				(to com panel)
			Captain, this is Riker --

					PULASKI
			Commander Riker... that item in
			your medical record is still
			unresolved, if I'm not mistaken?

					RIKER
			What does that...
				(dawning realization)
			You can't be serious.

					PULASKI
				(to com panel)
			Computer, this is Chief Medical
			Officer Pulaski.
					(more)

	CONTINUED: (2)

					PULASKI (Cont'd)
			I'm relieving Commander William
			Riker from active duty for
			medical reasons effective
			immediately.
				(to Data)
			Let's go.

	Riker is stunned. Doctor Pulaski enters the
	shuttlecraft. Data looks at Riker with a shrug. He
	follows Pulaski in and the hatch closes behind them.

					COMPUTER VOICE (V.O.)
				(from com panel)
			All personnel, clear the shuttle
			bay.

	Riker jumps to the com panel.

					RIKER
				(to com panel)
			Computer -- override shuttle
			operations! Halt departure!
			Secure the shuttle!

					COMPUTER VOICE (V.O.)
			Riker, William T. Presently on
			inactive duty status. No command
			authorization.
				(beat)
			All personnel, clear the shuttle
			bay.

	Dismayed, Riker joins the other crewmembers moving quickly
	to the air lock.

	INT. SHUTTLECRAFT

	Data, at the console, clearly has misgivings about
	what's happening.

					PULASKI
			You'll take us a few hundred
			meters away from the Enterprise,
			and hold position.

	With a raise of an eyebrow, Data turns to the panel.

					DATA
			Begin shuttlecraft launch
			sequence.

	INT. SHUTTLE BAY CONTROL ROOM (BLUE SCREEN)

	Through the airlock viewing port, Riker watches,
	powerless and apprehensive.

					COMPUTER VOICE (V.O.)
				(from com panel)
			Shuttle Bay One is clear. Access
			hatch sealed. Initiating
			decompression.

					DATA (V.O.)
			Stand by to open shuttle bay
			doors.

					COMPUTER VOICE (V.O.)
			Decompression complete. Opening
			main shuttle bay doors.

	Beyond the shuttlecraft, the hangar bay doors begin
	to part, revealing the starry night.

					RIKER
				(resigned)
			Good luck, Doctor.

	EXT. SPACE - ENTERPISE (OPTICAL)

	The shuttlecraft emerges, drifting slowly away from
	the Enterprise.

	INT. SHUTTLECRAFT

	Pulaski has turned her attention to the two children,
	now lying horizontal, still encased in styrolite.

					DATA
			We are in position, Doctor.

					PULASKI
				(more to herself)
			This is the only way to prove
			they're harmless.

					DATA
			And if they are not?

					PULASKI
				(looks at him)
			I hate to keep reminding you,
			but you are a machine. You'll
			be perfectly safe.

	CONTINUED:

					DATA
			That is by no means certain,
			Doctor, but I was referring to
			you.

					PULASKI
				(softens)
			Medical research is sometimes
			a risky business, Commander.
			It's all part of being human.

	Pulaski adjusts a dispersion device over the horizontal
	forms of the two children. She activates it and the
	styrolite begins to dissolve.

	In seconds it melts away and the children scramble to
	their feet -- curious, friendly, and mute.

	The female, ASTARTE, touches Pulaski and looks her in
	the eye.

					PULASKI
				(wide eyed)
			... Your name is Astarte... this
			is your brother, David...

	EXT. ENTERPRISE - (OPTICAL)

	The shuttlecraft and the Enterprise orbit together
	above the planet Gagarin IV.

	INT. SHUTTLECRAFT

	Using a tricorder and other diagnostic instruments Data
	assists Doctor Pulaski with her self-examination.

					DATA
			All within tolerance, Doctor.

					PULASKI
				(a slight smile)
			The manufacturer will be pleased
			to hear it.
				(off his look)
			I appreciate your help, but your
			bedside manner needs work.

	The children are silently studying their surroundings.
	She moves toward them -- and FREEZES.

