STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "In Theory" #40274-199 Written by Joe Menosky & Ronald D. Moore Directed by Patrick Stewart THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT. Copyright 1991 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights Reserved. This script is not for publication or reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department. FINAL DRAFT MARCH 20, 1991 STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - CAST STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "In Theory" CAST PICARD ENSIGN JENNA D'SORA RIKER DATA ENSIGN McKNIGHT BEVERLY TROI GEORDI WORF GUINAN O'BRIEN KEIKO COMPUTER VOICE Non-Speaking NURSE SECURITY OFFICERS THORNE LIEUTENANT VAN MAYTER DATA'S CAT SUPERNUMERARIES STAR TREK: "In Theory" - 3/20/91 - SETS STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "In Theory" SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM SHUTTLE OBSERVATION LOUNGE CORRIDOR DARK MATTER NEBULA MAIN ENGINEERING SICKBAY TEN FORWARD TROI'S OFFICE DATA'S QUARTERS JENNA'S QUARTERS TORPEDO BAY CONCERT HALL SHUTTLE STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/17/91 - TEASER 1. STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "In Theory" TEASER FADE IN: 1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship is on the outskirts of a DARK MATTER NEBULA. This material is not normally visible to the eye, so all we should see at this point is a large black space devoid of stars hanging in front of the ship. Perhaps some nearby stars around the periphery of the nebula are partly obscured by the gaseous material, thus indicating that something is blocking our view. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's Log: Stardate 44932.3 The Enterprise is preparing to enter the Mar Oscura, an unexplored dark matter nebula first identified over a century ago. 2 INT. TORPEDO BAY This is the torpedo operations center. Launch bays for torpedos are set into one of the bulkheads. DATA is working on a photon torpedo which has been slid out of one of the launch bays. PICARD (V.O.) Commander Data is modifying several of our photon torpedos for an experiment designed to elicit more information about this unusual phenomenon. 3 NEW ANGLE Revealing ENSIGN JENNA D'SORA as she moves over to assist Data. Jenna is of Mediterranean descent, petite, and almost fragile in appearance. But her doll-like face belies the fact that she is a veteran security officer who could probably hold her own against anyone aboard ship. Emotionally, as we will learn, she is more fragile. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV 4/17/91 - TEASER 1A. 3 CONTINUED: On the surface this manifests itself only as an eagerness to please, a puppy-dog friendliness that asks for approval and affection. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - 3/20/91 - TEASER 2. 3 CONTINUED: DATA The initial dispersal pattern should not be more than seven kilometers in diameter. JENNA (makes adjustment) Six point eight kilometers... Jenna is just a tiny bit distracted, a little quiet... but it's enough for Data to pick up on. DATA That should suffice. (beat) Is there something occupying your thoughts, Jenna? You are somewhat subdued today... JENNA I bumped into Jeff in the turbolift again this morning. DATA Was the experience as emotionally problematic as last week's encounter? Beat... Jenna doesn't answer directly, but keeps going with her thought. JENNA He... asked me to dinner. DATA What was your response? JENNA I told him I'd think about it. DATA As you requested, I must now remind you of the reasons you decided to end your relationship with Jeff. Jenna's eyes roll slightly... and there's a bit of humor in her expression... a small bargain between friends. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/8/91 - TEASER 3-3A. 3 CONTINUED: (2) JENNA I guess I asked for this... go ahead. DATA You objected to the fact that Jeff seemed unwilling to set aside sufficient time for you. You said he never did... the little things. He was unresponsive. You disliked the sound he made when he ate his soup... JENNA (with humor) Okay, okay... I remember. DATA This is the third time I have refreshed your memory. Do you wish to rescind our agreement? JENNA No, no. It's for my own good. It's just so easy to forget. (indicates device) Hand me that sequencer. DATA Many lovers throughout history have had similar difficulties. Anne Boleyn was quite distressed that Henry the Eighth preferred the company of his huntsmen to that of his wife. Data hands her a small instrument. She waves it a few times over the inside of the torpedo, taking a reading. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/8/91 - TEASER 4. 3 CONTINUED: (3) JENNA (wryly) As I recall, she ended up losing her head. I guess I'm well out of this. (beat) When did you develop an interest in romantic historical figures? DATA Six weeks ago, when you and Jeff dissolved your relationship, I saw an excellent opportunity to study that aspect of human intimacy. Also, I believed it was my obligation to do so. JENNA "Obligation"? What do you mean? DATA I anticipated this would be a difficult period for you. As your friend, it is my responsibility to be supportive in times of need. JENNA (genuinely touched) That is really sweet, Data. She looks at him with gratitude, affection... and something more... STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - TEASER 5. 4 NEW ANGLE Data closes the panel on the torpedo. Jenna moves to a control console on the bulkhead. Data gives everything one final check and then steps away from the torpedo and nods to Jenna. She works the controls and the torpedo SLIDES INTO the launch bay. DATA (hits communicator) Data to Bridge. We are ready for the first illumination test. 5 INT. MAIN BRIDGE RIKER in Command, ENSIGN MCKNIGHT at Con, WORF at Tactical. RIKER (to com) Acknowledged. All science stations stand by... we're about to light up the nebula. Mister Worf? WORF (reading console) Launch bay one shows ready, Commander. RIKER Fire torpedo. Worf works the console. 6 INT. TORPEDO BAY (OPTICAL) Data and Jenna are reading displays and working consoles. A SOUND EFFECT is heard and some lights FLASH to indicate the torpedo launch. A display monitor gives an EXTERIOR VIEW of the nebula outside the ship. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - 3/20/91 - TEASER 6. 7 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The torpedo DISAPPEARS into the nebula. After a couple seconds, the torpedo EXPLODES and there is a BRILLIANT SHOW OF LIGHT. The dark matter has been illuminated by the display and the gaseous cloud can be seen clearly for the first time. 8 INT. TORPEDO BAY (OPTICAL) Data and Jenna watch the monitor. JENNA (softly) It's beautiful. (she moves closer to him) Like watching fireworks when I was a little girl. Jenna turns her gaze to Data... and there is a great deal more in her look than simple friendship. We get another hint of her growing feelings for him. As they watch the brilliant light show together... FADE OUT. END OF TEASER STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT ONE 7. ACT ONE FADE IN: 9 INT. TEN FORWARD A woodwind quintet composed of Data (oboe), Jenna (flute), KEIKO, (clarinet) and TWO N.D. MALE CREWMEMBERS (bassoon, French horn), is playing a piece of music to the patrons in the room, including O'BRIEN. The music comes to a stop and there is APPLAUSE from the audience. The members of the quartet stand and acknowledge the crowd. O'Brien moves toward the "stage" area along with a few other well-wishers. O'BRIEN (to Keiko) It was wonderful. He gives her a quick kiss. KEIKO Thanks. Data sets down his instrument, Jenna keeps her flute in hand, still stares at her music, obviously unhappy. Data cocks his head in puzzlement. DATA Is anything wrong? JENNA My tempo was off. I felt like I was really rushing it. DATA I do not believe that is so. Your rhythmic control has improved markedly. I heard no fluctuations during the performance. She relaxes a bit -- Data's support means a lot to her. JENNA Well, maybe. But I ruined the coda. I got confused with the phrasing... I kept breathing at the wrong times. