STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Gambit, Part II" #40277-257 Story by Naren Shankar Teleplay by Ronald D. Moore Directed by Alex Singer 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 1993 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 This script is not for publication or reproduction.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 AUGUST 6, 1993 STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - CAST STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Gambit, Part II" CAST PICARD BARAN RIKER GIUSTI DATA KORAL BEVERLY NARIK TROI SATOK WORF TALLERA GEORDI VEKOR COMPUTER VOICE Non-Speaking Non-Speaking N.D. CREWMEMBERS N.D. MERCENARIES STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - SETS STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Gambit, Part II" SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE BRIDGE READY ROOM MERCENARY SHIP CORRIDOR SHUTTLEBAY VULCAN OBSERVATION LOUNGE BARAN'S QUARTERS MERCENARY SHIP BRIDGE CARGO BAY PICARD'S QUARTERS CARGO HOLD VULCAN CAVERN STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Gambit, Part II" PRONUNCIATION GUIDE BARAN buh-RAN GOL GALL GIUSTI JOOS-tee PSIONIC SY-on-ik HYRALAN HI-rah-lon T'PAAL tuh-PAL V'SHAR vuh-SHAR SATAK SAY-tak T'KARATH tuh-KAR-ath TALLERA ta-LARE-uh VEKOR veh-KORE YADALLA yuh-DOLL-uh STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - TEASER 1. STAR TREK: The Next Generation "Gambit, Part II" TEASER FADE IN: (NOTE: Episode begins with 90 second RECAP of Part I) 1 INT. ENTERPRISE - BRIDGE As seen at the end of Part I -- DATA, TROI, WORF, and GIUSTI in their places. The ship is ROCKED SLIGHTLY by the blast from the Mercenary ship. WORF Direct hit to the port nacelle... (beat, then surprised) But -- only minimal damage. Another SHAKE. WORF (continuing) Hit on the starboard nacelle... again, no appreciable damage. TROI Wil must've done something to their weapons. DATA I believe so, Counselor. It is now up to us to... play along. (to Giusti) Release inertial dampers and cut power on decks thirty-one through thirty-seven. (to Worf) Set phasers to twenty-five percent. Return fire. WORF Aye, sir. CUT TO: 2 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE & MERCENARY SHIP (OPTICAL) The Enterprise FIRES on the Mercenary vessel. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - TEASER 1A. 3 INT. MERCENARY SHIP - BRIDGE The ship is ROCKED. (PICARD, RIKER, BARAN, TALLERA, NARIK, and VEKOR as seen at the end of Part I.) STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - TEASER 2. 3 CONTINUED: BARAN (to Picard) Continue firing! PICARD (off console) We've lost three plasma relays on the disruptors. Auxiliary power... is not available. BARAN (exasperated) Transfer weapons control to my station. There's a way to by-pass the relays and feed power -- The ship is ROCKED again. NARIK The anti-matter containment unit is starting to buckle! Tallera moves quickly and smoothly to Baran. TALLERA (urgent, quiet) The Enterprise has been badly damaged but they still have superior firepower. If we remain here, we will be destroyed. The logical course of action is to withdraw. Baran doesn't want to go, but another SHAKE convinces him. Baran's next words are intended for public consumption. BARAN (loudly) We've done enough damage. Narik, set course one eight zero, mark two one five. Warp six. Initiate. Narik works the console. Across the Bridge, Riker and Picard exchange a slightly relieved look. CUT TO: 4 INT. ENTERPRISE - BRIDGE (OPTICAL) As before. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - TEASER 3. 4 CONTINUED: GIUSTI (off console) They're preparing to activate their warp drive, Commander. WORF (urgent) Sir. We will not be able to track them with our sensors if they go to warp. I can still disable them before they -- DATA I am aware of the tactical situation, Lieutenant. Let them go. Worf glares at the image of the Mercenary ship on the Viewscreen as it begins to move away from the Enterprise. 5 EXT. SPACE - THE MERCENARY SHIP (OPTICAL) The Mercenary ship leaves the "crippled" Enterprise and races away. FADE OUT. END OF TEASER STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT ONE 4. ACT ONE FADE IN: (NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.) 6 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship hangs in space. 7 INT. ENTERPRISE - BRIDGE Worf at Tactical, Troi and GEORDI at the aft science stations, Giusti at Ops. Data moves from station to station, and people automatically report to him as he approaches. GIUSTI (off console) Sensor sweep eight has been completed, sir. Still no sign of the mercenary ship. DATA Understood. Begin sensor sweep nine using the lateral array set to maximum gain. GIUSTI Aye, sir. Data makes his way to the aft stations. 8 INCLUDE TROI (OPTICAL) On the monitor in front of Troi is a video replay of Riker's last Viewscreen transmission from Part I. Troi FREEZES the image as Data approaches. TROI I've gone over every word, every inflection, every facial response... but I still haven't found any kind of code or hidden message. DATA Understood. I agree that the probability that such a message exists is remote, but I believe we should check. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT ONE 5. 8 CONTINUED: TROI I'll keep trying. She returns to the console and Data turns to Worf. WORF (to Data) Two starships have been sent to intercept the mercenaries at Yadalla Prime and Draken Four, in case they attempt to attack those planets. DATA Very well. Inform Starfleet Command that we will hold position here until further notice. WORF So we are just going to... remain here? DATA Yes. But we will continue to pursue all avenues of investigation which are available to us. WORF If we had not allowed them to escape, this would not be necessary. Data thinks about this for a beat. DATA That is correct. However, I believe Commander Riker wanted us to let them escape. Suddenly Geordi sees something on his monitor. GEORDI (excited) I think I've got something. Data moves to Geordi's console. On the monitor is an OKUDAGRAM of an intricate series of numbers and letters -- clearly some kind of code. GEORDI (continuing) I've been studying the com link Commander Riker used to transmit his command codes. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT ONE 6. 8 CONTINUED: (2) GEORDI (Cont'd) I didn't see anything at first, but when I ran the transmission through a sub-harmonic analysis I found this. (indicates graphic) It was sent on the same carrier wave as the command codes. Data and Troi look at the monitor. TROI (to Data) It might be the message you've been looking for. Data sits down at the console and begins to rapidly work the controls. DATA Possibly. I will attempt to resequence the signal. (to Geordi) Begin running a search for a decryption key. As Data and Geordi work... CUT TO: 9 EXT. SPACE - THE MERCENARY SHIP (OPTICAL) The ship comes to a STOP near a large planet. 10 INT. MERCENARY SHIP - BRIDGE Baran in command. Picard, Riker, Tallera, Vekor, and Narik at their stations. NARIK (off console) I'm taking the engines off-line. BARAN How long until we can repair our battle damage? NARIK It will take at least five hours to replace the anti-matter containment unit. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT ONE 7. 10 CONTINUED: BARAN You have three hours, Narik. One minute beyond that and you'll answer for it with your life. Narik glares at Baran, but has little choice except to nod and EXIT the Bridge. Baran turns his attention to Riker, who seems lost in thought near one of the consoles. Picard is standing nearby. BARAN (to Riker) I suppose I should thank you. None of us would be alive if it weren't for you. But Riker doesn't seem to appreciate Baran's thanks. His tone is bitter and downcast. RIKER (bitter) You're welcome. Picard moves smoothly in and begins to mercilessly torment Riker. In the b.g. Tallera watches their interchange with a thoughtful expression. PICARD What's wrong, Commander? Starting to have second thoughts about betraying your comrades... because that's what you've done -- betrayed them... betrayed them in order to save yourself. (beat) You were just a second-rate officer before... now you're a coward and a traitor. How does that feel? Riker gives him a cool look... then, without warning, Riker HITS Picard squarely in the jaw, knocking him off his feet. RIKER I don't know. How did that feel? Picard's eyes flash and he gets up and moves toward Riker. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/16/93 - ACT ONE 8. 10 CONTINUED: (2) BARAN (hard) That's enough. (to Picard) Galen, get down to the cargo hold and check those artifacts. (beat) Move. Picard and Riker continue to glare at each other, then Picard seems to back down and he EXITS. 11 TALLERA Looks from Baran to Riker... thinks for a few beats, then EXITS. CUT TO: 12 INT. MERCENARY SHIP - CARGO BAY Picard is checking over a group of NEW ARTIFACTS (a few pieces of exotic pottery, ancient weapons, tools, etc.) on the scanner pad. Picard makes a note on a PADD and takes a relic off the scanner. He begins to examine another relic. The doors OPEN and Tallera ENTERS. Picard doesn't look up. PICARD (irritated) Tell Baran I'm working as fast as I can. Tallera just studies him without responding... she's getting suspicious. Picard turns and looks at her. PICARD (continuing) What? TALLERA I'm trying to decide if you're incredibly stupid... or incredibly smart. Why didn't you continue to fire on the Enterprise when their shields dropped? STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/16/93 - ACT ONE 9. 12 CONTINUED: Picard turns back to his work, and as they talk, he continues to make complex adjustments to the strange equipment -- sometimes hooking up new devices, discarding others, etc. PICARD You were there. The disruptors lost power. (to computer) Computer, reset diagnostic for new sample and begin scan. TALLERA I've watched you handle the weapon systems before. You know exactly how to by-pass a problem like that. (beat) And why do you continue to argue with Riker? It should be obvious that by alienating him you are also alienating Baran, and yet you continue to do it. Why? COMPUTER VOICE Scan complete. Terikon profile negative. Picard removes the artifact and replaces it with another one -- this ARTIFACT has several intricate designs on the side and is shaped like a large puzzle piece. Picard is deliberately taking a challenging attitude in order to maintain his cover and throw Tallera off. PICARD (sarcastic) I'm touched by your concern for my well-being. TALLERA That's not an answer. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT ONE 10. 12 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Computer, reset diagnostic and begin scan. (to Tallera) I'm not a prisoner in a Romulan labor camp, Tallera. I don't have to answer your questions and I don't give a damn what you think. Tallera studies his face for a moment. COMPUTER VOICE Scan complete. Terikon profile positive. Ninety-eight percent probability of match. They both turn and look at the artifact on the scanner pad. PICARD Well, whatever it is... it looks like we've found it. Tallera moves to the artifact and looks at it closely for a long beat, her expression becomes cool and unreadable. TALLERA (touches com device) Tallera to Captain. BARAN'S COM VOICE Yes? TALLERA I'm in the cargo hold. Galen's made a positive Terikon match on one of the artifacts. BARAN'S COM VOICE Is he sure? TALLERA He's sure. 13 INT. BARAN'S QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS In contrast to the other quarters on the mercenary ship, Baran's quarters border on the luxurious... overstuffed furniture, gaudy sculpture -- very decadent. Baran is lounging in a chair while Riker sits on a couch... Baran holds a drink. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT ONE 11. 13 CONTINUED: BARAN (excited, to com) Good. Bring it here immediately and don't let anyone else get near it. TALLERA'S COM VOICE Understood. Tallera out. Baran takes a long, very satisfying drink from his glass and settles back into his chair. RIKER I take it that's good news. BARAN Very. It means we've completed half of what promises to be a very profitable mission... and even better than that it means, I'm almost ready to get rid of your friend Galen. RIKER Really? BARAN (nods) We have only one more artifact to find... and once Galen confirms it's genuine, his usefulness on this ship will come to a very sudden end. RIKER I can't say I'm sorry to hear that. Baran studies Riker closely for a moment... he's not quite sure what to make of him... he might have an ally here, but Baran is wary and suspicious by his very nature. BARAN I'm sure. (beat) Galen may be a loud-mouthed fool, but sometimes he can be very perceptive... his observations about you for instance. RIKER Oh? STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/06/93 - ACT ONE 12. 13 CONTINUED: (2) BARAN After what you did at Calder Two, I doubt you have much of a future in Starfleet. RIKER I've... pretty much come to the same conclusion. BARAN Assuming for the moment that you were no longer my prisoner... what would you do now? Riker thinks about this for a moment... then gives Baran a very direct look. RIKER I guess I'd have to look for a new career... there must be a place where someone with fifteen years of Starfleet technical knowledge would be useful. (beat) Do you know of any place like that? Baran takes a drink... he's not going to rush into anything. BARAN Possibly. (beat) But if there's one thing I've learned on this ship, it's to be cautious... and not to blindly embrace what seems to be good fortune. And at the moment, you seem like a rather large stroke of luck. RIKER I haven't exactly sworn my undying allegiance to you, Baran. In fact, I'd like to know a little bit more about the job. BARAN Such as? STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT ONE 12A. 13 CONTINUED: (3) RIKER Such as what you meant by a "very profitable mission." BARAN (smiles) I thought you Starfleet types weren't interested in things like profit. RIKER I'm not exactly... the "ideal" Starfleet type. BARAN No, I guess you're not. (beat) All you need to know for now is that your share could be more than enough to insure a very long and very wealthy life far away from the Federation. RIKER Sounds promising. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT ONE 13. 13 CONTINUED: (4) BARAN It is. But if you want that share, you'll have to earn it. (beat) And you can start by putting aside your dislike for Galen and trying to become his friend. Riker reacts as if this is a particularly unpleasant request. RIKER Why? BARAN Galen has allies among the crew... they might cause a problem if I kill him. I want you to get close to him and find out who they are. RIKER Okay. Riker stands to go, but Baran stops him. BARAN One more thing, Riker. (beat) When the time comes, I want you to kill Galen. A beat and then Riker nods... OFF his expression... FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT TWO 14. ACT TWO FADE IN: 14 INT. ENTERPRISE - BRIDGE Data is sitting at the aft science station as Worf and Geordi look on. Giusti at Ops. The monitor screen shows an OKUDAGRAM image of a sequence of numbers and letters which have been arranged into some kind of pattern. DATA I have completed the analysis of the signal from the mercenary ship. I believe these groupings represent bearings and coordinates taken from their navigational system. GEORDI So you think this is their flight plan... DATA Yes. If I am correct, the mercenary vessel is heading toward these coordinates in... (works) ... the Hyralan Sector. WORF Their maximum speed is warp eight point seven... it will take them at least fourteen hours to reach that position. GEORDI We could be there in five. Data turns to Worf. DATA Make it so. WORF (annoyed) Finally. Data reacts to the tone of irritation in Worf's voice, but says nothing as Worf tends to the business at hand. WORF (continuing, to Con Officer) Set course for the Hyralan Sector and engage at warp nine. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT TWO 15. 14 CONTINUED: Data moves quietly to Worf. DATA Lieutenant, may I see you in the Ready Room? WORF Of course. Data and Worf EXIT. 15 INT. READY ROOM - CONTINUOUS Data and Worf ENTER. Once the doors close, Data turns around and confronts Worf without preamble. DATA Lieutenant, I am dissatisfied with your performance as acting first officer. WORF (surprised) May I... ask in what way? DATA You continually question my orders in front of the crew. I do not think this is appropriate behavior. WORF Sir... with all due respect, I have always felt free to voice my opinions... even when they differed from those of Captain Picard or Commander Riker. DATA That is true. But in those situations, you were acting as head of security, not as First Officer. The primary role of the second in command is to carry out the decisions of the Captain... in this case, me. WORF But is it not my duty to offer you... alternatives? STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/06/93 - ACT TWO 16. 