	CONTINUED:

	Wide eyed, suddenly gripped with fear, she slowly moves
	her arm -- and GROANS in pain.

	Data looks at her in alarm.

										FADE OUT

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

	EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)

	With the shuttlecraft alongside, the Enterprise is in
	orbit around Gagarin IV.

	INT. SHUTTLECRAFT

	Moving with difficulty, Doctor Pulaski makes her way to
	the shuttle's command chair. Data rushes to assist.

					PULASKI
			There was no warning.

					PICARD
				(from viewscreen)
			Doctor!

	With Data's help, Pulaski lowers herself into the
	chair.

					PULASKI
				(wincing)
			Acute arthritic inflammation of
			all joints. It's the initial
			symptom of the disease.

					PICARD
				(from viewscreen)
			Good lord!

					PULASKI
			The children must be returned
			to their isolation environment.

	INT. ENTERPRISE - BRIDGE

	Riker steps out of the turbolift onto the bridge.

					WORF
			Transporter set to original
			coordinates, Captain.

					PICARD
			Energize.
				(noticing Riker)
			Glad you're here, Number One.

	INT. SHUTTLECRAFT

	Pulaski and Data watch as the Darwinian children vanish
	in a sparkle of energy.

					PULASKI
			Thank you, Captain.

	Doctor Pulaski self-administers a hyposray painkiller.
	Immediately she begins to relax.

					PICARD
				(on viewscreen)
			We'll have a medical team waiting
			for you in the shuttle bay,
			Doctor.

					PULASKI
			I'm afraid that's out of the
			question. We still don't
			understand what we're dealing
			with. That means I'm subject
			to the same quarantine as the
			Darwin Station.
				(beat)
			I recommend a delta-level
			decontamination of the Sickbay
			and the shuttle bay. Shuttle
			One out.

	INT. ENTERPRISE

	Picard is on his feet, addressing a viewscreen
	starfield.

					PICARD
			Doctor!

					WORF
			Captain, I'll see to the
			decontamination myself.

	Picard nods, barely able to contain his frustration.
	Worf heads for the turbolift. Riker approaches Picard.

	INT. SHUTTLECRAFT

	Data watches nervously as Doctor Pulaski attempts to
	stand. She appears to be stiff, but not crippled by
	pain.

					DATA
			How do you feel?

	CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
				(slowly flexing her
				 fingers)
			Not exactly up to factory specs.
				(off his look)
			The pain is tolerable, thank you.

					DATA
			Set course for Darwin Station?

	The doctor sinks wearily back into the command chair.
	She has already begun to show signs of aging.

					PULASKI
			We're already quarantined. What
			do we have to lose?

	Data starts to give her a literal response, then thinks
	better of it. He punches in the course.

	INT. SICKBAY SCIENCE LAB (OPTICAL)

	The bio-decontamination team, in protective suits, are
	"hosing down" the area using back-pack plasma
	generators.

	A stream of translucent blue light flows from the
	nozzles, filling the air and clinging to the exposed
	surfaces for a moment before evaporating. Worf's bulk
	is undisguised by the suit.

	As they move on a second crew, also in full protective
	suits, enters the room carrying scanners and checking
	for any residual contamination.

	INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	Picard and Riker are alone in the room, facing each
	other across the table.

					PICARD
			I wish it were that simple, Will.

					RIKER
			A meaningless detail on a medical
			form...

					PICARD
			I agree it seems insignificant,

	CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			You have the authority to
			countermand it.

					PICARD
			My authority flows from the chain
			of command. If you, or any other
			officer, have anything less than
			full confidence that your orders
			will be carried out, then my rank
			of Captain is meaningless.c

	Riker understands the truth of this.

					RIKER
				(beat)
			Sir, if there's any way I can
			help get them back...

					PICARD
			Of course.

	The door opens and Troi enters, followed by Geordi and
	Rina. They take their seats. Niether Picard nor Riker
	comment on Rina's presence.

					WESLEY (V.O.)
				(from com panel)
			Captain, Shuttle One is decending
			to Gagarin Four.

