STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "The Perfect Mate" #40275-221 Story by Rene Echevarria and Rueben Leder Teleplay by Rueben Leder and Michael Piller Directed by Cliff Bole 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 This script is not for publication or reproduction.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 FEBRUARY 10, 1992 STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - CAST STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "The Perfect Mate" CAST PICARD BRIAM RIKER ALRIK DATA KAMALA BEVERLY QOL TROI PAR LENOR GEORDI MINER #1 WORF MINER #2 MINER #3 TRANSPORTER OFFICER Non-Speaking Non-Speaking SUPERNUMERARIES HAROD IV MINERS MEDICAL TEAM NURSE STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/91 - SETS STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "The Perfect Mate" SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM OBSERVATION LOUNGE TRANSPORTER ROOM VARIOUS CORRIDORS CARGO BAY SICKBAY TURBOLIFT TEN FORWARD PICARD'S QUARTERS KAMALA'S QUARTERS FERENGI QUARTERS HOLODECK TEMPLE OF AKADAR CEREMONIAL CHAMBER STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/12/92 - PRONUNCIATION STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "The Perfect Mate" PRONUNCIATION GUIDE LES EYZIES lay-ZAY-zee ALRIK AWL-rik BRIAM BREE-um FINIIS'RAL fin-is-RAHL KAMALA kah-MAH-lah KRIOSIAN kree-OHSH-ee-an LAPEONGICAL lah-pee-ONJ-ih-kahl LUDUGIAL luhd-DOOG-ee-all PAR LENOR pahr lehn-OHR PALORIS pahl-OHR-is QOL KWOHL TARGHEE tar-JZEE TORZE-QUA TORHRZ-kwah VENTANAN ven-TAHN-un STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - TEASER 1-1A. STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "The Perfect Mate" TEASER FADE IN: 1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) leaving orbit around the planet Krios. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, stardate 45761.3. In an effort to bring an end to their centuries-long war, Krios and Valt Minor have agreed to a Ceremony of Reconciliation, to be held aboard the Enterprise at a point mid-way between their two systems. 2 INT. READY ROOM PICARD and the Kriosian Ambassador, BRIAM. Briam is tall, almost frail-looking, and his people have dark skin and hair, much in the manner of those from Earth's Indian subcontinent. Picard hands him a cup of tea. PICARD I apologize for the delay in our arrival; we had to stop at Harod Four and pick up a group of stranded miners. BRIAM Please, Captain. We are grateful that the Federation has taken as much interest as it has in this matter. PICARD Was Mister La Forge able to provide the special cargo handling provisions you requested? BRIAM Indeed he was. However... until we reach our rendezvous with the Valtese, may I ask that the cargo bay be declared off-limits to all but the most essential personnel? STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - TEASER 2-2A. 2 CONTINUED: PICARD I trust, Ambassador, that this cargo is not in any way dangerous? BRIAM Nothing of the sort. It is a gift... for Alrik, the Valtese leader. I am cautious only because it is quite fragile... and quite irreplaceable. RIKER's COM VOICE Bridge to Captain Picard... PICARD Go ahead. INTERCUT 3 INT. MAIN BRIDGE RIKER (continuing) We've picked up a distress call from a Ferengi shuttle... Picard frowns. PICARD (rises) Set a course to intercept... RIKER Aye, sir... 4 INT. CAPT. READY ROOM As they rise to EXIT... BRIAM Captain, the timing of our ceremony with Alrik is critical. It cannot be delayed... PICARD We'll be at the rendezvous on schedule, don't worry. 5 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) coming out of warp... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - TEASER 3. 6 INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Picard has joined RIKER, WORF and DATA on the bridge. DATA The Ferengi report their containment field is collapsing... WORF We are within visual range. PICARD On screen. The image on the VIEWSCREEN is magnified and the shuttle is revealed... a trail of some emissions can be seen, the ship seems to be drifting... DATA Their reactor core is unstable, Captain... PICARD How many on board? DATA Two, sir. RIKER (to com) Bridge to transporter room three. Boost your output and lock on to the two Ferengi on board the shuttle. We may have to attempt a long-range transport. TRANSPORTER OFFICER'S COM VOICE Standing by. On the VIEWER, a small explosion aboard the Ferengi ship... PICARD Energize! Suddenly the entire ship goes. 7 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL) As the TRANSPORTER OFFICER works his controls. Two figures MATERIALIZE on the pads... TRANSPORTER OFFICER Got them, sir. 8 ON TRANSPORTER CHAMBER where TWO FERENGI now stand, smiling their toothy grins. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - TEASER 4. 9 INT. MAIN BRIDGE RIKER Mister Worf, escort our Ferengi guests to quarters... (afterthought) ... not too close to mine. WORF Understood. He EXITS... 10 INT. CORRIDOR As Worf comes around a corner leading the Ferengi... WORF Unless you can arrange for your own transport, you will have to remain on the Enterprise until we have completed our mission... QOL That will not be a problem. PAR LENOR We are in no hurry. QOL We look forward to enjoying the comforts of your fine ship. Worf leads them to a door which opens into... 11 INT. FERENGI QUARTERS As they ENTER... QOL Quite acceptable. Not what we're used to, you understand... but it will do. PAR LENOR Perhaps your captain would care to invite us to join him for dinner this evening... WORF The captain dines alone. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - TEASER 5. 11 CONTINUED: QOL A pity. Worf grunts an acknowledgement and leaves. As the doors close, the Ferengi exchange a glance and laugh. QOL That was too easy! And on their laughter... FADE OUT. END OF TEASER STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT ONE 6. ACT ONE FADE IN: (NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.) 12 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) At warp. 13 INT. CORRIDOR Picard, Geordi and Briam arrive outside the holodeck... GEORDI We've been working from your drawings, Ambassador... I hope we're in the ballpark... BRIAM Ball - park... ? PICARD An old Human expression... Mister LaForge hopes we've come close to achieving what you wanted... GEORDI Computer, run holodeck program Krios One. COMPUTER VOICE Enter when ready. The door opens to reveal the interior of an opulent, golden ceremonial temple... Briam gasps an appreciation... BRIAM Astonishing. It is the ancient Temple of Akadar. As they ENTER, the door closes and pan down the corridor to find the two Ferengi peeking around the corner... seeing that the ambassador has disappeared into the holodeck... Par Lenor nods to Qol to get going... Qol moves away down the perpendicular corridor as Par Lenor stays... 