15 CONTINUED: DATA Yes. But once I have made a decision, it is your job to carry it out regardless of how you may personally feel. Any further objections should be given to me in private, not in front of the crew. (beat) I do not recall Commander Riker ever publicly showing irritation with his Captain as you did a moment ago. WORF (abashed) No, sir. DATA If you feel that you are not capable of carrying out this role, I can assign it to Commander La Forge and return you to Tactical. I would not enter it as a reprimand on your record... simply as a transfer. WORF I would... prefer to remain at my current post. DATA Then I will expect you to conform to the guidelines I have laid out. WORF Aye, sir. Worf turns to go, then Data stops him. DATA Mister Worf... I am sorry if I have ended our friendship. Worf looks at him for a moment... suddenly feeling a sense of remorse at his behavior. WORF Sir... it is I who has jeopardized our friendship, not you. If you will... overlook this incident, I would like to continue to consider myself your friend. DATA I would like that as well. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT TWO 17. 15 CONTINUED: (2) WORF Thank you, sir. Worf EXITS. CUT TO: 16 EXT. MERCENARY SHIP (OPTICAL) The ship hangs in space. 17 INT. MERCENARY SHIP - BRIDGE Baran and Riker are standing over Narik, who is working at his engineering console. Vekor is working at a console in the b.g. BARAN (with an edge) Your time is almost up, Narik. I need warp power. NARIK (working) You can't rush this, Baran... if the constrictor coil isn't perfectly aligned, the entire antimatter containment unit could rupture... and that would be the end of the engines, the ship, and us. BARAN (brusque) I don't have time for your excuses. We have a schedule to keep. (to Riker) Can you do this any faster? Riker notes that Baran's hand has dropped to his control device... a word from Riker and Narik is dead. Narik realizes this as well and he gives Riker a worried look. Riker looks over the console, seems to consider this. RIKER I think Narik may be right this time... a constrictor coil will only align so fast. We'll have to wait. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT TWO 18. 17 CONTINUED: BARAN How long? Riker studies the console for a moment. RIKER I'd say another hour, maybe less. Baran turns to Narik, a cold and unforgiving look on his face. BARAN One hour. Narik returns to work with a renewed spirit of vigor as Baran and Riker move away from him. Baran moves casually to Vekor. BARAN (to Vekor) Where is Galen? VEKOR In his quarters. Baran gives Riker a meaningful look as he speaks, but keeps his ovice casual. BARAN Typical. Everyone else is working and he's asleep. Someone should go kick him out of bed. Riker gives a slight nod... he understands what Baran wants of him. RIKER I'll take care of it. BARAN Good. Riker EXITS. CUT TO: 18 INT. MERCENARY SHIP - PICARD'S QUARTERS A small, cramped room with only the barest of accommodations. Picard is looking over a PADD when the door suddenly OPENS. Picard whirls instinctively and whips out a phaser. Riker freezes in the open doorway for a moment, then Picard motions him inside. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT TWO 19. 18 CONTINUED: RIKER (wry) It's good to see you, too. PICARD I've had a few... unpleasant surprises. (puts the phaser away) This isn't a good idea, Wil. Baran may get suspicious. RIKER As a matter of fact, Baran's the one who sent me here. (off his look) He told me to "wake you up," but he really wants me to "pretend" to get friendly with you and then help you organize a mutiny... so he can find your supporters among the crew and eliminate them. (beat) So here I am... pretending to like you after all. Picard can't help but smile a little at the irony of it all. PICARD Wheels within wheels... I'm starting to forget which side I'm on. (beat) All right... what have you found out so far? RIKER When we get to the Hyralan Sector, we're supposed to rendezvous with a Klingon transport ship. I'm not sure, but I think they might be delivering another Romulan artifact to us. PICARD (puzzled) A second artifact... ? (beat) By the way, these artifacts aren't Romulan... they're Vulcan. RIKER Vulcan? STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT TWO 20. 18 CONTINUED: (2) Picard hands the PADD he was studying to Riker. PICARD I've been looking over the glyphs and pictograms I found on the Calder Two artifact. There's not enough data to translate the inscription, but the alphabet and symbology are more consistent with early Vulcan artifacts than Romulan. RIKER Do these artifacts have some kind of religious or cultural significance... something that would make them valuable enough to kill for? PICARD I don't know. (frustrated) If I could just get access to the Enterprise computer for even a few moments... Picard takes a few steps in the cramped room, trying to think. A long beat, then he starts to think in a different direction. PICARD What will Baran do once we obtain the second artifact? RIKER You're supposed to confirm it's authentic... (beat) ... and then I'm supposed to kill you and take your place. They exchange a look. PICARD (dry) You always seem to be after my job. Riker smiles at the joke, then Picard gets serious again. He touches the device on the side of his neck. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/16/93 - ACT TWO 21. 18 CONTINUED: (3) PICARD Once Baran decides I've outlived my usefulness... he can simply kill me with the neural servo. (beat) I think... we'd better start planning a mutiny. Off Picard's expression... CUT TO: 19 INT. MERCENARY SHIP - CARGO HOLD Picard is talking to Narik, who has taken one of the panels off the wall and is working on some complex circuitry within using a device. Mid-conversation. PICARD We need a new captain... so I've come to one inescapable conclusion... NARIK I agree. (beat) But I don't think that's you. PICARD Oh? Narik closes up the panel and stands up to face Picard. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/06/93 - ACT TWO 22. 