					PICARD
				(to com panel)
			Thank you, Mister Crusher.
				(to the group)
			The medical emergency at Darwin
			Station is ongoing. We'll
			continue to assist, but our
			immediate concern is the
			evacuation of our two officers.
			Anyone?

					TROI
			Shouldn't Kate be involved in
			this?

					PICARD
			Judging from what we saw on the
			Lantree, Doctor Pulaski may not
			be able to help herself.

	CONTINUED: (2)

					TROI
				(beat)
			I suggest transporting them both
			back to the ship. We should use
			whatever time we have to seek
			the best medical resources
			available.

					RIKER
			The transporter won't protect
			us. The children went through
			the transporter and still
			infected Doctor Pulaski.

	Geordi raps the table.

					GEORDI
			The bio-filter can be adjusted.
			We could alter the filter to
			screen out whatever it is that's
			causing...

					PICARD
			Precisely. We can't protect
			ourselves against the unknown.
			What we need is a filter that
			isn't bio-dependent.

	They ponder. Finally,

					RINA
			What about the "trace?"

	Everyone turns to Rina, their faces reflecting degrees
	of skepticism.

					RIKER
			The transporter trace?

					RINA
			The transporter keeps a computer
			record of every transmission,
			a footprint if you will. Usually
			it's only stored for security
			purposes, but if we used the
			trace data to control the
			reconstitution process...

					PICARD
				(to Geordi)
			Is that possible?

	CONTINUED: (3)

					GEORDI
			I hate to admit it, but it never
			occured to me. All I can tell
			you is she hasn't been wrong yet.

					PICARD
			Very well. Thank you Ensign... ?

					TROI
			Excuse me, Captain. But where
			will we get the trace data? As
			far as I know Kate's never used
			the transporter.

					PICARD
			Never?

					RIKER
			She's... a woman of strongly held
			opinions, sir.
				(beat)
			What about a previous assignment?

					TROI
			Her last ship was the Repulse.

					PICARD
				(to com panel)
			Bridge. Signal the USS Repulse
			on the sub-space captain's
			priority channel.

	EXT. DARWIN RESEARCH STATION - DAY (OPTICAL)

	The shuttlecraft settles on a landing pad near the Main
	Laboratory Building at Darwin Station.

	INT. DARWIN STATION LAB BUILDING

	Doctor Mandel several OTHER SCIENTISTS are waiting as
	Doctor Pulaski steps out of the lift with Data's help.
	During the short journey to the planet's surface she
	appears to have aged thirty years.

	CONTINUED:

					MANDEL
				(extends her hand)
			Doctor Pulaski...
				(beat)
			I can only tell you how much I
			regret the burden we have imposed
			on you.
				(a glance at Data)
			On both of you.

					PULASKI
			Commander Data is an android,
			Doctor. He is unaffected. As
			for me, this was my choice, not
			yours.

					MANDEL
			I still can't believe the
			children had anything to do with
			this.

					DATA
				(gestures toward
				 Pulaski)
			The evidence is fairly
			conclusive.

					MANDEL
			But the children were designed
			to ward off any disease agents.

					PULASKI
				(pointedly)
			I think it's time we talked about
			that.

	INT. ISOLATION LABORATORY - OBSERVATION AREA

	Doctors Pulaski and Mandel step into an observation
	booth overlooking the isolation lab. From here they
	can see the children. They are all physically
	exceptional.

					MANDEL
				(looks down)
			Our ultimate achievement.

					PULASKI
			Genetically... engineered...

	CONTINUED:

					MANDEL
			Created!
				(beat)
			Perfect in every way. Better
			than perfect. Their bone
			structure, their musculature...
				(gestures)
			their brains!

	Mandel RAPS on the glass.

	INT. ISOLATION LABORATORY

	Two children playing chess glance up -- and all the
	chess pieces disappear.

	They wave, and turn back to the game. An instant of
	concentration -- and the chess pieces reappear.

					PULASKI (V. O.)
				(shaken)
			What about their immune system?

