STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                         "The Outcast" 
                          #40275-217 
                              
                          Teleplay by 
                          Jeri Taylor 
                              
                          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 1992 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.

                         FINAL DRAFT

                       JANUARY 2, 1992

           STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                         "The Outcast" 

                             CAST                               
                              
                PICARD              SOREN
                RIKER               KRITE
                DATA                NOOR
                BEVERLY            
                TROI               
                GEORDI             
                WORF   
            
                Non-Speaking        Non-Speaking
                  SUPERNUMERARIES     MISC. J'NAII  

           STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                         "The Outcast" 
                       
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                  EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE             USS ENTERPRISE
              MAIN BRIDGE
              CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM     SHUTTLE
              TEN FORWARD
              SICKBAY
              ENGINEERING
              SHUTTLE BAY
              CORRIDOR
              DATA'S QUARTERS (POKER GAME)
              TROI'S QUARTERS
              RIKER'S QUARTERS
          
            SHUTTLE
          
            J'NAII PLANET
              CIVIC CHAMBER
              COURTYARD GARDEN
              WOODS

         STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - TEASER         1.

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                        "The Outcast"                              
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	at impulse.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, stardate 45614.6.
			We have been contacted by an
			androgynous race called the J'naii
			to investigate the disappearance
			of a shuttlecraft.

2    INT. BRIDGE

	PICARD, RIKER, WORF, DATA, SUPERNUMERARIES, and several
	J'naii, including SOREN and KRITE. The J'naii are a
	genderless species; Soren and Krite, like the others,
	possess no demonstrable sexual characteristics. All
	the J'naii look remarkably alike: strikingly
	attractive, with lithe, slim bodies and chiseled,
	delicate features. Soren is near Riker; Krite at an
	aft station.

					DATA
			We are approaching the designated
			coordinates, Captain.

					PICARD
			On screen.

2A   ANGLE - VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	It shows the starfield -- no sign of a shuttlecraft.

					PICARD
			Long-range scan, Mister Data.

	Data enters commands.

					DATA
			Sensors find no evidence of the
			shuttle anywhere within the star
			system.

         STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - TEASER         2.

2A   CONTINUED:

					SOREN
			It couldn't have travelled outside
			the system.

					RIKER
			Mister Data, reconfigure for a
			high-resolution sweep with a
			radius of one million kilometers.
			Look for possible debris.

	Data works controls once more.

					DATA
			Scan shows no debris within
			that radius.

					KRITE
			I don't understand it. A
			shuttle doesn't simply vanish.

	Soren turns to Riker, frustrated.

					SOREN
			There has to be an explanation...

	But before Riker can answer--

         STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - TEASER         3.

2A   CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA
			Captain, I am detecting an unusual
			reading... It appears to be a
			neutrino emission with no visible
			source.

					PICARD
			Explanation?

					DATA
			I have none. I recommend we
			launch a probe.

					PICARD
			Make it so.

	Soren peers intently at the viewscreen.

					WORF
			The probe is launched.

	A probe shoots off from the Enterprise and is clearly
	visible on the viewscreen.

       STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - TEASER       4.

2A   CONTINUED: (3)

					DATA
			The probe is transmitting
			information within normal
			parameters. Sensors do not show
			evidence of any unusual phenomenon
			--

	Suddenly the probe vanishes from the screen, and from
	Data's instruments.

					DATA
			The probe is no longer
			transmitting.

					SOREN
			What happened? Where did it go?

	And on the various reactions around the bridge --

2B
thru	OMITTED
2C

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE      5.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

          (NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)            

3    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	in orbit around a blue-green planet.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, supplemental. The
			sudden disappearance of our probe
			suggests that we may have found
			the first instance of what is
			called null space -- an anomaly
			which until now had been only
			theoretical. Commander Riker has
			been working around the clock with
			a team of J'naii specialists to
			formalize this hypothesis.

4    INT. J'NAII CIVIC CHAMBER - DAY (OPTICAL)

	Riker, Soren, Krite, NOOR (head of government), and
	other J'naii leaders are gathered to discuss the
	situation. The room is not huge -- just larger than
	the observation lounge.

	Soren and Riker are standing near a monitor in the
	wall, upon which an Okudagram illustrates the gases
	and vapors that swirl into the formation of a star.

					SOREN
			During the creation of a star
			system, when clouds of
			interstellar dust and gas
			coalesce... turbulent regions of
			magnetic and gravitational fields
			may develop.

	The monitor reflects this, showing dense fields of
	disturbance.

					SOREN
			If certain conditions occur,
			these fields can condense into
			abnormal pockets of space.

	Soren turns and glances at Riker. He and Soren have
	been working together on this project, and there's
	already an easy familiarity between them.

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE      6.

4    CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			We think your system contains one
			of these null pockets.

	Riker pushes controls and the monitor shows a star
	system in which one section, or "pocket" is
	significantly different from the space surrounding it.
	Riker points to it.

					RIKER
			If we're right, this pocket would
			absorb electromagnetic energy from
			anything that entered it...

					SOREN
			Like a shuttlecraft.

					RIKER
			Or a probe. Making them
			powerless.

					SOREN
			But outside the pocket, all energy
			is bent around it -- making it
			naturally cloaked. That's why
			we can't see it, and sensors don't
			read it.

					NOOR
			Is the shuttle still there?

					RIKER
			We think so. The ship probably
			couldn't sustain its power...
			but other than that it wouldn't
			be damaged.

					SOREN
			Since our shuttles carry
			plestorene-based backup systems,
			we think life support would
			sustain for as long as ten days.

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE      7.

4    CONTINUED: (2)

					NOOR
			Then perhaps our crew has
			survived...

					RIKER
			We can send one of our shuttles
			into the null space -- but its
			energy output would be absorbed
			as well. Our chief engineer is
			working on a way to maintain the
			power reserves long enough to
			rescue your crew.

					NOOR
			Commander... we're grateful for
			your help.
				(rising)
			Whatever resources we can provide
			are yours.

	Noor heads for the door, followed by the others.
	Riker turns to Soren.

					SOREN
			I've been thinking... when the
			time comes, I'd like to pilot the
			shuttle.

	Riker is a little surprised at this.

					RIKER
			It's a Starfleet craft...

					SOREN
			I can't ask you to put yourself
			in danger to rescue our crew.

					RIKER
			You can't pilot a shuttle you're
			not familiar with.

	Soren hesitates, realizing the truth of what he's
	saying... but not wanting to give up.

        STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT ONE        7A.

4    CONTINUED: (3)

					SOREN
			I happen to be a good pilot...

	A beat.

					RIKER
			I happen to be a good pilot, too.
			I also know my way around
			Starfleet shuttles. So... what
			if we team up?

	Soren considers, looks at him, smiles.

					SOREN
			When can we go over your shuttle
			flight operations?

					RIKER
			Right now.

	And he gestures Soren out of the room.

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE      8.

5    INT. SHUTTLE BAY

	Riker and Soren walk around the shuttlecraft.

					RIKER
			It's a short-range craft... with
			two twelve-hundred fifty
			millicochrane warp engines...

					SOREN
			Looks like microfusion
			thrusters...

					RIKER
			Right.

					SOREN
			Armament?

					RIKER
			Usually none. But it's been
			fitted with two type-four phaser
			emitters... we'll use them to
			chart the null space.

					SOREN
				(puzzled)
			Chart it?

					RIKER
			Commander La Forge wants to get
			an idea of how big this pocket
			is. He thinks the rate of energy
			absorption will be linked to its
			size.

					SOREN
			I'm not sure how we go about
			mapping something we can't see...

					RIKER
			That's where the emitters come
			in. We'll shoot a series of
			photon pulses into the pocket and
			chart the points where they
			disappear. We should be able to
			plot a fairly complete outline
			that way.

	Soren gives him a look and smiles, nodding. She turns
	to ENTER the shuttle.

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE      9.