13A thru OMITTED 13B STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT ONE 7. 14 INT. HOLODECK - TEMPLE Still in awe, Briam inspects the setting... BRIAM It is this temple that bonds Krios and Valt, gentlemen... two brothers once ruled a vast empire from this site... until they were torn apart by their love for an extraordinary woman. This is where the wars began. And this is where they shall end. 15 INT. CARGO BAY as Qol slips inside. The room is dimly lit, he looks around to make sure he is alone. His eyes widen as he gets his first look at the "gift" he has come to steal. 16 REVERSE ANGLE (OPTICAL) Suspended several feet off the ground in a zero-gravity field is a pod about the same size as an Egyptian style sarcophagus; its decorations, though alien-looking, are every bit as elaborate. The gravity field casts a shimmering light on it, giving this floating jewel an almost magical look. 17 QOL reacts, excited... 18 INT. CORRIDOR As the door opens and Picard, Briam and Geordi emerge from the holodeck... BRIAM There are details of course to be added... PICARD Mister La Forge is entirely at your disposal, Ambassador... GEORDI Just let me know what you need... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT ONE 8. 18 CONTINUED: BRIAM Yes, of course... I must consult several of the historical volumes that I brought with me... perhaps we can reconvene later this... Par Lenor suddenly appears in front of them... delaying the Ambassador's exit... PAR LENOR Excuse me... excuse me... is it true? Is a Kriosian ambassador aboard this vessel? BRIAM Yes. Can I help you? Picard steps in, trying to help the ambassador avoid the headaches he knows a Ferengi invariably brings... PICARD The ambassador is very busy... PAR LENOR Ah, do you schedule his appointments? PICARD I am the captain of this ship. Picard moves the Ambassador down the corridor... the Ferengi follows... PICARD (continuing) What is it you want? PAR LENOR Allow me to present myself. Par Lenor of the Ferengi Trade Mission. We are pleased to hear that you have at last negotiated peace with the Valtese, Ambassador. Peace is good for trade... unless you happen to be an arms merchant! Par Lenor bursts into an exaggerated laugh. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/10/92 - ACT ONE 9. 19 INT. CARGO BAY (OPTICAL) Qol stacks crates and canisters and climbs up to get a better look at the sarcophagus... 19A INT. CARGO BAY - ANGLE ON FERENGI (OPTICAL) looking across sarcophagus. 20 INT. CORRIDOR At the turbolift, Picard waits impatiently for the lift to arrive... shoots Geordi a look as the Ferengi continues to drill the Ambassador... PAR LENOR ... in return for the exclusive rights to transport all Kriosian products to the Valt system... PICARD May I suggest that you arrange to meet at another time, after the ceremony? The turbolift doors finally open... as Picard ushers in Briam... BRIAM Perhaps that would be best. PAR LENOR But... GEORDI (takes his arm) Listen... have you been down to see the dolphins yet? You really shouldn't miss them... Picard gives Geordi a grateful look as he says... PICARD (to com) Deck seven. The door closes in the Ferengi's face. 21 INT. TURBOLIFT Picard hits his combadge. PICARD Picard to Worf. WORF (V.O.) Worf, here. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT ONE 10. 21 CONTINUED: PICARD One of the Ferengi just waylaid Ambassador Briam. Keep a short leash on them, Lieutenant. 22 INT. BRIDGE WORF at tactical. PICARD (V.O.) (continuing) I don't want them disrupting this conference. WORF Aye, sir. Worf begins calibrating the ship's internal sensors. Reacts as he sees something... WORF Security to cargo bay one. RIKER Lieutenant? WORF One of the Ferengi. Riker reacts as Worf EXITS into the turbolift... 23 INT. CARGO BAY (OPTICAL) As Worf leads in his security team... sees Qol up on the makeshift ladder near the sarcophagus... taking readings with a Ferengi tricorder... WORF You! What are you doing? The sudden intrusion startles Qol and as he turns to their arrival, the support under him wobbles and falls backwards, kicking the crates he's standing on into the sarcophagus... the energy field crackles and shorts out... and the sarcophagus falls and as it hits the floor, it cracks open, causing bright shafts of light to shoot out... and slowly the shell dissolves (indicating that the casing is constructed from some sort of "solid" energy). STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT ONE 11. 23 CONTINUED: QOL This is a misunderstanding... I was looking for the barbershop... Apparently I made an incorrect turn -- and... 24 ANGLE he's interrupted by Picard, Riker and Briam's arrival... Briam reacts with horror... BRIAM No... RIKER (to Worf, re: the Ferengi) Get him out of here. Confine both of them to their quarters and put a guard on the door. Worf acknowledges, EXITS with the Ferengi... PICARD What is happening? BRIAM Emergence... 25 ON POD (OPTICAL) The outer shell is now completely gone, revealing a cocoon-like structure underneath, as if a Human figure were wrapped in some sort of organic matter. This, too, begins to dissolve away. The figure underneath the organic casing is now becoming visible. 26 ON PICARD AND THE OTHERS They can only stare in amazement. 27 ON THE FIGURE (OPTICAL) now revealed to be the most exotic and beautiful woman we have ever seen. Her green eyes are set off by her dark skin and hair; she wears a long, diaphanous gown. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT ONE 12. 28 SCENE She looks around the room, and though her features seem to indicate that she was expecting to emerge into an entirely different setting (the reconciliation ceremony), she never loses her serene, almost regal composure. Picard steps forward, and she focuses her attention on him. She gives him a smile so radiant that he is momentarily struck mute. She approaches him, her eyes locked on his. KAMALA I am for you, Alrik of Valt. Off Picard's reaction... FADE OUT END OF ACT ONE STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT TWO 13. ACT TWO FADE IN: 29 INT. CARGO BAY Continuous action. BRIAM No, Kamala... this is not Alrik. This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Federation Starship Enterprise. Kamala takes a curious beat to study Picard and then laughs charmingly, embarrassed... (NOTE: with Picard, she is articulate, direct, thoughtful, wry, Marietta Tree.) KAMALA (with humor) That explains why you don't look at all like your holographs. I apologize, Captain. As an empath, I could sense your authority. I assumed that you were Chancellor Alrik... PICARD I'm afraid I require an explanation... KAMALA As do I, Ambassador. Why have I been brought out of stasis prematurely? BRIAM (to Kamala) There was an accident... (to Picard) Captain, this is quite complicated, perhaps we should... As she senses that Picard wants straight answers... KAMALA It is not complicated at all, Briam. And the Captain has no tolerance for prevarication. (to Picard) I am a gift to Alrik of Valt. Picard reacts... Briam knows that he has a diplomatic problem on his hands... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT TWO 14. 29 CONTINUED: RIKER (to Briam) You've been using this ship to transport a sentient being as property? During the following, Kamala looks Riker up and down... measuring him, curious about him, almost as though she is undressing him in her mind... he feels uncomfortable with it... a sexual tension is present... BRIAM Not as property... as a gift... I was concerned that you would not entirely understand... PICARD Your concern was justified, Ambassador... Kamala turns back to Picard... KAMALA You're angry. Why? And during the following, she does the same thing to Picard as she did to Riker. Again there is a sexual tension. Picard absolutely ignores it... which only interests her more... PICARD There is a provision within the Federation Constitution that protects an individual's fundamental rights... once you were brought aboard this starship... KAMALA (realizing, charmed) You are coming to my rescue! What a kind and generous purpose. But Captain, I do not need to be rescued... BRIAM Kamala is the key to peace between our two worlds... RIKER Why? STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT TWO 15. 29 CONTINUED: (2) KAMALA In our history there was a woman known as Garuth who was loved by the brothers Krios and Valt with such passion that an empire fell... BRIAM The wars began when Krios kidnapped Garuth and took her to our planet... KAMALA Like her, I am an empathic metamorph. The first female metamorph born on my world for over a hundred years. PICARD A "metamorph"? KAMALA A mutant. A biological curiosity, if you will. With the ability to sense what a potential mate wants... what he needs... what gives him the greatest pleasure... and then to become that for him. RIKER (reacts) You mean... you change according to whatever man you're with... KAMALA Until I reach the stage of bonding... When I must imprint upon myself the requirements of one man... to serve as his perfect partner in life. Her eyes remain fixed on Picard as... BRIAM Male metamorphs are somewhat common but a female appears only once in seven generations... obviously, they are highly sought after as mates... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT TWO 15A. 29 CONTINUED: (3) RIKER (to Picard) Which explains our Ferengi's interest... BRIAM This mating to Alrik was arranged at her birth... by leaders of both worlds; in the hopes of restoring peace... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT TWO 16. 29 CONTINUED: (4) Picard takes a breath, frowns, finding this all very distasteful but... PICARD You do this of your own accord? KAMALA (nods) It is my sole purpose in life. PICARD Commander Riker will show you to quarters. You need not travel in a cargo bay. BRIAM Kamala, remain in your room. I will speak to you shortly. She acknowledges and Riker leads her out. 30 INT. CORRIDOR Kamala and Riker walk... RIKER Why were you in stasis? KAMALA Metamorphs have a long and complex sexual maturing process. I am in the Finiis'ral, the third and final stage. It can be an uncomfortable transition... Not only for me, but for the men around me... RIKER In what way? KAMALA My body is producing an unusually elevated level of what you would call pheromones. The effect can be quite... provocative. Perhaps you sense it... RIKER (resisting) Ah, unfortunately, I'm not an empath... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/13/92 - ACT TWO 17. 30 CONTINUED: KAMALA (flirtatious) Oh, I think you are more empathic than you admit... at least when it comes to women... RIKER I think you have me at a disadvantage... They reach her quarters... (NOTE: with Riker, she's open, flirtatious, tactile, available, Roxanne Pulitzer... FURTHER NOTE: These are primarily internal personality changes but subtle physical changes can occur... in terms of eyes, hair, general makeup as well as the way she walks and sounds and carries herself. Instant Sybil.) 31 INT. KAMALA'S QUARTERS As they enter... RIKER The replicator is here... companel here... the sonic shower is through there... you can adjust the lights by verbal commands... and if you have any questions, just ask the... As he turns, he finds her standing there... really close... RIKER (beat) ...the... computer... And she leans in to him and gives him a passionate kiss... as their lips part... RIKER I'm beginning to sense those elevated pheromones you were talking about... KAMALA You were curious, weren't you? RIKER Curious isn't exactly the way I'd describe it. KAMALA Do you know what is remarkable about empathic metamorphs? STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT TWO 18. 31 CONTINUED: RIKER You mean, there's something even more remarkable about you? KAMALA We learn so quickly what stimulates a man... that the second time is even better than the first... And if the first was passionate... send the affiliates a message on this one... she bites his lower lip and then goes in for the kill... 32 OMITTED 33 HIS FACE RIKER Listen... this has been... educational... but I've made it a policy never to open another man's gift... KAMALA I know my role in history, Commander... but it's going to be a long voyage... RIKER (ironic) It certainly is. (beat, "get me out of here") We'll try to make you as comfortable as possible. And he exits. 34 INT. CORRIDOR As the door slides closed behind Riker, he catches his breath... beads of sweat on his brow, his collar tight... he hits his combadge... RIKER Riker to bridge. If you need me, I'll be in holodeck four. He moves down the corridor... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT TWO 19. 35 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) at warp. 36 INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL) Close on a teacup... The voices are sharp... BEVERLY How can you simply deliver her like a courier into a life of virtual prostitution... PICARD Beverly, arranged marriages have been the basis of political alliances in many cultures, including our own... BEVERLY I'm surprised at you. PICARD She knows exactly what she's doing. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT TWO 20. 