					MANDEL (V.O.)
			That was our masterpiece. An
			aggressive immunity that attacks
			any invader and destroys it
			genetically.

					PULASKI (V.O.)
			That's it.

	INT. ISOLATION CHAMBER - OBSERVATION AREA

	Mandel faces Pulaski.

					PULASKI
			Thelusian flu!

					MANDEL
			Thelusian flu?

					PULASKI
			The first officer of the Lantree
			had Thelusian flu -- an airborne
			virus.
				(nods toward
				 children)
			How would their immune system
			react to it?

	CONTINUED:

					MANDEL
			By altering the genetic pattern.
			Forcing the virus into
			extinction.

					PULASKI
				(beat)
			I'm afraid that's what's
			happening to us.

	Doctor Mandel is stunned. She stares down at the two
	chess players.

					MANDEL
			We were so concerned about
			protecting them -- we overlooked
			the obvious!
				(beat)
			The one decision we made with
			our hearts... turns out to be
			a mistake.

	Pulaski puts a withered hand on Mandel's shoulder.

	INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM

	CAPTAIN TAGGERT, of the Starship Repulse, has a full
	bushy mustache. He's somewhat younger than Picard,
	and his face fills the viewscreen in the Ready Room.

					TAGGERT
				(from viewscreen)
			Sorry, Picard. We purged the
			Doctor Pulaski's trace right
			after her transfer. Not that
			she used the transporter much,
			she preferred using the
			shuttlecraft.
				(shrugs)
			I'd have given her a shuttle if
			it would have kept her here.
			Best CMO I ever served with.

					PICARD
			Tell me, Taggart. If she served
			you as well as you say, why did
			you let her go?

	CONTINUED:

					TAGGERT
				(laughs)
			I guess you haven't run into her
			stubborn streak.
				(beat)
			The moment she heard of the
			opening on the Enterprise, she
			put in a request for transfer.
			Knew your service record backward
			and forward. Apparently she's
			been an admirer of yours for some
			time.

					PICARD
				(shocked)
			Extraordinary.

	EXT. DARWIN STATION - DAY

	The shuttlecraft is still on the landing pad outside
	the laboratory complex.

	INT. DARWIN LABORATORY

	Data is at a computer console. Pulaski and Mandel
	approach.

					PULASKI
			He's is trying to isolate the
			altered genetic pattern.

					MANDEL
			But the computer run could take
			months.

					PULASKI
				(smiles)
			Not necessarily. Commander
			Data... has a way with computers.

	The displays in front of Data are scrolling like
	lightning.

	He looks up.

					DATA
				(points to display)
			Comparing genetic samples
			indicates a transposition of
			these two proteins.

	CONTINUED:

					MANDEL
			It appears that the antibodies
			have been too effective.

					PULASKI
			What do you mean?

					DATA
			I believe she is referring to the
			fact that the human genome is
			self replicating.

	Mandel stares at the readout in horror.

					MANDEL
			He's quite right. Every cell
			in our bodies is now programmed
			for extinction.

	EXT. ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	In orbit around Gagarin IV.

	INT. BRIDGE

	Captain Picard struggles to maintain his composure as
	he faces the viewscreen.

					PICARD
			Have you made any progress,
			Doctor Pulaski?

					PULASKI
				(from viewscreen)
			The Darwin staff has amassed some
			amazing new data on the
			physiology of aging --

					PICARD
				(incredulous)
			I'm sure, but right now I'm
			concerned about you.

	INT. DARWIN LABORATORY

	Doctor Pulaski is working at a lab station. Her face
	is wrinkled, and her hair is snow white.

	CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
				(shakes her head)
			We've isolated the altered DNA,
			but the process may not be
			reversible. The others are
			already at work in the primary
			lab -- where I should be.

					PICARD
				(from viewscreen)
			No, Doctor. You and Commander
			Data belong here.

					PULASKI
				(long beat)
			Commander Data is preparing to
			leave now.

					PICARD
				(from viewscreen)
			Doctor...