5    CONTINUED:

					SOREN
			Let's take a look at the controls.

	Soren enters the shuttlecraft, followed by Riker.

5A   INT. SHUTTLE

	They sit at the controls.

					RIKER
			Maybe later we can try a flight
			simulation, but first let's do
			a systems review.
				(taps controls)
			I'll walk you through it...

	Soren gives him a quick look, puts hands on the
	controls.

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE      10.

5B   CLOSE ON MONITOR (OPTICAL)

	The monitor on the panel jumps to life, scrolling
	through a systems review.

5C   BACK TO SCENE

					SOREN
			Propulsion system... transfer
			conduits... where's the schematic
			of the reactor assembly? Oh,
			there it is... engine nacelles...

	She looks over at Riker, who is watching her go through
	the review at top speed.

					SOREN
			There's nothing here that's
			unfamiliar.

	She continues manipulating the console like a pro.

					SOREN
			Navigational deflector...
			redundant graviton polarity source
			generators...

	Riker is watching in admiration.

					RIKER
			You're handling those controls
			like you grew up in a shuttle...

					SOREN
			I did. My parents were pilots.
			I started flying with them before
			I could walk. And as soon as I
			was old enough, I entered flight
			school. Krite was my instructor.

					RIKER
			He had a good student.

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE      11.

5C   CONTINUED:

	Soren looks at him, coolly amused.

					SOREN
			"He?" Commander, there are no
			"he's" or "she's" in a species
			without gender.

	Riker grins, throws up his hands.

					RIKER
			Okay. For two days I've been
			trying to construct sentences
			without personal pronouns. I give
			up... what should I say? "It?"
			To us, that's almost rude.

					SOREN
			We use a pronoun which is neutral.
			But it doesn't really have a
			translation.

					RIKER
				(good-naturedly)
			Then I'll just have to muddle
			through... so be tolerant if a
			stray "he" or "she" slips by,
			okay?

	Soren smiles at him and they work for a beat more.

					SOREN
			Well, if that's the systems
			review, I don't see any problems
			here. What's next?

	Riker smiles in admiration for this quick study.

					RIKER
			Lunch.

	Soren looks at him. Smiles.

6
thru	OMITTED
7

8    INT. TEN FORWARD

	Riker at a table with Soren. In the background, beyond
	them, is a couple in intimate conversation, heads
	close. We will see them later. A waiter has just set
	bowls of soup on Riker's table.

        STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT ONE        12.

8    CONTINUED:

	Soren peers down at it, puzzled.

					SOREN
			What is it?

					RIKER
			Split pea soup. My father's
			recipe. I had it programmed into
			the replicators.

	Soren takes a spoonful, touches her tongue to it.
	(NOTE: From this point on, for the sake of
	convenience, feminine pronouns will be used in
	reference to Soren.) She tastes it, is not displeased,
	takes a little more.

					RIKER
			Well?

					SOREN
			Unusual... but I think I like
			it...

					RIKER
			It's very healthy. Helps keep
			you warm on a cold Alaskan night.

					SOREN
			We prefer to stay warm by sleeping
			with a friend.

	The statement is startling in its casualness. Riker
	looks at her, taken aback.

					RIKER
			I see...

					SOREN
				(explaining)
			Not to mate... just to sleep
			together. For warmth.

					RIKER
			Sounds better than pea soup.

	Soren gives him a direct, penetrating look.

					SOREN
			We are puzzling to you, aren't
			we?

        STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT ONE        13.

8    CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER
			A little. It's hard to grasp the
			idea of having no gender...

					SOREN
			It's just as hard for us to
			understand the strange division
			you have in your species... males
			and females.

	Riker can't help but smile. Soren's gaze drifts to
	the couple in the corner, who are being openly
	affectionate with each other.

					SOREN
			You... are male.

	Riker nods, not certain where this is leading.

					SOREN
			Tell me... about males. What is
			it that makes you different from
			females?

	A tall order. Riker considers.

					RIKER
			Snips and snails and puppy dog's
			tails...

	She stares at him, dumbfounded.

					SOREN
			You have a dog's tail?

					RIKER
				(laughing)
			That's an old nursery rhyme.
			Girls are made of sugar and spice.
			Boys are made of snips and
			snails...

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE      14.

8    CONTINUED: (3)

					SOREN
			That makes it sound better to be
			female.

					RIKER
			It's an old fashioned way of
			looking at the sexes. Not to say
			that there aren't real
			differences. Physically, men tend
			to be bigger... stronger in the
			upper body. We have different
			sexual organs. Men don't bear
			young...

					SOREN
			What about... feelings? Emotional
			attitudes? Are they different?

					RIKER
			Well... most people think so.
			But that's the kind of question
			that might take an hour or two
			to answer.

	She smiles and glances again at the affectionate
	couple.

					RIKER
			Let me ask you...
				(struggling a bit)
			What's it like... on a planet where
			the people have no gender?

	She gives him a curious look.

					SOREN
			I'm afraid I don't understand.

					RIKER
			Well... who leads when you dance?
			If you dance...

					SOREN
			We do... and... whoever's taller
			leads.

	She gives him a direct look, and he can't tell whether
	she's kidding or not. He keeps it in a playful mode.

					RIKER
			Without the "battle of the
			sexes"... you probably don't
			have as many arguments...

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT ONE     14A.

8    CONTINUED: (4)

	She regards him with amusement.

					SOREN
			Just because we don't have gender
			doesn't mean we don't have
			conflict. We're very strong-
			minded... we love a good fight.

	He eyes her, taken by her wit and her forthrightness.

					RIKER
			Sounds like there aren't that
			many differences between your
			species and mine...

	She smiles, looking directly at him.

					SOREN
			Maybe not.

	Soren hesitates only briefly before the next question,
	which she asks casually.

					SOREN
			What kind of woman do you find
			attractive?

	Riker gives her a slight look, wondering where this
	questioning is coming from.

					RIKER
			I like a woman who's intelligent
			and sure of herself... somebody
			I can talk to and get something
			back.
				(beat)
			But the most important thing of
			all -- she has to laugh at my
			jokes.

        STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT ONE        15.

8    CONTINUED: (5)

	Soren does.

					SOREN
			And is that the kind of woman all
			human males prefer?

					RIKER
			Not at all. Some men like quiet,
			demure women... others prefer a
			lot of energy... some respond only
			to physical attractiveness...
			others couldn't care less. There
			aren't any rules.

	She smiles at him. Her eyes flicker over to the
	couple, who exchange a brief kiss.

					SOREN
			You make it sound very complex.

					RIKER
			Believe me -- it is.

	Soren looks into his eyes. A subtle but unmistakable
	change comes over her... the look is seductive. Her
	voice takes on a sensuous tone.

					SOREN
			Perhaps it is that complexity...
			which makes differences in the
			sexes... so interesting.

	She smiles at him, leaning forward slightly, waiting
	for a response. Riker is taken aback. He stares at
	her, not sure how to respond. He is rescued from the
	dilemma by the arrival of Krite, who approaches the
	table from behind Soren.

					KRITE
			Good evening, Commander.

					RIKER
			Good evening.

					SOREN
				(rising)
			Please take my place, Krite. I
			have to be going.

	Riker looks up at her; she has undergone another
	transformation. Gone is the seductiveness, the
	alluring voice, the pliant body language. She is erect
	and formal -- a typical J'naii.

        STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT ONE        15A.

8    CONTINUED: (6)

					SOREN
			Thank you for going over the
			flight protocols, Commander. It's
			been very helpful.

	And she walks away, Riker looking after her, puzzled.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO      16.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

10   EXT. SPACE - SHUTTLE AND ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as the shuttle moves away from the Enterprise.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, stardate 45616.3.
			Commander Riker and the J'naii
			pilot have set out on a mission
			to chart the null space pocket.
			If they are successful, we can
			then proceed with a rescue
			attempt.

