STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                  "Chain of Command, Part I" 
                          #40276-236 
                              
                           Story by 
                       Frank Abatemarco 
                              
                          Teleplay by 
                        Ronald D. Moore 
                              
                          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 This script is not for publication or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

                       OCTOBER 6, 1992


    STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Part I" - 10/07/92 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                  "Chain of Command, Part I" 

                             CAST                               
                              
                PICARD             NECHAYEV
                RIKER              JELLICO
                DATA               GUL LEMEC
                BEVERLY            MADRED
                TROI               SOLOK
                WORF               
                GEORDI             
                COMPUTER VOICE 
    
                Non-Speaking       Non-Speaking
                  N.D. CREWMEMBERS   N.D. ALIENS
                                     GLIN CORAK
                                     GLIN TAJOR
                                     SIX CARDASSIANS

    STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Part I" - 10/06/92 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                   "Chain of Command, Part I"
                       
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                  EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE             USS ENTERPRISE
              MAIN BRIDGE
              CORRIDOR                 CAIRO
              ENGINEERING
              OBS. LOUNGE              CARDASSIAN SHIP
              PICARD'S QUARTERS
              READY ROOM               SHUTTLECRAFT
              SHUTTLECRAFT
              TEN FORWARD              CELTRIS THREE
              TRANSPORTER ROOM
              HOLODECK (CAVERNS)
          
              CAVERNS
                CAVE BOTTOM
                ENTRANCE
                INSTALLATION ENTRANCE
                LARGE CHAMBER
                LAVA TUBE
                PRECIPICE
          
              TORMAN BAR

STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Part, I" - 10/07/92 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                  "Chain of Command, Part I" 
                     
                      PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

                     ALYNNA        al-EE-ah-na
                     CELTRAN       sell-TRAN
                     CORAK         KOR-ack
                     LA BARRE      la BAR
                     LYNARS        LIE-nars
                     MADRED        muh-DRED
                     PITONS        PEE-tons
                     TAJOR         TAY-jor
                     TORMAN        TOR-man
                     NECHAYEV      NEH-che-yev
                     LEMEC         leh-MEK
                     SOLOK         soh-LOK
                     DAIMON        DAY-mon

   STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - TEASER   1.

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                      "Chain of Command"                           
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE & CAIRO (OPTICAL)

	The Enterprise and the CAIRO, an Excelsior-class ship,
	are running side by side at impulse. (STOCK)

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's Log: Stardate 46357.4
			We have rendezvoused with the
			starship Cairo near the Cardassian
			border for an urgent meeting with
			Vice-Admiral Nechayev.

2    INT. READY ROOM

	PICARD is just removing a cup of tea from the
	replicator. The door CHIMES.

					PICARD
			Come.

	RIKER and ADMIRAL NECHAYEV ENTER. Nechayev is a tall
	graceful woman in her late fifties, with a dark
	complexion. She charges into the room, her every
	movement emphasizing urgency.

					RIKER
				(to Nechayev)
			Admiral, may I present Captain
			Picard.

					PICARD
			Welcome aboard, Admiral.

					NECHAYEV
			Thank you.
				(brusque, to Riker)
			That will be all, Commander.

	Riker EXITS.

					PICARD
				(warm, to Nechayev)
			May I offer you some tea or --

   STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - TEASER   1A.

2    CONTINUED:

					NECHAYEV
			Thank you no, Captain. I'm afraid
			there's no time for the usual
			pleasantries.
				(quick beat)
			I'm here to relieve you of command
			of the Enterprise.

	Off Picard's stunned expression...

                                             FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

   STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT ONE   2.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

          (NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)            

3    INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	Riker, DATA, and TROI are seated around the table,
	listening to Admiral Nechayev as she paces about the
	room. Nechayev's attitude is clipped and to the
	point... she has no time for niceties here. Riker and
	the others are a little off-balance as they play catch-up
	in this rapidly changing situation.

					NECHAYEV
			The Cardassian forces which were
			recently withdrawn from the
			Bajoran sector, have been
			redeployed along the Federation
			border. They've mobilized three
			divisions of ground troops... and
			their subspace communications have
			increased by fifty percent. We
			believe they're preparing for an
			incursion into Federation space.

					RIKER
			Are the Cardassians really ready
			for war?

					NECHAYEV
			I didn't say war, Commander. I
			said incursion. Our intelligence
			reports suggest they'll try to
			seize one of the disputed systems
			along the border. We think
			they're gambling that the
			Federation won't actually go to
			war over one system.

					TROI
			Will we?

	There's an ominous beat before Nechayev answers.

					NECHAYEV
			I hope we won't need to make that
			decision.
					(MORE)

   STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT ONE   3.

3    CONTINUED:

					NECHAYEV (Cont'd)
				(beat)
			We've decided to send the
			Enterprise to meet with a
			Cardassian representative and open
			talks. We're hoping that the
			presence of the Federation
			flagship on the border will send
			a message to their leadership
			about how seriously we view this
			situation.

					RIKER
			Where is Captain Picard?

	Nechayev gives him a very direct look. Clearly this is
	not a subject she wishes to pursue.

					NECHAYEV
			The Captain, your Chief Medical
			Officer, and Security Chief have
			been... reassigned.
				(quickly shutting down
				 questions)
			That's all I can tell you for now.

	All this is clearly unsettling to the Enterprise
	officers, but Nechayev simply continues.

					NECHAYEV
			Do any of you know Edward Jellico?

	They glance at each other.

					DATA
			He is the commanding officer of
			the Cairo.

					RIKER
			I've heard of him. But I don't
			think any of us have ever --

					NECHAYEV
			I'm giving him command of the
			Enterprise this afternoon.

	There are startled reactions from around the table.

					NECHAYEV
			Captain Jellico helped to
			negotiate the original armistice
			two years ago and I believe he is
			the most qualified person to lead
			this mission.

   STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT ONE   4.

3    CONTINUED: (2)

	Nechayev's look and tone of voice leave little room for
	argument.

					NECHAYEV
			The change of command will take
			place at thirteen hundred hours.
			Thank you.

	There is a beat, then everyone begins to EXIT. Riker
	stops Nechayev.

					RIKER
			Admiral...

	Nechayev stops, but Riker waits until everyone else has
	left the room.

					RIKER
			With all due respect... it isn't
			necessary to give Captain Jellico
			command of the Enterprise in order
			to conduct a negotiation.

					NECHAYEV
				(flatly)
			I disagree. The Enterprise will
			be in a dangerous situation and I
			want someone on the Bridge who has
			a great deal of experience with
			the Cardassians. No offense
			Commander, but that's not you.

	Nechayev EXITS, leaving a very disturbed Riker alone in
	the room.

                                             CUT TO:

4    INT. CAVES/HOLODECK (OPTICAL)

	BEVERLY and WORF are running down a dark tunnel. They
	are each wearing black jumpsuits, with backpacks and
	they're both smudged and dirty. They round a corner
	and stop. Worf looks back down the tunnel while
	Beverly quickly pulls a DEVICE out of her pack and sets
	it on the ground. Worf FIRES a blast down the tunnel
	into the darkness as Beverly activates the unit and a
	FORCEFIELD FLASHES into effect, covering the width of
	the tunnel.

  STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT ONE  5.

5    NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	They both glance down the tunnel and then turn to go...
	but they quickly stop as they run into CARDASSIAN #1,
	who is pointing a weapon at them both.

	Beverly and Worf react... they've been caught.

					PICARD'S VOICE
				(o.c.)
			Freeze program.

	The Cardassian FREEZES. Worf and Beverly relax, but
	they're clearly frustrated.

6    INCLUDE PICARD

	who is standing off to one side, observing them. As
	Beverly and Worf catch their breath, Picard moves over
	to the tunnel where they just emerged. (The frozen
	Cardassian is now o.c.)

					PICARD
			You were at least five seconds
			slower this time.

					WORF
			You increased the difficulty
			level, sir.

					PICARD
			It'll be a lot more difficult
			where we're going.

					BEVERLY
			Which is where, exactly?

					PICARD
			I'm sorry, but I can't tell you
			that yet.

	Beverly sits down on a rock. She's extremely fatigued
	and frustrated.

					WORF
			Captain... it would be helpful to
			know something about our mission.