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT ONE 7A. 9 CONTINUED: DATA The contrapuntal nature of the composition is quite demanding. We will give the rhythmic patterns more attention in our next rehearsal. (beat) However, I am quite certain that the audience was oblivious to such nuances. They seemed to enjoy the performance thoroughly. She looks at him and smiles -- his kind attention makes her feel better. JENNA Thanks, Data... you're really sweet. 10 INT. TEN FORWARD - LATER A short time later. Data, Jenna, Keiko, and O'Brien are sitting at one of the tables, sharing drinks. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT ONE 8. 10 CONTINUED: KEIKO ... every night, Miles leaves his socks on the floor. When we got married, I made the mistake of picking them up a few times... then I realized if I kept it up I'd be doing it the rest of my life... so I stopped... figuring he'd get the message and do it himself. Miles smiles easily, unbothered. KEIKO One night goes by... two... a week... ten days... by now there's a pile of socks half a meter high! O'BRIEN Come on... it wasn't half a meter... KEIKO After two weeks I couldn't stand it any more -- I bundled them up and put them in the cleaning processor. And I'm still doing it. O'BRIEN And a very good job of it she does, too... He winks broadly at Data as Keiko whirls on him, rising to the jibe. O'Brien laughs and puts his arm around her. They kiss lightly on the lips, a loving couple accepting each other's faults and foibles. Jenna regards them, a look of faint envy crossing her face. She glances at Data, touches his arm occasionally, and as she talks, her manner suggests that they, too, are a couple... STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV 4/17/91 - ACT ONE 9-9A. 10 CONTINUED: (2) JENNA Keiko, you sound just like Data. He came to my quarters the other day to give me a music lesson, and he said the funniest thing... how did you put it, Data? DATA I believe I observed that you seem to have an aversion to orderliness... but it was not intended as a humorous remark... JENNA So before we started, he gallantly offered to help me straighten up. She threads her arm fondly through his, clearly wanting to establish that they, too, have this easy-going relationship. DATA And a very good job of it I did, too. He gives O'Brien a broad wink and the group laughs. Data is pleased that he has caused this reaction -- though he's not entirely certain why. CUT TO: STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV 4/17/91 - ACT ONE 10. 11 thru OMITTED 13 14 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship near the nebula. 15 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Data is at the aft science station, studying information from the nebula. PICARD Report, Mister Data. DATA I am nearly finished compiling the readings from our most recent illuminatory burst. They differ considerably from surveys of similar nebulae. PICARD How so? DATA Dark matter density is nearly one order of magnitude higher than previously found. (beat) Lifeforms here may have developed in ways never before observed. RIKER (to Data) Interesting hypothesis. Are there any M-Class planets we could check out? DATA Several, Sir. The nearest is approximately three light years from our present position. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV 4/17/91 - ACT ONE 11. 15 CONTINUED: PICARD It's worth a look. We'll continue with our survey along the way. (to McKnight) Ensign, get the planet's coordinates from Commander Data and plot a course, three quarters impulse. CUT TO: 16 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship ENTERS the nebula at impulse. 16A INT. SICKBAY (PREVIOUSLY SCENE 11) BEVERLY and a NURSE are standing at the large wall monitor, running a complex experiment. BEVERLY (to Nurse) Let's increase the flow rate -- see if that helps. The Nurse nods and then leaves. Beverly looks at the monitor for a beat, then moves toward her office. 16B ON BEVERLY (PREVIOUSLY SCENE 12) As she walks by a RACK OF INSTRUMENTS on the wall... Several steps past it she hears a glassy, metallic CLINK! She stops... looks back at the rack in puzzlement... then looks down at the floor. 16C NEW ANGLE (PREVIOUSLY SCENE 13) Revealing a MEDICAL INSTRUMENT lying on the deck beneath the rack. She's puzzled. She looks around, but there's no one here at the moment. With a trace of annoyance, Beverly picks up the instrument and replaces it in the rack. CUT TO: STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV 4/17/91 - ACT ONE 12. 17 INT. TORPEDO BAY Data and Jenna are working on an open photon torpedo. Jenna is installing a small cannister inside the central chamber of the torpedo. Data monitors with a small digital instrument. The work doesn't require their constant attention. JENNA Sometimes in the summer we went on cookouts... just my little brother and me, and Mother... She was hopeless without a replicator. But we didn't care. DATA Children often do not develop a discerning palette until well beyond adolescence. JENNA It's wasn't that. It just felt... so good to be together... as a family. We didn't have much of that after my father died... so those times were really special. (beat) I wish we were back there now... you and I... DATA The unidirectional nature of the time continuum makes that an unlikely possibility. JENNA (laughs) That's one thing I've always loved about you. You make me laugh. (beat) You know, maybe I've been with the wrong men. Why couldn't they be like you, Data? You've got everything. DATA That is not true. I have no human feelings. She takes his hand in a friendly fashion. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV 4/17/91 - ACT ONE 13. 17 CONTINUED: JENNA But you've still given me more than any of them. You've spent time with me when I was lonely... you've encouraged me when I was down. No one could have been kinder to me... those are the things that matter... STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT ONE 14. 17 CONTINUED: (3) Jenna smiles. JENNA (continuing, re: the job) Well, I think that's it. (with put on formality) With your permission, Commander, I'll be going. DATA (straight) Permission granted. She gives him a friendly kiss on the cheek, but only pulls a short distance away afterwards. JENNA I don't know if you're aware of it... but you're very handsome... She kisses him again, this time longer and on the lips -- a real kiss, which Data doesn't resist. Jenna smiles. JENNA (continuing) See you tomorrow... She turns and leaves the room. OFF Data's reaction. FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT TWO 15. ACT TWO FADE IN: 18 INT. TEN FORWARD It's after hours and the room is deserted. GUINAN is mixing several drinks in odd-shaped glasses on the bar. Data ENTERS, there is a lost, puzzled expression on his face. GUINAN Hi, Data. Want to try something new? Data sits at the bar and looks at the drinks she's making with only slight curiosity. GUINAN (continuing) This is a concoction I heard about on Prakal Two. I think it's great, but I want another opinion, so... She carefully combines a yellow and a blue liquid in a glass, producing a sickly green potion. She offers it to Data. He takes a small drink. She waits for a reaction. DATA Eighty-seven percent Saurian Brandy... Targ milk and Denevian mead comprise the rest... an unusually high concentration of mono-saccharides and fructose compounds. GUINAN Too sweet, huh? Data gives her a look -- "Kool Aid." Guinan drinks some of the potion herself and Data retreats into thoughtful silence. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT TWO 16. 18 CONTINUED: Guinan quickly picks up on the fact that something's on his mind. GUINAN If I didn't know you better, I'd say you were... preoccupied. DATA Ensign D'Sora just gave me what could be considered a very... passionate kiss in the Torpedo Bay. Guinan gives him a long piercing look. GUINAN Really? (beat) How did it make you feel? DATA I cannot feel because--- GUINAN I know, I know. You have no emotions. (very intrigued) What I mean is, what's going on in there? (points at his head) What did it make you think about? DATA I was... intrigued. Jenna seemed to be displaying genuine affection toward me. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT TWO 17. 18 CONTINUED: (2) GUINAN And then? DATA I calculated that Jenna's actions to date would tend to support the supposition that she wishes to initiate a non-platonic mutually exclusive relationship. GUINAN You're just a starry-eyed romantic, aren't you? (before he can answer) What do you think of her? DATA I find her to be a competent officer... highly motivated... lacking somewhat in her understanding of the theory underlying dilithium matrix applications--- GUINAN But what do you think of her personally? (beat) Do you like her? DATA I have become... used to her. GUINAN It sounds like the next step is up to you. (beat) So what are you gonna do about it? DATA I do not know. Clearly, an ongoing intimate relationship is an option. However, I am inexperienced in such matters. I require advice. Beat. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT TWO 18. 18 CONTINUED: (3) GUINAN Well, don't look at me. Data obligingly looks away from her. GUINAN No, no. I mean, this time I don't have any advice to give. You can't tell someone how to handle their first love affair. They have to find a way to do that themselves. Data thinks for a moment. DATA But I am incapable of love. GUINAN (knowing look) Then this should be a very unique experience. On Data's expression... CUT TO: 19 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) In the nebula. 20 INT. CORRIDOR Data is about to go into his quarters. From o.s. we hear... GEORDI'S VOICE Missing someone? 21 NEW ANGLE Revealing GEORDI walking toward Data. He is carrying Data's CAT in his arms. GEORDI I found Spot wandering through the corridor two sections away. Geordi hands Data the cat. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/25/91 - ACT TWO 19. 21 CONTINUED: DATA (puzzled) Thank you. GEORDI Forget to secure the door when you left? DATA The door sensor has been programmed to recognize only humanoid forms for entry or egress. Spot could not have triggered the mechanism. They EXIT to... 22 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS Data puts the cat down. GEORDI Maybe someone came in while you were away and let him out by accident. Has anything been disturbed? DATA (looks around very quickly) No. (to com) Computer, has anyone entered my quarters in the last twelve hours other than myself or Commander La Forge? COMPUTER VOICE Negative. GEORDI That's pretty strange... we should report a possible unauthorized entry to security, just to be on the safe side. Data nods in agreement and Geordi moves toward the door, but Data stops him. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT TWO 20. 22 CONTINUED: DATA Geordi, may I ask your advice concerning a... personal matter? GEORDI Sure, Data. DATA Should I pursue a relationship with Ensign D'Sora? Geordi is caught off-guard and it shows. DATA (prompting) Ensign Jenna D'Sora. Serial number CL-10928--- GEORDI Yeah, I know who she is. I thought she and Jeff Arton... DATA They discontinued their association. Now she has made the... first move in initiating a relationship with me. (beat) What should I do? Geordi thinks for a long beat, then gropes for something to tell his friend. GEORDI Hmmm... if she just ended a bad situation... sometimes it takes people a while... but if they jump into another relationship -- From the confused look on Data's face, Geordi can tell this isn't helping much, but he keeps going. GEORDI (continuing) ... see, that can be a problem... unless, of course, she is ready... and then it depends if you're really serious. It's uh... kind of complicated. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT TWO 21. 22 CONTINUED: (2) Geordi tries to think of the right thing to say... but he feels a little helpless here... finally gives up. GEORDI (after a beat) My advice to you is... to ask someone else for advice. Someone with a little more experience in these things. CUT TO: 22A OMITTED 23 INT. TROI'S OFFICE TROI and Data sitting. TROI I think you should be careful. This is not some experiment you're running. Jenna is a living, breathing person with needs and feelings that have to be considered. DATA Then you believe I should not pursue this any further. TROI No, I didn't say that... I just want you to be aware that this will be unlike any other... more casual relationship that you've attempted. DATA I have studied a great deal of human literature on the subject of love and romantic liaisons. There are many role models for me to emulate. TROI Ultimately, Jenna will care for you because of what you are. Not what you imitate out of a book. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT TWO 22. 23 CONTINUED: DATA My programming may be inadequate to the task. Troi gives him a sympathetic smile. TROI We're all more than the sum of our parts, Data. You'll have to be more than the sum of your programming. CUT TO: 24 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Worf and Data near the Tactical station. WORF Klingons do not... pursue relationships. They conquer that which they desire. Data nods and moves to leave, but Worf stops him. WORF (continuing) However... (quietly, with meaning) Ensign D'Sora serves under my command. If she were... mistreated, I would be very... displeased. Data gets the message. DATA I understand. Data walks away... glances back once at Worf... then turns and keeps going. CUT TO: STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/3/91 - ACT TWO 23. 25 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE RIKER I think you should pursue it. First of all, she's a beautiful woman who seems to be crazy about you. Data is still troubled by something. DATA Jenna has clearly demonstrated how she feels about me. But I am not capable of returning those feelings. RIKER I'm sure she's aware of that. (beat) Data, when you get involved with another person, there's always a risk. Of disappointment. Of getting hurt. DATA I cannot get hurt. But she can. RIKER Jenna knows that. And she's obviously decided to take the chance. Data, when it really works between two people, it's like nothing you've ever experienced -- the rewards are far beyond simple friendship. DATA How far beyond, sir? RIKER Well, that's what I hope you're about to find out. Data thinks for a beat. DATA Thank you, Commander. Data EXITS to... STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT TWO 23A. 26 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Data intercepts Picard as he's heading for his Ready Room. DATA Captain, I am seeking advice in--- STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT TWO 24. 