11   INT. SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	Riker and Soren.

					SOREN
			I've illuminated the delta-four
			grid map. We can start there and
			then expand.

					RIKER
			Stand by forward phaser array...

	Riker hits controls, and he and Soren begin their
	collaborative charting effort.

12   EXT. SPACE - THE SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	A thin stream shoots from the shuttle but quickly runs
	into an "invisible wall" -- the stream disappearing
	into the null space.

13   INT. SHUTTLE

	as Soren measures.

					SOREN
			The pulse vanished at delta
			four-point-two by point three.

					RIKER
			Firing second burst...

					SOREN
			Delta four-point-four by point
			five.

	Riker glances at the monitor.

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO      17.

13AA	ANGLE - MONITOR (OPTICAL)

	which shows a gradually lengthening curved line -- the
	outline of the null space pocket.

					RIKER
			It's working. I think we'll be
			able to give Commander La Forge
			the information he needs.

					SOREN
			Delta four-point-five by point
			seven...

					RIKER
			I'm initiating computer task
			hand-off...

13AB	RIKER AND SOREN (OPTICAL)

	as they settle into an easy rhythm, a give-and-take
	that becomes unspoken as they anticipate and respond
	to each other's moves. Presently, Soren glances over
	at him.

					SOREN
			Commander... tell me about your
			sexual organs.

	Riker gives her a startled look.

					RIKER
			Ahhh...

					SOREN
			Is that an uncomfortable subject
			for Humans?

					RIKER
			No... but it doesn't tend to be
			a topic of casual
			conversation...

					SOREN
			I'm interested in your mating
			practices... what is involved
			when there are two sexes.

	Riker takes refuge in a moment of distraction from
	their mapping project.

					RIKER
			Correcting course... zero-two-one
			mark zero...

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO      18.

13AB	CONTINUED:

	The graph is gradually taking fuller shape, delineating
	the outline of the null pocket. Soren looks at him...
	he looks over at her, sees her watching, waiting for
	his response.

					SOREN
			Mating.

					RIKER
			Right. Well, it's pretty simple.
			The men inseminate the women and
			the women carry the babies.

	Soren absorbs this.

					SOREN
			Our fetuses are incubated in
			fibrous husks which both parents
			inseminate. From what we know
			of other species, our method is
			less risky and less painful.

					RIKER
				(to himself)
			And less enjoyable...

					SOREN
				(hearing him)
			Less enjoyable?

					RIKER
				(trying to explain)
			For Humans... the sexual act
			brings a closeness... an
			intimacy... it's a very
			pleasurable experience...
				(beat: on the other
				 hand)
			Inseminating a husk...

	Soren laughs at this.

					SOREN
			That's just the last step. Mating
			is a long ritual for us... full
			of variety and invention... I
			assure you -- it's extremely
			pleasurable.

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO     18A.

13AB	CONTINUED: (2)

	Riker turns his attention to the controls once more.

					RIKER
			I'm picking up a neutrino
			emission... from within the null
			space.

					SOREN
			That may be coming from our
			shuttle. I'll note these
			coordinates.

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO      19.

13AB	CONTINUED: (3)

	They work for a moment in silence, then --

					SOREN
			I wonder...

	A beat.

					RIKER
			What... ?

					SOREN
			If a Human and a J'naii would be
			sexually compatible...

	A provocative question. Riker doesn't know where it's
	coming from.

					RIKER
			I don't know...

					SOREN
			Of course, it would never be
			permitted.

					RIKER
			Why not?

					SOREN
			The idea of gender... it's
			offensive to my people. You see,
			long ago we had two sexes, as
			you do. But we evolved... into
			a higher form.
				(beat)
			I don't mean to sound insulting...
			but on my planet we've been taught
			that gender is...
				(struggling for the
				 least offensive word)
			...primitive.

					RIKER
				(good naturedly)
			Primitive.

					SOREN
			Less evolved...

					RIKER
			Maybe so. But sometimes there's
			a lot to be said for an experience
			that's... primitive.

	She gives him a look... then turns to her controls.

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO     19A.

13AB	CONTINUED: (4)

					SOREN
			Delta-five grid is fully
			plotted...

					RIKER
				(checking monitor)
			Adjusting course... zero-two-nine
			mark zero.

13A  EXT. SPACE - THE SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	as it turns slightly to port, the port engine nacelle
	suddenly disappears, the re-appears. The shuttle
	starts to go into a spin.

13B  INT. SHUTTLE

	where things are suddenly going crazy. The shuttle
	rolls wildly as Soren and Riker try to regain control.

					RIKER
			The port engine is down...

					SOREN
			Reducing power in the starboard
			nacelle...

					RIKER
			That's not enough... I have to
			activate the maneuvering thrusters
			to correct the spin...

	He keys controls.

					SOREN
			Thrusters aren't responding...

	She gets out of her seat and moves toward a wall panel.

					SOREN
			I'll try to reroute the firing
			sequence...

					RIKER
			Inertial dampers are failing...
			hang on!

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO     19B.

13B  CONTINUED:

	Riker fights to correct the spin. But a wild roll
	flips Soren and topples her onto the deck.

					GEORDI'S COM VOICE
			Enterprise to shuttle... do you
			read me?

					RIKER
			Affirmative... we've lost an
			engine...

					GEORDI'S COM VOICE
			We'll try to get a tractor beam
			on you...

	Riker is being pinned back in his seat by the G forces.

					RIKER
				(with difficulty)
			The sooner the better...

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO      20.

13B  CONTINUED: (2)

	And the shuttle gradually stabilizes. As it comes
	under control...

					RIKER
			Enterprise, we have an injury.
			Transport Soren directly to
			sickbay.

					GEORDI'S COM VOICE
			Right away, Commander.

	And on Riker's concern --

14
thru	OMITTED
15

15A  EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)

	The Enterprise at rest.

16   INT. SICKBAY

	Beverly ministers to Soren, who is sitting on a
	bio-bed.

					BEVERLY
			It's just a mild concussion...
			You're going to be fine.
				(using tricorder)
			This will reduce the inflammation.

	She works for a beat, then --

					SOREN
			Doctor... you are female.

	Beverly looks at her curiously.

					BEVERLY
			Yes...

					SOREN
			Forgive me... I don't mean to be
			rude... but I'm curious. What
			is it like?

	A question Beverly's rarely had to consider.

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO     20A.

16   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			Well... it's... just the way I
			am. I've never thought about what
			it's like.

					SOREN
			What is it that makes you female?

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO      21.

16   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			Very specific biological factors.
			Females carry two X chromosomes,
			males carry an X and a Y. Hormone
			levels are distinctly different;
			males produce primarily
			testosterone, while women produce
			estrogen. Our sexual organs are
			very different -- females' are
			geared to bearing and nursing the
			young.

	Soren takes this in for a moment.

					SOREN
			I've noticed... that you tend to
			have longer hair... you arrange
			it more elaborately... and you
			apply color to your bodies.

	Beverly is bemused by this objective assessment.

					BEVERLY
			Color... ?

					SOREN
			You put color on your mouths...
			your eyes... your cheeks... even
			your fingernails. The men don't.

					BEVERLY
			That's true...

					SOREN
			Why do you decorate yourselves
			like that?

					BEVERLY
			It's a long-time custom... we're
			used to it...
				(beat -- with a smile)
			... but I think the real reason
			-- is to attract men.

					SOREN
			Really?

					BEVERLY
			Mmmm-hmmmm...

	Soren ponders this a moment.

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO     21A.

16   CONTINUED: (2)

					SOREN
			Then... it's up to women to
			attract the men?

					BEVERLY
			Oh, believe me, men want to be
			attractive, too -- but they go
			about it differently.

					SOREN
			No color...

					BEVERLY
			No color. They'd rather
			pretend they're not doing
			anything to attract a woman...
			even when it's the most important
			thing on their minds.

					SOREN
			It's very confusing.
				(beat)
			Are women considered superior?
			Or are men?

