STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "New Ground" (a.k.a. "Trial Run" & "Barriers") #40275-210 Story by Sarah Charno & Stuart Charno Teleplay by Grant E. Rosenberg Directed by Robert Scheerer 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 This script is not for publication or reproduction.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 OCTOBER 4, 1991 STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - CAST STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "New Ground" CAST PICARD HELENA ROZHENKO RIKER ALEXANDER DATA MS. LOWRY BEVERLY ENSIGN FELTON TROI DOCTOR JA'DAR GEORDI WORF Non-Speaking SUPERNUMERARIES SEVERAL BOYS SEVERAL FATHERS A SKULL-FACED ALIEN WAITER STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - SETS STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "New Ground" SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE ENGINEERING BILANA THREE SICKBAY TROI'S OFFICE TEST SHIP WORF'S QUARTERS TEACHER'S OFFICE SOLITON WAVE BIOLAB TEN FORWARD TURBOLIFT OBSERVATION LOUNGE TRANSPORTER ROOM HOLODECK - BATTLEGROUND CORRIDOR USS MILAN HELENA'S ROOM BILANA THREE JA'DAR OFFICE STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/8/91 - TEASER 1. STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "New Ground" TEASER FADE IN: 1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship is entering orbit around a planet. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, stardate 45376.3. We are approaching the planet Bilana Three, where a new method of propulsion known as the Soliton Wave is being developed. The Enterprise has been asked to participate in one of the first tests of this new technology. 2 INT. MAIN ENGINEERING GEORDI is working at a monitor in his office. He crosses to the pool table, where WORF and DATA are working. Geordi is very up, very excited. Data and Worf are their usual stoic selves. GEORDI (to Data) We're going to witness a moment in history, Data. DATA (puzzled) Every nanosecond in this continuum becomes a moment in history once it has elapsed. GEORDI No, no. I mean we're going to see something that people will talk about for years. Data nods in understanding and then returns to work. Geordi turns to Worf, determined to impress upon him the importance of what they're doing. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - TEASER 2. 2 CONTINUED: GEORDI (to Worf) Think about it... no more bulky warp engines or nacelles... a ship just generates a Soliton Wave... and then rides it through space like a surfboard. Worf makes a noncommittal grunt of acknowledgement. Geordi makes one last attempt. GEORDI This is going to be like being there to watch Chuck Yeager break the sound barrier, or Zephram Cochrane engage the first warp drive! Worf and Data look at Geordi for a beat. DATA It should be interesting. WORF (flat) Very exciting. Geordi looks at them helplessly. Nothing is going to excite these two. GEORDI I'm talking to the wrong crowd. (sees another crewman and walks away) Donaldson! Hey, Donaldson, can you believe that we're actually going to be there when they... As Geordi moves to talk with Donaldson... VOICE Lieutenant Worf, you have a subspace communication from the transport ship Milan. 3 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL) As Worf moves to a monitor and touches a button. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - TEASER 3. 3 CONTINUED: WORF (to com) Transfer the signal to this station. The image of HELENA ROZHENKO fills the screen. HELENA (smiles warmly) Hello, Worf. Worf is surprised, but pleased to see his mother. WORF Mother? HELENA I hope you don't mind us dropping in on you like this, but when I heard the Enterprise was going to be in this sector, we took the first transport... and here we are. WORF Is father with you? A brief beat of discomfort crosses Helena's face, but she covers it quickly and tries to sound happy and normal. HELENA No. I brought Alexander with me. I thought the two of you might like a chance to... visit. Worf knows there's something going on here... he is quiet for a moment, but doesn't want to press his mother just now. WORF Very well. I will make arrangements for you to come aboard. HELENA (pleased) Good. CUT TO: STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - TEASER 4. 4 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL) A TRANSPORTER TECHNICIAN is behind the console. Worf is waiting by the platform. Helena and ALEXANDER MATERIALIZE on the platform. Helena gives Worf a big hug. HELENA It's good to see you, Worf. (beat) You look wonderful. Is that a touch of gray in your beard? Worf instinctively puts a hand to his chin. HELENA (proudly) Don't worry, the Rozhenko men have always had beards of iron-gray. Alexander has stayed behind on the transporter platform and now Helena and Worf both turn their attention to him. Alexander is simply staring at Worf... a little scared and a little curious. Worf is happy to see his son again. WORF (warm) Hello, Alexander. ALEXANDER Hello. Worf extends a hand and Alexander shakes it after a beat. WORF It is good to see you both. How long can you stay? That's not a question Helena wanted to answer right now, but Alexander speaks right up as if the answer should be obvious. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - TEASER 5. 4 CONTINUED: ALEXANDER I'm not going back. Worf looks to Helena, who looks guilty. On Worf's reaction... FADE OUT END OF TEASER STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT ONE 6. ACT ONE FADE IN: 5 INT. TEN FORWARD Worf and Helena ENTER. They head for a private table near one of the windows. HELENA Did you see Alexander's face when he saw the play area? He's going to love it here. That brings up a subject Worf would like to talk about. They sit. WORF Mother, why does Alexander believe he is remaining... ? Worf trails off as a WAITER comes over to the table to take their order. HELENA (to waiter) Lapsang suchong tea, please. The waiter looks at Worf, but he shakes his head no. HELENA Have you been eating? You look thin. WORF Mother... HELENA When your father was in Starfleet, I always had to make sure that--- WORF (gentle but firm) Mother. We need to talk about Alexander. Helena knows he's right. She reluctantly nods her head as the Waiter returns and gives her the tea. Helena sips some of the tea and pauses for a moment. She has some difficult things to say to Worf and it's not going to be easy for her. Worf waits respectfully for his mother to lead the conversation. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT ONE 6A. 5 CONTINUED: HELENA Alexander's a fine boy, Worf. Smart... high-spirited... a lot like you at that age. (smiles) In fact, sometimes he comes running through the house and knocks over that big green lamp, just like you used to do. WORF I don't recall you smiling when I knocked over that lamp. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT ONE 7. 5 CONTINUED: (2) HELENA Well... maybe once when you weren't looking. (beat) When we learned that Alexander was coming to live with us, we were very happy. The house had been... empty since you left. We thought, here is our chance to fill it with the sounds of children again. Helena pauses. She looks at Worf and her tone becomes more confidential... HELENA But... the truth is... your father and I are getting old, Worf. WORF (protesting) Mother, you both still have many years--- HELENA (smiles) I don't mean we're ready for the grave... not yet, anyway. (beat) But we are a little... less active. It's hard for us to keep up with Alexander. We're ready to be... just grandparents. (beat) Alexander needs to be with his father. Worf's tone is regretful, but firm. WORF That is not possible. We will have to find another option. Helena considers Worf for a moment. She had hoped it wouldn't be necessary to get into this, but Worf isn't responding yet. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT ONE 8. 