19 CONTINUED: NARIK I don't trust you, Galen... and I don't think the rest of the crew does either. They're not going to follow you. PICARD And who do you think they'll follow... you? NARIK No. But they will follow Tallera... and so will I. Narik brushes past him and EXITS. Picard waits for a beat, frustrated that his first effort was so clearly shot down... then he heads for the door. But before he reaches it, the door OPENS and Tallera ENTERS and she blocks his way. The door CLOSES behind her. She looks at him coolly. TALLERA Who are you? PICARD What? TALLERA You're no smuggler... and I don't think your name's Galen. He tries to brush past her, but Tallera raises a phaser and points it directly at him. TALLERA You will tell me who you really are and what you are doing on this ship... or I will kill you right here. Off Picard's expression... FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/09/93 - ACT THREE 23. ACT THREE FADE IN: 20 INT. MERCENARY SHIP - CARGO HOLD - CONTINUOUS As before. PICARD I don't know what you're talking about. TALLERA I will not play games with you. I found the message you sent to the Enterprise. When Riker used his command codes to drop their shields, you sent a transmission to them on the same carrier wave. (beat) You're a Starfleet officer. As Picard starts to protest -- TALLERA Do not bother to deny it. It is the only... logical conclusion. She holds his gaze for another beat, then lowers the phaser and holsters it. TALLERA (continuing) My name is actually T'Paal... I am a member of the V'Shar. PICARD (shocked) Vulcan Security? TALLERA That is correct. I infiltrated this ship a year ago posing as a Romulan mercenary. I am here to investigate a possible threat to Vulcan. PICARD What sort of threat? STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/16/93 - ACT THREE 24. 20 CONTINUED: TALLERA First things first, Galen. Who are you? Picard thinks for a moment, then decides to take the plunge. PICARD (continuing) I'm Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Enterprise. Tallera nods... this confirms her thinking. TALLERA Very well. To answer your question, for several years, there has been a small, but growing movement of extreme isolationists on Vulcan... a group that believes contact with alien races has "polluted" our culture... and is destroying Vulcan purity. (beat) This group advocates the total isolation of Vulcan from the rest of the galaxy and the eradication of all alien influences from our planet. PICARD It sounds like a very... illogical philosophy. TALLERA Agreed. But extremists often have a logic all their own. PICARD What are these artifacts we're collecting? I know they're Vulcan in origin... STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/16/93 - ACT THREE 25. 20 CONTINUED: (2) Tallera looks away and her voice drops a little... this is a disturbing subject for her and it's not easy to talk about... there is even an element of shame in it. TALLERA I am sure you are familiar with the ancient history of my people... before we found logic... before we found peace. PICARD You were much like my people once were... a warlike, savage race... TALLERA There was even a time when we used our telepathic abilities as a weapon... a time when we learned to kill with a thought. That triggers something in Picard's memory. PICARD The Stone of Gol... ? Tallera looks at him, mildly surprised. TALLERA You know of it? PICARD I know the story from Vulcan mythology. According to the legend whoever possessed the stone needed only to think of throwing it at someone... and that person would be killed. TALLERA The Stone of Gol is real, but there is nothing magical or supernatural about it. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT THREE 26. 20 CONTINUED: (3) TALLERA (Cont'd) (beat) It is a psionic resonator... a device which focuses and amplifies telepathic energy. It is one of the most devastating weapons ever conceived. PICARD As I recall the legend, the Stone of Gol was destroyed by the gods when the Vulcan people found the way to peace... TALLERA The resonator was believed to have been destroyed during the Time of the Awakening. Only one piece was known to have survived and it was placed in a Vulcan museum under heavy guard. (beat) Six months ago, that piece was stolen from the museum. Soon after, mercenary ships began raiding archaeological sites across the quadrant. We believe that a member of the isolationist movement is trying to reassemble the resonator. Picard is disturbed by the implications. PICARD A telepathic weapon... TALLERA A Vulcan trained in the mental disciplines would be a formidable assassin. The entire Vulcan council could be killed with a single thought, and there would be no defense. (beat) My orders are to find that would-be assassin and stop him. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT THREE 26A. 20 CONTINUED: (4) PICARD Since Baran will presumably need to deliver the artifacts to this assassin in order to get paid, it would seem that the best course of action is to continue with our little masquerade for now. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT THREE 27. 20 CONTINUED: (5) TALLERA Agreed. But Captain... I cannot allow the resonator to be assembled. If necessary, I will destroy this ship, its crew... all of us... to prevent that from happening. Picard nods grimly in understanding. CUT TO: 21 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship drops out of warp. DATA (V.O.) Acting Captain's Log: Stardate 47160.1. The Enterprise is entering the Hyralan Sector which I believe to be the next destination of the mercenary ship. 22 INT. ENTERPRISE - BRIDGE Data, Troi, and Worf in Command, Giusti at Ops, an N.D. Crewmember at Tactical. GIUSTI We've arrived at the coordinates, sir. DATA All stop. Full sensor sweep. Giusti works for a moment. GIUSTI I'm picking up a small vessel bearing one two seven mark three three five. DATA Is it the mercenary ship? STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT THREE 28. 22 CONTINUED: GIUSTI No, sir... it's a Klingon ship. Worf works the console on his chair-arm. WORF It is a Toron-class shuttlecraft... one passenger. TROI We're awfully far from the Klingon Empire... it can't be a coincidence the shuttle's at these coordinates. DATA Agreed. (to Giusti) Open a channel. 