					PICARD
			Mister Worf... I have my orders.
			I'm sure you understand.

	Worf nods. Picard moves to the device Beverly attached
	to the rock face.

   STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/13/92 - ACT ONE   6.

6    CONTINUED:

					PICARD
				(re: device)
			Now... this deflector isn't set
			properly. You have to position
			the emitter array so that it
			blocks the entire passageway or
			it's useless.

	Beverly's irritation is starting to show.

					BEVERLY
			Sorry. I guess I was paying too
			much attention to getting away
			from that last Cardassian. Or
			maybe it was the phaser blasts...
			or the falling rocks...

	Picard realizes he's pushing them pretty hard and he
	backs off for the moment. He moves in closer to
	them... trying to rally his tired troops.

					PICARD
			I know this is difficult. But for
			now, all I can do is ask you to
			trust me.

	Beverly wearily looks into Picard's eyes... and finds
	that she has no choice but to trust him.

					BEVERLY
			All right. Let's do it again.

	She gets to her feet as Picard smiles.

					PICARD
			Mister Worf, time Doctor Crusher
			and me through the first tunnel.
				(with a smile)
			We'll pick up those five seconds
			this time.

	Beverly and Picard start to run back down the tunnel.

                                             CUT TO:

7    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE & CAIRO (OPTICAL)

	The two ships side by side. (STOCK)

  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/13/92 - ACT ONE  6A.

8    INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)

	Riker is waiting near the platform. After a beat,
	CAPTAIN EDWARD JELLICO MATERIALIZES. He is a lean,
	trim man with rugged features and flashing eyes. He
	bounds off the platform and moves quickly to Riker, his
	every move suggesting a boundless supply of energy and
	enthusiasm.

					RIKER
			Welcome aboard the Enterprise,
			sir. I'm Commander --

  STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT ONE  7.

8    CONTINUED:

	He shakes Riker's hand with genuine warmth.

					JELLICO
			William T. Riker. Class of 'fifty-seven,
			graduated eighth in the
			class. I'm looking forward to
			serving with you, Commander.

					RIKER
				(a little taken aback)
			Thank you, sir. So am I.

	Jellico moves toward the doors and Riker follows.

					JELLICO
			I'm sure this change in command
			has taken everyone a little by
			surprise.

					RIKER
			Well... yes, sir.

	They EXIT to the Corridor.

9    INT. CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS

	Jellico and Riker ENTER from the Transporter Room.
	Jellico sets a brisk pace.

					JELLICO
			It caught me by surprise too. I
			must admit, I miss the Cairo
			already. But a Galaxy-class
			ship... that's something special.
			I can understand why you've turned
			down a ship of your own to remain
			aboard.

	The issue is more complex than that, but Jellico
	doesn't seem to be interested in lengthy conversation.

					RIKER
			Yes, sir.

					JELLICO
			How many duty watches does the
			crew stand?

					RIKER
			We're on a standard three shift
			rotation.

  STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT ONE  8.

9    CONTINUED:

	Jellico doesn't hesitate to take charge here and to
	make changes. He's a man who's used to making instant
	decisions.

					JELLICO
			I'd like to change that to four
			starting tonight. I'd also like
			to examine your duty roster and
			crew evaluations as soon as
			possible. I want readiness
			reports from each department head
			by fourteen hundred hours and a
			meeting of the senior staff at
			fifteen hundred. Do you prefer
			Wil or William?

					RIKER
			Uh... Wil, sir.

	Jellico ENTERS a Turbolift and turns around, clearly
	not inviting Riker to join him.

					JELLICO
			Where are my quarters, Wil?

					RIKER
			We've assigned you to cabin seven
			three five. That's up on deck --

					JELLICO
				(to com)
			Deck seven.
				(to Riker)
			I'll see you at thirteen hundred
			hours.

	The Turbolift doors CLOSE, leaving Riker in the
	Corridor. Riker takes a moment to react to the fast
	pace of his new Captain, then he heads off down the
	Corridor.

                                             CUT TO:

10   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE & CAIRO (OPTICAL)

	The Cairo peels off from the Enterprise and heads away.
	(STOCK)

   STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT ONE   9.

11   INT. TEN FORWARD

	A large number of N.D. CREWMEMBERS are gathered here
	along with Data, Riker, GEORDI, Troi, Worf, and Beverly
	(now back in normal uniform).

	Everyone is standing together facing the windows where
	a small podium has been erected. Picard is standing at
	the podium, with Jellico at his side. They are both
	wearing dress uniforms.

					RIKER
				(to group)
			Attention to orders.

	Everyone snaps to attention. Picard reads from a PADD
	on the podium.

					PICARD
				(to group)
			To Captain Jean-Luc Picard,
			Commanding Officer, USS
			Enterprise. Stardate 46358. You
			are hereby requested and required
			to relinquish command of your
			vessel to Captain Edward Jellico,
			Commanding Officer, USS Cairo as
			of this date. Signed, Vice-Admiral
			Alynna Nechayev, Starfleet
			Command.

	Picard turns to face Jellico.

					PICARD
				(to com)
			Computer, transfer all command
			codes to Captain Edward Jellico.
			Voice authorization: Picard-delta-five.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Transfer complete. USS Enterprise
			now under command of Captain
			Edward Jellico.

	A BOSUN'S whistle is HEARD.

					JELLICO
				(to Picard)
			I relieve you, sir.

					PICARD
			I stand relieved.

	Picard shakes Jellico's hand and the ceremony is over.


 STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT ONE 10.

11   CONTINUED:

					JELLICO
				(to group)
			Dismissed.

	People applaud and then begin mixing, talking and
	helping themselves to food and drink.

12   GEORDI AND RIKER

	As they stand off by themselves.

					GEORDI
				(to Riker)
			I wonder how permanent this is
			going to be.

					RIKER
			I don't know... but they don't
			usually go through the ceremony if
			it's just a temporary assignment.

13   TROI AND BEVERLY

	Beverly sits down on one of the benches against the
	wall. She stretches a couple of sore muscles. Troi
	joins her.

					TROI
			Sore?

					BEVERLY
			Sore doesn't begin to describe it.

	Troi wants to ask what she's been doing, but knows that
	she can't. Beverly sees the curiosity in Troi's face.

					BEVERLY
			I know. I wish I could talk about
			it.

	Troi nods and they sit awkwardly together in silence.

14   PICARD AND JELLICO

	As they walk through the crowd.

					PICARD
			Most of the secondary systems were
			replaced during our last overhaul.
					(MORE)

  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT ONE  11.

14   CONTINUED:

					PICARD (Cont'd)
			I don't think they'll give you any
			problems. But you might want to
			check on the port lateral --

	Jellico smiles and claps Picard on the shoulder in a
	jovial way.

					JELLICO
			I'll take care of the Enterprise,
			Jean-Luc. You don't have to
			mother me.

	Picard smiles, a little embarrassed. Jellico glances
	around to make sure that no one is listening.

					JELLICO
			How's your team shaping up?

	Picard glances around also, and then steers them even
	farther away from the others. Although we're not sure
	what they're talking about yet, it's clearly something
	important.

					PICARD
				(quiet)
			It's going well. But I would
			prefer more current intelligence
			on the exact lay-out of the
			installation. The most recent
			information is over two years old.

					JELLICO
				(quiet shock)
			Two years... I don't know how
			Nechayev ever talked you into
			this.

					PICARD
				(wry)
			She didn't give me a choice.

					JELLICO
				(gets an idea)
			Well, maybe there's something we
			can do to help you. We'll launch
			a class five probe just before we
			reach the border. You could pick
			up the telemetry aboard the
			shuttle.

					PICARD
			That would be extremely helpful.

	Jellico smiles and then gestures for Riker to join
	them.

  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT ONE  12.

14   CONTINUED: (2)

					JELLICO
			Wil...

	Riker moves to them.

					RIKER
				(to each of them)
			Captain... Captain...

					JELLICO
			I believe we'll be arriving at the
			Cardassian border during delta
			shift. Please inform the delta
			tactical officer that I want to
			launch a class five probe just
			before we drop out of warp.

					RIKER
			I actually wanted to talk to you
			about delta a little later, sir.
			Right now, gamma shift is still
			slated to be on duty when we
			arrive and I'll be sure to tell
			Lieutenant McDowell about the
			probe.