36 CONTINUED: BEVERLY She has been conditioned since the day she was born to believe that it is perfectly acceptable to exist only to please men... PICARD Beverly, she was born this way... BEVERLY ... and bred by those people to seal a treaty with a seductive coup de grace... PICARD (angry now, with frustration and sarcasm) By all means, we should throw the Prime Directive to the wind... detain her against her will... destroy any chance these worlds have for peace... interefere with their society, with their customs... BEVERLY (interrupting) That slave trader who calls himself an ambassador has confined her to her quarters... she's a virtual prisoner in there... PICARD I didn't know that... BEVERLY It's your ship. Maybe there are a few things you should find out about. PICARD I'll speak with her. BEVERLY Good. ... Lovely breakfast. PICARD Indeed. She exits and on his face... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT TWO 21. 37 INT. KAMALA'S QUARTERS As the door slides open to reveal Picard... Kamala greeting him... KAMALA Captain Picard, what a delightful surprise. Come in. PICARD Are you comfortable? KAMALA Reasonably. Under the circumstances. They sit. PICARD It has come to my attention that you have been told to remain here... KAMALA That's true, I'm afraid. PICARD Against your wishes. KAMALA (qualifying) At the request of the ambassador who believes I might be... disruptive to your crew. PICARD My crew's performance is not the business of the ambassador. She studies him. She smiles with warm appreciation. KAMALA You care about my well-being. Thank you, Captain. PICARD I care about what happens on board my ship. KAMALA (studying him) Yes, I know. This ship is very important to you, isn't it... ? STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT TWO 22. 37 CONTINUED: PICARD (ready to change the subject) Yes... KAMALA Are all captains' lives so... solitary? Or just yours? PICARD Don't. KAMALA What? PICARD Do this. (off her look) What you do... with men. She smiles. KAMALA I'm afraid my premature emergence from stasis has left me a little... vulnerable to the desires I sense from men. Nevertheless, this is who I am, Captain. You might as well ask a Vulcan to forgo logic... or a Klingon to be nonviolent. I cannot change, and I don't want to until it's time for me to bond with my permanent mate. (beat) Why does it bother you? A beat as he decides how to continue... PICARD Frankly, it is difficult for me... for many of us... to easily accept that a sentient being could live only to be what someone else wants them to be... She reacts with curiosity... this is the first time the issue's been raised with her... KAMALA But that's what gives a metamorph pleasure... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT TWO 23. 37 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD What about your wishes? Your needs? KAMALA They are fulfilled by what I give to others. PICARD And what about when there are no others, when you are alone... ? KAMALA I am incomplete. A beat. KAMALA What curious questions, Captain... PICARD (a beat) I'm sorry. Under the circumstances, I felt it would help to learn more about you. KAMALA But you know me better than you realize... Off Picard's reaction... KAMALA I am independent, forceful, brilliant, and adventurous. (beat, casual) Exactly as you would have me be. A long look between them... Picard finally rises. PICARD I will speak with the ambassador about easing your restrictions. KAMALA Thank you, Captain. He exits. Hold a beat on her thoughtful musing... FADE OUT END OF ACT TWO STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT THREE 24. ACT THREE FADE IN: A38 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) coming out of warp. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, stardate 45780.3. We have reached the designated coordinates for the conference and await the arrival of Chancellor Alrik. 38 INT. HOLODECK - THE CEREMONIAL CHAMBER Briam is sitting at a percussive instrument, striking the chimes in a strict cadence, practicing a definite order... BRIAM (imperious) No, I forbid it. PICARD (displeased) "Forbid" it... ? BRIAM It is too dangerous. She must remain in her quarters. PICARD (controlled) You cannot confine her against her will, Ambassador... not on board this ship... Briam stops what he's doing, stands... moves across the room to a torah-like scroll on an ornate table... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT THREE 25. 38 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD (continuing) She is requesting some freedom of movement... and I intend to give it to her... Briam shakes his head, disapproving... BRIAM She is still in the Finiis'ral... the height of her sexual allure, Captain... every man on the ship will be fighting over her... Picard frowns, muses... a beat... getting an idea... PICARD Not every man... 39 INT. KAMALA'S QUARTERS Close on Kamala... KAMALA A chaperone... ? Moving to reveal Data and Picard... DATA I would be pleased to escort you around the ship. She measures him... senses nothing... KAMALA (almost to herself) What sort of man is this? STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT THREE 26. 39 CONTINUED: DATA I am an artificial lifeform. KAMALA A blank page. DATA Your empathic powers do not perceive anything because I have no emotions. KAMALA (disappointed) But I was hoping we might spend more time together, Captain. PICARD Unfortunately, I'm quite busy with the arrangements for the conference. KAMALA I am very knowledgeable about Valt. I could be helpful. Determined to put a distance between them -- PICARD I think you should enjoy the hospitality of our ship. Mister Data will see to your every comfort... if you will excuse me... He exits... Kamala and Data look at each other... he cocks his head a beat... 39 INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE TEN FORWARD CLOSE on Data and Kamala as they walk toward Ten Forward... DATA Your empathic powers do not perceive anything because as an android, I have no emotions... KAMALA I can understand why Captain Picard chose you to be my chaperone... And they EXIT to... 40 INT. TEN FORWARD As Data and Kamala enter... the bar is crowded... some of those miners we picked up on the way are lined up at the bar... they haven't seen a woman in seventeen months, let alone a woman like this... and as Data and she move slowly by, each male's head turns as those pheromones wallop them... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT THREE 27. 40 CONTINUED: She smiles as she looks across the room, sees -- 41 ANGLE - RIKER sitting with Worf, laughing, drinking an ale... makes eye contact with Kamala across the room... reacts, knows his duty... downs his drink... standing... RIKER (to Worf) I'll... check in with you later. And he runs from temptation in the opposite direction... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT THREE 28. 42 RESUME DATA AND KAMALA as her smiles fades... A miner walks up to Kamala... MINER #1 Excuse me, but I'm absolutely certain that we met once at Paloris Colony... KAMALA (smiles) I've never been to Paloris Colony. MINER #1 Neither have I. Why don't we find out what else we have in common. He starts to move her away... Data simply takes her arm and guides her down the bar... DATA Extremely rude behavior. Looking back at him with a smile... KAMALA He's just being playful. During the following, the whole bar lineup of men seems to gravitate toward them... they admire her... she smiles back... Data observes them curiously... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT THREE 29. 42 CONTINUED: DATA May I order you a drink? KAMALA (to the group of miners) What are all of you having? MINER #2 Aldorian Ale's our drink... KAMALA Then, it's mine too. They mutter their approval... and she's a down-home girl now... standing differently... flaunting her sexuality... a bit coarse... Marlene Dietrich in "Destry". Data looks around for a waiter... DATA There do not seem to be enough waiters on duty. MINER #3 They're having a minor problem with the replicator... MINER #2 They could use a hand, Commander... DATA Certainly... And he takes a few steps, then stops... realizing the intent... DATA No, I think I shall remain here... KAMALA Mister Data's protecting me tonight... MINER #2 Protecting you from what? KAMALA From you, I guess. Laughter... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT THREE 30. 42 CONTINUED: (2) KAMALA (sexy) I told the captain not to worry... I just want to have a good time like anybody else... The crowd responds to her... with a roar of walla and ad libs... crushing in closer... as Data reacts... MINER #1 MINER #2 MINER #3 Come on down to Get rid of the Do you have any deck seven, android and sisters... ? will we'll show you we'll have fun... you marry me... ? a good time... Pushing his way through the crowd -- the booming voice of... WORF Is there a problem here? More ad lib walla: MINER #1 MINER #2 MINER #3 Nossir... No problem... Tell him, lady... WORF Be quiet! They shut up... she measures Worf with her eyes... Worf looks to Data... DATA Thank you, Lieutenant Worf, I believe the crowd has become a little too ebullient for comfort... (to Kamala) ... perhaps you'd enjoy a quiet visit to the arboretum... And as Data starts to move, the miners move en masse... along with them... Data and Worf react... WORF (to the miners) Stay here. And the disappointed miners go back to their original positions... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT THREE 31. 43 AT THE DOOR DATA Thank you again, Lieutenant. Worf grunts an acknowledgement. Nods to Kamala -- WORF Ma'am. She looks up him... and rising out of her throat comes a Klingon hiss and guttural growl... Worf reacts, surprised, delighted... exchanges a glance with Data who pulls her out of the room. 44 INT. READY ROOM Close on an entirely different Kamala... gentle, conservative, thoughtful... moving to find Picard sitting with her... frustrated... KAMALA Perhaps the ambassador is right. Perhaps I should remain in my quarters. PICARD I am confident of my crew's self-control. But there are civilians and guests on board... KAMALA I understand. I will volunteer to stay in my quarters under one condition. (off his look) That you will visit me. He stares at her a beat. Rises. KAMALA There it is, again. PICARD What? KAMALA The wall you put between us. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/13/92 - ACT THREE 32. 44 CONTINUED: PICARD You are a day away from an arranged mating. Why would you want me to visit you in your quarters? KAMALA I said a visit. I didn't ask you to make love to me. She lets that hang there for a moment... measures his reaction... she rises, moves about the room, looking at things... picks up an archaeological artifact that is on Picard's desk, studies it... KAMALA A Ventanan thimble... early Lapeongical period, isn't it? PICARD Yes... KAMALA Have you seen the Ventanan woven art recovered from the fourth colony dig... ? PICARD (reacts) Woven art? Recovered intact? KAMALA They say the colors are remarkably vibrant for their age... PICARD (enthusiastic) I've read about them for years... They were so delicate, no one expected to find any preserved... How did you hear about them? She is examining Picard's Shakespeare volume... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT THREE 32A. 44 CONTINUED: (2) KAMALA I stay informed on a wide variety of subjects... after all, one never knows when the conversation might turn to Ventanan archeology... or to the "dark woman of raven brows and mournful eyes" in Shakespeare's sonnets... or to the gardens of Les Eyries near the village where you grew up... PICARD Your empathic powers can tell that much about me? KAMALA Not quite that much. Mister Data helped a little. She rises, moves closer to him... KAMALA My empathic powers can only sense a man of deep passion, and conviction... so disciplined, so controlled... I am simply curious to know what lies beneath... The power of her attraction hits Picard... and he resists it valiantly... PICARD Nothing. Nothing lies beneath. I'm really quite dull. I fall asleep each night with an old book in my hands... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT THREE 33. 44 CONTINUED: (3) KAMALA (intimate) When a metamorph finds you interesting... do not take it lightly. With great tension in the air... PICARD I don't take it lightly... I'm only... (struggling) ... trying to be as dull as possible. He moves away. A beat. KAMALA Will you visit me? PICARD It would be inappropriate. KAMALA Is that a yes or a no? STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT THREE 33A. 44 CONTINUED: (3) PICARD I'm sorry. A beat. She studies him evenly, rises to leave... at the door... KAMALA Even the walls of Jericho fell, Captain. PICARD Why are you doing this? KAMALA There can be only one reason. Because some part of you wants me to. She exits... as the door slides closed, Picard is left alone with his own thoughts... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT THREE 34. 45 INT. FERENGI QUARTERS Par Lenor and Qor react as the door slides open and Briam storms in, passing the guard... BRIAM What is the meaning of this? He opens his hand and displays five opulent gold coins... PAR LENOR Ah, I see you got our message... BRIAM If this is some sort of bribe, I am not amused... QOL Oh no, Ambassador... your attitude is quite understandable... PAR LENOR This is just a sample... QOL The bribe is ten thousand more... PAR LENOR Ludugial gold, the purest in the galaxy... QOL We know the lifestyle of a Kriosian Ambassador is barely comfortable... PAR LENOR You deserve to live a life of luxury... BRIAM I am insulted. How dare you suggest... QOL You drive a hard bargain. PAR LENOR Twenty thousand, but not an ingot more. QOL We must have the metamorph. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT THREE 35. 45 CONTINUED: PAR LENOR She is the answer to a Ferengi prayer. QOL A ship is waiting to rendezvous with us in three hours... we can all transport off together... BRIAM Thank you for that information. I will pass it along to Captain Picard. PAR LENOR You can't do that... He grabs Briam by the lapels if he has lapels... BRIAM Let go of me... QOL No, wait... let us discuss... But Briam pulls violently away and as Qol tries to push him away from getting to the door, the Ambassador falls and his head smashes heavily into a table that shatters under the weight of the fall... immediately the guard responding to the noise rushes in, phaser drawn... the Ferengi look at each other and down at the unconscious Ambassador, who appears seriously hurt and we... FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/13/92 - ACT FOUR 36. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 0A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) waiting at the rendezvous coordinates. 46 INT. SICKBAY Beverly and a MEDICAL TEAM are working on the unconscious Briam as Picard and an anxious Kamala stand off to the side. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, supplemental. The Ferengi have been dispatched via shuttle to Starbase One-one-seven; what charges will be brought against them depends on whether or not Ambassador Briam recovers. Beverly finishes a scan and approaches Picard. BEVERLY We've been able to stabilize his condition... If we're lucky he'll regain consciousness in a few days. Beverly moves off with the Nurse... BEVERLY (continuing, to the nurse) I want a level one craniosacral display set up... PICARD I'll advise the Valtese delegation that the conference must be postponed... KAMALA That won't be possible. (off his look) My ability to imprint on a mate will only last a matter of hours after the completion of the Finiis'ral. (MORE) STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT FOUR 36A. 46 CONTINUED: KAMALA (cont'd) If I had not been removed from stasis prematurely, a delay might have been possible. But now, I will have to bond with Alrik within two days. PICARD But there are several points in the negotiations that Briam has to address... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - 2/10/92 - ACT FOUR 37. 46 CONTINUED: (2) KAMALA You are familiar with the issues... PICARD Familiar, yes, but I cannot represent your peoples' interests... KAMALA You can represent the interests of peace. My people will agree. I'm certain of it. Picard is not comfortable with it... PICARD There are customs and rituals with which I have no experience at all... KAMALA I told you that I am extremely knowledgeable about Valt. I will help you prepare. Off Picard's reaction... 47 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) as before. 48 INT. HOLODECK - CEREMONIAL ROOM Close on the percussive instrument... as the small hammer strikes the chimes... seven times... pull back to see Picard holding it, concentrating... he hesitates... PICARD This is impossible. KAMALA (directing him to a note) Torze-qua... Picard takes the cue and moves the hammer to a specific chime, hits it and then three more... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT FOUR 38. 48 CONTINUED: KAMALA That's right... Picard begins to hit the instrument again... during which -- PICARD I am reminded of my piano lessons as a child... preparing for some dreaded recital... KAMALA Do you still play? PICARD No. I regret that I gave it up. It used to please my mother... He hits the chimes one by one in a strict cadence... PICARD (continuing) I did not like to perform in front of an audience. KAMALA Shy... PICARD No. Just not very good. KAMALA And shy. He hesitates again. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT FOUR 39. 48 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Dammit. He puts the hammer down. PICARD Can we come back to this later? KAMALA Of course. (beat) Thank you. (off his look) For letting down your guard. If only for a moment. Picard quickly cuts her off... and she feels that empathically as a sharp rejection... he puts distance between them... moves across the room to the torah on the table... PICARD You are going to have to help me with the pronuniciations in this scroll... Kamala moves to him... KAMALA What is it about me you fear? PICARD Kamala... KAMALA Do you find me unattractive? PICARD I find you unavailable. A beat. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT FOUR 40. 48 CONTINUED: (3) Kamala sighs... turns off the seductiveness... KAMALA I am being terribly selfish. I apologize. A beat. She moves away, thoughtful... KAMALA We have something in common, Captain. When I was a child, I took music lessons, too. PICARD Really, what instrument? KAMALA All of them. PICARD The entire orchestra? KAMALA (acknowledges) Plus a few Valtese Horns that sound like braying Targhee Moonbeasts. They are said to soothe the nerves of Valtese men. (off his look) My mother never even heard me play. I was taken from her when I was four... and sequestered in a royal village... where I was prepared to fulfill my destiny. PICARD It sounds like it was a very lonely time for you... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT FOUR 41. 48 CONTINUED: (4) KAMALA On the contrary, I had servants and tutors at my side constantly... you once wanted to know what I am like when I am alone... I have never been. There was always someone there... to educate me in literature, history, art, sex... (beat) But I have been alone on this journey and I've found myself thinking about all the curious questions you asked... you wanted to know who I am. The only answer that comes to me is, "I am for you, Alrik of Valt". Because that is the truth. (beat, melancholy) In a day, I will bond with a man I've never met... and I will turn myself into what he wants me to be... for the rest of my life. Picard is caught in a bind between political duties, Prime Directive and personal feelings for this woman. He cannot find it in himself to take an advocate's role. The best he can do is... PICARD I also once asked you if you were doing this of your own accord... KAMALA I am honored to be chosen to serve my people as an emissary of peace... (beat) But I find it ironic on the eve of this ceremony... which I have spent my entire life preparing for... that I should meet a man like you... Off his look... And suddenly her cheeks flush... and she turns away... He searches for the right thing to say. RIKER'S COM VOICE Riker to Picard. PICARD Go ahead. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT FOUR 42. 48 CONTINUED: (5) RIKER'S COM VOICE The Valtese ship has arrived. Chancellor Alrik is ready to beam aboard... She reacts... 49 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE Close on the back of ALRIK, the man who will wed this extraordinary woman... we hear the sound of the door opening as Picard ENTERS (o.c.)... and he turns and already we don't like him on first sight... he is drab, a dull, dull man... he's colorless and stern... and far shorter than Kamala... he is about Picard's age. ALRIK Captain Picard... As we go wide... PICARD Chancellor Alrik, welcome aboard the Enterprise... Alrik sits at the head of the table... assuming the power position. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT FOUR 42A. 49 CONTINUED: ALRIK Your first officer has described the details of the incident with the Ferengi... how is the Ambassador... ? PICARD He hasn't regained consciousness yet. ALRIK A tragedy. Your willingness to assist is appreciated by both our peoples. PICARD I will do my best... although I have found some of the rituals quite demanding... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/21/92 - ACT FOUR 43. 49 CONTINUED: (2) ALRIK (shrugs) Rituals. I am more concerned about the remaining provisions in the treaty... the proposed trade agreements are not acceptable... We still must review the uncommitted territories... as well as discuss the schedule for exchange of technology... PICARD The Kriosians have authorized me to make several compromises which are favorable to your position... ALRIK Good. (rising) Tomorrow, then. PICARD Briam has supervised a reproduction of the ancient Temple of Akadar on our holodeck... ALRIK (grins, who cares) Such a sentimental people, these Kriosians... it is hard to believe we have a common ancestry... (sighs) I suppose they've sent the metamorph. PICARD Kamala? Yes. She is looking forward to meeting you. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT FOUR 44. 49 CONTINUED: (3) ALRIK (not very interested) I'm sure she'll be satisfactory. Between you and me, Captain, I'm far more interested in the trade agreements. He EXITS and... and as we linger for a long beat on Picard... CUT TO: 50 INT. KAMALA'S QUARTERS - KAMALA'S FACE KAMALA (false cheeriness) So, tell me quickly... what is he like? 50A WIDE PICARD First impressions? A thoughtful man... informed... KAMALA Did he ask about me? PICARD Yes. KAMALA What did you tell him? PICARD That you were looking forward to meeting him. KAMALA When am I to be presented? PICARD It will be the first order of business. Tomorrow. At ten. She nods. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT FOUR 45. 50A CONTINUED: KAMALA Would you like some tea? PICARD I should prepare for the ceremony. KAMALA Let me help you with pronuniciations. PICARD I think I can muddle my way through... KAMALA (extremely vulnerable) Please. Don't leave. A beat. KAMALA Talk to me. I love the sound of your voice. I'll turn out the lights and just listen. (beat) I don't want to be alone. Picard reacts, nods, but... PICARD The lights stay on. She smiles. KAMALA (to the replicator) Earl Grey Tea. Hot. We hear the replicator work. PICARD (re: the tea) Did you learn that from Mister Data as well? She smiles, acknowledging. PICARD I shall have to have a talk with him. She brings the tea. They sit next to one another... he sips his tea... in silence... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/18/92 - ACT FOUR 46. 50A CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Now that I know you're listening to my voice... I can't seem to think of a word to say... KAMALA A starship captain must encounter all sorts of lifeforms... am I one of the most unique you've ever met? Please say yes. PICARD Yes. KAMALA What a nice thing to say. She tentatively reaches out and gently runs the palm of her hand from his brow across his scalp and it is one of the most sensual strokes in the history of man... PICARD (softly) Kamala, have I not done everything possible to discourage this? KAMALA Maybe that's the perfect way to attract a metamorph. PICARD I don't wish to use you as other men have. KAMALA But you are not other men. You could never use me. That is the very reason why I am with you tonight. PICARD I really ought to go. You do have an early appointment in the morning. KAMALA Light years away. And as they look at each other for a long beat... FADE OUT END OF ACT FOUR STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT FIVE 47. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 51 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) with the Valtese ship beside it. 52 INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS Beverly and Picard again sharing morning tea. A parallel scene to the one in Act Two. Picard is lost in his own thoughts. BEVERLY Quiet this morning. PICARD Sorry. BEVERLY Penny? PICARD What? BEVERLY For your thoughts. Penny for your thoughts. PICARD (smiles) You have one? BEVERLY The replicator ought to have one on file. Picard would rather get himself lost in light banter but it just isn't possible. PICARD Do you mind if I take off the uniform for a moment? BEVERLY (smiles) Captain... ! PICARD I just need to talk to a friend. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT FIVE 48. 52 CONTINUED: And Beverly studies him seriously. BEVERLY Of course. He stands. PICARD (tongue in cheek) Besides... it's all your fault. BEVERLY Mine? PICARD You insisted I look into her situation... BEVERLY The metamorph? PICARD (sighs) The metamorph. Kamala. We have spent a lot of time together the last few days... you were right about several things, Beverly... her entire life has been orchestrated for this moment... but she intends to see it through... to help her people end this war... BEVERLY (beat, perplexed by his intensity) Are you saying there's nothing else that can be done... ? PICARD It's not that simple. And he looks at Beverly and in a beat, she understands and he understands she understands... he almost smiles, embarrassed... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/19/92 - ACT FIVE 48A. 52 CONTINUED: (2) She studies him, sorry she ever sent him down there in the first place -- PICARD I barely even know who she is because who she is changes the moment the next man walks in the room. (beat, softens) But suddenly, I find myself hoping... the next man doesn't walk in. A long beat. PICARD But he will, of course. In a few hours, the ceremony will begin... she will mate with a man who cares far more about trade agreements than about her. And I think of how she will be with him... how she will change to accomodate him... and... (beat, understatement) ... I don't like it. She rises and surprises him with a hug. Picard is uncomfortable having revealed his feelings... PICARD I'm sorry to be bothering you with this... BEVERLY I wish I knew how to help you... PICARD (with warm appreciation) Perhaps I just needed a shoulder... BEVERLY It's there for you, Jean-Luc. It always has been. These two old friends share a long look and... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/11/92 - ACT FIVE 49. 53 INT. CORRIDOR Picard arrives at Kamala's door... a beat... hits the chime... KAMALA'S VOICE Come in... And as he moves forward, the door opens and as he ENTERS, he has to pause as his eyes are filled with... 54 INT. KAMALA'S QUARTERS Kamala in front of a huge mirror... dressed in the most incredible gown a woman has ever worn... she is a goddess... she turns to Picard... a beat as he takes this vision in... he will never forget how she looks at this moment. KAMALA Is it time? STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT FIVE 50. 54 CONTINUED: PICARD Soon. KAMALA Do you have any questions about the ceremony? PICARD Many. They look at each other for a long beat... softly -- KAMALA I will never truly love him. PICARD You've not even met him. KAMALA It no longer matters. (off Picard's reaction) I wish I could convey to you what it's like to be a metamorph... to feel the inner strength of someone... to realize that being with him is opening your mind and heart to endless new possibilities... to hear yourself say: I like myself when I am with him. PICARD Kamala... KAMALA For a metamorph, there is no greater pleasure... and no greater wish than to bond with that kind of mate at the end of the Finiis'ral... (beat) ... as I have bonded with you. PICARD With me? KAMALA Who I am today, I will be forever. DATA'S COM VOICE Data to Captain Picard. STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/13/92 - ACT FIVE 51. 54 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Not now, Data. DATA'S COM VOICE But sir, Chancellor Alrik is waiting to receive you in holodeck seven. PICARD Acknowledged. (a beat) You can't go through with the ceremony. KAMALA Would you ask me to stay? And ask two armies to keep fighting? He doesn't need to answer... KAMALA (continuing) Having bonded with you I've learned the meaning of duty. A long beat as they look at each other... for once Picard is speechless. KAMALA He'll never know. I am still empathic... I will be able to please him. (beat, smiling) I only hope he likes Shakespeare. And she moves toward the door and Picard follows... 55 INT. HOLODECK - CEREMONIAL CHAMBER Starting on an ornate decoration on the wall... with a cymbal crash... and exotic percussive music begins... and tilt down to a high angle shot to see the figure of Alrik in the center of the room... as the holodeck doors open and... 56 ALRIK turns to see -- STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT FIVE 51A. 57 PICARD AND KAMALA entering... Picard holds her arm... her face is veiled... 58 MOVING WITH PICARD AND KAMALA as they step forward slowly... 59 WIDE as they move closer to Alrik... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/13/92 - ACT FIVE 52. MOVING WITH PICARD'S EYES - EXTREME CLOSEUP A music cue signals the beginning of a fantasy sequence: 61 HER HAND ON HIS He offers her hand to the hand of Alrik... as he does the percussion stops. 62 HER FACE as Alrik removes the veil. KAMALA I am for you Alrik of Valt. And as Alrik leans forward to kiss her... PICARD I'm sorry. I cannot allow this to proceed. Alrik turns sharply to Picard... ALRIK What did you say? PICARD Kamala will be remaining aboard the Enterprise... with me... Kamala reacts, looks to Picard... ALRIK (flabbergasted) With you? PICARD Chancellor, the trade agreements will be satisfactory... you yourself told me that was your priority. She is mine. Let us begin the real work here of establishing a long and just peace... Alrik takes a moment to regain his composure... ALRIK Very well, let us begin... As she smiles with an expression of love for her captain... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/12/92 - ACT FIVE 53. 63 MOVING WITH PICARD'S EYES - THE SAME EXTREME CLOSEUP AS BEFORE The music cue ends. This is real... all fantasies are over. Only the exotic percussive music program for the ceremony. 64 MOVING WITH PICARD AND KAMALA step forward slowly... still crossing the holodeck... 65 WIDE as they move closer to Alrik... 66 HER HAND ON HIS as he offers it to the hand of Alrik... as he does, the percussion ends. 67 HER FACE as Alrik removes the veil. KAMALA I am for you Alrik of Valt. The colorless man kisses her on the lips... 68 PICARD stands away, watches... silently... controlled... 69 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) moving at impulse. 70 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL) Briam, still weak, head bruised... enters with Picard... a Transporter Officer is on duty... BRIAM Your service to both our peoples is greatly appreciated, Captain... STAR TREK: "The Perfect Mate" - REV. 2/20/92 - ACT FIVE 54-56. 70 CONTINUED: PICARD Your preparation made the negotiations simple, Ambassador... and Kamala was able to guide me through the rituals... Picard helps Briam onto the transporter pad. A beat as he hesitates to ask what has been on his mind... BRIAM I have to admit I'm curious... PICARD Curious? BRIAM I was chosen for this mission for a simple reason... I am two hundred years old. The temptations of a beautiful metamorph do not reach me so easily... and yet I would be lying if I were to claim, that even at my age, they did not reach me at all. But you... you had to work side by side with her for days... how could you resist her... ? PICARD (evenly) Ambassador, have a safe trip home. Briam reacts, all the more curious... frowns a curmudgeony old frown... looks at the captain... BRIAM Energize. He DEMATERIALIZES. Off Picard's acknowledgement... 71 INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS Low lighting... as he enters... pauses once inside to feel himself alone... won't allow himself to stay with that... moves to the replicator... PICARD Earl Grey. Hot. We hear the replicator... but stay on him as he moves to a bookshelf... and picks out a long book that looks interesting... studies it as he returns to the replicator, and takes his tea... he moves to an easy chair and places the tea on a side table... turns on the light, sits, opens the book... and reads a few words but his eyes leave the book and he leans back... thinking and as the book closes in his hands... 72 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) Moves off into warp. FADE OUT. END OF ACT FIVE THE END