					PULASKI
			Jean-Luc... I appreciate what
			you're trying to do.
				(beat)
			But I got into this by leaping
			before I looked, and I won't
			allow you to make the same
			mistake.

	INT. BRIDGE

	Picard looks at Riker in dismay.

					PULASKI (cont.)
				(from viewscreen)
			It's still my responsibility,
			and the quarantine is still
			valid.
				(smiles)
			I'm afraid this is the moment
			of truth.

	Grim, jaw locked, Picard sags into his chair in defeat.

	On the viewscreen, Pulaski straightens her shoulders
	and stands as erect as she can.

	CONTINUED:

					PULASKI (cont.)
			Chief Medical Officer Pulaski's
			final report to the Enterprise...
				(beat)
			Just as changes in evolution are
			known to be caused by changes
			in the environment, we now have
			evidence that the process also
			works in reverse.
				(beat)
			The quarantine of the Darwin
			Station must be maintained until
			the end.
				(beat)
			Pulaski out.

										FADE OUT:

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

	EXT. DARWIN RESEARCH STATION - DAY

	The Enterprise shuttlecraft sits alongside the
	building.

	INT. DARWIN ISOLATION LAB

	Pulaski and Mandel say goodbye to Data. He turns to
	Pulaski.

					DATA
			I am sorry I could not be more
			helpful, Doctor Pulaski.

					PULASKI
				(a glimmer of
				 admiration)
			You did everything you could,
			Commander.
				(extends her hand
				 with a smile)
			As androids go, you're in a class
			by yourself.

	Solemnly they shake hands. There's an awkward silence.

					DATA
			Doctor --

					PULASKI
			Please give my best to the
			captain.

	Finally, Data turns and exits.

	EXT. DARWIN (OPTICAL)

	The shuttlecraft rises from the pad next to the
	laboratory, then streaks into space.

	EXT. ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The shuttlecraft approaches the Enterprise, but stands
	off some distance.

	INT. SHUTTLECRAFT

	Data enters a string of commands into the control
	console, then gets to his feet. He turns to the
	com panel.

					DATA
			Enterprise. Commander Data ready
			to beam aboard.

	A shimmer of light and he's gone.

	EXT. ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The shuttlecraft EXPLODES.

	INT. ENTERPRISE - BRIDGE

	Picard is grim. This defeat has taken its toll. Troi
	is concerned.

					WESLEY
			Sir. Commander Data is back
			aboard.

					TROI
			Jean-Luc, don't try to carry all
			the weight for this tragedy.
			Kate knew what she was doing.

					PICARD
				(angry)
			If I was certain we had tried
			absolutely every --
				(he's thinking)
			Stand by.

	He gets up abruptly and strides to the turbolift. Troi
	glances at Riker.

	INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM

	Data, inside an isolation forcefield, is being scanned
	by medical monitors.

					MEDIC
			No life forms present.

	Data glances up resentfully. He's about to say
	something when Picard enters. He strides forward and
	shakes Data's hand.

	CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Good to see you, Data.

					DATA
			Yes, sir.

					PICARD
			Tell me quickly -- you were
			unaffected because you have no
			genetic material?

					DATA
			Correct, sir.

					PICARD
			And Doctor Pulaski's DNA is
			altered -- and that's what brings
			on the aging?

					DATA
			Precisely. An almost
			undetectable transposition in
			the human genome. It takes a
			number of interactions of the --

	Picard grabs Data by the arm and heads for the door.

					PICARD
			Come on. We've got one more card
			to play.

	INT. ENGINEERING

	Geordi, Rina and the crew are making preparations to
	get underway.

	Picard charges in with Data following.

					GEORDI
			Sir?

	Picard moves past Geordi to Rina.

					PICARD
			Ensign, I need your opinion.

					RINA
				(taken aback)
			Sir?


	CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			You said the transporter could
			be altered to filter out changes
			in Doctor Pulaski.

					RINA
			If we'd had the trace...