26 CONTINUED: PICARD Yes, I've heard, Data... and I would be delighted to offer you any advice I have on understanding women. (beat) As soon as I have some, I'll let you know. Picard continues to the Ready Room. OFF Data's reaction. CUT TO: 27 INT. CORRIDOR Data is walking purposefully along the corridor, a bouquet of flowers in his hand. DATA (V.O.) Second Officer's personal log, Stardate 44935.6. After conferring with my colleagues regarding the nature of romantic love in general, and my own situation in particular, I have reached a decision. He stops in front of a door. It chimes and opens. Jenna is standing inside, wearing an attractive, off-duty outfit. 28 INT. JENNA'S QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS Jenna smiles about the flowers. JENNA They're beautiful. Come in. She takes the flowers from him, and he follows her into the room, the door closing behind. Jenna's quarters are more "personal" than any we've seen on the Enterprise. "Creative disorganization" seems to be the dominant motif. A profusion of art objects and decorations are combined with a couple of clothing articles casually left where they were dropped. It looks very "comfortable." STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT TWO 24A. 28 CONTINUED: She raises the flowers to catch their pleasant fragrance. JENNA (continuing) Mmmm. What are they? DATA Crystilia. Their fragrance is an evolutionary response to the acrid nature of the atmosphere on Telemarius Three. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT TWO 25. 28 CONTINUED: (2) JENNA (re: Data) You silver-tongued devil. (turns) Let me find somewhere to put these. She scans the densely decorated room. JENNA (continuing) Hmmm. That might not be so easy... As Jenna looks around, Data follows her further into the room. DATA It seems that your quarters have reverted to their earlier state of disorder. JENNA I know. I'm hopeless. Jenna finally locates a vase and arranges the flowers in it. JENNA (continuing) There. (regarding them) They're beautiful, Data. It's so sweet of you... DATA It was Commander Riker who suggested this particular flower. He said that it had worked for him in the past. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT TWO 25A. 28 CONTINUED: (3) Jenna raises an eyebrow. JENNA You didn't talk to the entire ship about us... DATA No. In actuality, less than one percent of the Enterprise crew was involved. It was necessary to balance theory with experiential referents. Both are required for a program of this nature. (to Computer) Computer, decrease illumination level by one third standard lux. The lights dim to a romantic glow. Data purposefully sits down on the couch, Jenna remains standing, a puzzled look on her face. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/25/91 - ACT TWO 26. 28 CONTINUED: (4) JENNA (re: the situation) This is all part of a program? DATA Yes. One which I have just created for romantic relationships. Jenna smiles, sits down next to him, much closer than she would to "a friend." JENNA (with humor) So... I'm just a small variable in one of your new computational environments? DATA You are much more than that, Jenna. I have written a subroutine specifically for you -- a program within the program. I have devoted a considerable share of my internal resources to its development. Jenna looks touched. She leans toward him, still appreciates the humor of the situation. JENNA That's the nicest thing anyone's ever said to me. Jenna puts her arms around him and they kiss... FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT THREE 27. ACT THREE FADE IN: 29 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) travelling through the nebula. 30 INT. BRIDGE Picard, Riker, Worf, McKnight at Con, Data at Ops. PICARD Estimated time of arrival, Mister Data? DATA We will reach the M class planet in approximately eleven hours. Picard nods. PICARD You have the Bridge, Number One. Riker takes the Captain's chair; FOLLOW Picard into the Ready Room. 31 INT. READY ROOM - CONTINUOUS Picard ENTERS the room, walks casually towards his desk -- and STOPS. The top of his desk is completely bare. Puzzled, he glances around. 32 INCLUDE THE FLOOR under the desk. Where everything once on top -- computer terminal, PADDS, PADD holder, tea mug -- have been somehow dumped onto the floor. Picard reacts, curious. He stares at the mess for a beat. PICARD (keying insignia) Picard to Lieutenant Worf. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT THREE 28. 32 CONTINUED: WORF'S COM VOICE Yes, Captain? PICARD Step into my Ready Room, please. And bring a tricorder. WORF'S COM VOICE Aye, Sir. Picard crouches down, inspecting the objects. Worf ENTERS the room and Picard stands back up. WORF Captain? Worf stares at the floor for a moment. Then back to Picard. PICARD What do you make of this? WORF I am puzzled, Sir. PICARD So am I, Mister Worf. Worf aims the tricorder at the objects and takes a quick reading. WORF Captain, the only detectable bioelectric residuals are your own. (a beat) You did not -- PICARD -- No. I did not. Worf scowls. He quickly checks the bathroom. PICARD (continuing) It seems we have a poltergeist. WORF Sir? PICARD A mischievous spirit. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT THREE 29. 32 CONTINUED: (2) WORF (understanding) Hoq-JoH. PICARD (beat) Perhaps this is some kind of practical joke. WORF (taken aback) Sir? PICARD Perhaps not. WORF I cannot explain how an intruder could have entered this room... I recommend we go to Red Alert. PICARD Not yet. WORF Then I will order one of my officers to stand watch. (keys insignia) Worf to Ensign -- PICARD (cutting him off) -- That's alright, Mister Worf. For now, I think circumstances warrant our caution -- nothing more. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT THREE 30-32. 32 CONTINUED: (3) WORF (reluctantly) As you wish, Captain. Picard dismisses him with a nod, and Worf turns and goes out the door. Picard stares again at the objects beneath the desk. OFF his still puzzled face. 33 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) In the nebula. 34 thru OMITTED 35 36 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS Data is painting at an easel. The door CHIMES. DATA Enter. He stops painting and turns toward the door as Jenna steps inside, carrying an object in both her hands. JENNA I know it's a little unexpected... STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT THREE 33. 36 CONTINUED: DATA You are correct. I did not anticipate your arrival until nineteen hundred hours. Data stays at the easel, continues to paint. JENNA I couldn't wait... I wanted you to have this. She holds the object out to Data -- it is a small alien sculpture, exotic and beautiful. He studies it, but does not take it. DATA You have often expressed dissatisfaction with the Spartan nature of my quarters. Is this an attempt at embellishment? JENNA The cat's out of the bag. DATA (looking around) Spot? JENNA I mean you've caught me in the act. I'm just trying to brighten things up around here. (re: the sculpture) It's Tyrinean. What do you think? Data studies the object for a moment. DATA Its line is both fluid and formal, yet retains an unpremeditated quality. The tactility of the surface enrichment is evocative of the neo-primitive period in Tyrinean blade carving. JENNA I hadn't thought of it that way. Jenna looks at Data, still seated at his easel. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT THREE 33A. 36 CONTINUED: (2) JENNA (re: painting) I'm sorry. Don't let me interrupt. DATA Alright. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT THREE 34. 36 CONTINUED: (3) Then he turns back and continues painting. If it was anybody else, the action would be the height of rudeness. Jenna can't help but react a moment, even though she knows he doesn't intend a slight. She recovers. JENNA (playfully) Data. DATA (looks up) Yes? JENNA The Book of Love, chapter four, paragraph seventeen: When your girlfriend arrives with a gift, stop whatever it is you're doing, and give her your undivided attention. DATA My literature search was apparently incomplete. I discovered twenty-nine books with that title, but none contained that particular admonition. JENNA (playful) That's because we're writing our own version as we go -- you and I. A long beat as Data thinks about this. He sets down his paintbrush. DATA I should not have resumed my painting? JENNA No. DATA Despite your suggestion that I continue? JENNA Exactly. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT THREE 35. 36 CONTINUED: (4) Another thoughtful beat. DATA The nature of our interactions is considerably more subtle and complex than I had anticipated. I have much to learn. A beat as Jenna gets an idea. JENNA Let's start with this. She hands him back the sculpture. JENNA (continuing) A critical analysis isn't necessarily the best response to a gift. A beat. DATA Perhaps if I looked for a suitable place to display it. JENNA (pleased) Much better. Data stands and walks with the carving to a remote corner of the room, placing it onto a bare surface. DATA The ambient light in this location accentuates its contours. Data observes Jenna's neutral response. Then thinks for a beat. He returns to a much more central table. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT THREE 36. 36 CONTINUED: (5) DATA (continuing) However, a gift should not necessarily be placed according to aesthetic criteria. A more central location will carry added meaning. He places the carving in the more noticeable location. Jenna steps over to him, takes his hand. JENNA Data, what's important is that you're trying. You don't know how much that means to me. She indicates the easel. JENNA (continuing) Now, go back to your painting. Data starts to go back to the easel... hesitates, looks at her. JENNA (smiles) This time I really mean it. (kisses him on cheek) I'll see you tonight. FOLLOW Jenna as she goes out the door, smile on her face. 37 INT. CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL) Jenna walks out of Data's quarters and the door closes behind her. She takes a few steps, still smiling, then pauses a moment. The smile fades for just an instant, replaced by the hint of a doubt about this situation. She walks back into her room... as a wall panel on the corridor bulkhead DEMATERIALIZES, briefly showing the wiring within. CUT TO: 38 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship in the nebula. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT THREE 37. 38A INT. READY ROOM Picard is working on a terminal at his desk. RIKER'S COM VOICE Riker to Captain Picard. You're needed on the Bridge. PICARD (to COM) Acknowledged. FOLLOW Picard as he stands and heads to the door and onto the Bridge. 39 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS Picard steps onto the Bridge from the Ready Room. Riker is in Command, Data, Worf, McKnight at their respective positions. RIKER We've reached the designated coordinates. Riker indicates the viewscreen and they turn to look. RIKER (continuing) But the M-Class planet... it's gone. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/25/91 - ACT THREE 38. 40 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) Nothing but the nebula and empty space. OFF Picard's reaction. FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT FOUR 39. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 41 INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Picard, Riker, Worf, Data, and McKnight turn from the viewscreen. PICARD Are you sure there was no malfunction in the sensors? DATA No, sir. Lateral EM scanners registered radiation indicative of an M-Class planet. WORF Sir! 42 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) A reddish-brown planet now fills the screen. Everyone reacts to the sight. 43 RESUME Picard and Riker exchange a bemused look. PICARD (to Data) Mister Data, run a complete systems diagnostic -- Picard is interrupted. COMPUTER VOICE -- Atmospheric decompression in Bridge Observation Lounge... Environmental compensation sequence has been initiated... STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/26/91 - ACT FOUR 39A. 43 CONTINUED: Everyone is taken aback. WORF (looks up puzzled) I am not registering a hull breach. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/26/91 - ACT FOUR 40. 43 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Scan for lifeforms. WORF (scanning) None, Sir. RIKER (to Computer) Computer, boost the structural integrity field around the hull by one hundred percent. COMPUTER VOICE Field augmented... DATA (off instruments) Captain. Standard air pressure has been reestablished in the Observation lounge. Everyone looks at each other -- another mysterious development. PICARD Let's have a look. Picard, Riker, Data, and Worf head for the obs lounge. 44 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE The door opens from the Bridge and Worf ENTERS first, phaser drawn. He is taken aback by what he sees. WORF Captain. Picard, Riker, and Data immediately follow him inside. 45 THEIR POV The entire room has been tossed. Everything not nailed down -- PADDS, chairs, displays -- looks as though it's been bounced off the walls. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT FOUR 41. 46 RESUME Everyone reacts. WORF (frustrated) I do not understand. Worf rights an upturned chair as Data quickly goes to the outer wall and begins running his tricorder along it. RIKER Data, are you picking up anything? DATA I detect no unusual readings. Data reaches the window, passes the tricorder over it -- reacts. DATA (continuing) Curious. The transparent aluminum alloy of this window is exhibiting a pattern of transient electrical currents. PICARD Explanation? DATA I have none. The rate is characteristic of a subspace distortion. But I am not picking up evidence of subspace fields. A beat. Picard turns to his officers. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FOUR 42. 46 CONTINUED: PICARD We will hold position while we seek an explanation for these anomalies. Divert all resources to that end. Everyone knows their jobs and as they move to EXIT... CUT TO: 46A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The Enterprise at impulse, nebula in the background. 47 INT. JENNA'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL) Data ENTERS, carrying a PADD under his arm like a briefcase, looking like a cross between Ward Cleaver and the Man in the Grey Flannel Suit. Jenna has just come in, is still in uniform, and looks a little frazzled. DATA Hi, honey, I am home. JENNA Hi. He kisses her on the check. She reacts a moment to his manner -- they aren't living together, and Data's home from work attitude is a bit odd. But she brushes it off. JENNA Any luck at your end? DATA Negative. We performed a full systems diagnostic and found no malfunctions. JENNA We did a full security sweep. Nothing. She flops down on the couch, takes off her shoes, and drops them on the floor. There are several other pairs there -- this is something she does every night. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT FOUR 43. 47 CONTINUED: (2) DATA Can I get you a drink, dear? Another little take... Data's saying the right things, but it comes off a bit strangely. JENNA Well, yes. I think I'll have... a Calaman Sherry. DATA Excellent choice. I shall join you. He moves to the replicator. DATA Two Calaman Sherries. (to Jenna) Would you like some dinner as well? JENNA I'm too tired to think about what I want... maybe later. The replictor produces the drinks; he carries them to her. DATA Whatever you like, dear. He gives her a drink and she starts too sip. But he stops her arm, indicates that they should toast. He lifts his glass. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT FOUR 43A. 47 CONTINUED: (2) DATA Darling, you remain as aesthetically pleasing as the day we first met. I believe I am the most fortunate sentient in this sector of the galaxy. He touches her glass with his, and then takes a drink. So does Jenna, though she eyes him a bit warily. This is feeling really strange... DATA Now... you must relax. Put your feet up. I will take care of everything. He rises and begins to straighten things in the perpetual clutter of Jenna's quarters. He picks up the shoes which have collected on the floor. DATA I could organize your closets. I have found that by grouping apparel first by function, and then by color from light to dark, one can more easily locate one's desired choice. He heads toward the bedroom with the shoes. JENNA Data... it's all right. You don't have to do that... DATA But I am happy to do it. JENNA Please... put them down. Acquiescent, Data puts the shoes down right where he is -- in the doorway. He swoops down on the couch beside her, utterly attentive. DATA What would you like, dear? Am I not paying enough attention to you? JENNA It's not that... STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FOUR 44. 47 CONTINUED: (4) DATA Perhaps I have not given you enough compliments. Your hair is looking particularly silky tonight... JENNA Data... there's just something... strange... about the way you're acting... Data tries to figure that one out. DATA Am I not behaving as a solicitous mate? JENNA Well, yes, but... DATA Tending to your every need? STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FOUR 45. 47 CONTINUED: (5) JENNA What is wrong with you tonight? Data responds to her angry tone, matching it as best he can. DATA My most recent self-diagnostic revealed no malfunctions. Perhaps something is wrong with you. Jenna stares at him, unbelieving. JENNA I've never seen you behave so... foolishly. Why are you doing this? DATA (still "angry") You may not tell me how I should behave. You are not my mother. JENNA What? DATA "You are not my mother." Is that not an appropriate response to your statement that I am behaving foolishly? JENNA (completely frustrated) Data, I think you should just leave. Data cocks his head. DATA (calm) You do not wish to continue our... lovers quarrel? She stares at him, dumbfounded. JENNA Is that what this is? STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FOUR 45A. 47 CONTINUED: (6) DATA In my study of interpersonal dynamics, I learned that conflict followed by emotional release often strengthens a connection between two people. JENNA But there's just something forced and artificial about the way you're doing it. It's not the real you. DATA With respect to romantic relationships, there is no... real me. I am drawing upon various literary and cultural sources to help define my role. Jenna takes a moment to absorb all this... the whole thing has been an act, a part of his "program"... the solicitousness, the helpfulness, the argument -- everything. After a beat she goes to him. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT FOUR 46. 47 CONTINUED: (6) JENNA Kiss me. He stands and obliges her. After a beat... JENNA What were you just thinking? DATA At that particular moment, I was reconfiguring the warp field parameters, analyzing the collected works of Charles Dickens, calculating the maximum pressure I could safely apply to your lips, considering a new food supplement for Spot... His voice trails off as he notices the crestfallen look on her face. Jenna tries to hide her disappointment... even from herself. JENNA (half-hearted smile) I'm glad I was in there somewhere. She hugs him... but we can see the uneasiness growing on her face. 48 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) At full stop above the planet, the nebula dark in the background. 49 INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Picard, Riker, Worf, and Data are at the aft science station. RIKER (re: viewscreen) A complete sensor scan of the planet and three survey probes turned up no surprises. No sign of life, nothing out of the ordinary.  STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/26/91 - ACT FOUR 46A. 49 CONTINUED: RIKER (re: viewscreen) A complete sensor scan of the planet and three survey probes turned up no surprises. No sign of life, nothing out of the ordinary. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT FOUR 47. 49 CONTINUED: WORF Seven more unusual incidents have been reported. No casualties or damage. DATA At present, we can only state that a subspace effect seems to exist within this nebula. After I have made further analysis, I may be able to adjust the ship's sensors to locate and identify the anomaly. RIKER (to Picard) The ship is at risk as long as we're sitting here. We can always continue our investigation from outside the nebula. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FOUR 48. 49 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Agreed. Ensign McKnight, plot the most direct course. Ahead warp one. MCKNIGHT (works instruments) Yes, Sir. PICARD Engage... McKnight touches the panel. The ship goes to warp. Immediately -- DATA (standing back) Captain. Everyone turns to see Data's science station and a section of the wall DEMATERIALIZE for a moment. WORF (off instruments) Captain! Explosive decompression on Deck Thirty-seven! RIKER Bridge to La Forge... damage report. The CLAXON SOUNDS, and RED ALERT lights go on. 50 INT. ENGINEERING (OPTICAL) Geordi and several N.D. engineers, including THORNE and VAN MAYTER, are reading sensors. GEORDI We're showing damage between decks -- we haven't localized it yet. A section of the wall DEMATERIALIZES across its middle section. A violent BURST OF ENERGY arcs between the two ends, EXPLOSIVELY. Thorne is knocked to the ground. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FOUR 48A. 50 CONTINUED: GEORDI Thorne! Geordi goes to him, picks him up -- he's alright. The conduit REMATERIALIZES. GEORDI La Forge to Bridge... a cryogenic control conduit just blew out on us. I almost lost a man... STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT FOUR 49. 51 INT. BRIDGE Everyone is alarmed. PICARD Full stop! MCKNIGHT Yes, Sir -- 52 OMITTED 53 INT. BRIDGE - ANOTHER ANGLE Everyone is tensed, hoping the full stop will lessen the strange dematerializations. GEORDI'S COM VOICE La Forge to Bridge... PICARD Yes, Commander? 54 INT. CORRIDOR Geordi is hurrying along with two Engineers. GEORDI (to Comm) I think we have some structural damage between Decks Thirty-Six and Seven. We're checking it out now. (MORE) STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT FOUR 50. 54 CONTINUED: GEORDI (Cont'd) (to one engineer) Van Mayter, you take access tube twenty-three M and look at the the Bridge connectors. Van Mayter heads off around a corridor as Geordi and Thorne continue on. GEORDI I'll cover the aft section. You go--- A TERRIBLE SCREAM OFF SCREEN. Geordi and Thorne suddenly react -- bolting toward the sound, rounding the corner... 54A INCLUDE VAN MAYTER (OPTICAL) stuck half-way through the deck, at chest-level. Head, upper torso and one arm are all that's visible. He's limp, obviously dead. OFF Geordi's reaction. FADE OUT. END OF ACT FOUR STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 51. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 56 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) At full stop in the midst of the nebula. 