5 CONTINUED: (3) HELENA He needs his father, Worf. Alexander's having... difficulties. WORF Difficulties? This is hard for Helena, they're talking about her grandson, after all. But these things must be said. HELENA He is... disobedient. Worf's natural instinct is to rise to his son's defense. WORF Klingon children are often... difficult to control... HELENA (wry) I do know something about how Klingon children behave. Worf looks immediately abashed. HELENA But it's more than his willful attitude. He... does not always tell the truth. WORF (shocked) My son is... a liar? HELENA (firm) He is a boy. And boys can sometimes take the wrong path. They must have guidance. (beat) Alexander needs a father -- his father to give him that guidance. Worf is too shocked by this revelation about Alexander to argue any further. Helena considers Worf for a few moments then reluctantly ends the discussion. HELENA I have to go. The transport will be returning to Earth shortly. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT ONE 9. 5 CONTINUED: (4) Helena puts her arm around Worf. HELENA Do what you believe is best for him, Worf. That's all that any parent can hope to do. A moment between mother and son. Worf still isn't sure what to do... but he accepts his mother's words. As they rise and head for the exit... CUT TO: 6 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) In orbit around Bilana Three. 6A INT. CORRIDOR As they walk down the corridor, Worf tries to talk to Alexander in the easy, casual way he imagines other fathers do with their sons. Alexander's responses are not very engaging. WORF Did you enjoy going to school on Earth? ALEXANDER Yes. Beat. WORF Did you like your teachers? STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/8/91 - ACT ONE 10. 6A CONTINUED: ALEXANDER Yes. Beat. WORF Good. Another beat of silence as Worf searches for another topic. WORF I understand that you lived in my old room. ALEXANDER Uh-huh. Beat. WORF Good. An awkward silence follows as Worf discovers that they don't have much to say to one another. They continue to walk for a few beats... Worf is grateful when they finally come to the door of the teacher's office. He presses the panel outside the door. 6B INT. TEACHER'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS A small, comfortable office decorated with children's drawings, toys, and games. The door CHIMES and MS. KYLE looks up from her desk. She is a caring and warm woman, yet her voice carries a ring of authority that unruly children would be unwise to challenge. KYLE Come in. Worf and Alexander ENTER. Kyle stands and smiles. She moves to them and tries to immediately make them both comfortable. KYLE Lieutenant Worf, it's good to see you again. (MORE) STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/8/91 - ACT ONE 11. 6B CONTINUED: KYLE (cont'd) (to Alexander) And you must be Alexander. I hear you'll be coming to school with us for a while? Alexander isn't responding to Kyle's friendly attitude. He simply nods in response to her question and his attention wanders around the room. KYLE (to Alexander) Well, we're very excited to have you with us... I know the other boys and girls will be happy to have a new classmate. No response from Alexander. Kyle isn't fazed by his attitude and she moves back to her desk as Worf and Alexander sit in two nearby chairs. Kyle begins to work the terminal on the desk. KYLE First, I need to get a little information from you. Let's start with... (pretends to think) ... your name. (works terminal) Alexander Rozhenko... hmmmm... that's a tough one... maybe you can help me. Can you spell your last name for me? Alexander gives no indication that he's even heard the question. WORF (prompting) Alexander... Alexander looks up. WORF (firmer) The teacher asked you a question. Kyle doesn't want to spark a confrontation and she easily dismisses the issue. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT ONE 12. 6B CONTINUED: (2) KYLE It doesn't matter. I think I can figure it out. (works terminal, then to Worf) Date of birth? Worf thinks for a beat... but he doesn't know the answer. Alexander and the teacher both look at him... there is a very awkward and embarassing moment as everyone finally realizes that Worf doesn't even know his own son's birthday. Alexander finally supplies the information. ALEXANDER (hurt, to Worf) The forty-third day of Maktag, stardate 43205. WORF Yes... of course. KYLE (quickly moving on) I'll get the rest of his personal records from the school on Earth. One last question... how long will he be staying aboard ship? Another uncomfortable question for Worf. This time he's the only one who can supply the answer. Alexander looks at his father in surprise... he thought he was staying. After a long beat... WORF It has... not been decided. Hold on the hurt look on Alexander's face and Worf's reaction... 6C INT. READY ROOM Picard is sitting at his desk looking over a PADD in mild irritation. He sets it down... looks at the door... nothing happens... he picks up the PADD again. Finally the door CHIMES. PICARD Come. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT ONE 12A. 6C CONTINUED: A somewhat harried Worf ENTERS. Picard fixes him with a withering look. PICARD I thought our meeting was at eleven hundred hours, Mister Worf. WORF I apologize for being late, Captain. I was detained in... school. (off Picard's look) I was enrolling my... son in class. PICARD I see. (beat, then back to business) Several officers will be transferring aboard next week and I'd like to discuss making a few personnel changes--- KYLE'S COM VOICE Kyle to Lieutenant Worf. Worf is very uncomfortable. Picard's face is carefully neutral. WORF (to Com) Worf here. KYLE'S COM VOICE I'm sorry to bother you again, Lieutenant, but I forgot to mention that we need to arrange for a series of placement examinations for Alexander. If you could tell me when--- WORF (curt) This is not a good time. I will contact you shortly, Ms. Kyle. Worf out. (beat) Sorry, Captain. Picard gives no reaction and smoothly picks up where he left off. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT ONE 12B. 6C CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Personnel changes. I'd like you to consider transferring Ensign Rocha to phaser control and promoting Lieutenant--- BEVERLY'S COM VOICE Sickbay to Worf. Worf is really embarassed... Picard's silence speaks volumes. WORF (to com) Yes, Doctor? BEVERLY'S COM VOICE I need to schedule a physical examination for Alexander. I also need his complete medical records from Earth and--- WORF Doctor, I would rather discuss this at a later time. PICARD (holds up a hand) Mister Worf. (gently, with a hint of humor) You are not the first officer on this ship to have a new family member. Take care of your son. The personnel changes can wait. Worf is still a little embarassed, but he's grateful for the reprieve. WORF (stands) Thank you, sir. Worf EXITS. Picard watches him leave and then smiles to himself for a moment. 6D EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship is still in orbit. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT ONE 12C. 7 OMITTED 7A INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE (OPTICAL) PICARD, RIKER, Geordi, Data, and Worf are listening to DOCTOR JA'DAR. Dr. Ja'Dar is a middle-aged, humanoid alien who appears totally consumed by his work. Ja'Dar is pointing to the wall monitor upon which is a diagram of a SPACECRAFT in orbit around a PLANET. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT ONE 13. 7A CONTINUED: JA'DAR Twenty-three field coils, working in concert, will generate the soliton wave from this point on the planet surface. Ja'Dar presses a button on the console. 8 ON MONITOR (OPTICAL) The SOLITON WAVE rises up from the planet and heads for the spacecraft. (The wave is represented by three small arcs tightly moving in a straight line.) JA'DAR (o.c.) (over above action) We will have the test ship towed to a position approximately two million kilometers from Bilana Three. The waves HIT the ship and the ship starts MOVING along with the waves. 