					PICARD
			Well it turns out the changes
			are in her DNA. If we used a
			sample of the doctor's DNA --
			say from a blood test -- that
			was taken before --

					RINA
			Could we filter out her genetic
			alterations? Absolutely!

					PICARD
			You're picking up some bad
			habits, Ensign, but yes, you took
			the words right out of my mouth.
				(beat)
			Can you make the modifications?

					RINA
			Of course!

					PICARD
			Make it so.

	He exits with Data.

	Rina is dumbstruck. She looks at Geordi.

					GEORDI
				(smiles)
			Hop to it Ensign. You've got
			work to do.

	INT. ENTERPRISE - BRIDGE

	Picard enters and addresses the viewscreen.

					PICARD
			Darwin Station, this is the
			Enterprise.

	On the viewscreen, Pulaski appears -- now well over
	100 years old. Picard tries to keep his emotions under
	control.

	CONTINUED:

					PICARD
				(to viewscreen)
			We may have come up with an
			answer, Doctor. We're looking
			for a sample of your normal DNA
			to use as a filter. We think
			we'll be able to transport you
			while cancelling out any changes
			that have taken place.

	INT. DARWIN ISOLATION LAB

	Pulaski and Mandel stand before the viewscreen.

					PULASKI
				(to viewscreen)
			An interesting idea, Captain.
				(beat)
			But what about Doctor Mandel and
			her colleagues?

					MANDEL
			Kate.
				(beat)
			If this works -- we may be able
			to use the same technique to save
			ourselves. We have DNA samples.

	INT. ENTERPRISE - SICKBAY

	Riker and Data frantically search the medical records.

					RIKER
			A blood test or tissue specimen
			-- anything that would provide
			a sample of Pulaski's original
			DNA.

	They've been through everything.

					DATA
			Afraid not, sir. Her records
			were shipped by way of Starfleet
			headquarters. They haven't
			caught up with us yet.

	Riker is stupefied.

	CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			This is ridiculous.
				(slams his fist)
			A single cell! A single --

	They look at each other for a beat -- then dash for
	the exit.

	INT. ENTERPRISE - CORRIDOR

	Riker and Data race for Pulaski's quarters. The door
	is locked. Riker speaks to the com panel.

					RIKER
				(to com panel)
			This is an emergency! Unlock
			Medical Officer Pulaski's
			quarters!

					COM PANEL (V.O.)
			Riker, William T., relieved of
			active duty on
			two-three-four-six-nine-point-seven...

					DATA
				(embarrassed)
			Allow me, sir.

	INT. PULASKI'S QUARTERS

	Riker and Data rip the place apart.

					RIKER
			Anything! Even a fingernail
			clipping!
				(looks at Data)
			Or a hair!

	He lunges for the dressing table. There, on her
	hairbrush, is a single blonde strand.

	They dash for the exit.

	INT. BRIDGE

	Picard addresses Pulaski on the viewscreen.

					PICARD
			Doctor... you should know. This
			has never been done before. Are
			you willing to chance it?

	INT. DARWIN LABORATORY.

	Every movement is now painful for Pulaski.

					PULASKI
				(to viewscreen)
			I'll tell you one thing. If I
			live through this...
				(bends elbow and
				 flinches in pain)
			I'll have a much better
			understanding of geriatrics.
				(weak smile)
			Standing by, Captain.

	INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM

	Several of the panels are off, technicians are all over
	the place, and Rina is supervising the modification
	of the circuitry. Geordi, Riker and Data are making
	last minute adjustments to the control console.

	Picard enters, followed by Worf.

					RINA
			Ready, Captain.

					WORF
			The isolation forcefield is in
			place.

	Picard surveys the scene.

					PICARD
				(beat)
			I'll operate the transporter
			myself.

					WORF
			That's not necessary, sir.

					PICARD
			I'm afraid it is. If something
			should go wrong. If Doctor
			Pulaski is not fully... restored.

					RIKER
				(understanding)
			Then she's still capable of
			contaminating the ship.

	CONTINUED:

					PICARD
				(nods)
			In that event there should be
			time to redirect the transporter
			and... disperse her. It's not
			a responsibility I can delegate.