					BEVERLY
			Neither. In the past, women were
			often considered weak and
			inferior. But that hasn't been
			true for a long time.

					SOREN
			Do you... enjoy being a woman?

	Beverly thinks, decides, smiles.

					BEVERLY
			Yes. As a matter of fact, I enjoy
			it a lot.

	Soren smiles at her, and at this point Riker ENTERS.

					BEVERLY
			Will... your co-pilot is fine.
			The injury was minor.

	Riker's smile toward Soren is relieved.

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO      22.

16   CONTINUED: (4)

					RIKER
			I'm glad to hear it.

	Riker approaches her, and during the next, Beverly
	picks up on the attitude... subtle but unmistakeable...
	that Soren is very attracted to Riker.

					SOREN
				(lightly)
			I'm afraid you're not rid of me
			yet, Commander. I'll be able to
			complete the mission.

					RIKER
			Then you should hear my new
			regulation: no more gymnastics
			in the shuttlecraft.

	She smiles. He looks at her, a more serious tone
	in his voice.

					RIKER
			I'm glad you're all right...

	She hears the concern in his voice, flushes slightly,
	looks down. She seems unaccountably nervous, and
	Beverly takes note.

					SOREN
			What happened... why did the
			shuttle go into a spin?

					RIKER
			Apparently, the port engine nacelle
			nicked one of the protrusions from
			the null pocket, and shut down.

					SOREN
			Are we still on schedule for the
			rescue attempt?

					RIKER
			That depends on how you're doing.

	She slips off the bed.

        STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT TWO        22A.

16   CONTINUED: (4)

					SOREN
			I'm fine. We should check out
			the port engine --

	Riker puts his hands on her shoulders to restrain her.
	She stops instantly, as though the touch has
	electrified her.

					RIKER
			Whoa... let's get the doctor's
			opinion first...

	He takes his hands off her shoulders and she takes
	a breath, turns to Beverly.

					SOREN
			Doctor... ?

					BEVERLY
			I don't see a problem. But if
			you have any symptoms... headache,
			dizziness -- come back.

					SOREN
			You have my word.

	They EXIT, and Beverly looks after them, wondering if
	she saw something -- something personal -- happening
	between them.

17   INT. DATA'S QUARTERS

	A poker game in session -- Data, Worf, Troi, Beverly.
	Troi is shuffling.

        STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT TWO        23.

17   CONTINUED:

					TROI
			All right... this round, the game
			is -- Federation Day.

	Worf reacts with distaste.

					WORF
			What is that?

					TROI
			The Federation was founded in
			Twenty-one-sixty-one. So twos,
			sixes, and aces are wild.

	Worf looks almost queasy.

					WORF
			That is a woman's game.

					TROI
				(unbothered)
			Oh? Why is that?

	She proceeds to deal.

					WORF
			All those wild cards... they
			support a weak hand. A man's game
			has no wild cards.

					BEVERLY
			Let me get this straight. Are
			you saying it's a woman's game
			because -- because women are weak
			and need more help?

					WORF
				(why else?)
			Yes.

					BEVERLY
				(with a sigh)
			And just this afternoon I was
			insisting to one of the J'naii
			that those attitudes were nothing
			but a distant memory.

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO      24.

17   CONTINUED: (2)

					WORF
				(a touch of scorn)
			The J'naii...

	He arranges his cards.

					WORF
			They bother me.

					TROI
			Why, Worf?

					WORF
			They just do.

	She gives him a penetrating look.

					WORF
			They are all alike. No males.
			No females.

					TROI
			I'm sure we're just as strange
			to them.

	Worf gives her an incredulous look.

					BEVERLY
			Well, one of them seems to be
			overcoming the differences... at
			least with regard to one of us...

	They stare at her, uncomprehending.

					WORF
			What are you saying, Doctor?

					BEVERLY
			I could be wrong... but I get the
			definite impression that Soren...
			is attracted to Commander Riker.

	They all take this in. Worf is certain in his
	pronouncement.

					WORF
			A human and a J'naii?
			Impossible.

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT TWO      25.

17   CONTINUED: (3)

					DATA
				(puzzled)
			Why?

	A long silence.

					TROI
			Good question. Worf?

	Worf grunts and buries his nose in his cards.

					WORF
			With all the wild cards, it is
			difficult to know exactly what
			is in my hand.
				(beat)
			However, I will open with...
			fifty.

	Smiling, he pushes chips into the middle. The others
	reevaluate their hands.

18   OMITTED

18A  INT. SHUTTLE

	Soren and Riker working on panels and controls inside
	the shuttle.

					SOREN
			The port engine nacelle functions
			are fully restored... maneuvering
			thrusters are operational...

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO      26.

18A  CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			The portable transporter array
			is in. Once we get into null
			space, we'll have to initialize
			it before we transport the J'naii
			crew to this shuttle. But there
			should still be enough power left
			to beam all of us back to the
			Enterprise.

					SOREN
			Is the buffer field generator
			installed?

					RIKER
			Not yet. Geordi figures it'll
			be ready to go at oh-eight-hundred
			hours tomorrow.
				(to Soren)
			We should adjust the engine
			balance before that. Can you
			access the starboard thrust
			manifold?

	She squeezes her self next to Riker, sitting on the
	floor with her back to the wall. They are pressed
	close. She now accesses the thrust manifold.

					SOREN
			There...

					RIKER
			Okay, calibrate it to arc at
			six-point-three while I optimize
			the plasma flow.

	They work together for a beat. Riker is concentrating
	intensely on his work. Soren sneaks a glance over at
	him. Makes a decision. Takes a breath.

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO     26A.

18A  CONTINUED: (2)

					SOREN
			Commander...

					RIKER
			Mmmmm?

					SOREN
			I'd like... to tell you something.
			Something that's not easy to say.

					RIKER
				(still involved in work)
			What's that?

					SOREN
			I... find you attractive.

	Riker stops his work, turns to look at her.

					SOREN
			I'm taking a terrible risk,
			telling you that. It means...
			revealing something to you...
			Something that, if it were known
			on my planet, would be very
			dangerous for me.

	He stares at her, not knowing what she means.

        STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT TWO        27.

18A  CONTINUED: (3)

	As Soren reveals her story, she is at first halting,
	uncertain, and timorous.

					SOREN
			Occasionally, among my people,
			a few are born who are --
			different. Who are throwbacks
			to the era when we all had gender.
			Some are born with strong
			inclinations toward maleness...
			and some have urges to be female.
				(beat)
			I am one of the latter.

					RIKER
			I have to admit... I got the
			feeling you were different.

					SOREN
			I was hoping you would. But in
			front of Krite and the others,
			I must be careful not to reveal
			myself.

					RIKER
			Why?

					SOREN
			On our world these feelings are
			forbidden. Those who are
			discovered are shamed and
			ridiculed. Only by undergoing
			psychotectic therapy and having
			all elements of gender eliminated
			can they become accepted into
			society again.

	Riker is dismayed by her story.

					SOREN
			Those of us who have these
			urges... live secret, guarded
			lives.
					(MORE)

      STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO      28.

18A  CONTINUED: (4)

					SOREN (cont'd)
			We seek each other out... always
			hiding, always terrified of being
			discovered...

	Riker is a bit overwhelmed by all this. His mind
	struggles to accommodate the bizarre story she is
	telling.

					RIKER
			How long have you known you were
			like this?

					SOREN
			I've known I was different all
			my life. But I didn't understand
			how or why until I was older.

					RIKER
			And when you realized... what
			then?

	Soren pauses a moment, searching to provide a context
	for the answer.

					SOREN
			I remember when I was very
			young... before I understood what
			I was... there was a rumor in
			my school that one of the students
			preferred a gender... in that
			case, male. The children started
			making fun of him... every day,
			they got more cruel... They could
			tell he was afraid... and that
			seemed to encourage them.
				(beat)
			He appeared in class one morning,
			bleeding... his clothes ripped.
			He said he'd fallen down.