9 RESUME SCENE (OPTICAL) JA'DAR If our theories are correct, the wave will envelop the ship and push it into warp. PICARD (impressed) Warp without warp drive... RIKER (with humor) They're going to put you out of a job, Geordi. GEORDI (grins) I hope so, sir. DATA (to Ja'Dar) Doctor Ja'Dar, how closely will the Enterprise need to follow the test vehicle? STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT ONE 14. 9 CONTINUED: JA'DAR The soliton emits a great deal of subspace radio interference. You'll need to be within twenty kilometers in order to receive telemetry. PICARD How will you end the experiment? JA'DAR The wave will be directed toward Lemma Two, about three light years distance. We have a sister facility there which will generate a scattering field to dissipate the wave, and bring the ship out of warp. Ja'Dar turns OFF the monitor and turns back to them. JA'DAR I'll have more detailed operational plans sent to you within the hour. Everyone seems comfortable with the mission. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT ONE 15. 9 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Very well, Doctor. We'll contact you again once we've finished studying the mission specs. They all stand. Geordi and Ja'Dar head for the corridor EXIT while everyone else EXITS to the bridge. 10 thru OMITTED 10B 10C INT. MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS Picard, Riker, Data, and Worf ENTER from the observation lounge. TROI is at her station. She sees Worf and stands. TROI Worf... I was just talking with Ms. Kyle from the primary school. She told me that you enrolled Alexander in her class this morning. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT ONE 16. 10C CONTINUED: Worf is a little embarrassed. He feels uncomfortable talking about this on the bridge. Troi moves up the ramp to stand next to him. WORF Yes. TROI I'm sure he'll do well. She's a wonderful teacher. WORF Good. TROI Did she tell you about the father/son field trip this afternoon? WORF Yes. We cannot attend. TROI Why not? WORF I have a personnel review scheduled at thirteen hundred hours. Troi looks at him for a beat. Then, gently prompting... TROI It might be a good opportunity to meet some of the other students and parents. After a beat, Worf reconsiders. WORF I might be able to... reschedule the review. TROI (smiles) Good. I'll let them know you're coming. Troi EXITS. On Worf's reaction... CUT TO: STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/8/91 - ACT ONE 17. INT. BIOLAB A group of SEVERAL N.D. BOYS (roughly the same age as Alexander) with their N.D. FATHERS are listening to Ms. Kyle. She is holding a small MODEL of a rhinoceros, and there are several TABLES with other models of animals and plants in the b.g., including replicas of a few Earth animals. KYLE ... as the value of their horns increased, the number of white Rhinos in the wild kept falling until they finally became extinct about two centuries ago. She puts the model of the animal back on the table and begins to move to another part of the lab. The group moves to follow her. 12 NEW ANGLE As the group moves with Kyle, we find Worf and Alexander bringing up the rear of the group. KYLE (over following action) Now I want to show you a pair of animals we're trying to save from extinction. They're from Corvan Two, where their homes in the rainforests are being threatened by industrial pollutants. Worf is listening intently to the teacher, as if he were going to be tested on this stuff. Alexander's attention keeps wandering... he's bored. They have all arrived at the large cargo container which has a large WINDOW dominating one side of the container. KYLE (continuing) They're called Corvan Gilvos. She touches a panel and a LIGHT COMES ON inside the container.  STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT ONE 18. 13 ON CONTAINER There is a medium-sized tree with thick limbs and branches surrounded by rocks and a few short bushes inside the container, but there doesn't appear to be anything else. The children all gather at the window... even Alexander appears a little curious... but there still doesn't seem to be anything in the container. Kyle smiles and taps the glass. KYLE They're a little shy. 14 ON TREE In response to the tapping on the glass, an EYE suddenly opens on one of the "branches" of the tree. The GILVO'S body looks like a long skinny piece of bark, and until it starts to move along the tree, it is virtually undetectable to the naked eye. 15 RESUME SCENE The children are delighted and they press closer to the glass as ANOTHER GILVO starts to MOVE. Alexander is enthralled by this creature, and he moves right up to the glass and stares at it. KYLE The eating habits of Gilvos are very similar to those of Earth's Draco lizards, which died out over three hundred years ago... 16 KYLE turns to the nearby table and reaches for something... then frowns when it isn't there. She glances at Alexander, then recovers smoothly, as if there were nothing wrong. KYLE There are only fourteen Gilvos left on Corvan Two. We're transplanting these two to the protected planet of Brentalia where they should thrive. We are hopeful that the population can be returned home someday. (MORE) STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT ONE 19. 16 CONTINUED: (2) KYLE (cont'd) (beat) All right everyone, why don't you look around for a while on your own, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask. 17 NEW ANGLE The group breaks up into father and son pairings and they move around the bay to explore the different displays and models. Alexander stays at the Gilvo container, fascinated by the gentle-looking creatures. Worf stands next to him, happy that Alexander has finally found something to attract his attention. 18 ON KYLE As she quietly walks over to Alexander. She is being very discreet and nonthreatening in her attitude. KYLE Alexander? (he looks up) I forgot to tell everyone that the models on the tables are supposed to be for all of you to play with. So I guess you didn't know that you weren't supposed to take them. (beat) I saw you playing with the lizard model a little while ago. Do you still have it? 19 INCLUDE WORF As he steps forward. WORF (defensive) Are you accusing him of stealing? KYLE Lieutenant Worf--- The teacher is trying not to make a big issue out of this. But Worf's sense of honor has been offended. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/8/91 - ACT ONE 20. 19 CONTINUED: He turns to Alexander, his tone making it clear that he has no doubt in his son whatsoever. WORF Alexander, did you take the model of the lizard from the table? ALEXANDER (without hesitation) No, sir. Worf gives the teacher a vindicated look, but Kyle doesn't back down. She keeps her voice low, but her tone is firm. KYLE Lieutenant... I saw Alexander put the model inside his jacket. Worf can't believe she still persists in this ridiculous accusation. He almost yells at her in rage, but then turns to Alexander, opens the boy's jacket and finds... 20 thru OMITTED 22 22A THE LIZARD MODEL Worf pulls the model out of Alexander's pocket. 22B RESUME SCENE As Worf realizes that his son has just lied to his face. FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/10/91 - ACT TWO 21. ACT TWO FADE IN: 22C EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship still in orbit around Bilana Three. WORF (V. O) Lieutenant Worf, personal log, stardate 45376.8. Alexander has acted shamefully and as his father, I must now deal with him. (beat) But I find that I would gladly fight ten armed Balduk warriors... rather than face one small child. 23 INT. WORF'S QUARTERS Worf paces in the outer room, struggling to keep his anger below the surface. Alexander is seated, looking very small and vulnerable. Uncertain how to deal with this situation, Worf is seeking refuge in the familiar mantra of Klingon beliefs and values. WORF A Klingon's honor is more important to him than his life. A Klingon would gladly face the most horrible punishment rather than bring shame or disgrace to his family name. His word is his bond... without it, he is nothing. Worf stops pacing and turns to Alexander. WORF Do you understand? Alexander nods mutely. WORF Why did you lie to me? Alexander thinks for a moment... has difficulty meeting Worf's eyes. ALEXANDER I don't know. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/10/91 - ACT TWO 21A. 23 CONTINUED: WORF Did you fear the punishment you would receive? Beat. ALEXANDER (small voice) I don't know. Worf's anger bubbles to the surface. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/4/91 - ACT TWO 22. 23 CONTINUED: WORF (voice rising) You do not know why you lied, and yet you did. You do not know why you stole, and yet you did! Alexander quails before the wrath of his father and moves back on the couch in fear. Worf sees the boy's reaction and immediately pulls himself back. He turns away and moves into the adjoining room for a moment to collect himself. Alexander relaxes slightly. 24 NEW ANGLE As Worf lets his anger subside. Finally, he turns and speaks in a calm, assured manner. WORF (calm) Alexander, come here. Alexander hesitates for a beat, then goes to his father. WORF When I was a child... younger than you... I lost my parents, my family... my people. Everything I had was taken from me... except my sense of honor. It was the one thing I had which was truly Klingon... and which no one could take away. Worf gestures to a small statue of two fighting Klingons. WORF (re: statue) Do you know who they are? Alexander thinks for a very long beat. ALEXANDER (unsure) Kahless... ? STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT TWO 23. 24 CONTINUED: WORF And his brother, Morath. They fought for twelve days and twelve nights... because Morath had broken his word... and brought shame to his family. (quiet) When you lie or steal, you dishonor not only yourself, but your family. (beat) You dishonor me. The words are damning and hit Alexander almost with physical force. His lip trembles and he is on the verge of tears. He looks up at his father with remorse written all over his face. ALEXANDER I'm sorry, father. I won't do it again. I promise. Worf hears the sincerity in Alexander's voice and reads it in his face. Worf nods in approval. WORF I accept your word. We will not speak of this matter again. Worf puts his hand on Alexander's shoulder and gives it a small squeeze. CUT TO: 25 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship in orbit. 26 INT. CORRIDOR Worf is walking through the corridor, heading for a turbolift. TROI (o.c.) Worf. Worf turns around and sees Troi heading for him. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT TWO 24. 26 CONTINUED: WORF Counselor? Troi catches up to him and they both begin to walk down the corridor. TROI (pleasant) I just wanted to know how the field-trip went yesterday. WORF You have not heard? TROI (concerned) No. Why? They EXIT to a turbolift. 27 INT. TURBOLIFT - CONTINUOUS WORF Bridge. The turbolift starts MOVING. Worf is actually rather proud of the way he handled the situation with Alexander, and so isn't uncomfortable in discussing it with Troi. WORF There was an... incident. Alexander stole a small model and then... told a falsehood. But I have remedied the situation. TROI May I ask how? WORF (proudly) I pointed out his error... told him about Kahless and Morath... and explained the value of honor. The boy understood. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT TWO 25. 27 CONTINUED: Troi nods in understanding. Her response is casual, not reproachful. TROI I see. (beat) Sometimes these things aren't over as quickly as they seem to be. I'd be happy to help if you have any further problems. WORF Thank you, but that won't be necessary. Alexander will not repeat this mistake. Troi doesn't want to argue with him and she lets the matter drop. The doors OPEN and they EXIT to -- 28 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS Riker, Geordi, and Data are at the aft science stations, Picard in command and ENSIGN FELTON is at the conn. Troi and Worf move to their own positions. DATA (reading console) The prototype has been towed into position, Captain. RIKER (to Geordi) Initiate a radio link to the ship. GEORDI (works console) Link established... receiving prelaunch telemetry now. WORF (to Picard) Incoming message from Doctor Ja'Dar. PICARD On screen. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT TWO 25A. 28A INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) Doctor Ja'Dar appears to be in a messy scientist's office. There is a computer terminal sitting on his desk. JA'DAR Captain, we're ready to begin the launch sequence. PICARD Mister Riker? RIKER All science labs standing by. FELTON Course laid in, sir. PICARD (to Ja'Dar) The Enterprise is ready, Doctor. JA'DAR (presses button on terminal) This is Doctor Ja'Dar to all stations. You may begin the launch sequence. PICARD Doctor... Ja'Dar looks up. PICARD (smiles) Good luck. Ja'Dar smiles in return for the first time. JA'DAR Thank you, Captain. The transmission ENDS. DATA Sensors show the field generators on the planet surface are charging, sir. GEORDI The soliton wave has been initiated... it's heading for the test ship. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT TWO 26. 29 EXT. SPACE - THE TEST SHIP (OPTICAL) The SOLITON WAVE hits the SHIP, and the vehicle is quickly pushed into WARP SPEED. 30 thru OMITTED 31 32 INT. MAIN BRIDGE As before. DATA The test ship has successfully entered warp, sir. PICARD (to Felton) Engage, Ensign. 33 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship goes into warp. 34 INT. MAIN BRIDGE As before. PICARD Bring us to twenty kilometers from the test ship, Ensign. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/8/91 - ACT TWO 27. 34 CONTINUED: FELTON Aye, sir. GEORDI Telemetry looks good... the soliton wave is steady... DATA The test ship is maintaining warp two point three five. GEORDI That's a little faster than they anticipated, but it's still well within the mission parameters. FELTON (reading Con) We're at twenty kilometers, Captain. PICARD (to Data) Is the wave having any effect on our own warp drive? DATA No, sir. The effect is localized to within two kilometers of the wavefront. 35 thru OMITTED 36 37 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE & TEST SHIP (OPTICAL) The Test Ship is ahead of the Enterprise, traveling at warp speed. There should be a slight DISTORTION effect around the ship from the Soliton Wave. 38 RESUME BRIDGE As before. RIKER (to Geordi) Mister La Forge, what is the power efficiency of the wave? STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/8/91 - ACT TWO 28. 38 CONTINUED: GEORDI Energy transfer is... ninety-eight percent! RIKER (surprised) Ninety-eight? Geordi smiles... he's witnessing a very special event and he knows it. GEORDI Yes, sir. There's less than a two percent energy loss between the wave and the ship. DATA That is four hundred fifty percent more efficient than our own warp drive. Picard looks at the monitor at Geordi's station for a moment. PICARD Astonishing. (beat, then to Riker) Have science lab three begin a series of gamma emissions -- Data suddenly sees something on his console. DATA The wave's power signature is fluctuating, Captain. GEORDI Wave efficiency has dropped to seventy-three percent... STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT TWO 29. 38 CONTINUED: (2) RIKER (off console) The test ship's warp field is becoming unstable... sensors show multiple disruptions. FELTON (urgent) I'm reading a severe subspace distortion, sir! The ship SHAKES SLIGHTLY. DATA It is expanding toward us, sir. It appears to be interfering with our engines. GEORDI I can't compensate for it! The ship SHAKES a little harder. PICARD Take us out of warp, all stop! FELTON Aye, sir. All stop. They turn back to look at the main viewer. 39 thru OMITTED 39A 39B ON VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The Soliton wave is very distant... suddenly the test ship EXPLODES. DISTORTION RIPPLES emanate from the explosion toward the Enterprise. 