57 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE (OPTICAL) Picard, Riker, Worf and Geordi are sitting at the table. The atmosphere is one of grave concern. Data is standing next to an Okudagram displayed on the wall MONITOR. DATA During the series of events, I was able to measure the W particle inference which confirms one of my hypotheses. Data indicates the Okudagram, which shows "lines" of normal space interrupted by pockets or deformations of varying sizes and shapes. A graphic depiction of the Enterprise is in the midst of it all. DATA The unusual preponderance of dark matter in this nebula is causing small gaps in the fabric of normal space. He points from one "pocket" to another. DATA As the Enterprise moves through the nebula, it collides with these deformations. PICARD Like a carriage bouncing over a series of potholes. DATA That is an apt analogy. GEORDI So every time we hit one, part of the ship momentarily phases out of normal space. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 52. 57 CONTINUED: DATA (acknowledging) Or when one of them hits us. My readings suggest that the deformations themselves are in motion. RIKER We're lucky one of these pockets didn't pass through a photon torpedo casing... or the matter/anti-matter containment pods. PICARD The question now is, how do we get out? Mister Data, can you reconfigure the sensors to detect these anomalies? DATA Yes, sir, but they can only be perceived at extremely close range. Even at minimal speed, it would be impossible to maneuver the Enterprise quickly enough to avoid them. WORF A shuttlecraft is more maneuverable... RIKER He's right. Riker moves to the monitor, points to the Enterprise and a position far ahead of it. RIKER If we positioned a shuttle far enough in front of the Enterprise... it could detect the pockets and provide us enough time to maneuver out of the way. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 53. 57 CONTINUED: (2) GEORDI We could give the shuttle control of our navigational systems -- that way, the corresponding maneuvers would be virtually instantaneous. PICARD Make it so. 58 INT. BRIDGE Picard, Riker, Data, and Worf enter the Bridge from the Observation Lounge. Jenna is standing at Tactical. Worf approaches her. WORF You are relieved, Ensign. Jenna nods and crosses to the turbolift. As she does, she passes Data, now at the right science station, working furiously at the instruments. She hesitates, gives him a look... but he is oblivious, concentrating on his task. She turns and proceeds toward the turbolift. 59 OMITTED 60 ON PICARD AND RIKER heading across the Bridge. Riker starts to peel off toward the turbolift. RIKER I'll do my pre-flight once I'm on board. PICARD Not this time, Will. Riker stops, brought up short. RIKER Sir? STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 54. 60 CONTINUED: PICARD I'm going to pilot the shuttle. RIKER Captain... my duty as First Officer is to safeguard the lives on this ship. Including yours. The Enterprise can't afford to lose you, sir. Not in this situation. PICARD I believe our best chance of escaping this situation is for me to pilot that shuttle. (beat) This is my ship, Will. I've got to do it. A beat. RIKER (acquiescing) Captain. Picard heads for the turbolift. 60A thru OMITTED 60B 60C EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship is in the nebula, the tiny shuttle far off in front of it. Both appear to be holding their positions. 61 INT. SHUTTLE Picard at the console. PICARD Shuttle three to Enterprise, telementry link enabled. He touches the controls and the blinkies respond by lighting up in a different pattern. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 54A. 62 OMITTED 63 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Riker in captain's chair, Data at his post, Worf at Tactical, McKnight at CONN. DATA Ship's computer is accepting navigational inputs from the shuttle. 64 INT. SHUTTLE - INCLUDE MONITOR (OPTICAL) in front of Picard, where there appears an OKUDAGRAM display, similar to the one Data had in the Observation Lounge, with "lines" of space displayed out in front of the shuttle. It resembles a vector graphic "POV" type videogame. PICARD Forward sensors are on line. Ensign McKnight, plot a course for the shortest distance out of the nebula. MCKNIGHT Plot laid in, sir. Outer perimeter at thirty-two million kilometers. PICARD Point one impulse, Number One. 64A INT. MAIN BRIDGE RIKER Acknowledged, Captain. We're right behind you. (to Comm) Riker to O'Brien, lock on to the Captain's communicator. I want to be able to pull him out of there if I have to. O'BRIEN'S COM VOICE Aye, sir. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 55. 65 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE & SHUTTLE (OPTICAL) The shuttle in f.g., Enterprise behind it in the nebula. As the shuttlecraft slowly moves forward, the Enterprise follows. INTERCUT AS NEEDED: 66 INT. SHUTTLE Picard working controls, watching the monitor. 67 INCLUDE MONITOR (OPTICAL) the lines in space suddenly display a distorting "pocket" similar in appearance to those on Data's obs lounge Okudagram. It is heading right toward him. PICARD Changing course... new heading two-nine-nine mark zero-two-nine. We see from the movement of the gassy whirls of the nebula that the shuttle has banked into a turn that is left and up. The monitor moves accordingly and the "pocket" disappears from the screen. 68 OMITTED 69 INT. MAIN BRIDGE DATA Main coupling is matching navigational inputs, Captain. MCKNIGHT New heading confirmed. PICARD I missed it by less than a thousand meters, Enterprise... Advise your status... STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 56. 69 CONTINUED: WORF (checking his panel) Sensors indicate the deformation passing five hundred meters off the starboard bow. We're clear... RIKER One down, Captain... There is Bridge-wide release of tension. PICARD Resuming previous course. MCKNIGHT Confirmed. Outer perimeter now at thirty-point-one million kilometers. Riker's eyes sweep the Bridge. There's still a long way to go. 70 thru OMITTED 72 73 INT. SHUTTLE - INCLUDE MONITOR (OPTICAL) Picard's eyes are glued on the monitor. Two pockets appear on the screen, a small one and a larger one. PICARD Changing course... heading zero seven three, mark -- two-eight-eight... The shuttle veers right and down. The pockets disappear from the screen. But suddenly, four more pockets loom on the monitor -- like the next level in a Nintendo game. PICARD New heading... two-eight-four mark zero... The shuttle swerves hard to the left. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 56A. 74 thru OMITTED 74C 75 INT. MAIN BRIDGE There is a jolt to the Bridge as the Enterprise makes the two corrections in close order. 76 INT. SHUTTLE - INCLUDE MONITOR (OPTICAL) Three of the potholes appear on screen... There's not a minute for Picard to breathe. The potholes keep coming... big ones moving slowly, little ones that zip like hummingbirds. But this time there's a JOLT to the shuttle... 76A EXT. SPACE - SHUTTLE (OPTICAL) There's an EFFECT on part of the shuttle... the thruster assembly flares, then hangs, damaged, on the shuttle. 77 INT. SHUTTLE - INCLUDE MONITOR (OPTICAL) as the potholes keep coming... Picard tapping instructions... but... PICARD Enterprise... I'm losing maneuverability... CONTINUE INTERCUT: 77A INT. ENGINEERING GEORDI Sensors indicate damage to the shuttle's starboard impulse nacelle, Captain. PICARD I'm reading fluctuations in the thermal control sub-system... STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 57. 78 INT. BRIDGE RIKER Captain, I'm bringing you back. PICARD Belay that, Number One! I'm re-routing the secondary deuterium supply... switching to manual controls. DATA Transceiver signal is down forty-two percent. Navigational inputs are not registering. RIKER (what next?) Captain, we've lost the link. PICARD You'll have to make course changes manually until we re-establish the connection. RIKER Understood. Get us back on line, Data. Geordi, try boosting the power to the L-U band. And increase the distance between the Enterprise and the shuttle. We're going to need some more room to make manual adjustments. GEORDI Aye, sir. RIKER How far do we have to go? MCKNIGHT Sixteen million kilometers. Riker's face shows his grave concern that they're not going to make it that far. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 57A. 79 INT. SHUTTLE Where Picard is battling a bucking shuttle. Now he becomes a concert pianist... changing course to escape the oncoming potholes with one hand... working to correct the engine problem with the other. PICARD New heading... two-nine-nine mark one eight... MCKNIGHT (working panels) Yes, sir... I've got it... course corrected. Potholes swim at Picard; the shuttle dips and swerves for a tense moment. There's only time for -- PICARD Enterprise -- hard starboard! MCKNIGHT Aye, sir -- 79A INT. BRIDGE WORF Deformation impact on Deck Fifteen... science section... RIKER Damage? WORF Report coming in, sir... minimal damage. PICARD Hold steady... I've completed the re-routing sequence... do you read my navigational inputs? RIKER Data, do we have the telemetry link back? STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 58. 79A CONTINUED: DATA I have increased sensitivity in the L-U band... it should be sufficient. RIKER Captain, let's try it. 79B INT. SHUTTLE (OPTICAL) Half a dozen pockets swarm toward the shuttle on the monitor. Picard barely has time to respond. PICARD New heading. Two-seven-five mark three nine! DATA Confirmed... the link has been re-established. MCKNIGHT Nine-point-four million kilometers to the perimeter. 79C EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE & SHUTTLE (OPTICAL) continue their strange tandem dance through the nebula. 80 INT. BRIDGE PICARD Mister La Forge, I am still having difficulty controlling the shuttlecraft. 80A INT. ENGINEERING GEORDI Yes, sir, your krellide storage cells are losing their charge. Maintaining manual control is gonna get increasingly harder... STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT THREE 58A. 81 INT. SHUTTLE The shuttle is bucking, barely under control. PICARD Estimated distance to the nebula's perimeter? DATA Four-point-seven million kilometers, sir. PICARD Is there a way to transfer the microfusion thrusters so I can get a power boost? DATA Possibly. If you augment the thruster sequencing so that the inertial dampening fields -- But as he's speaking a pothole appears on the monitor... then looms large... larger... this is the Mother Of All Potholes. Picard responds -- PICARD Bearing -- two-seven... make that two-eight-five, mark two-five-five! The shuttle banks hard left and plunges down at a steep angle... then whirls out of control. 82 INT. MAIN BRIDGE as the Bridge begins to jolt in response to the shuttle. DATA Commander, the shuttle is out of control. Navigational link is severed. RIKER (to Com) Mister O'Brien -- do you have the Captain's signal? 82A INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM O'BRIEN I'm having trouble locking on, sir. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 59. 82B INT. BRIDGE DATA Sir, the shuttle's inertial dampeners have failed. It is breaking up. 83 INT. SHUTTLE (OPTICAL) The craft is spinning (SHAKING AS THE GASSY WHIRLS BLUR BY THE WINDOW). Picard can't even move from the g force. PICARD (to Com) Now would be a good time, Mister O'Brien... 83A thru OMITTED 86 87 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) Riker and the others react to a tiny explosion far out in front of the ship -- it's the shuttle. RIKER O'Brien -- did we get him? 87A INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL) As Picard MATERIALIZES, heads for the door. O'BRIEN Aye, sir, we got him. PICARD I'm a little dizzy, Number One... but none the worse... on my way... 87B INT. BRIDGE RIKER (relieved) Acknowledged, sir. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 60. 87B CONTINUED: DATA Commander, we are nearing the perimeter -- one million kilometers away. RIKER All right, let's make a run for it. A tense moment -- will there be more potholes? 88 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) As the great ship plows toward the edge of the nebula... and then shoots out into normal space. 89 INT. MAIN BRIDGE as Picard emerges from the turbolift. RIKER We're clear of the nebula, sir. Picard looks out at the starfield... relieved to see normal space again. He moves toward his chair. PICARD Ensign, plot a course for Starbase Two-Sixty. Warp two. Engage. 90 OMITTED 91 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship at warp in normal space. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 60A. 92 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS Data is preparing two place settings for an intimate dinner. His cat passes by. The door CHIMES. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT FIVE 61. 92 CONTINUED: DATA Enter. The door opens and Jenna ENTERS the room, crosses toward Data. DATA (continuing) Hello. Jenna gives him a peck on the cheek. Her smile is a little weak. JENNA Hi. She notices several potted plants and a couple of antique Japanese style hanging lanterns. JENNA (continuing) The place looks great. DATA Thank you. It is much less Spartan, is it not? JENNA Much less... It looks... great... it really does... it looks great. DATA Jenna, you are repeating yourself. I have found this to be indicative of mental distraction. Is that a correct assumption in this instance? JENNA I'm afraid it is. Data moves toward the replicator. DATA Then perhaps we should begin our meal. Among humans, a low serum glucose level is often responsible for -- JENNA (interrupting) -- Data. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 62. 92 CONTINUED: (2) Data pauses. JENNA (continuing) Let's talk... first. She indicates his chair at the table. Data comes back, sits down. She sits opposite him. JENNA (continuing) I'm not sure how to begin. DATA What is the subject? JENNA You and me. Our relationship. DATA Yes? JENNA (deep breath) Data, sometimes people blindly make the same mistake again and again. Until it finally happens in a way so obvious and so blatant, that they can no longer deny what they've been doing. DATA Are you currently experiencing this phenomenon? JENNA I didn't see it until today. I got out of a relationship with an unemotional man. And went right back into another with a man who is absolutely incapable of emotion. DATA There does appear to be a recurring motif. JENNA You were so kind and attentive. I thought maybe that would be enough. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT FIVE 63. 92 CONTINUED: (3) DATA It is not? JENNA No, it's not. Because as close as we are, I don't really matter to you. Not really. Nothing I could do or say will ever make you happy, or hurt you, or touch you in any way. DATA That is... a valid projection. Data thinks for a moment. DATA (continuing) It is apparent that my reach has exceeded my grasp in this particular area. I am perhaps not nearly so human as I aspire to become... A beat. DATA (continuing, pleasantly) If you are ready to eat, I will bring our meal. Data stands. Jenna looks at him sadly for a beat -- this is just what she was talking about. JENNA No. That's alright. She stands. JENNA (continuing) I'd better go, Data. DATA If you wish. Jenna reaches over and kisses him on the cheek. Starts to turn toward the door. STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE 64. 92 CONTINUED: (4) DATA (continuing) Jenna. Are we no longer... a couple? Her eyes suddenly fill with tears. JENNA No... we're not. DATA Then I will delete the appropriate program. JENNA (quickly toward the door) I'll see you later... She goes out the door -- it closes behind her. Data watches for a moment. The cat suddenly jumps up on his lap. DATA Hello, Spot. He reaches down to pet it, and the animal nuzzles up to his hand. OFF Data's face... FADE OUT. END OF ACT FIVE THE END