	The merest hint of a frown creases Jellico's forehead.
	His smile seems to fade a little and he fastens Riker
	with a slightly colder eye.

					JELLICO
			Is there a problem with delta
			shift, Wil?

					RIKER
			Well, there is no delta shift yet,
			sir. I spoke to the department
			heads about changing from three to
			four shifts, and it's going to
			create some significant personnel
			problems for us.

					JELLICO
			So you have not changed the watch
			rotation.

					RIKER
			No, sir. I wanted to talk to you
			about this when we had a chance so
			that --

	Jellico never raises his voice, but his tone becomes
	far colder and harder.

 STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT ONE 13.

14   CONTINUED: (3)

					JELLICO
				(slow and firm)
			You will tell the department heads
			that as of now, the Enterprise is
			on a four shift rotation. I don't
			want to talk about it. Get it
			done.

	Picard almost intercedes at this point, but restrains
	himself.

					JELLICO
			Now that means delta shift will be
			due to come on duty in two hours.
			I expect you to have it fully
			manned and ready when it does. Is
			that clear?

	There is a quiet beat as Riker notes the change in
	attitude from his new captain. There is a great deal
	of tension here, but there is only one answer Riker can
	give.

					RIKER
			Yes, sir.
				(beat)
			If you'll excuse me, sir.
				(to Picard)
			Captain.

	Riker EXITS. Jellico watches him for a moment.

					JELLICO
			He was your first officer for five
			years...

					PICARD
			And one of the finest officers
			I've ever served with.

	Jellico turns to him and smiles.

					JELLICO
			Of course he is, Jean-Luc. I'm
			sure he'll be fine.

	But Jellico's voice lacks conviction and Picard is
	disturbed by this sign of tension so early. Off
	Picard's reaction as Jellico moves away...

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT TWO  14.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

15   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship at warp.

					JELLICO (V.O.)
			Captain's Log: Stardate 46358.2
			The Enterprise is on course for a
			rendezvous with the Cardassian
			ship Reklar. Fortunately, I still
			have time to prepare the ship and
			crew for the task ahead.

16   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Jellico is standing at the Tactical station with Riker
	and Data. There is one N.D. CREWMEMBER at an aft
	station and another CREWMEMBER standing by to take over
	Tactical.

					JELLICO
				(to Riker)
			I want you to install a bypass
			between the main phaser array and
			the secondary generators.
				(taps something on
				 panel)
			I also want to run the main
			deflector pathway through the warp
			power grid and the auxiliary
			conduits through the lateral
			relays. You may have to
			reconfigure the transfer
			interface.

					DATA
			The transfer interface is not
			designed for that configuration.
			It will take seven hours to make
			the changes.

					RIKER
			Sir... you may not be aware that
			our normal interface already
			routes auxiliary power through
			three separate relays.

  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT TWO  15.

16   CONTINUED:

					JELLICO
				(blunt)
			I'm aware of your current systems
			design. It's not good enough. If
			these negotiations fail, we could
			find ourselves in a war zone. If
			that happens I want to be loaded
			for bear.

					RIKER
			I'll get right on it, sir.

					JELLICO
				(smiles)
			Good.

	Jellico briskly moves to another science station with
	Riker.

					JELLICO
			These stations should be devoted
			to damage-control and weapons
			status from now on. See that
			they're manned on every shift.

					RIKER
			Aye, sir.

					JELLICO
			Mister Data, how long until we
			reach the rendezvous point?

					DATA
			We will arrive in fifty-two hours,
			thirty-one minutes, sir.

	Jellico starts heading for the Turbolift.

  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/13/92 - ACT TWO  16.

16   CONTINUED: (2)

					JELLICO
				(to Riker)
			Schedule four battle drills, one
			for each shift. Run a series of
			simulated attacks from a
			Cardassian squadron. I want you
			to conduct the exercises
			personally, Wil. Get it done.

	Jellico suddenly stops before entering the Turbolift.

					JELLICO
				(remembering)
			And... get that fish out of the
			Ready Room.
				(to Data)
			Data, you're with me.

	Jellico and Data EXIT to the Turbolift, leaving a
	frustrated Riker on the Bridge.

                                             CUT TO:

16A  INT. JEFFRIES TUBE

	Jellico and Geordi are in the tube. Jellico is opening
	a Mees panel and looking inside.

					JELLICO
			I understand you served on the
			Victory.

					GEORDI
			Yes, sir.

					JELLICO
				(off panel)
			I want you to increase the flow to
			the deuterium fuel loader by a
			third... we may need the extra
			capacity.

	Geordi notes Jellico's instruction on his PADD as
	Jellico replaces the panel.

					JELLICO
			Captain Zimbata and I used to play
			rugby together at the Academy.

					GEORDI
			Really?


  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/13/92 - ACT TWO  16A.

16A  CONTINUED:

					JELLICO
			Yeah. He was awful.
				(beat)
			But I was worse.

	Jellico cocks his head to the side, listening for a
	moment.

					JELLICO
			Check the EPS power distributor,
			it sounds like you've got some
			kind of fluctuation.

					GEORDI
				(listens)
			I don't hear anything.

	Jellico looks back at him.

					GEORDI
			I'll check it, sir.

	They crawl out of the horizontal tube and then head up
	the ladder.

17   INT. ENGINEERING

	Jellico ENTERS by climbing up through the Jeffries
	Tube, with Geordi close behind. Jellico, as usual, is
	moving quickly and efficiently while Geordi struggles
	to make notes on his PADD and answer Jellico's
	questions. Data is also here.

					JELLICO
			The power transfer levels will
			need to be upgraded by twenty
			percent. The efficiency of your
			warp coils is also unsatisfactory.

					GEORDI
			The coil efficiency is well within
			specifications, Captain.

	Jellico moves to the pool table and begins looking at
	the monitors.

					JELLICO
			I'm not interested in the specs,
			Geordi. The efficiency needs to
			be at least fifteen percent
			higher.

					GEORDI
				(shocked)
			Fifteen percent?

 STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT TWO 17.

17   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			That is an attainable goal. But
			it will require realigning the
			warp coil and taking the secondary
			distribution grid off-line.

					JELLICO
			Very good, Data.
				(to Geordi)
			That's exactly what I want you to
			do.

					GEORDI
			Taking that grid off-line will
			shut down the astrophysics lab,
			exobiology, geological research --

					JELLICO
			We're not on a research mission.
			Get it done in two days.

	Geordi is too shocked to say anything at the moment.
	Data offers what he thinks is helpful advice.

					DATA
			I believe that is also an
			attainable goal. If we utilize
			the entire Engineering department,
			there should be sufficient
			manpower available to complete the
			task.

					GEORDI
			Sure, if they work around the
			clock for the next two days.

					JELLICO
			Then you better get to it, Geordi.
			It looks like you have some work
			ahead of you.

					GEORDI
				(tight)
			Yes, sir.

					JELLICO
			Data.

	Jellico EXITS, with Data in tow. OFF Geordi's
	reaction.

                                             CUT TO:

 STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT TWO 18.

18   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship at warp.

19   INT. READY ROOM (OPTICAL)

	Jellico is standing near the door, holding Picard's
	book of Shakespeare and looking through the pages. An
	intricate wood carving is sitting on the pedestal where
	the book normally sits. In the b.g., the fish tank is
	gone as well as the model of the Stargazer.

	The door CHIMES.

					JELLICO
			Yes?

	The doors OPEN, revealing Troi.

					TROI
			May I speak with you, Captain?

					JELLICO
				(smiles)
			Deanna... come in, come in.

	Troi ENTERS as Jellico sets the book down on the couch
	and moves to the desk. Troi looks down at a stack of
	crayon drawings sitting on the desk. Jellico notices
	her gaze.

					JELLICO
				(re: drawings)
			The latest masterpieces from my
			son.
				(picks up one)
			It's an elephant.
				(turns drawing)
			I think.

					TROI
				(looks)
			Definitely an elephant.

  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT TWO  19.

19   CONTINUED:

					JELLICO
				(beat, then back to
				 business)
			I'm glad you're here. I'd like to
			go over the duty roster with you.

					TROI
			I'd be happy to.
				(beat)
			But first, I'd like to talk about
			the way the change in command is
			affecting the crew.