40 OMITTED 41 INT. MAIN BRIDGE As before. We are hit by the distortion and the ship is HEAVILY ROCKED. People are thrown to the deck and the LIGHTS GO OUT. FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT THREE 30. ACT THREE FADE IN: 42 INT. MAIN BRIDGE The aftermath of the jolt. Order is being restored. RIKER Damage report. GEORDI Sensors and warp drive are off-line... deflectors are down to fifteen percent... WORF Minor injuries reported on deck twenty-seven... no fatalities. PICARD (to Data) What happened to the test ship? DATA (working console) Our last readings indicate the craft exploded due to extreme shearing stress. WORF (off console) Incoming message from Bilana Three, Captain. PICARD On screen. 43 INTERCUT WITH VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) Doctor Ja'Dar appears on the viewer. His visage is solemn. JA'DAR Are you all right, Captain? Was anyone hurt? STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT THREE 31. 43 CONTINUED: PICARD We sustained some minor damage. Do you know what happened? JA'DAR The preliminary data we have received indicate a transient power imbalance. GEORDI That would be consistant with our telemetry from the ship. We detected a sudden drop in transfer efficiency just before the explosion. JA'DAR Are you still tracking the wave? GEORDI No, the explosion damaged our main sensor array. But I think we'll have it repaired in a couple of hours. PICARD We'll contact you as soon as the sensors are back on-line. Ja'Dar reaches for a control to terminate the transmission, but Geordi stops him. GEORDI Doctor... Ja'Dar looks up. GEORDI You did it... warp without warp drive... for a while there, it was really something to see. Ja'Dar smiles... appreciative of Geordi's effort to make him feel a little better. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/8/91 - ACT THREE 32. 43 CONTINUED: (2) JA'DAR I hope you're here to see it the next time we try, Mister La Forge. GEORDI So do I. The transmission ENDS. CUT TO: 44 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship hangs in space. 44A INT. TEACHER'S OFFICE Kyle is at her desk as Worf ENTERS. WORF I apologize that I was detained. KYLE It's quite all right. Please sit down. Worf sits and Kyle considers him for a moment. KYLE (carefully) Lieutenant, your son is a very bright, very spirited young man. From his test scores, I'm sure he'll turn out to be one of my best students. (beat) However, from his behavior in class so far, I do have some... concerns. WORF What sort of... concerns? KYLE Frankly... he's defiant... he's overly aggressive toward the other students... and he has a great deal of difficulty paying attention. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT THREE 33. 44A CONTINUED: Worf doesn't seem too worried. WORF Perhaps you do not have experience dealing with Klingon children. They require a firm hand. KYLE And it seems he still has a lot of difficulty telling the truth... Worf is shocked to be hearing about this same problem again. KYLE He takes toys from other children and then denies taking them... he acts like a bully and then says someone else started the fight... and he's bluntly told me that you said "Klingons do not listen to teachers." WORF I did not tell him that. KYLE Of course not. He's acting on his internal feelings and then making up stories to explain them. (beat) It might be a good idea for the two of you to sit down with Counselor Troi and try to talk this--- But Worf is no longer in the mood for talk. He stands. WORF (to com) Computer, where is Alexander Rozhenko? COMPUTER VOICE Alexander Rozhenko is in holodeck four. KYLE Lieutenant, I think we should--- STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/10/91 - ACT THREE 34. 44A CONTINUED: (2) WORF I will handle this. Worf's face is a blend of anger and determination as he strides off. CUT TO: 45 OMITTED 45A INT. CORRIDOR Worf angrily strides through the corridor and stops outside the holodeck doors. He presses the wall panel. WORF (to com) Computer, what program is being run? COMPUTER VOICE Calisthenics program of Lieutenant Worf. Difficulty level: Novice. Worf is surprised. He pauses for a beat then EXITS to the holodeck. 46 CLOSE ON ALEXANDER As he ducks underneath the swinging blade of a large axe. WIDEN TO REVEAL... 47 INT. HOLODECK - BATTLEGROUND Worf's calisthenics program is running. (As seen in "The Emissary.") Alexander is wearing a small practice robe similar to the one we've seen Worf use. He is fighting the SKULL FACED ALIEN, seen in previous episodes, with Worf's bat'telh sword. Alexander is awkward and uncomfortable with the sword... it's really too big for him. The Alien swings the axe again... Alexander barely moves out of the way. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/10/91 - ACT THREE 34A. 48 ON WORF As he finds Alexander in the holodeck. His anger at Alexander mixes with some pride as he sees what the boy is doing. Worf continues to watch discreetly with conflicting emotions as his son struggles with the fearsome Alien. 49 ON ALEXANDER & ALIEN - INTERCUT WITH WORF The Alien isn't fighting at full speed, the program has slowed to match Alexander's lesser skill, but the boy is still having a hard time holding his own against the creature. Alexander trades thrusts and parries... gets knocked down... gets up for more. Worf unconsciously moves his own hands and arms in response to the movements of the Alien. Alexander charges the Alien, yelling like a banshee... the Alien retreats before the assault... finally the creature gives the boy an obvious opening and Alexander plunges the sword into its stomach... STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/8/91 - ACT THREE 35. 50 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL) As the Alien VANISHES in response to the kill. Alexander steps back, breathing heavily. Worf nods in approval from the sidelines... then realizes why he's here in the first place. WORF (to com) Freeze program. Alexander notices his father for the first time. His face lights up with pleasure and he stands a little straighter as Worf approaches. ALEXANDER (with pride) Did you see it, Father? I won. WORF (even) Yes, I saw. But Worf's expression has hardened and Alexander's face falls as Worf takes the sword away from the boy... he's not going to get any accolades today. WORF Why are you here? ALEXANDER I'm training. WORF But you did not ask permission to take my bat'telh or permission to use the holodeck. ALEXANDER (sulky) You said you wanted me to be a warrior. WORF I also said I wanted you to obey your teachers and keep your promise to me. (off his look) Ms. Kyle has told me about your behavior... about your lies. ALEXANDER I have not lied! STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT THREE 36. 50 CONTINUED: WORF (anger building) Alexander, do not continue to--- ALEXANDER She's lying! She hates me, that's why she makes up stories about me! WORF (firm) I will not listen to further lies. Return to our quarters. ALEXANDER But you said we could go see the Gilvos again. WORF Not now. Not after you have broken your word. ALEXANDER (demanding) You promised. You said that we could--- WORF (a shout) Enough! Alexander flinches at the sound of Worf's voice and falls silent. Worf takes a beat to get a grip on his temper. WORF (tight) It is now clear to me that I have failed in my duties as your father. You have no understanding of what it means to be Klingon. (long beat) I will arrange for you to attend a Klingon school. There you will learn the lessons I have failed to teach you. ALEXANDER (horrified) No! I won't go! STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/7/91 - ACT THREE 37. 50 CONTINUED: (2) WORF Would you dishonor our family further with your disobedience? Alexander crumples under the accusation. ALEXANDER No, sir. WORF (even) You will go to our quarters and remain there until I return. Alexander's eyes never meet his father's as he slowly walks away. Hold on Worf for a moment. CUT TO: 51 OMITTED 52 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Riker in command, Data at the aft science station, Felton at the conn. RIKER (to com) Bridge to engineering. What's your estimate on the engines, Geordi? GEORDI'S COM VOICE I need another hour, Commander. I still have to replace three power couplings. RIKER Understood. DATA (to Riker) Sensors coming back on-line, sir. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT THREE 38. 52 CONTINUED: RIKER Good. Begin a sensor sweep for the soliton wave. DATA Aye, sir. Data works the console for a couple beats. DATA The wave is continuing on course for the Lemma Two colony... it is bearing zero two zero, mark three two nine. RIKER (to Tactical Officer) Open a channel back here to Doctor Ja'Dar. The Officer starts to work the console. Riker moves to look at Data's monitor. DATA (frowns at something) Sir, the wave has increased in velocity. It is now traveling at warp four point one. Riker is surprised. There is a BEEP from the console and Riker presses a button in response. The IMAGE of Dr. Ja'Dar comes up on one of the science screens. RIKER (to Ja'Dar) Doctor, we've located the soliton wave. It's still on course for Lemma Two... but its velocity has increased to warp four point one. JA'DAR (puzzled) Have you checked the frequency resonance of the subspace -- DATA (breaking in) Sir, the the wave's energy level has increased by a factor of twelve. Shocked reactions from Riker and Ja'Dar. Data works his console for another beat. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT THREE 39. 52 CONTINUED: (3) DATA At this rate, it will have increased by a factor of two hundred by the time it reaches Lemma Two. RIKER (to Ja'Dar) Will they still be able to dissipate the wave? JA'DAR (worried) Commander, at that energy level, the wave will not only destroy the colony... it'll take most of the planet with it. On Riker and Data's reactions... 53 OMITTED FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT FOUR 40. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 54 INT. TROI'S OFFICE Troi is sitting serenely in her chair as she calmly regards Worf, who is sitting on the couch facing her. He seems uncharacteristically restless, almost fidgety, and is clearly uncomfortable being here. TROI Are you sure this is what you want? WORF It is not a question of what I want... it is a question of what is best for the boy. He will be better off at a Klingon school. TROI Have you discussed this with Alexander? Worf stands and moves to another point in the room. WORF He is a child. I informed him of my decision. TROI I see. Worf turns and looks at her. WORF You disapprove? TROI I'm not here to approve or disapprove of the way you raise your son. (beat) My concern right now is how this decision is going to affect you. Worf reacts with surprise. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT FOUR 41. 54 CONTINUED: TROI How will you feel when Alexander is gone? WORF I will be... pleased that he is receiving the guidance that he requires. TROI Is that how you felt when he left to live with your parents? Worf struggles with this for a moment... his inner turmoil drives him to another part of the room. WORF That was... different. At that time, I felt he needed a home... a family... things I could not provide for him. TROI I understand. The idea of raising a child can seem like... a tremendous burden, particularly to a solitary parent. WORF (too quickly) He was no burden. Troi simply sits and waits. Worf feels compelled to explain. WORF I simply knew that a Klingon child would require more... attention than I could provide. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT FOUR 42. 54 CONTINUED: (2) TROI I see. (long beat) Have you ever wondered how Alexander felt about being sent away? Worf pauses for a moment. WORF He was very young. I'm sure he was... confused... TROI Do you think he might have felt... abandoned? Worf reacts... he hadn't considered that possibility. TROI After all, he left very soon after K'Ehleyr's death. In a way, he not only lost his mother... he lost his father as well. Worf thinks for a moment. WORF Are you saying that his... misconduct is a result of feeling abandoned? TROI It's possible. Children don't have the experience to handle emotional crises. Instead of dealing with their feelings, they act on them. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT FOUR 43. 54 CONTINUED: (3) Troi stands and goes to Worf... when she speaks, it's on a more personal level than strictly Counselor/patient... drawing on their years together aboard ship and the trust they've built between them, she talks to him in a way that no one else can. TROI (gently) Worf... tell me about the last time you spoke with K'Ehleyr... the night she died. Worf keeps his face completely expressionless... tightly clamping down the pain within... but his voice is quieter and softer than we've ever heard before. WORF We... argued. TROI About what? WORF Alexander. Why she had... not told me about him when he was born. TROI So you were angry with her? WORF (a whisper) Yes. TROI Are you still angry with her? WORF Of course not. But Worf can't meet her eyes as he says it. Worf tries to clamp his emotions down again... he turns to move away, but Troi gently puts a hand on his arm and stops him. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT FOUR 44. 54 CONTINUED: (4) TROI (gently) It would be very normal for you to be angry with her... angry because she died and left you alone with a son you never knew you had. Troi has cut very close to the bone. Worf is embarrassed... hurt... angry... but he clearly can't deny the truth in her words. TROI Being angry doesn't mean you loved her any less, Worf... but you cannot hide from your feelings... just as Alexander cannot hide from his. (beat) You both have a lot of healing to do... perhaps you should think about doing it together. On Worf as he ponders her words... CUT TO: 55 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship hangs in space. 55A INT. WORF'S QUARTERS Alexander is violently stuffing his belongings into a suitcase with a great deal of anger. Worf ENTERS and watches him for a beat. He softens his approach... tries to make a genuine connection with the boy. WORF Alexander... ALEXANDER I'm almost done. WORF Stop for a moment. Alexander stops and looks up at his father, anger still evident in his every move. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT FOUR 45. 55A CONTINUED: WORF Let us... talk. Worf is trying, but the boy's defenses are up and he clearly isn't going to make this easy for Worf. ALEXANDER Why? WORF I want you to understand why you're going away. ALEXANDER (getting more belligerent) I understand. You're ashamed of me. WORF (firm) You do not understand. I am concerned about your future. A Klingon school will be a better environment for you. ALEXANDER You don't care about me. WORF (getting angry) That is not true. ALEXANDER All you care about is your honor! Worf pulls back... he's not here to get into an argument. WORF Alexander... if your mother were here... I do not think she would want us to fight like this. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/10/91 - ACT FOUR 46. 55A CONTINUED: (2) ALEXANDER My mother wouldn't send me away! RIKER'S COM VOICE Lieutenant Worf, please report to the observation lounge. This is really bad timing. Worf struggles to tamp down the emotions which are rising to the surface. Alexander glares at him in anger. WORF (hits communicator) Acknowledged. (beat, then to Alexander) Remain here. I will return shortly. Worf EXITS. Stay with Alexander for a moment... his rage and feelings of frustration continue to build... finally he erupts in anger and KNOCKS OVER the table in fury. He hesitates for a moment and then EXITS. 