	She takes a breath, trying to regain composure in the
	face of this ugly memory.

					SOREN
			Of course the school authorities
			heard about it... They took him
			away and gave him psychotectic
			treatments.
					(MORE)

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT TWO     28A.

18A  CONTINUED: (5)

					SOREN (cont'd)
				(beat)
			When he came back... he stood in
			front of the whole school and told
			us how happy he was now that he
			had been cured.

	There is a long silence.

					SOREN
			After that... I knew how dangerous
			it was to be different. And as
			I got older, and realized what
			I was, I was terrified.
				(a breath)
			I've lived with that fear ever
			since.

					RIKER
			Do you have... relationships...
			with others?

					SOREN
			Yes -- with those who have
			discovered they are male.

	Riker stares at her, mind reeling. She lifts a hand
	and touches his face, gently.

					SOREN
			I've had to live a life of
			pretense and lies. With you...
			I can be honest.

	He starts to speak, but she covers his lips with her
	fingers.

					SOREN
			Don't say anything. Just... think
			about it.

	They look into each other's eyes for a moment more,
	then Soren wriggles out and moves out of the shuttle.
	Riker stares after her, a myriad thoughts and emotions
	overwhelming him.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT THREE     29.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

19   INT. SHUTTLE BAY

	Riker and Soren are preparing for the mission launch.
	They are strangely silent, not meeting the other's eye.
	Geordi emerges from the shuttle, where he's made a
	flight check.

					GEORDI
			Okay, Commander, everything checks
			out. The energy buffer is
			installed and functioning. I
			estimate it should reduce the
			power drain to your systems by
			about forty percent.

					RIKER
			Any guess how long we'll have?

					GEORDI
			Let just say... you don't want
			to waste any time once you get
			in there.

	Geordi looks from Riker to Soren.

					GEORDI
				(to Soren)
			You'll have to give him continuous
			readouts on energy consumption.
			I can't even predict if the drain
			will be at a constant rate.

					SOREN
			I understand.

	She casts a glance at Riker, who isn't looking at her.
	Geordi looks from one to the other.

					GEORDI
			Then... that's it.

       STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT THREE       30.

19   CONTINUED:

	Now Riker and Soren exchange glances. He gestures her
	into the shuttle. She nods and ENTERS.

					GEORDI
			I'll monitor you as far as I can,
			Commander. But once you get into
			that pocket -- you're on your own.

					RIKER
			Since we don't know the condition
			of the shuttle crew, I'll beam
			us all directly to sickbay.

					GEORDI
			I'll notify Doctor Crusher to be
			standing by.

	Riker ENTERS the shuttle, closes the doors. Geordi
	touches his combadge.

					GEORDI
			La Forge to bridge...

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			Picard here...

					GEORDI
			We're ready to initiate shuttle
			prelaunch sequence.

	He turns and EXITS.

20   INT. BRIDGE

	Picard, Data, Worf, N.D.'s, and Krite at a science
	station.

					PICARD
			Proceed, Mister Data.

					DATA
				(working controls)
			Prelaunch sequence is underway.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Request flight clearance.

       STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT THREE       31.

20   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			Clearance is granted.
				(beat)
			The shuttle is underway.

					PICARD
			Good hunting, Commander.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Thank you, sir. See you for
			dinner.

21   INT. SHUTTLE

	Riker and Soren.

					RIKER
			Heading three-five-five mark
			zero-one-two.

					SOREN
			Heading confirmed.

	They fly in silence for a moment, each busy with
	controls.

					SOREN
			Energy readings are normal, with
			power reserves stabilized at one
			hundred percent.

					RIKER
			Acknowledged.

					SOREN
			It's dead ahead, approximately
			fifty kilometers.

					RIKER
			Riker to Enterprise. We're going
			in.

	Riker pushes controls and the ship moves forward.

22   EXT. SPACE - THE SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	as it moves forward... and, as it reaches the "pocket,"
	begins disappearing -- starting with the nose and
	gradually all the way down the body of the craft.
	Then, it is gone.

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT THREE     32.

23   OMITTED

24   INT. SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	Through the front window, we see a white glare -- null
	space.

					RIKER
				(testing)
			Riker to Enterprise...
				(beat)
			Riker to Enterprise...

	No answer.

					SOREN
				(checking instruments)
			Power reserves are down to
			eighty-four percent.

					RIKER
			Look...

	She looks up to see --

25   ANGLE THROUGH WINDOW (OPTICAL)

	revealing the J'naii shuttle, very small, in the
	distance.

					RIKER
			Try hailing them...

					SOREN
			Calling the "Taris Murn... " Do
			you read me?

	There is no response. Worried, she turns to Riker.

					RIKER
			I'm getting sensor readings.
			They're unconscious -- but they're
			alive.
				(beat)
			Stand by. I'm going to transport
			them over here.

					SOREN
			Power reserves at sixty-eight
			percent and dropping.

	Riker keys controls.

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT THREE     33.

26   ANGLE - INCLUDING REAR OF SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	The shimmering EFFECT of MATERIALIZATION begins,
	showing the shape of two unconscious forms. But the
	signal doesn't hold and the EFFECT shimmers away.

					RIKER
			The null space must be affecting
			the annular confinement beam...

					SOREN
			We used ten megajoules with that
			attempt. We're down to
			thirty-four percent of reserves.

					RIKER
			We can give it one more try. More
			than that and we won't have enough
			power to get ourselves out of
			here.

	Grimly, he keys controls again. The EFFECT shimmers
	in, fades, reappears, pulses -- and, finally, holds,
	as the two unconscious J'naii MATERIALIZE on the rear
	deck of the shuttle. Soren immediately gets to her
	feet and goes to them, inspects them.

					SOREN
			They need medical attention
			quickly.

	Riker rises and joins the huddle of figures.

					RIKER
			Okay. Stand by to transport to
			the Enterprise.

	He turns to a panel on the wall and enters coordinates.

					RIKER
			Here we go...

	The EFFECT shimmers in again, DEMATERIALIZING the group
	of four. There is an instant of clear screen, as
	though they've made it -- but then they SHIMMER back
	into view, then pulse a few more times, as though the
	transporter is giving its all. But finally, the group
	MATERIALIZES onto the rear deck of the shuttle, intact
	-- and still inside null space.

	Riker and Soren look at each other. It didn't work.

					RIKER
			Energy consumption?

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT THREE     34.

26   CONTINUED:

					SOREN
				(checking controls)
			We're down to nine percent. Will,
			we don't have enough to get back.

	Riker thinks for a moment, mind racing to figure a way
	out of this predicament. Soren is using a tricorder,
	inspecting the unconscious shuttle crew.

					RIKER
			If we just sit here, we'll lose
			all our systems within an hour
			-- including life support.

	Riker turns to the controls, begins tapping
	instructions.

					RIKER
			I'm rerouting the propulsion
			system to the transporter...
				(to Soren)
			Rechannel the navigation
			systems...

	Soren obeys, working quickly.

					RIKER
			Let's transfer every microjoule
			of energy we've got... sensors...
			life support... this might give
			us one last shot.

					SOREN
			An energy shift of that size...
			it'll overload the phase
			compensators... the shuttle --

					RIKER
			Will explode. But if we stay here
			we're dead, anyway.

	He works his controls once more.

     STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT THREE     35.

26   CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER
			Maximum energy levels in five
			seconds...

	He watches the console, monitoring the energy surge. A
	HUM is swelling in intensity. Their eyes meet... a
	charged look...

					RIKER
			See you in a minute.

	He pushes controls and the shimmering EFFECT takes them
	over, pulses slightly... the HUMMING sound gets
	louder... they vanish... and the shuttle EXPLODES from
	the force of the energy surge.

26A  EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)

	as the shuttle explodes.

27   INT. ENTERPRISE - SICKBAY (OPTICAL)

	as the two unconscious J'naii, and Riker and Soren
	MATERIALIZE. Picard, Beverly and medical personnel,
	and Krite are waiting for them. Beverly and her team
	hurry to the J'naii; Krite follows.