					JELLICO
				(nods)
			I've noticed some resistance.

					TROI
			I wouldn't call it resistance.
			More like... uncertainty. Most of
			them have served under Captain
			Picard for several years. They
			knew him, knew what he expected.
			Now they're being asked to adjust
			to a new captain and a new way of
			doing things. They're uncertain
			how to react.

					JELLICO
			I see your point. This all could
			be very unsettling to them...

					TROI
			And to you. Perhaps everyone just
			needs some time... time for you to
			get to know and trust the crew...
			and time for them to understand
			how you want things done.

	Jellico nods thoughtfully and thinks for a few seconds.

					JELLICO
			I'm glad you brought this to my
			attention, Deanna.
				(beat)
			Unfortunately, I don't have time
			for a honeymoon with the crew.
					(MORE)

 STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT TWO 20.

19   CONTINUED: (2)

					JELLICO (Cont'd)
			You've clearly given this a lot of
			thought, so I want you to take
			charge of the morale situation.
			Please see to it that they make
			the adjustment to the new routine
			quickly and easily.

	That's not quite what Troi had in mind, but Jellico
	doesn't give her much of a chance to disagree with him.
	He glances at the computer terminal.

					JELLICO
			I have a meeting with the new
			Security Chief in five minutes, so
			the duty roster will have to wait.
			Thank you, Counselor.

	Jellico turns to his computer, but it takes a moment
	for Troi to realize that she's just been dismissed.
	She stands and heads for the door.

					JELLICO
			Oh, by the way...
				(she stops)
			I prefer a certain... formality on
			the Bridge.
				(beat, then with a
				 smile)
			I would appreciate it if you wore
			a standard uniform when you're on
			duty.

	Troi stiffens a little... but Jellico says it with only
	a hint of reproach.

					TROI
			Of course, sir.

	Jellico nods, satisfied. Troi EXITS after a beat.

                                             CUT TO:

20   INT. CORRIDOR

	Riker and Geordi are on the move. Geordi's pretty
	irritated.

  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT TWO  21.

20   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
				(frustrated)
			Commander, he's asking me to
			completely reroute half the power
			systems on the ship, change every
			duty roster, realign the warp
			coils in two days, and now he's
			transferred a third of my
			department to Security.

					RIKER
			If it makes you feel any better,
			you're not alone. Captain Jellico
			is making major changes in every
			department on the ship.

					GEORDI
			I don't mind making changes and I
			don't mind hard work. But he's
			not giving me the time to do the
			work. Someone's got to make him
			listen to reason.

					RIKER
			He's not going to listen to me.
			I think he's made that abundantly
			clear.

	Geordi stops him.

					GEORDI
			Then can I make a suggestion?
			Talk to Captain Picard. Maybe he
			can do something.

	Riker considers for a moment... he's not sure.

					GEORDI
			We just need a little time,
			Commander, that's all.

					RIKER
				(beat)
			All right.

	Riker EXITS to the Turbolift and Geordi heads off down
	the Corridor.

 STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT TWO 21A.

21   INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)

	Picard ENTERS. He is wearing the black jumpsuit and
	backpack, but now he's splattered with mud, and he
	looks totally exhausted. He wearily takes off the
	backpack and collapses into a chair with an audible
	sigh of relief. He closes his eyes for beat, and then
	the door CHIMES. Picard manages to sit up.

					PICARD
			Come.

	The doors OPEN and Riker ENTERS.

 STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT TWO 22.

21   CONTINUED:

	Riker notices the look of utter exhaustion on Picard's
	face and his disheveled state.

					RIKER
			Are you all right, sir?

					PICARD
			Oh, yes.
				(smiles)
			The last time I had to train like
			this was for the Academy marathon,
			but I'm managing.

	With effort, Picard stands -- not wanting to be seen as
	weak or tired, but he's almost asleep on his feet.

					PICARD
			What can I do for you?

	Riker looks into the exhausted face of his former
	Captain and suddenly decides not to burden Picard with
	his own problems right now.

					RIKER
			It's... nothing urgent. I'm sorry
			to bother you. Good night, sir.

	Riker EXITS. Off Picard's puzzled reaction...

                                             CUT TO:

22   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship drops out of warp.

23   INT. READY ROOM

	Jellico and Picard are seated at the desk looking over
	some PADDS. Picard is back in his normal uniform and
	seems much fresher.

					PICARD
			My orders are to maintain radio
			silence until we've completed the
			mission.

  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT TWO  23.

23   CONTINUED:

					JELLICO
			Well... the Enterprise will be
			monitoring your channel just in
			case you do need to transmit a
			signal.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Bridge to Captain Jellico. We've
			arrived at the shuttle departure
			coordinates.

					JELLICO
				(to com)
			Did you launch the probe I
			requested?

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Yes, sir. I wasn't aware that you
			wanted to be informed...

					JELLICO
				(to com)
			Thank you. Jellico out.
				(to himself)
			I can see why he's still only a
			first officer.

	Picard is clearly troubled by something. Jellico picks
	up on it.

					JELLICO
			Something wrong?

	A beat as Picard considers how to phrase this.

					PICARD
			Captain... I just want you to know
			that Commander Riker is--

					JELLICO
			I've read your reports, Jean-Luc.
			I know you think highly of him.

					PICARD
			It's not simply my opinion. He's
			been decorated five times by
			Starfleet Command and offered his
			own ship on more than one
			occasion. I think if you give him
			a chance, you'll find he's an
			outstanding officer.

	Jellico considers him for a beat, then leans forward.

  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT TWO  24.

23   CONTINUED: (2)

					JELLICO
			Jean-Luc... let's be candid for a
			moment. The Cardassians aren't
			going to listen to reason, and the
			Federation won't give in to their
			demands. And the odds are, you
			won't be coming back from this
			mission of yours.
				(beat)
			I want this ship ready for action.
			I don't have time to give Wil
			Riker or anyone else a "chance."
			And... forgive me for being blunt,
			but the Enterprise is mine now.

	There is a long, tense beat between the two men.
	Jellico finally stands and tries to ease the tension
	with a smile.

					JELLICO
				(smiles)
			Well... here's hoping you beat the
			odds.
				(they shake hands)
			Good hunting.

					PICARD
			Thank you.

	Picard heads for the door, but Jellico stops him.

					JELLICO
			Jean-Luc...
				(Picard turns)
			I believe this is yours.

	Jellico hands him the book of Shakespeare. Picard
	takes it... they exchange a final look... and then
	Picard EXITS.

	Jellico settles into the chair that is now his alone
	and picks up one of the drawings from his son...

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

 STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT THREE 25.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

24   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE & SHUTTLECRAFT (OPTICAL)

	The shuttle moves away from the Enterprise. (STOCK)

25   INT. SHUTTLECRAFT

	Picard, Beverly, and Worf are seated in the shuttle.
	Worf is piloting. Behind them can be seen packs.

					WORF
				(to com)
			Shuttlecraft Feynman to
			Enterprise. We have cleared the
			shuttlebay.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Acknowledged, Feynman. Good luck.

					PICARD
				(to com)
			Thank you, Enterprise.

26   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship goes into warp. (STOCK)

27   INT. SHUTTLECRAFT

	As before. Picard turns to the others.

					PICARD
			Now that we're on our way... I can
			finally tell you about our
			mission.

	Beverly and Worf exchange looks. They've been waiting
	for this.

					PICARD
			Starfleet Intelligence believes
			the Cardassians are developing...
			metagenic weapons.

					BEVERLY
				(quiet, grim)
			Oh my God.

 STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT THREE 26.

27   CONTINUED:

					WORF
			I am not familiar with...
			metagenics.

					BEVERLY
			They're genetically engineered
			viruses which are designed to
			destroy entire eco-systems. The
			metagenic toxins are released into
			the atmosphere of a planet and
			immediately begin mutating. They
			seek out and destroy every form of
			DNA they encounter.
				(beat)
			In a few days, everything is dead.

					PICARD
			Within a month, the metagenic
			agent itself breaks down and
			dissipates completely... leaving
			every city, road, and piece of
			equipment perfectly intact.

					WORF
			Leaving the planet safe to be
			conquered.
				(beat)
			Wouldn't using such a weapon pose
			as great a risk to the attacker as
			it does to the target?