23 INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The screen comes on and shows KORAL -- a large Klingon with a brooding look and ill-disposition. DATA (continuing) I am Lieutenant Commander Data of the Federation Starship Enterprise. Koral barely reacts... after a beat he gives a grunt that might be a word. KORAL Koral. Data and Troi exchange a glance. DATA I take it that is your name? Silence. DATA May I inquire as to your destination? KORAL No. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT THREE 29. 23 CONTINUED: DATA May I ask the purpose of your journey? KORAL No. Beat. DATA Perhaps I have not made our intentions clear... we are investigating a -- Koral shuts OFF the transmission and the screen returns to a view of space. DATA (continuing) He seems... most uncooperative. TROI He may have been curt, but he was also very worried... even a little scared. WORF Sir... I recommend that we bring the shuttle aboard with our tractor beam, search it, and interrogate Koral. DATA According to the terms of the Klingon/Federation Treaty, Koral has every right to free transit through Federation space. We cannot board or search his vessel without cause. Worf looks as if he might object, but then he quickly suppresses that instinct... he's trying hard to live up to his new role as the loyal first officer. WORF Yes, sir. (thinks) However... the Treaty also gives us the right to conduct... health and safety inspections of any ship in our space. TROI Health and safety inspections... ? STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT THREE 30. 23 CONTINUED: (2) DATA (thinks) Article forty-seven, paragraph three, subsection B: "Starfleet will have the right to insure all Klingon vessels comply with safety and navigational regulations as specified by mutual agreement." (beat) But I am not sure that using this clause as an excuse to conduct a search would be consistent with the spirit of the Treaty. Worf looks disappointed, but again keeps his opinion to himself. WORF Yes, sir. Beat. DATA However, if Koral wishes to contest our actions he can file a protest with the Judge Advocate General's office. (to Worf) Bring the shuttle aboard and then you and Doctor Crusher may begin the inspection. Worf smiles and heads toward the Turbolift. WORF Aye, sir. Off Data's neutral expression... CUT TO: 24 INT. SHUTTLEBAY A short time later. The KLINGON SHUTTLE has now been brought into the bay. Worf and BEVERLY approach the shuttle door and wait. The door to the shuttle OPENS and Koral begins to step out... 24A ON BEVERLY as she looks up... and up... and up... STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT THREE 30A. 24B RESUME SCENE Revealing Koral as he stands before Beverly -- he may be the tallest Klingon we've ever seen. He stands there towering above Beverly like some kind of displeased skyscraper. She is a little taken aback, but then steadies herself. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT THREE 31. 24B CONTINUED: BEVERLY Hello. (beat) I'm Doctor Crusher, and this is Lieutenant Worf. Silence. BEVERLY (continuing) We're here to conduct the health and safety inspection of your ship. KORAL (with contempt) Health and safety inspection... BEVERLY That's right. You know... radiation leaks... biochemical contamination... other health hazards... A long beat as Koral glares at her... Worf begins to wonder if he'll have to use force on this guy... then Koral finally steps aside. Beverly takes out her tricorder with some relief and starts to scan the ship as Koral and Worf eye each other warily. BEVERLY (continuing) Well... no radiation so far... I'm sure you're glad to hear that... Koral gives her another glare. BEVERLY Right. As she begins to go inside the shuttle... CUT TO: 25 INT. MERCENARY SHIP - BRIDGE Baran is standing in command when Vekor suddenly sees something on her console. Picard is at the weapons console and Riker is in the b.g. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT THREE 31A. 25 CONTINUED: VEKOR There's an incoming message... it's from the Klingon shuttle. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT THREE 32. 25 CONTINUED: (2) That gets Baran's attention and he moves to stand near Vekor's console. Riker and Picard exchange glances in the b.g. VEKOR It was sent approximately fifteen minutes ago. (beat, off console) He's at the rendezvous coordinates... but he's been detained by the Enterprise. (beat) That's all there is... he stopped transmitting. Baran takes a couple of steps away and tries to think... he's very disturbed by this new development. BARAN The Enterprise... Picard throws Riker a suspicious look. PICARD How could they have found out about the rendezvous, Commander? RIKER How could I have known the rendezvous coordinates? If anyone sent them a message it must've been one of you. PICARD Or maybe you're a clever liar. BARAN Quiet. (beat) All that matters now is that the Enterprise has the second artifact in their possession. PICARD How can you be sure Koral had the piece when he was captured? BARAN The Klingon? He reported a positive Terikon match two weeks ago. (beat) We have no choice... we'll have to board the Enterprise and take the artifact. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/06/93 - ACT THREE 33. 