					KRITE
			Doctor... ?

					BEVERLY
				(as she inspects them)
			They've been oxygen-deprived...
			but I don't think there's any
			significant damage.
				(to orderly)
			Prepare some dexalin.

	Relieved, Krite moves toward the others.

28   ANGLE - RIKER AND THE GROUP

					KRITE
			Commander -- thank you.

        STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT THREE 35-36A           

28   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Your colleague Soren was a great
			help.

					KRITE
				(to Picard)
			Captain... if you would all join
			us this evening... we would like
			to express our gratitude...

					PICARD
			We'd be happy to.

	Krite moves toward Soren.

					KRITE
			Noor will be eager to get a
			first-hand report. We should
			return to the surface.

	Soren nods and turns toward Riker; their eyes meet.

					SOREN
				(formally)
			I will see you tonight then,
			Commander?

	Riker inclines his head, just as formally, but still
	holding her look. Krite notices the look, and then
	Soren and Krite EXIT.

28A  EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)

	The Enterprise in orbit of J'naii.

29   EXT. J'NAII PLANET - NIGHT

	A courtyard/garden. To one side is the exterior wall
	of the civic chamber; to the other are trees and greens
	suggesting a secluded, wooded area. Riker is sitting
	on a bench, listening to the SOUND of festivities
	within. Presently, Soren appears.

       STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT THREE       37.

29   CONTINUED:

					SOREN
			There you are, Commander. I
			wondered what had happened to our
			guest of honor.

					RIKER
			Just getting some fresh air.
				(beat)
			I can take so much of these social
			functions... then I need to
			breathe a little.

	She sits on the bench -- at a distance. She is erect
	and proper.

					SOREN
			I would think you had attended
			so many affairs like this it would
			be second nature to you.

					RIKER
			I was raised in the outdoors.
			I'm never that comfortable in
			crowded rooms...

	There is a silence. The tension between them is
	palpable. Several of the J'naii from inside stroll
	by. As though fearing exposure, Soren and Riker fall
	into a polite formality.

					SOREN
			What do you think of our planet?
			Isn't it beautiful?

					RIKER
			Yes. Quite beautiful.

					SOREN
			We have many varieties of plant
			life...
				(gesturing into the
				 woods)
			Perhaps you would like to inspect
			some of them.

					RIKER
			Yes, I would. I've always been
			interested in exobotany.

	She rises, maintaining the formal posture.

					SOREN
			Please. Let me take you on a
			tour.

       STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT THREE       38.

29   CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER
				(rising)
			Thank you. It's very kind of you.

	They move off toward the woods. Camera pans back
	toward the civic chamber. Standing in the darkness,
	watching them, is Krite.

30   EXT. PLANET - INTO THE WOODS

	Riker and Soren walk along a path. She points out
	various trees and shrubs.

					SOREN
			One of my favorites is this
			menellen tree. The leaves first
			turn pure white, and then blue
			when the weather gets cold...

	They move on, deeper into the woods.

					SOREN
			This is called a falla bush...
			it produces a fragrant flower on
			only one day of the year...

	She moves on... but Riker reaches out and takes her
	arm, turns her back to him. They stand like that for
	an instant, staring at each other, shrouded in the
	cover of the woods, moonlight catching and reflecting
	in Soren's eyes. She parts her lips... moves toward
	him without even realizing she's doing it... and then
	they are locked in one another's arms, kissing deeply,
	as though it were the most natural thing in the world.

									FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

          STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT FOUR         39.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

31   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	still in orbit of the blue-green planet.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, stardate 45620.4.
			We remain in orbit of J'naii,
			charting the null pocket. We hope
			that a detailed map of the anomaly
			will prevent the loss of other
			ships.

32   INT. TROI'S QUARTERS

	Troi sits on her couch, inspecting the contents of a
	box which rests on the floor. There are several
	artifacts spread out on a coffee table -- small
	figures, a doll, pictures, little books, etc. Troi
	holds a larger book on her lap and is leafing through
	the pages. The door CHIMES.

					TROI
			Come in.

	The door opens and Riker ENTERS. She looks up, smiles
	at him.

					TROI
			Hello, Will.

	He comes to her, sits nearby, where he can see what
	she's looking at.

					RIKER
			What's all this?

					TROI
			Wonderful things... my mother sent
			me a box that belonged to one of
			my father's ancestors. It had
			been stored on Earth years ago
			and just recently turned up.

	Riker picks up one of the pictures.

					RIKER
			Do you know who these people are?

          STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT FOUR         40.

32   CONTINUED:

					TROI
			No. A few of the pictures are
			marked with names... but most of
			them aren't. I look at all these
			faces... and wonder who they
			are... if they might be related
			to me...

	Riker picks up a small, worn, stuffed animal and turns
	it in his hands.

					RIKER
				(playful)
			This one looks like you...

	She smiles at him... there's a long beat between them.
	Then--

					RIKER
			Deanna... I've got something on my
			mind... and I had to see you...

        STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR 41-41A.           

32   CONTINUED: (2)

					TROI
			Has something happened?

	He looks up at her, nods.

					RIKER
			I've met someone... someone who's
			becoming important to me...

					TROI
			Soren...

					RIKER
			Yes.

	There is a moment as the two friends gaze at each
	other, the look speaking of trust and affection that
	is deep-seated.

					RIKER
			You're my friend... so it seemed
			like...
				(beat)
			I'm not sure. It just seemed
			right to tell you.

					TROI
			I'm glad you did.

					RIKER
			Nothing will change between us,
			will it?

	She smiles.

					TROI
			Of course it will. All
			relationships are constantly
			changing.

	She reaches out and touches his cheek.

					TROI
			But we will always be friends.
			Maybe even better friends.
			You're part of my life, and I'm
			part of yours. That much will
			always be true.

	He leans forward and they kiss, sweetly and tenderly.

            STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR            42.

33   INT. ENGINEERING

	Riker and Soren work with Geordi; Krite and another
	J'naii are in the background, monitoring a console.
	Riker and Soren are in their formal mode.

					GEORDI
			Turns out the null pocket is even
			more irregular than we expected,
			Commander.

					RIKER
			Maybe its configuration is
			shifting.

					GEORDI
			I don't think so... the
			measurements you took are holding.
			It just has more projections than
			we thought. It's going to take
			longer than we planned to get it
			mapped.

	No response from Riker or Soren, with whom the delay is
	just fine.

					GEORDI
			I'm headed for the shuttle bay.
			We're fitting another shuttle to
			help in the survey.

	Geordi turns and EXITS. Riker and Soren do not look
	at each other.

					RIKER
				(casually)
			Have you made plans for dinner
			this evening?

					SOREN
			I have some paperwork to do...
			I thought I'd start on it...

					RIKER
			I'd like to discuss some of our
			suggestions for regulating travel
			around the null space. Maybe we
			could have an early dinner... so
			you could still get your work done
			afterwards.

            STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR            43.

33   CONTINUED:

					SOREN
			I'd like that.

					RIKER
			Nineteen hundred hours?

					SOREN
			That would be fine.

	An innocuous enough exchange... they keep on working.

34   CLOSE ON KRITE

	Observing them.

34A  EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	still in orbit.

35   INT. CORRIDOR

	Riker walks the corridor toward Soren's quarters, finds
	the right one, presses the panel. The door opens to
	reveal Krite. Riker is surprised.

					RIKER
			Hello. I'm here to see Soren...

					KRITE
			I know.

					RIKER
			We had an appointment.
				(beat)
			To discuss plans for regulating
			the --

					KRITE
			I don't think so, Commander.

					RIKER
			Excuse me?

            STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR           43A.

35   CONTINUED:

					KRITE
			We know about the two of you.
			We know what you're doing.

					RIKER
				(worried now)
			Where's Soren?