					BEVERLY
			That's why metagenics and other
			biological weapons were outlawed
			years ago. Even the Romulans
			abide by those agreements.

					PICARD
			Starfleet Intelligence believes
			that the Cardassians are
			developing a new delivery system --
			one which would protect them from
			any accidental exposure to the
			toxin.
				(beat)
			They believe the Cardassians are
			testing a way of launching dormant
			metagenic material on a subspace
			carrier wave.

 STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT THREE 27.

27   CONTINUED: (2)

					BEVERLY
			So they could activate the toxin
			after launch... that would protect
			them from accidental exposure.

					PICARD
				(nods)
			And because the subspace wave
			would appear to be simple
			background radiation... no one
			would realize what was happening
			until it was too late.

	Picard picks up a PADD and hands it to Worf and
	Beverly, who examine it.

					PICARD
			For several weeks, bursts of thetaband
			subspace emissions have been
			detected coming from Celtris
			Three. Those emissions may
			indicate a metagenic delivery
			system in operation.

					WORF
			What do we know about Celtris
			Three?

					PICARD
			Very little. It was thought to be
			uninhabited until these emissions
			were detected. Starfleet believes
			there is a secret research lab
			located somewhere beneath the
			surface.
				(beat)
			Our orders are to penetrate the
			Celtris Three installation and
			determine whether or not the
			Cardassians are actually building
			a metagenic weapon.

					BEVERLY
			And if they are?

					PICARD
			Then we destroy it. At all costs.

	A long beat as he lets that sink in.

 STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT THREE 27A.

27   CONTINUED: (3)

					PICARD
			When I was on the Stargazer, we
			conducted extensive tests using
			theta-band carrier waves. One of
			the reasons I was selected for
			this mission is my familiarity
			with the methods used to generate
			them. Mister Worf, you're along
			for obvious reasons. Doctor, your
			job will be to locate and destroy
			any bio-toxins we find.

					WORF
			Celtris Three is in Cardassian
			space. How will we get there
			undetected?

					PICARD
			I know where we can arrange
			some... discreet transportation.
				(beat)
			Set course for Torman Five.

	Worf turns to work at the console.

                                             CUT TO:

 STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. II" - REV. 10/13/92 - ACT THREE 28.

27A  INT. TORMAN BAR (FORMERLY SCENE 32 & 33)

	A small hole-in-the-wall bar (similar to the bar seen
	in "Unification II"). There are a few N.D. ALIENS
	hanging out doing deals or drinking themselves into
	oblivion. Picard, Beverly, and Worf ENTER and look
	around. They are all wearing civilian jackets over
	their jumpsuits.

	A Ferengi Daimon -- SOLOK -- is in deep conversation
	with a N.D. ALIEN at a table. Solok is very
	disreputable looking -- even for a Ferengi. His
	clothes are rumpled and dirty... not a very successful
	Daimon in terms of money.

					SOLOK
				(to Alien)
			... if he doesn't pay up, I know
			three large Ferengi who will not
			be so forgiving.

	Picard, Worf, and Beverly move to the table. Solok's
	eyes widen and the Alien makes a hasty EXIT. Solok
	senses trouble here.

					SOLOK
			I didn't do it.

					PICARD
			We're not accusing you of
			anything.

					SOLOK
			Then what do you want?

					PICARD
			We're looking for Daimon Solok.

					SOLOK
				(suspicious)
			Why?

					PICARD
			I have a... business proposition
			to discuss.

	Solok looks at them... he's getting more suspicious by
	the moment.

					SOLOK
			Solok is a very busy -- a very
			important man. He isn't here.

	Solok stands to go, but Worf puts a firm hand on his
	shoulder. Solok looks up at Worf's face and decides to
	stay.

STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. II" - REV. 10/13/92 - ACT THREE28A.

27A  CONTINUED:

					SOLOK
			But I could... relay a message.

	Solok sits down again.

					PICARD
			Good. Please tell... Daimon Solok
			that we're interested in arranging
			some transportation... to Celtris
			Three.

	Solok reacts to the name.

 STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/13/92 - ACT THREE 29.

27A  CONTINUED: (2)

					SOLOK
			That's a Cardassian planet.

					PICARD
			Yes. I understand that Solok
			runs... "cargo" there from time to
			time.

					SOLOK
				(proudly)
			Solok is no smuggler.

	A nearby Bajoran snickers at that statement.

					SOLOK
				(outraged)
			What are you laughing at? Get out
			of here.

	The Bajoran leaves.

					PICARD
			Well, if Solok were going to
			Celtris for what I'm sure are...
			legitimate reasons... we would be
			interested in quietly booking
			passage for the journey.

	Solok considers them for a moment... finally decides
	against it.

					SOLOK
			I don't think he would be
			interested in dealing with
			Federation spies.

	Solok turns to go again, but now Beverly reaches out
	and and stops him. She gives him a winning smile and
	seductive look.

					BEVERLY
				(seductive)
			You know... I've heard that Solok
			is... quite a man...

	Solok stops cold and looks her up and down. His
	attitude starts to change.

					SOLOK
			Why, yes... he is... an
			extraordinary man.

 STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/13/92 - ACT THREE 29A.

27A  CONTINUED: (3)

					BEVERLY
			That's why we came here... because
			only Solok could help us... but I
			guess there are some things even
			Solok can't do.

	Beverly moves a little closer to him... runs a hand
	over his large ears.

 STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT THREE 30.

27A  CONTINUED: (2)

					BEVERLY
				(softly)
			It's too bad... if he had been
			able to help, I would've been
			very... very...

	She trails off.

					SOLOK
				(eager)
			Yes?

					BEVERLY
				(whispers in his ear)
			Grateful.

	Beverly moves away and sighs. Solok's hormones nearly
	explode through his ears. Solok never takes his eyes
	off Beverly.

					SOLOK
				(to Picard)
			When do you want to leave?

	Picard exchanges looks with the others. Off his
	expression...

                                             CUT TO:

28   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE & CARDASSIAN SHIP

	The two ships are facing each other in space. (STOCK)

					RIKER (V.O.)
			First Officer's Log: Supplemental.
			We have rendezvoused with the
			Cardassian ship Reklar to begin
			diplomatic talks designed to ease
			tensions along the border.

29   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Jellico, Troi, and Data are at their stations. (Troi
	is now in a standard blue uniform.) Riker ENTERS from
	the Observation Lounge.

					RIKER
			Gul Lemec has arrived. He's
			waiting for you in the Observation
			Lounge.

STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT THREE31.

29   CONTINUED:

					JELLICO
			Very good.
				(beat)
			I'll be in my Ready Room.

	Jellico EXITS to the Ready Room. Riker and Troi
	exchange puzzled looks.

                                             CUT TO:

30   INT. READY ROOM

	Jellico is sitting at his desk. (In the b.g., the
	crayon drawings seen earlier are now framed and are
	hanging on the walls.) The door CHIMES.

					JELLICO
			Yes?

	Troi ENTERS and Jellico looks at her expectantly.

					TROI
			Captain... I think there's been a
			slight miscommunication.
				(beat)
			Did you want to meet with Gul
			Lemec in here?

					JELLICO
			No. The Observation Lounge is
			appropriate.

					TROI
				(puzzled)
			I see...

	There is a quiet beat before Jellico decides to
	explain.

					JELLICO
			Lemec is a Cardassian... and
			Cardassians are like... timber
			wolves -- predators... bold in
			large numbers... cautious by
			themselves... and with an
			instinctive need to establish a
			dominant position in any social
			gathering.

					TROI
			You're trying to establish a
			dominant role for yourself by
			making him wait for you.

 STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT THREE 32.

30   CONTINUED:

	Jellico nods.

					TROI
			I see.
				(beat)
			The trouble with wolves is that
			sometimes the fight for dominance
			ends with one of them dead.

	Jellico smiles at her.

					JELLICO
			In that case the trick is... to be
			the wolf that's still standing at
			the end.

	Off his look of determination...

                                             CUT TO:

31
thru	OMITTED
33

34   EXT. SPACE - CELTRIS THREE (OPTICAL)

	A barren, rocky planet.

35   INT. CAVERNS - ENTRANCE (NIGHT)

	The cavern is dark and moody, with dimly-seen forms and
	shadows. There are also intermittent SOUNDS which
	suggest there are living creatures scuttling about
	somewhere in the gloom.

 STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/14/92 - ACT THREE 33.

35   CONTINUED:

	Picard, Beverly, and Worf ENTER from the exterior of
	the cave. They are wearing the dark jumpsuits seen
	earlier and carrying their backpacks. Beverly has a
	tricorder out and Worf is holding a phaser.

					PICARD
				(to Worf)
			Be certain your tricorder makes a
			precise map of our route. It will
			be easy to get lost in here.

					WORF
			Aye, sir.

	Worf holsters his phaser and makes an adjustment to his
	tricorder.

					BEVERLY
				(off tricorder)
			I'm picking up some type of
			subspace signals, but I can't get
			a lock on them.

	Picard moves to look at the tricorder and she hands it
	to him.

					PICARD
			That's characteristic of thetaband
			emissions. You need to
			compress the detection band-width
			to get a directional fix.

	He works the tricorder for a moment.

					PICARD
			The emission source is five
			hundred meters east of here... and
			about seven hundred meters below.

	Picard starts to lead the way when suddenly a
	SCREECHING SOUND is heard. Worf and Beverly freeze and
	Worf points his phaser up at the unseen ceiling.

					PICARD
			It's all right.
				(re: ceiling)
			They're called lynars... a kind of
			Celtran bat. They're harmless.

	Worf doesn't like the sound of that.

					WORF
				(looking up)
			Bats...

 STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/14/92 - ACT THREE 33A.

35   CONTINUED: (2)

					BEVERLY
			You're not afraid of bats, are
			you, Worf?

					WORF
			Of course not.

	Beverly smiles to herself as Picard leads them on.
	Worf can't help glancing up at the ceiling again.

                                             CUT TO:

STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT THREE34.

36   INT. CAVERNS - PRECIPICE

	They round a corner and come to a stop. The floor
	drops off directly in front of them. Picard moves
	cautiously to the edge and looks over.

37   POV PICARD - THE ABYSS (MATTE SHOT)

	A yawning chasm opens up below the precipice. There
	are distant walls and shapes dimly seen down the abyss,
	but the bottom is far out of sight.

38   RESUME SCENE

	Picard leans back as Beverly points her tricorder over
	the edge.

					BEVERLY
			The bottom's a little over five
			hundred meters.

	Picard looks to either side of them.

					PICARD
			There doesn't appear to be any
			other way down.

	Picard examines the rock face more closely.

					PICARD
			This is sheer granite. We'll have
			to use fusing pitons.

	Picard takes off his backpack and begins removing rope
	and 24th century pitons. Beverly looks over the edge
	with some trepidation.

					BEVERLY
			We could try to find another way
			down.

					PICARD
			Unfortunately, that could take
			several hours.

	They all take off their backpacks and begin removing
	ropes, rapelling harnesses and pitons.

39   PICARD

	Removes a piton from the pack and places it against the
	ground. He touches a control and then there is a
	WHOOSH SOUND.

 STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT THREE 35.

39   CONTINUED:

	Picard pulls experimentally on the piton... it's
	definitely set into the rock.

40   WORF AND BEVERLY

	As they put on their harnesses, Beverly can't help
	glancing nervously over the edge. Worf notices.

					WORF
				(quiet)
			You're not afraid of heights, are
			you, Doctor?

	She throws him a look... and then can't help but smile.

					BEVERLY
				(ironic)
			Of course not.

	Picard now attaches a line to the piton, clips the line
	into his harness and then tosses the coil of rope over
	the edge. Worf and Beverly secure their own pitons and
	attach their own ropes.

					PICARD
				(over above action)
			Now, remember to control your
			descent... and don't tangle the
			lines.

					BEVERLY
			Don't tangle the lines... I'll
			remember.

	They all put their backpacks back on. Picard tests his
	weight on the line... it's firm.

					PICARD
			Ready?

	They nod. Picard backs carefully to the edge... and
	then eases himself backward and down the rock face.

41   NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	As the three of them begin rapelling down the deep
	cavern...

                                             FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

 STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT FOUR 36.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

42   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE & CARDASSIAN SHIP
(OPTICAL)

	The two ships sitting in space. (STOCK)

43   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	GUL LEMEC is sitting at the table, quietly furious.
	After a few beats, Jellico, Riker, and Troi ENTER.
	Lemec stands up in anger, but Jellico strides into the
	room and begins to take charge of the situation.

					LEMEC
				(angry)
			What is going on? I have been
			waiting here for --

					JELLICO
				(brisk)
			I'm Captain Jellico. I believe
			you know Commander Riker, and this
			is Lieutenant Commander Troi.
			Let's get to it, shall we?

	Jellico, Riker, and Troi move toward the table, but
	Lemec isn't willing to just let this go. He blocks
	Jellico's path.

					LEMEC
			This treatment is a deliberate
			insult to the Cardassian Union.
			I have been kept waiting here for
			over an hour.

					JELLICO
			Then I'm sure you're ready to
			talk.

	Jellico brushes past him and deliberately sits down in
	the chair that Lemec just vacated. Riker and Troi move
	to sit on either side of him. Lemec is forced to walk
	around the table to the other side to find a chair, but
	he doesn't sit down yet.

					LEMEC
				(to Jellico)
			I did not agree to admitting
			others to this meeting.

 STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT FOUR 37.

43   CONTINUED:

					JELLICO
			If it alarms you, I can ask them
			to leave.

					LEMEC
			I am not alarmed. But we did not --

					JELLICO
			A great many people are depending
			on our efforts here, Gul Lemec.
			We don't need to quibble over
			minutiae.

					LEMEC
				(hard)
			I have come to negotiate terms for
			a Federation withdrawal from the
			border, not to be dictated to by
			some mere captain.

	Jellico is on his feet instantly. His eyes flash and
	his physical stance suggests imminent violence, but he
	keeps his voice low as if through strenuous effort.

					JELLICO
				(hard)
			I can see you're not serious about
			these talks. If the Cardassian
			Union truly wishes to discuss
			peace they can send someone who
			can negotiate in a civilized
			manner.

	Jellico indicates that Riker and Troi should follow him
	and then he storms out. This has all happened so
	quickly, that Lemec's only reaction is shock.

44   INT. MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS

	Jellico, Riker and Troi emerge from the Observation
	Lounge. Data is at Ops.

					DATA
			Captain on the Bridge.

	Jellico turns to Riker and Troi. He has now dropped
	all pretense at anger.

 STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT FOUR 38.

44   CONTINUED:

					JELLICO
				(to Troi)
			Let him stew for a few minutes.
			Then go in and tell him you've
			convinced me to meet with him one
			more time. Tell him I'm a loose
			cannon... that he needs to be more
			reasonable because I'm such an
			unreasonable man.
				(to Riker)
			Lemec will want to bring his own
			aides on board. Pretend to be
			worried that I'll object, but then
			give grudging permission for two
			aides, no more.
				(to both)
			Understood?

					TROI
			Yes, sir.

					RIKER
			Aye, sir.

	Jellico EXITS to the Ready Room. Troi and Riker
	exchange glances.

					RIKER
			Well, I'll say this for him...
			he's very sure of himself.

	Beat.

					TROI
				(quiet)
			No... he's not.

	Off her expression as she looks toward the Ready
	Room...

                                             CUT TO:

45   INT. CAVERNS - CAVE BOTTOM

	Picard and Worf are standing at the bottom of the
	abyss. It's a flat area, branching out into more
	tunnels. Beverly is still on the rope, taking the last
	few steps down the rock face. She jumps to the bottom
	and Worf helps her unhook the line from her harness.
	Picard scans the area with a tricorder.

  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FOUR  39.

45   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			The installation should be
			about... three hundred meters...
				(points down one of the
				 tunnels)
			This way.

	Picard picks up his backpack. Beverly looks back up at
	the towering rock face.

					BEVERLY
			I don't suppose we're going to
			find another way to get back up
			there...

					WORF
			Doubtful.

					BEVERLY
			That's what I thought.

	Worf hands Beverly her pack and they both follow Picard
	down a tunnel.

                                             CUT TO:

46   INT. CAVERNS - ANOTHER SECTION

	Picard, Worf, and Beverly come around a corner into
	another section of the caverns where there is a dead
	end. There is a SMALL HOLE, about one foot in diameter
	in the wall which is directly in front of them. Picard
	tracks his tricorder readings to the hole.