25 CONTINUED: (3) There is general disbelief around the Bridge at this statement. PICARD You have a very bad sense of humor, Baran. BARAN (ignoring him) They're not expecting an attack, so they won't have their shields up... we'll stay just outside visual range -- they can't pick us up on their long range sensors... and then we'll transport a raiding party aboard. PICARD Do you have any idea how many security officers they have on a ship like that? BARAN No, I don't... (looks at Riker) ... but he does. Riker thinks about this for a moment... then realizes that the best way to keep anyone from getting hurt on a raid like this is for him to lead it. RIKER I can get you aboard... and I can find that artifact. PICARD (sarcastic) Oh, how convenient... we'll just beam you aboard your old ship and then hope that you won't change your mind and decide to betray us? RIKER I've already saved your life twice, Galen. I'd think you'd start to show a little gratitude by now. BARAN Galen, if you're so worried about Riker, then you can go along on the raid to watch him. PICARD Agreed. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/06/93 - ACT THREE 34. 25 CONTINUED: (4) BARAN (to Picard) Draw weapons and equipment for a raiding party of five. Picard nods and then EXITS. Baran motions for Riker to come close for a private chat. BARAN In case you are thinking of betraying us to your friends on the Enterprise... (points at device) ... you might remember that I can still kill you at the first sign of trouble. RIKER I haven't forgotten. Baran eyes him briefly, seems to come to a decision. BARAN I have an additional task for you... one that will prove your loyalty. (beat) This raid is an opportunity to get rid of Galen. Once you've found the artifact... kill him. Baran moves away. Off Riker's expression... FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FOUR 35. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 26 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship hangs in space. 27 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE Data and Troi are trying to get Koral engaged in conversation, but aren't having much luck. Data is pouring them drinks from a pitcher of liquid. TROI I'm sure the health and safety inspection won't last much longer. In the meantime, I'm glad we have this opportunity to get to know you. May I ask what business you're in? Silence. Troi tries again. TROI (continuing) I hope we're not causing you too much inconvenience... were you on a tight schedule? Nothing. Troi looks to Data for help. DATA (re: drinks) Lieutenant Worf has programmed our replicators to make a very good approximation of Klingon bloodwine. I think you will find it to your liking. Koral takes the mug, looks at it for moment, then deliberately pours it out onto the deck. Troi and Data exchange looks... they're not going to get much out of this guy. CUT TO: 28 INT. SHUTTLEBAY (OPTICAL) Beverly and Worf are standing outside the Klingon shuttle. Beverly closes her tricorder in frustration. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FOUR 36. 28 CONTINUED: BEVERLY Well, that's my third scan and I still can't find anything out of the ordinary. WORF He must be hiding something. We should download his computer memory and analyze it. BEVERLY I'd have a tough time defending that as part of a safety inspection. WORF We could claim that the computer was generating abnormal radiation signatures... BEVERLY Worf, we're on pretty shaky ground as it is... we can't just start -- Suddenly Picard, Riker, Narik, and TWO N.D. Mercenaries MATERIALIZE in the shuttlebay. They all have phasers out and Riker quickly FIRES at a N.D. Enterprise Crewmember in the bay. The Crewmember falls to the ground, stunned. Worf automatically reaches for his phaser, but Picard levels his weapon at a shocked Worf. PICARD Don't. Riker points at one of the Mercenaries. RIKER Watch that door. The Mercenary moves to stand near the door to the Corridor. Picard, Narik, and Riker move to the Klingon shuttle, keeping their weapons trained on Worf and Beverly, who don't quite know how to react to this sudden invasion by their supposedly dead captain and former first officer. WORF What is going on? NARIK Keep your mouth shut, Klingon. Picard pulls out a tricorder and quickly scans the shuttle. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FOUR 37. 28 CONTINUED: (2) RIKER (to Beverly) Surprised to see me, Doctor? BEVERLY You could say that. RIKER I decided to make a career change... PICARD (closes tricorder) It's not in here. (to Worf) Where's the artifact? WORF I... don't know what you're talking about. Riker reaches out and pushes the phaser away. RIKER (to Picard) Use your brain. They wouldn't be down here searching the shuttle if they'd already found it. Koral must have it with him. (to Beverly) Where's the Klingon pilot? Beverly gives him a long look... Riker nods his head ever so slightly and then she answers. BEVERLY He's in the Observation Lounge with Data and Troi. NARIK (to Riker) How far is that? RIKER It's twelve decks away. WORF Security will not allow you to get that far. Riker looks over at a large Enterprise shuttle in the bay. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FOUR 38. 28 CONTINUED: (3) RIKER They won't get the chance. We can use the transporter in that shuttle and beam directly to the Observation Lounge. Riker points his phaser at Beverly and Worf. RIKER (to Beverly and Worf) Sorry about this... He FIRES his phaser at them both, and they both fall to the ground, stunned. Riker heads for the Enterprise shuttle. CUT TO: 29 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE (OPTICAL) Data, Troi, and Koral as seen before. DATA Koral, if you could tell us something about the nature of your mission -- Riker, Picard, Narik and the N.D. Mercenaries suddenly MATERIALIZE in the room. Data leaps up, but the Mercenaries have the drop on them all and there's nothing he can do. KORAL (outraged) What is this? RIKER Quiet. (to Picard) Does he have it? STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FOUR 39. 