56 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE Riker, Data, and Geordi at the table. Picard ENTERS and sits down. PICARD Report. GEORDI The soliton wave has--- An embarrassed Worf ENTERS and quickly takes his seat. WORF Excuse me. No one else seems upset by his late entrance and Geordi continues. GEORDI The soliton wave has continued to increase in power. Its energy level has risen by a factor of ninety-six. (MORE) STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/10/91 - ACT FOUR 46A. 56 CONTINUED: GEORDI (cont'd) At its present rate of acceleration, the wave will hit the planet in about two hours. PICARD How do we stop it? GEORDI There are two possibilities: we could try to use our warp engines to generate an inverse resonance wave. If we match the exact frequency and amplitude of the soliton, we'd be able to neutralize it. RIKER You don't sound very confident. DATA Because the soliton is constantly changing in both frequency and amplitude, it will be extremely difficult to achieve a precise match. PICARD Let's hear the second option. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT FOUR 47. 56 CONTINUED: (2) GEORDI It's a little more dangerous, but I think there's a better chance for success. We could create a... backfire -- an explosive force set off just in front of the soliton wave. A large enough explosion... say five photon torpedoes... should disrupt the wave and allow it to dissipate. PICARD How fast is the wave travelling now? DATA Warp six point three seven. GEORDI The good news is we can catch it. The bad news is in order to set up the backfire we have to be in front of it. DATA Which would require the Enterprise to go through the wave. RIKER Why can't we go around it? DATA The wave has grown in size as well as power. There is insufficient time remaining for us to circumvent it before it reaches Lemma Two. PICARD How much protection will our shields provide if we attempt to penetrate the wave? WORF The shields have not been fully restored. Shield strength is down to thirty-three percent. Unhappy reactions from around the table. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/10/91 - ACT FOUR 48. 56 CONTINUED: (3) RIKER (grim) It would be a rough ride. Picard thinks for a beat, then makes the decision. PICARD (on the move) It's the better choice. Number One, lay in a course for the soliton wave. Everyone starts to head for the exit. WORF Captain, may I speak with you? PICARD Certainly. Everyone else EXITS. Worf still hasn't made a decision regarding Alexander, and he is looking to Picard for confirmation that his plan is the right thing to do. WORF I know that I have been distracted by... family matters and that I have not been performing my duties in a satisfactory manner. Picard is surprised to hear this. PICARD Mister Worf, I have not been dissatisfied with your performance. WORF But I am dissatisfied, Captain. And I will be taking steps which will remedy the problem. Picard considers him for a moment. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/10/91 - ACT FOUR 48A. 56 CONTINUED: (4) PICARD I realize that Klingon officers do not permit their children to live with them. (beat) However, since you first joined Starfleet, you've successfully met many challenges that were seemingly at odds with your Klingon heritage. Picard smiles warmly at Worf for a long beat. WORF Thank you, sir. Picard smiles briefly at his officer and then they both head for the bridge. CUT TO: 57 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship goes into warp. 58 thru OMITTED 59 60 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Picard, Worf, Data, Riker, and Felton at their stations. PICARD (to Felton) Ensign, after we've passed through the wave, I want you to keep us at a relative position twenty-three kilometers in front of it. FELTON Aye, sir. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/10/91 - ACT FOUR 48B. 60 CONTINUED: RIKER (to Worf) Alert sickbay to prepare for possible casualties. WORF Aye, sir. DATA (reading console) The wave has increased speed to warp seven point two. PICARD (to Felton) Take us to warp seven point two one. Felton works the console. FELTON (reading console) We are approaching the wave, Captain. Distance... two hundred kilometers. RIKER (to Worf) Let's see it. 61 ON VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The screen shows the WAVE out in front of the ship as it races through space. From this perspective, it appears as a large wavy distortion. 62 RESUME SCENE As before. PICARD Stand by to increase speed to warp seven point three on my mark, Ensign. RIKER (to Worf) Red Alert. Load torpedo bays and set warhead yields to level sixteen. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/7/91 - ACT FOUR 49. 62 CONTINUED: WORF Aye, sir. The ship's condition goes to RED as Worf works his console. RIKER (to com) This is the bridge. All decks, brace for impact. WORF Torpedoes loaded. Picard takes a beat as he considers the wave on the screen. PICARD (to Felton) Engage. The following scenes happen very quickly: 63 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE & SOLITON WAVE (OPTICALL) The ship begins gaining on the wave. 64 INT. BIOLAB The lab has been emptied of almost all the tables and displays seen earlier. Alexander moves to the large container and turns ON THE LIGHT. The two Gilvos OPEN THEIR EYES and look at him. Alexander smiles at the creatures. Suddenly, the ship is ROCKED and Alexander is thrown to the deck. 65 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The wave on the screen shifts COLORS and SHAPES as we try to punch through. The ship is ROCKED SEVERAL TIMES... then it stops. PICARD Report. DATA We have passed through the wave, Captain. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/7/91 - ACT FOUR 49A. 65 CONTINUED: FELTON We have dropped to warp seven point two. The wave is directly astern at a distance of twenty three kilometers. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/7/91 - ACT FOUR 50. 65 CONTINUED: (2) WORF Deflector strength down to twelve percent. There are fluctuations in several warp transfer conduits. Transporters and tractor beams off-line. Riker sees something on his station monitor. RIKER We have some gaps in the aft shields, Captain. (pointing to monitor) When the torpedoes explode, these areas will be contaminated with ion radiation. 65A ON RIKER'S MONITOR (OPTICAL) Which shows an Okudagram diagram of the Enterprise. There are several areas at the stern of the ship which have been highlighted. RIKER (indicating monitor) We should evacuate sections twenty-four to forty-seven on decks thirty-five through thirty-eight. 65B RESUME SCENE PICARD Make it so--- WORF (interrupting) Sir! Picard turns around. WORF (urgent) There is a fire in biolab four! The fire-suppression apparatus... is not functioning. PICARD Seal off the compartment, prepare to vent the air from--- STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/7/91 - ACT FOUR 50A. 65B CONTINUED: DATA (urgent) Sir, there are life-forms present in that biolab. RIKER (to Picard) We're transporting endangered animals from Corvan Two... DATA Sir, readings also indicate the presence of a humanoid. PICARD (quickly, to com) Computer, identify the humanoid life-form in biolab four. COMPUTER VOICE Life-form is identified as Alexander Rozhenko. On Worf's reaction... FADE OUT. END OF ACT FOUR STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/8/91 - ACT FIVE 51. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 66 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS Everyone is still reacting to the news of Alexander in the biolab. There is a sense of urgency. PICARD (to com) Bridge to biolab four. Alexander, can you hear us? No response. Worf clamps down his feelings and concentrates on his console. WORF (tight) Sensors show he is alive... he may be injured. RIKER Can we transport him out of there? WORF (getting frustrated) Transporters are still off-line. Felton suddenly sees something on his console. FELTON (urgent) Captain, warp power is dropping. We're losing speed. Riker and Picard exchange a frustrated look... this is happening too quickly. RIKER (to com) Bridge to engineering. What's going on, Geordi? INTERCUT WITH: 67 INT. MAIN ENGINEERING Geordi is working frantically in his office. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/7/91 - ACT FIVE 52. 