					PICARD
			We need to get through here. This
			lava tube runs southwest for
			seventy meters before running into
			another chamber.
				(looks inside)
			The tube opens up a little more
			beyond this entrance. If we can
			widen the opening, we should be
			able to crawl through.

	Worf moves to the entrance and examines it.

					WORF
			A phaser set to level sixteen
			should suffice.

  STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FOUR  40.

46   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Make it so.

47   ON WORF (OPTICAL)

	As he pulls out his phaser and adjusts the setting. He
	points it at the entrance and then FIRES. The phaser
	is set on a WIDE BEAM which envelops the entire
	entrance. When Worf stops firing, it is revealed that
	the phaser has WIDENED the entrance to the lava tube by
	about two feet. We can now see more of the tube, which
	is just large enough for a person to crawl along on
	their hands and knees. The tube is smooth on the
	inside.

	Picard moves to the entrance and peers inside.

					PICARD
			Very good, Mister Worf.

	Picard removes his pack and puts it in the tube ahead
	of him. He climbs in and then begins crawling through
	the tube.

                                             CUT TO:

48   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE & CARDASSIAN SHIP
(OPTICAL)

	The two ships hang in space.

49   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	Gul Lemec is sitting in his chair, flanked by GLIN
	CORAK and GLIN TAJOR, his aides. Jellico, Riker, and
	Troi ENTER. The Cardassians stand. Jellico acts as
	though the previous confrontation with Lemec never
	happened.

					JELLICO
				(shakes his hand)
			Gul Lemec, a pleasure.

					LEMEC
			May I present my aides, Glin Corak
			and Glin Tajor.

					JELLICO
			Welcome aboard.

	Everyone waits until Jellico sits down and then they
	follow suit.

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FOUR      41.

49   CONTINUED:

	Lemec is much less confrontational than we saw
	previously. Jellico's strategy is working.

	Jellico looks over a PADD for a moment and everyone
	again waits for him to set the pace. He pauses for a
	moment, then plunges ahead -- his attitude is extremely
	belligerent.

					JELLICO
				(blunt)
			For the past three weeks you've
			been massing troops in staging
			areas, assembling strike forces,
			and pulling ships from their
			normal patrols. We will not stand
			for this clearly provocative
			behavior.

					LEMEC
				(cool)
			I see the Federation spy network
			has again provided you with faulty
			information. We are conducting
			routine training operations...
			nothing more.

					JELLICO
				(contemptuous)
			Then I'm sure you won't mind if we
			send a few starships into this
			sector for our own... training
			operations.

					LEMEC
			Your fleet deployments do not
			concern us. However, we are very
			concerned about your refusal to
			vacate those territories along the
			border, which are clearly
			Cardassian.

	Jellico jumps to his feet and pounds the table.

					JELLICO
				(angry)
			You gave up your claims on those
			territories when you signed the
			armistice. You couldn't take
			those worlds by force, so now you
			want us to give them to you at the
			bargaining table.

	Troi reaches out and pretends to calm him.

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FOUR      42.

49   CONTINUED: (2)

					TROI
			Captain, please... we should
			listen to them.

	Jellico seems to swallow his anger for a moment.
	Finally, with a great show of effort, he manages to sit
	down again. Riker, playing the part of the
	"reasonable" officer tries to sound conciliatory.

					RIKER
			Gul Lemec, I'm sure you know that
			those systems are still subject to
			negotiation by the terms of the
			treaty.

					LEMEC
			Negotiations which we have pursued
			in good faith. Unfortunately, the
			Federation has not been as
			forthcoming.

					JELLICO
			So to speed up the process, you're
			preparing for war.

					LEMEC
			We are preparing to defend
			ourselves.

					RIKER
			The Federation won't start a war.

	Lemec pauses for a moment... then he gets up and moves
	about the room. Clearly, he knows something.

					LEMEC
			That has always been your
			position. However... I have heard
			reports that a small team from the
			Federation has already been sent
			into our territory...

	Jellico, Riker, and Troi keep their faces impassive...
	trying not to give anything away. Lemec goes on after
	a beat.

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FOUR      43.

49   CONTINUED: (3)

					LEMEC
				(continuing)
			Of course, I don't believe this...
			such an attempt would almost
			certainly fail... and even if it
			succeeded, it would trigger a...
			very serious response on our part.

	Jellico takes a moment before responding. The tables
	have just turned here... Jellico is now following
	Lemec's lead.

					JELLICO
			I don't know what you're talking
			about.

					LEMEC
				(smiles)
			Then there's no need for worry.

	A silent beat as the two men consider each other.

					LEMEC
			A short recess would seem to be in
			order.

					JELLICO
			Very well.

	Jellico, Riker and Troi stand to go... but Lemec stops
	them with a question.

					LEMEC
				(quiet, casual)
			Where is Captain Picard?

	Jellico turns and faces him with a neutral expression.

					JELLICO
			Reassigned.

					LEMEC
			Ah.
				(beat)
			Well, I hope his new assignment is
			not too dangerous... it would be
			a shame if something happened to
			such a... noted officer.

	Jellico meets his eyes and there is a long moment
	between the two of them.

     STAR TREK: "Chain of Command, Pt. I" - 10/06/92 - ACT FOUR     44.

49   CONTINUED: (4)

					JELLICO
			Yes... it would.

	Jellico turns and EXITS with Troi and Riker. Off
	Lemec's expression of satisfaction...

                                             CUT TO:

50   EXT. SPACE - CELTRIS THREE (OPTICAL)

	The planet as seen before.

51   INT. CAVERNS - LAVA TUBE

	Picard is crawling though the dark tube. Worf and
	Beverly are following him single file.

					PICARD
				(to others)
			Just a few more meters...

	He keeps crawling... then comes to a narrow OPENING
	which leads into another chamber. He has to push aside
	some dirt and rocks, before he can scramble out of the
	tube and into the chamber, which is large enough for
	him to stand in.

52   WORF

	is still moving though the tube. He gets to the end
	and begins to crawl out.

53   BEVERLY

	is struggling over some rocks and dirt behind Worf.
	There is a sudden RUMBLING SOUND and she freezes.

54   PICARD AND WORF

	They hear the sound.

					PICARD
				(urgent)
			Beverly, get out of there!

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FOUR      45.

55   BEVERLY

	She begins to hurry toward the entrance, but it's too
	late. The tube CAVES IN on top of her.

56   PICARD AND WORF

	The RUMBLING SOUND stops and dirt is blown out of the
	tube.

					PICARD
			Beverly!

					WORF
			Doctor Crusher!

	Silence. Picard moves to go back in after Beverly, but
	Worf stops him.

					WORF
			No, sir.

	Worf dives into the tube, leaving a worried Picard
	behind.

57   WORF

	inside the tube, reaches the point of the cave-in. He
	begins to dig frantically.

58   PICARD

	waits anxiously at the entrance to the tube. A few
	beats pass.

					WORF'S VOICE
				(o.c.)
			I have her.

	Picard leans inside the tube and then re-emerges with
	Worf's legs. He struggles to pull the Klingon from the
	tube, but finally Worf's torso emerges. They both then
	manage to pull out Beverly, who is covered with dirt
	and is scratched up. She coughs and chokes for a
	moment.

					PICARD
			Are you all right?

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FOUR      46.

58   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
				(coughing)
			I think so.
				(beat)
			Next time, you bring up the rear.

	Picard smiles at her, then picks up the tricorder.

					PICARD
			We're nearly there. Do you feel
			like you can continue?

	Beverly nods. Picard leads them down another
	passageway.

                                             CUT TO:

59   INT. CAVERNS - INSTALLATION ENTRANCE (OPTICAL)

	Picard, Beverly and Worf come around a corner and see
	a METAL HATCH set into the wall. There is no other
	sign of an installation here except for the bare metal
	door. They wait behind some rocks for a moment.

					PICARD
				(off tricorder, sotto)
			This looks like a maintenance
			hatch to the installation.
				(beat)
			I'm picking up three proximity
			sensors around it.