					KRITE
			And we're going to make sure it
			doesn't happen again.

					RIKER
			Answer me -- where is Soren?

            STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR            44.

35   CONTINUED: (2)

	A little smile from Krite.

					KRITE
			Gone. In custody. And there's
			nothing you can do about it.

	Riker stares at him, mind racing, trying to figure what
	to do. He makes a decision.

					RIKER
			The hell there isn't.

	And he turns and strides down the corridor.

36   INT. PLANET CIVIC CHAMBER

	Soren sits before a panel of "judges," including Noor.
	A gallery of citizens fills the room.

					NOOR
			You are aware of the charges
			against you?

					SOREN
			Yes.

					NOOR
			Do you intend to dispute them?

	Soren does not answer.

					NOOR
			Well? What is your response?

	Suddenly the doors to the chamber slam open and Riker
	ENTERS, striding toward the judges' table amid the
	hubbub of the startled onlookers. He marches right
	toward Noor. Soren stares at him, astonished.

					RIKER
			Are you in charge here?

            STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR            45.

36   CONTINUED:

					NOOR
			Commander Riker -- these
			proceedings are closed to anyone
			but --

					RIKER
			I think I just opened them.

					NOOR
			Sir, this is a private matter.
			We are grateful for your recent
			help, but that gives you no right
			to interfere with our personal
			concerns --

					RIKER
			I want you to know what really
			happened. It's all my fault.
			I was attracted to Soren. I
			pursued... I insisted. I didn't
			understand your ways until Soren
			told me. And rejected me.
			Nothing happened between us.

	He pauses, looking from one to the other for an
	indication of their response.

					RIKER
			I ask your forgiveness. I
			behaved... inappropriately.

	Noor takes this in. Ponders it. Turns to Soren.

					NOOR
			Is this true?

	Soren hesitates... looks at Riker. Then she rises,
	moves toward Noor.

					SOREN
			No.

					RIKER
			Soren --

					SOREN
				(to Riker)
			I am tired of lies.

	She turns to Noor, head held high.

            STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR            46.

36   CONTINUED: (2)

					SOREN
			I am female. I was born that way.
			I have had those feelings...
			those longings... all my life.

	She takes a breath, desperately hoping to communicate
	to her countrymen.

					SOREN
			It is not unnatural. I am not
			sick because I feel this way.
			I do not need to be helped, and
			I do not need to be cured. What
			I do need -- what all of those
			like me need -- is your
			understanding and your compassion.

	She walks along the line of her accusers.

					SOREN
			We do not injure you in any way.
			And yet we are scorned, and
			attacked. And all because we are
			different.

	A hush has fallen over the room as everyone listens
	to her impassioned speech.

					SOREN
			What we do is no different from
			what you do. We talk and laugh...
			we complain about work and we
			wonder about growing old... we
			talk about our families, and we
			worry about the future...
				(beat)
			We cry with each other when things
			seem hopeless.
				(beat)
			All the loving things that you
			do with each other... that's what
			we do. And for that, we are
			called misfits, and deviants...
			and criminals.

	She looks around at her countrymen, head high,
	unafraid, angry.

            STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FOUR           46A.

36   CONTINUED: (3)

					SOREN
			What right do you have to punish
			us? What right do you have to
			change us? What makes you think
			you can dictate how people love
			each other?

	She looks straight at Noor, passion and conviction
	burning in her eyes.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

            STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FIVE            47.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

37   INT. CIVIC CHAMBER (OPTICAL)

	Continuous action. Soren has just make her
	declaration. Riker stares at her, knowing she has
	fully incriminated herself. Noor is regarding Soren
	with impersonal objectivity.

					NOOR
			I congratulate you, Soren. Your
			decision to admit your perversion
			makes it much more likely that
			we can help you.

	He lifts his hand to gesture toward guards.

					RIKER
			No, wait... you don't have to do
			this...

	Noor turns to him, mildly irritated.

					NOOR
			Commander?

					RIKER
			Let me take her away. She can
			come with me, we'll give her
			asylum on the Enterprise. You'll
			never have to see her again.

	Noor hesitates, as though considering the suggestion.

					RIKER
			That would solve the problem,
			wouldn't it? You'd be rid of
			her... she couldn't influence
			anyone else...

	Noor smiles gently at Riker, as though at a small child
	who just doesn't get it.

					NOOR
			Commander, after Soren's diatribe,
			you must think we are a cruel,
			repressive people. Nothing could
			be further from the truth.

            STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FIVE            48.

37   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			I'm just trying to find a solution
			that would satisfy everyone --

					NOOR
			In fact, we are a remarkably free
			and open society. Our people have
			rights and liberties which give
			them a great deal of
			self-determination. We are, by
			all measurements, an enlightened
			race.

					RIKER
			Then how is it... that Soren has
			no choice about her sexual
			orientation?

					NOOR
			We are concerned about our
			citizens. We take our obligations
			to them seriously. Soren is
			sick... and sick people need to
			get well.

					RIKER
			Did it ever occur to you she
			might prefer to stay the way she
			is?

					NOOR
			You don't understand. We have
			a very high success rate in
			treating deviants like this. And
			without exception -- they have
			become happier people after their
			treatment. And grateful... that
			we care enough to cure them.
					(MORE)

            STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FIVE            49.

37   CONTINUED: (2)

					NOOR (cont'd)
				(beat)
			You see, Commander... on this
			world, everyone wants to be
			normal.

					RIKER
			She is --

	But Noor turns away from Riker and gestures to a nearby
	functionary, who moves to Soren and takes her arm.

					NOOR
			Take her to quarters. Treatment
			will begin tomorrow.

					RIKER
			Don't do this --

	Riker moves toward her, but several of the J'naii step
	between him and Soren, and a crowd envelops her,
	whirling her away from him. The last he sees of her
	is her head, twisting back to look for him, her eyes
	wide and frightened, like a rabbit's as the eagle
	swoops down.

					RIKER
			Soren --

	Riker starts to plow through the group around him, but
	Noor steps directly in front of him and fastens him
	with a stern glance.

					NOOR
			No more, Commander.

	Riker sees Soren disappear through a far door, knows
	it's futile to go after her now. Glaring at Noor --

					RIKER
				(touching combadge)
			Enterprise. One to transport.

	The effect shimmers, and he DEMATERIALIZES.

38   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	in orbit.

            STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FIVE            50.

39   INT. READY ROOM

	Riker has finished telling the story to Picard, who
	has taken it all in and is reflecting on it now.

					RIKER
			I can't just leave her there.
			They'll give her these
			psychotectic treatments...
				(beat)
			I don't know what to do.

	Picard, troubled, looks at his first officer. He knows
	that this is a matter of utmost import to Riker,
	and wants to try to help.

					PICARD
			I could talk to Noor. Perhaps
			there's a way to work this out
			--

					RIKER
				(frustrated)
			Sir, their minds are set. They
			don't want to hear another
			solution.

	Picard takes this in, considers it.

					PICARD
			Then I'm not sure there's much
			we can do.

	Riker looks up at him. He speaks quietly, but with
	resolve.

					RIKER
			There has to be.

	He struggles to frame this in a way that Picard can
	understand.

					RIKER
			My relationship with Soren isn't
			trivial... she's very important
			to me.

          STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/7/92 - ACT FIVE        50A.

39   CONTINUED:

	There is a beat as Riker seems to come to some inner
	decision.

					RIKER
			It's my fault this has happened.
			And I have to help her.

					PICARD
			Will, if you've come here for
			sanction... to take matters into
			your own hands... I can't give
			it to you.

					RIKER
			I know that, sir. But I know
			I have to do something.

	Picard is alarmed at the direction this is taking.

					PICARD
			Interfering in the internal
			matters of the J'naii is
			prohibited by the Prime
			Directive...

					RIKER
			I'm aware of that.

	Picard senses that Riker is becoming more resolved
	to act.

					PICARD
			If you violate it, you may be
			putting your career in jeopardy.