	Picard steps to the control panel.

					GEORDI
			Don't worry, Captain. It's not
			going to come to that.

					PICARD
			You seem to have absolute faith
			in the ensign's work.

					GEORDI
				(glances at Rina)
			Like I said, she's never wrong.

					PICARD
			Very well, then.
				(to com panel)
			Engage forcefield.

	The isolation forcefield rises around the transporter
	platform.

					PICARD (Cont.)
				(to com panel)
			Doctor Pulaski, are you ready?

					PULASKI
				(from com panel)
			I suppose I --

	Picard touches the panel. His eyes narrow as he
	focuses on the empty transporter platform. Everyone
	is holding their breath.

	Rina looks at Geordi anxiously.

	In the transporter bay, Pulaski's form appears... STILL
	AGED! Then it fades... then re-materializes.

	Riker and Worf glance at each other.

					RIKER
			Captain...

	Picard reaches out, his hand poised above the controls.

	CONTINUED: (2)

	On the transporter platform Pulaski's energy field
	sparkles one last time -- she begins to coalesce --
	and all signs of aging have disappeared.

	Pulaski, seeing Picard, can't suppress a flicker of
	admiration.

	Picard, too, has trouble concealing his admiration.

	The forcefield is dropped. Picard steps forward and
	extends his hand.

					PICARD
			Welcome aboard, Doctor.

	Everyone rushes to welcome the CMO back.

	And Riker is ready -- anxious -- to bite the bullet.

					RIKER
			Doctor... I'm ready to take the
			Rheinman test.

	Pulaski looks at him quizzically. Has she forgotten?

					PULASKI
			Glad you reconsidered, Commander.
				(to com panel)
			This is Chief Medical Officer
			Pulaski. Commander Riker is
			restored to active duty effective
			immediately.
				(to Riker)
			My schedule's a little tight.
				(smiling)
			What do you say we put it off
			for a day or so?

	Picard is at the doorway. Pulaski catches up with him,
	and they exit together.

	INT. TURBOLIFT

	Pulaski and Picard step into the lift.

					PULASKI
			Captain... If this hadn't
			worked? If...

	CONTINUED:

					PICARD
				(clears his throat)
			It would have been necessary to
			beam your energy into empty
			space.
				(beat)
			Happily, there's no reason to
			concern yourself with --

					PULASKI
			Why should I be concerned about
			having my atoms spread across
			the galaxy? I imagine that's
			what's going to happen every time
			I use the damn thing.

	Picard's smile turns to laughter.

	INT. CORRIDOR

	Geordi and Rina are walking together.

					GEORDI
			Looks like you'll be going to
			your next assignment with a
			captain's commendation in your
			record.

					RINA
			Thanks to you. And the way
			you... see things.
				(turns to him)
			Tell me. When you look at me,
			what do you see?

					GEORDI
			To me beauty is a constantly
			changing thing. Sometimes people
			have it and sometimes they don't.
			It all depends on their energy.
				(beat)
			I see your energy and it's
			beautiful. But it comes from
			within.

					RINA
			You're the only poetic chief
			engineer I've ever heard of.

	CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			And you're the most able trainee
			I've ever met.
				(kisses her hand)
			To quote our first officer, "It's
			been a pleasure."

	He looks up, but she's still holding his hand.

					RINA
			Technically, I'm off duty.

					GEORDI
				(beat)
			Technically, so am I.

	They have arrived at the entrance to her room. They
	look at each other for a moment.

					RINA
			Maybe you'd like to come in.
			I've got a fabulous collection
			of antique star drive drawings.

					GEORDI
			Sounds riveting.

	The door opens. They enter.

	As the door closes, we see her arms encircle him, and
	they kiss.

	EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The Enterprise moves away from Gagarin IV.

					RIKER (V.O.)
			Course and speed set for Star
			Station India, Sir.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Engage.

	The great ship clears Gagarin system and disappears
	in a flash of light.

										FADE OUT:

                               THE END