	Picard looks to Worf, who pulls a DEVICE about the size
	and shape of a flashlight out of his pack. Worf
	adjusts one of the controls and then sets the handle
	into the ground so that it is standing up. Once it is
	in place, he touches another control and THREE BEAMS
	come out of the device and head towards three different
	points around the periphery of the door. As soon as
	they touch the rock, the beams DISAPPEAR.

	Worf checks a reading on the side of the device.

					WORF
			The sensor echo has been
			established. The false image will
			only last a few minutes.

	They pull their phasers and quickly move to the door.
	Worf examines the door.

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FOUR      47.

59   CONTINUED:

					WORF
			The hatch is magnetically sealed.
			But I believe I can bypass it.

	Picard nods and Worf pulls another DEVICE from his
	pack. He attaches it to the door and begins to operate
	the controls.

					BEVERLY
				(off tricorder)
			I can't scan the other side of the
			hatch... it's been shielded.

					PICARD
			We have no choice.
				(beat, then quiet, to
				 Beverly)
			Remember: aim low and fire in
			short, controlled bursts.

	She nods understanding and takes a firmer grip on her
	phaser. Worf finally finishes working on the hatch.

					WORF
			Ready.

	They all move to defensive positions just outside the
	door.

					PICARD
				(to Worf)
			Now.

	Worf activates the device and the hatch OPENS. The
	three of them rush inside with phasers drawn.

60   OMITTED

61   INT. CAVERNS - LARGE CHAMBER - CONTINUOUS

	They all rush inside and find... nothing. There is no
	Cardassian installation... just a large empty chamber
	in the caverns. The only thing in sight is a small
	CONSOLE sitting in the middle of the chamber which is
	quietly BEEPING.

	Picard, Worf, and Beverly all come to a sudden halt as
	they see there is nothing here. Off their astonished
	reactions...

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FIVE      48.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

62   INT. CAVERNS - LARGE CHAMBER

	Continuous action from Act Four. Picard, Beverly, and
	Worf are reacting to the empty room.

					PICARD
				(quick realization)
			It's a trap. Come on.

	But as he turns to head back for the door, all hell
	suddenly breaks loose in the chamber.

	The following happens very quickly:

62A  WORF AND BEVERLY (OPTICAL)

	react as TWO ARMED CARDASSIANS come at them from
	behind. Worf throws himself at one and Beverly SHOOTS
	the other.

62AA	THE HATCH

	begins to close behind them.

62B  PICARD (OPTICAL)

	Dives for cover as TWO MORE CARDASSIANS begin to FIRE
	from hidden points in the shadows. Picard returns
	FIRE, but then has to physically fight off a THIRD
	CARDASSIAN who rushes him.

62C  WORF (OPTICAL)

	drops his phaser and dives into the closing hatch and
	manages to force it open by wedging himself in it.
	Beverly FIRES a couple of BLASTS which take out TWO
	CARDASSIANS.

62D  PICARD

	is fighting off the Cardassian with a quick series of
	karate moves.

62E  CARDASSIANS

	begin to pour out of yet another point in the chamber.

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FIVE      49.

62F  WORF (OPTICAL)

	can barely hold open the hatch as Beverly scrambles
	through it. Worf yells for Picard.

					WORF
			Captain!

	But before Picard can do anything, Worf is wounded by
	a DISRUPTOR BLAST and he is knocked out of the hatch
	and into the outer chamber.

63   OMITTED

64   NEW ANGLE

	as Picard turns to make a dash for the door... but it's
	too late. The hatch CLOSES shut, trapping him inside.
	He turns around and drops his phaser as the Cardassians
	close in on him.

65   INT. CAVERNS - INSTALLATION ENTRANCE

	Worf and Beverly have just emerged from the Large
	Chamber. The door is shut.

					WORF
			The Captain...

	Beverly shakes her head no, then whips out her
	tricorder.

					BEVERLY
				(off tricorder)
			There are five more heading this
			way from another tunnel. Come on.

	She heads off back toward the way they came. Worf
	glances once more at the closed hatch, then he follows
	her.

                                             CUT TO:

66
thru	OMITTED
67

68   INT. CAVERNS - LARGE CHAMBER

	Picard puts his hands on his head as an armed
	Cardassian takes his pack and combadge from him as well
	as his weapon.

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FIVE      50.

68   CONTINUED:

	One of the Cardassians goes over to the flashing
	console and deactivates it. The flashing and beeping
	STOP. The Cardassian smiles insidiously at Picard, and
	then leads him away.

                                             CUT TO:

69   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE & CARDASSIAN SHIP
(OPTICAL)

	The two ships in space.

70   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Riker is looking at a monitor at the aft science
	station as Jellico ENTERS from the Ready Room.

					DATA
			Captain on the Bridge.

					JELLICO
				(to Riker)
			What do you have, Wil?

					RIKER
				(indicates monitor)
			I'm not sure. We're picking up a
			lot of coded messages from a
			Cardassian planet near the border.

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FIVE      51.

70   CONTINUED:

					JELLICO
			Which planet?

					RIKER
			Celtris Three.

	A beat as Jellico thinks.

					JELLICO
			Can you detect any theta-band
			subspace emissions coming from
			Celtris?

	Riker works for a moment.

					RIKER
			There're some residual traces...
			it looks like there were emissions
			up until a few minutes ago.

	A long moment as Jellico looks at the monitors. He
	doesn't want to give anything away.

					JELLICO
			Open a secure channel to Admiral
			Nechayev. Priority two. Put it
			through to my Ready Room.

					RIKER
			Aye, sir.

	Jellico EXITS to the Ready Room and Riker looks after
	him with a puzzled expression.

                                             CUT TO:

70A  INT. READY ROOM (OPTICAL)

	Jellico moves to his desk and activates the terminal.
	After a moment, the Starfleet logo is replaced by the
	image of Admiral Nechayev.

					NECHAYEV
			Captain?

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FIVE     51A.

70A  CONTINUED:

					JELLICO
			Those emissions you were so
			concerned about... have just
			stopped.
				(beat)
			I'd say that one way or the other,
			our friends have finished their
			task.

	There is a beat as Nechayev takes note of this.

					NECHAYEV
			Have you heard from our friends?

					JELLICO
			No.

					NECHAYEV
			Let me know if you do. I'd very
			much like to see them again.

					JELLICO
			So would I, Admiral.

	The transmission ENDS. Off Jellico's face as he
	contemplates the fate of Picard and the others.

                                             CUT TO:

71   INT. INTERROGATION ROOM

	The room is very large with a huge entry door.
	(Footsteps tend to echo in here.) There are few
	furnishings except for the center of the room where
	there is a large DESK. Although not immediately
	apparent, the desk has many hidden panels and drawers.
	Next to the desk is the INTERVIEW CHAIR, an ominous
	looking piece of furniture with the ability to manacle
	the subject's wrists and ankles.

	Picard is pushed into the room by a Cardassian. The
	door SHUTS behind him. Picard looks around for a
	moment... then a VOICE is heard coming out of the
	darkness.

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FIVE      52.

71   CONTINUED:

					MADRED'S VOICE
				(o.c.)
			A challenge.

	GUL MADRED steps out of the shadows and moves toward
	the table.

					MADRED
			You should prove to be an
			interesting challenge. Possibly
			the most interesting to come
			through that door in many years.

					PICARD
			What do you want?

					MADRED
			Why... you, of course.
				(beat)
			Picard. Jean-Luc. Serial number
			SP dash nine three seven dash two
			one five. Son of Maurice and
			Yvette Picard, born in La Barre,
			France. Former Captain of the
			Stargazer... where you conducted
			extensive studies on theta-band
			subspace carrier waves.

	Picard is shocked at this level of knowledge and what
	it implies.

					MADRED
			Don't look so surprised. How
			could we have designed a lure for
			the Captain of the Federation
			flagship unless we knew something
			about his background.

	Picard recovers quickly and his features harden.

					PICARD
			All right... so you concocted an
			elaborate ruse to bring me here.
			Why?

	Madred's expression hardens.

					MADRED
			In this room, you do not ask
			questions. I ask them, and you
			answer. And if I'm not satisfied
			with those answers... you will
			die.

       STAR TREK: "Chain... , Pt. I" - REV. 10/07/92 - ACT FIVE      53.

71   CONTINUED: (2)

	Off Picard's reaction...

                                             FADE OUT.

     SUPER:             "TO BE CONTINUED"

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END