	Riker does not respond.

					PICARD
			Starfleet doesn't take these
			matters lightly... and I can't
			defend you if you go too far...
				(beat)
			Do you understand that?

					RIKER
			You've made yourself very clear,
			sir.

	Riker's implacability is deeply disturbing.

					PICARD
			Will... don't risk everything
			you've worked for...

          STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT FIVE         51.

39   CONTINUED: (2)

	Riker rises.

					RIKER
			Thank you, sir. May I be excused
			now?

	There is a heavy beat before Picard nods. Riker turns
	and wheels out, leaving a very concerned Picard.

40   INT. RIKER'S QUARTERS

	Riker, still in uniform, is assembling some equipment
	-- a phaser, binoculars, a few other tools. As he does
	so, the door CHIMES. He looks up, hesitates to answer.
	The door CHIMES again.

					RIKER
			Who is it?

					WORF'S VOICE
			Lieutenant Worf.

	Riker conceals the small pack of equipment.

					RIKER
			Come in.

	The door opens and Worf ENTERS, carrying a PADD.

					WORF
			Commander, I have the plan for
			deploying warning buoys around
			the null space.

					RIKER
			Fine. Just leave it, I'll look
			at it later.

	Riker has to work to control his impatience -- a fact
	which Worf notices.

          STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT FIVE         52.

40   CONTINUED:

					WORF
			Yes, sir.

	But Worf doesn't turn to go. Riker stares at him.

					RIKER
			Thank you. You're dismissed.

					WORF
			Commander... I am aware of what
			transpired on the planet's
			surface...

	Wary, Riker doesn't respond.

					WORF
			Are you by any chance considering
			an... unannounced visit?

	Again, Riker is silent, but this gives Worf the answer.

					WORF
			I will go with you.

					RIKER
				(starting to protest)
			Lieutenant --

					WORF
			Sir... you are my commanding
			officer... and if you order me
			to stay on board, I will obey.
				(beat)
			But I ask you not to give that
			order. A warrior does not let
			a friend face danger alone.

	Touched by Worf's steadfast loyalty, Riker nods.

					WORF
			I suggest we change clothing
			first.

41   EXT. J'NAII PLANET - NIGHT

	The courtyard/garden. Riker, now dressed in N.D. dark
	clothing, is positioned in the woods, watching toward
	the civic center. The building is lit, and there is
	activity inside. Worf, also in dark clothing, comes up
	to him through the trees.

          STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT FIVE        52A.

41   CONTINUED:

					WORF
			The meeting is ending. I
			think they will bring her out of
			the building soon.

					RIKER
			Okay. They'll probably come
			down that path... we can take
			cover there --
				(gesturing)
			-- behind those rocks.

					WORF
			Yes, Commander.

					RIKER
			She'll be under guard... no
			telling how many...

					WORF
			I will handle the guards. You
			take her to cover.

	Riker notices something in the building.

					RIKER
			Something's happening...

	He lifts the binoculars, peers through them.

41AA
thru	OMITTED
41AB

41AC	CIVIC CENTER - HIS POV (OPTICAL)

	Through a futuristic grid, an opening to the civic
	chamber shows the J'naii moving about in the room.

					RIKER
			They're leaving.

41A  ANGLE - ON WORF AND RIKER

	as they emerge from the shadow of the trees. They
	creep across the courtyard, moving from shadow to
	shadow, toward the civic chamber. Several J'naii
	EXIT into the courtyard. Riker and Worf take cover.

          STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/3/92 - ACT FIVE         53.

41B  ON THE J'NAII

	Two J'naii walk by their position... neither one is
	Soren.

41C  RIKER AND WORF

	glance at each other. Riker points toward the doors
	-- opening once more.

41D  THREE J'NAII

	EXIT and walk off in another direction.

41E  RIKER AND WORF

	exchange another frustrated glance. Then Worf nods
	toward the doors, seeing another group.

42   ANGLE - HALLWAY LEADING TO CIVIC CHAMBER

	as Soren and two guards EXIT the structure, heading
	down the path toward the courtyard.

42A  ANGLE - RIKER AND WORF

	exchange a look and crouch down. As the trio
	approaches, Riker and Worf step out in front of them.
	The guards react, surprised. Riker smiles at them,
	ingenuously.

					RIKER
			Could you excuse us? I have to
			talk to her...

	But the guards go into attack mode, throwing punches
	toward Riker. He blocks the blows and then Worf steps
	in and engages the two of them. Riker takes Soren's
	arm and pulls her toward the woods.

43   ON RIKER AND SOREN

	hurrying into the woods.

					SOREN
			Wait...

					RIKER
			Don't worry... we'll be out of
			here in a minute...

          STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT FIVE         54.

43   CONTINUED:

	He is intent on getting to their prearranged meeting
	place. They are pushing through bushes, shrubs, etc.

					SOREN
			Will, please...

					RIKER
			We're almost there...

	Finally they move into a clearing, where they are
	sheltered by trees and bushes, but moonlight
	illuminates the clearing. Riker stops, turns to her.

					SOREN
			You can't do this...

					RIKER
			I won't let them hurt you. You'll
			be safe on the Enterprise.

	She turns away from him, silent. Puzzled, he takes
	a step toward her.

					RIKER
			Soren...

	She turns back, looking at him with curious detachment.

					SOREN
			I'm so sorry... it's my fault you
			got involved in all this...

					RIKER
			It's going to be all right...
			everything's going to be fine...

					SOREN
			No, it's not.

	He stares at her, not comprehending her strange
	attitude.

					RIKER
			What are you talking about?

					SOREN
			It was all a mistake. I should
			have realized it from the
			beginning...

					RIKER
			What... ?

          STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT FIVE        54A.

43   CONTINUED: (2)

					SOREN
			That I was sick. I had these
			terrible urges... that's why I
			reached out to you... but it was
			wrong. I see that now.

	And now he understands. She's already been treated.
	He is too late.

					SOREN
				(a little shake of her
				 head)
			I don't understand how I could
			have done... what I did.

	He grasps for anything...

          STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - REV. 1/6/92 - ACT FIVE         55.

43   CONTINUED: (3)

					RIKER
			Maybe... maybe Doctor Crusher
			could treat you... bring you
			back... to the way you were
			before.

	She smiles sadly at him, truly sorry for his pain, but
	disconnected from it.

					SOREN
			Why would I want that?

					RIKER
			Soren... I love you.

	She looks at him, not even vague regret in her eyes...
	as though looking at someone she knows she once loved,
	but can't remember why.

					SOREN
			I'm sorry.

	And she turns and melts into the darkness. Riker
	stares after her.

44   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	in orbit.

45   INT. BRIDGE

	Picard, Data, and N.D. personnel. Picard is forward,
	talking to Data and the Conn Officer.

					PICARD
			How long to the Phelan system?

					DATA
			At warp six, fifty-three hours,
			sir.

            STAR TREK: "The Outcast" - 1/2/92 - ACT FIVE            56.

45   CONTINUED:

	The turbolift doors open and close, pulling Picard's
	look. Riker EXITS the turbolift and starts down the
	ramp.

					PICARD
			Commander... ?

	Riker is impassive, his face revealing nothing, but
	his voice is tight.

					RIKER
			Captain.

	They hold a look for a moment. Riker sits.

					PICARD
			Starfleet has just sent a message
			asking us to proceed to the Phelan
			system to negotiate a trade
			agreement.

					RIKER
			Yes, sir.

					PICARD
			I wasn't sure when to tell them
			we'd be underway.
				(beat)
			Is our business with the J'naii
			finished?

					RIKER
			Finished, sir.

	There is another beat, and then Picard turns to the
	Conn Officer.

					PICARD
			Very well. Ensign, take us out
			of orbit, set a course for the
			Phelan system. Warp six.
				(beat)
			Engage.

	OFF Riker's reaction...

46   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	jumps into warp speed and away.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END