67 CONTINUED: GEORDI We lost four warp transfer conduits, Commander. RIKER (urgent) The wave is gaining on us, we need more speed. GEORDI I doubt I can keep this speed up much longer, Commander. You better fire those torpedoes while we're still in front of the wave. PICARD Data, how long until the wave overtakes us? DATA At our current speed... four minutes, thirty seconds. Worf is champing at the bit to get out of here and help his son. He moves to Picard and makes a direct and personal appeal. WORF Captain, permission to leave the bridge. Picard considers him for a fast beat. PICARD Granted. Number One, accompany Mister Worf to biolab four. Worf and Riker head for a turbolift. DATA (off console) Sir, biolab four is in one of the areas that will be flooded with ion radiation. PICARD (to Riker) Commander. Riker and Worf stop and look back at him. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/7/91 - ACT FIVE 52A. 67 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD (firm) I can't let the soliton wave hit the colony. You have three minutes... not one second more. Worf and Riker nod grim understanding and then EXIT. CUT TO: STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/10/91 - ACT FIVE 53. 67A thru OMITTED 67B 68 INT. CORRIDOR Worf and Riker race down the corridor to the biolab door. Riker tries to work the panel outside the doors for a beat. RIKER Primary control's shorted out. Worf moves quickly to the panel and RIPS it off the wall. He reaches inside and works some of the circuits and boards. After a quick beat he turns back to Riker. WORF Stand clear. Riker goes to the opposite side of the door and puts his back against the wall. Worf positions himself on his side of the door. Once they're in place, Riker nods to Worf, who then works the control panel on the wall and the doors OPEN. A LARGE TONGUE OF FLAME shoots out into the corridor. The flame falls back for a beat after its initial flare up, giving Riker and Worf a chance to run into... 69 INT. BIOLAB - CONTINUOUS Riker and Worf ENTER a room filled with FIRE and SMOKE. The doors CLOSE behind them and they struggle against the smoke and try to see through the haze. Keeping low to the ground, they move out in different directions. WORF Alexander! RIKER Alexander! 70 WORF Knocks a burning container out of his way and looks around frantically. RIKER (o.c.) Alexander, can you hear me? Worf sees something and moves toward it. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/10/91 - ACT FIVE 53A. 70A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND WAVE (OPTICAL) The wave is getting closer to the Enterprise 71 INT. MAIN BRIDGE As before. There is a N.D. Crewmember at tactical DATA (to Picard) The soliton wave has closed to ten kilometers, Captain. PICARD (to Tactical Officer) Stand by to fire torpedoes on my command. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT FIVE 54. 72 INT. BIOLAB Worf finds Alexander pinned underneath some debris. The Gilvo container is nearby. WORF I've found him, Commander! Worf checks the boy's pulse and is relieved to see that he's still alive. Worf starts ripping apart the wreckage that's piled on top of Alexander. 73 RIKER struggles to find Worf in the smoky gloom. RIKER Worf! WORF (o.c.) Over here! Riker finally sees them and rushes over. Alexander moans and stirs as Worf and Riker struggle to clear the debris together. There is a single large beam pinning Alexander. They struggle to lift it. RIKER It's too heavy. We need something to help us. Riker moves off in search of something to use as a lever. Alexander begins to come around and Worf bends down to him. ALEXANDER (coughing) Father? WORF Be still, I am here. ALEXANDER My leg hurts. I'm scared. Galvanized by the need of his son and the desperate situation, Worf grabs the huge beam with both hands, and with a superKlingon effort... HEAVES the heavy beam off of Alexander. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/7/91 - ACT FIVE 55. 74 RIKER Returns with a long pole just as the beam clatters to the floor. He gives the heavy beam a quick look of surprise. As Worf bends down to pick up Alexander, the boy points at the container and cries out... ALEXANDER The Gilvos! Don't leave them here! RIKER (objecting) There's no time. ALEXANDER They'll die! Please! Worf looks at Riker, who glances at the imploring face of Alexander. Riker finally reacts with an "I don't believe I'm doing this" expression, then quickly moves to the Gilvo container and opens the door. 75 INT. MAIN BRIDGE As before. DATA The wave has closed to one kilometer, Captain. PICARD (to com) Picard to Commander Riker. Silence. PICARD Bridge to Lieutenant Worf, acknowledge. DATA The wave is about to overtake us, sir. PICARD (frustrated) Commander Riker, acknowledge! Picard waits for one more beat... finally has no choice. PICARD (to Tactical Officer) Fire torpedoes. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/9/91 - ACT FIVE 55A. 75A INT. SCIENCE LAB Riker and Worf (carrying the Gilvos and Alexander respectively) race through the burning lab, trying to get to the door... 76 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship FIRES torpedoes from the stern of the ship. 77 INT. CORRIDOR Riker and Worf (still carrying the animals and the boy) burst out of the science lab. The doors CLOSE behind them. They sag against the wall, coughing and gasping for air. 78 EXT. SPACE - THE SOLITON WAVE (OPTICAL) The torpedoes EXPLODE directly in front of the Soliton wave. The wave HITS the explosion, there is a large BURST OF ENERGY... then the wave dissipates. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/7/91 - ACT FIVE 56. 79 INT. MAIN BRIDGE As before. DATA The wave has been disrupted, Captain. Picard doesn't pause for even one beat of relief at this news. PICARD (urgent, to com) Picard to Riker. A tense beat passes before Riker answers. RIKER'S COM VOICE (hoarse) Riker here, Captain. INTERCUT WITH: 80 INT. CORRIDOR Just outside the biolab. Riker is holding the two Gilvos in his arms while Worf and Alexander cling to each other. Picard is very relieved as Riker makes his report. RIKER (to com) We made it, sir. The boy's going to be all right. Hold a moment on Alexander and Worf tightly clutching one another. CUT TO: 81 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship hanging in space. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT FIVE 56A. 82 INT. SICKBAY Alexander is lying on one of the beds. Worf stands beside the bed, watching carefully. BEVERLY is checking him over with a medical tricorder. STAR TREK: "New Ground" - REV. 10/7/91 - ACT FIVE 57. 82 CONTINUED: BEVERLY (to Alexander) You're a very lucky little boy... just some minor smoke inhalation and a hairline fracture of the tibia. (beat, then with a smile) That's a bone in your leg. (to Worf) I'd like to keep him overnight, but he should be fine by tomorrow. WORF Thank you, Doctor. Beverly smiles and moves away. Alexander looks up at Worf, uncertain what to expect. ALEXANDER Are you going to get in trouble because of me? WORF Do not concern yourself with that. ALEXANDER Am I in trouble? WORF (beat) Yes... but we will discuss that at a later time. ALEXANDER I'm sorry. He is genuinely sorry and it shows. His eyes fall and his voice gets quieter. ALEXANDER I promise I'll be good at the Klingon school. I'll make you proud of me. Worf studies him for a moment. WORF Klingon schools are designed to be difficult. (MORE) STAR TREK: "New Ground" - 10/4/91 - ACT FIVE 58. 82 CONTINUED: (2) WORF (cont'd) The physical and mental hardships faced by the students are meant to build strength and character. (beat) However, if you wish to face a greater challenge... you may stay here with me. Alexander's face lights up. WORF It will not be easy... for either one of us... but, perhaps we can face the challenge together. Alexander straightens up slightly. ALEXANDER (seriously) I accept your challenge, Father. I will stay. Worf nods in grave acceptance. WORF I believe your... mother would be pleased. After a beat, Alexander's face breaks out into a smile and Worf returns it as well. Worf puts a hand on his son's shoulder and we begin to see a real bond forming between the two for the first time. FADE OUT. END OF ACT FIVE THE END