29 CONTINUED: Picard quickly scans Koral with his tricorder... then reaches into a pocket on Koral's uniform and pulls out a small ARTIFACT which is similar in shape and design to the artifact identified by Picard in the Mercenary cargo hold. PICARD This is it. NARIK (to Picard) Are you sure, Galen? PICARD Yes, I recognize the inscription pattern from the first artifact. Data and Troi have been quietly watching all this, trying to figure out just what to do. Data finally decides that the obvious thing to say is probably the correct one. DATA Commander Riker, by taking this action you risk charges of assault, theft, piracy, and treason. RIKER Really? Then I guess adding one more charge wouldn't hurt. With that, Riker turns and points his phaser at Picard, but Picard is faster and he jumps out of the way as Riker FIRES. The shot MISSES and Picard rolls out of the way and FIRES at Riker, catching him in the chest. Riker goes down. Everyone is shocked as Picard picks himself off the deck. Troi quickly moves to Riker and checks his pulse. PICARD Is he dead? Troi looks at him for a beat, and then gives him the answer she hopes he wants to hear. TROI Yes. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FOUR 40. 29 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Good. (to Narik) Activate the transporter. (to Data) Good-bye. DATA Good-bye. The Mercenaries all DEMATERIALIZE. DATA (to com) Security alert. Emergency medical team to the Observation Lounge. Data to Bridge, raise shields and begin sensor sweeps for the mercenary ship. GIUSTI'S COM VOICE Aye, sir. Data bends down to examine Riker. TROI (to Data) He's all right. He's just stunned. DATA I must admit I am experiencing the same sensation. Riker begins to come to on the deck. He looks up at them and tries to blink away the cobwebs. RIKER This is going to take some time to explain... CUT TO: 30 INT. MERCENARY - BRIDGE Baran in command, Tallera, and Vekor at their stations. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FOUR 41. 30 CONTINUED: BARAN (to Con) Set course three one zero mark two one five, warp six. Picard, Narik, and the other N.D. Mercenaries ENTER the Bridge. Picard strides right up to Baran, his face set in anger, but Baran regards him coolly. BARAN Where is it? Picard pulls out the artifact and tosses it to Baran. PICARD Oh, I do have something else for you... Baran looks up and then Picard suddenly PUNCHES Baran right in the mouth, knocking him back off his feet. Everything on the Bridge comes to a stop as people turn to watch this turn of events. Picard faces the Bridge crew, his tone and bearing flushed with anger. PICARD Tell them what happened, Narik. NARIK Riker turned on us... he tried to kill Galen before we beamed back. PICARD He might have killed all of us. And I believe he was acting on the direct orders of Baran. (looks at Baran) You betrayed us. Baran gets back on his feet, rage flickering behind his eyes... but he warily glances around at the faces of his crew, trying to read their expressions -- who will they support? Picard rushes on, not giving Baran a chance to rebut him. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FOUR 42. 30 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD (continuing) I say this has gone on long enough. It's time for a new commander... someone who will lead us to the profits we've been promised. BARAN And who would that be? You, Galen? (to all) He's plotted this all along... opposed me at every turn... endangered all of us with his stubborn refusal to follow orders. PICARD A refusal to follow your orders... the orders of a small man trying to fill a role too big for him. BARAN I have kept this crew alive... I am about to bring us more profits than any of -- PICARD (to all) More promises of riches. More excuses for Baran to fill his own coffers while the rest of us go begging. I say it's time for a change. Who's with me? A tense moment... then Tallera, Narik and two N.D.s move to stand with Picard. Vekor hesitates, then goes to Picard, along with one more N.D. Baran is alone... he can see the writing on the wall and he feels cornered. PICARD (quiet) It's over, Baran. BARAN Not quite. He pulls out the control device... everyone glances at it with a sense of apprehension. The device is Baran's trump card and they know it. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FOUR 43. 30 CONTINUED: (3) BARAN (continuing) As long as I have this, I'm still in command. PICARD You can't kill us all... you need us to run the ship more than we need you to command it. BARAN I don't need to kill you all... just you, Galen. Somehow I think that watching you writhe in your death throes may change a few minds... and a few is all I need. He lifts the device, sets it to kill and prepares to press the button... FADE OUT. END OF ACT FOUR STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT FIVE 44. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 31 INT. MERCENARY BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Continuous from Act Four. Baran presses the button on the control device and then suddenly Baran grabs his own neck in pain and drops to the floor, dead -- a stunned look on his face. Everyone is shocked except Picard, who moves to Baran's body and takes the control device out of his limp hand. Tallera moves to him. TALLERA What happened? Picard's expression is grim... he regrets this, but felt he had no choice. PICARD I switched our transponder codes. It seemed like a prudent, if regrettable step. TALLERA Baran was nothing. We have a mission to complete... (with meaning) ... and the crew needs a leader. Picard turns away from Baran and faces the Bridge crew who are all looking to him. He looks down at the control device in his hand... then deliberately sets it on the deck, pulls his weapon and DESTROYS it with a phaser blast. PICARD There'll be no more "punishment" on this ship. Do your duties and I'll see to it that we complete our mission... and get our payment. A long beat as the crew looks at him... they glance at each other... then finally return to their places on the Bridge. Tallera picks up the artifact from where Baran dropped it. TALLERA (to Narik, re: Baran's body) Remove that. Narik begins dragging Baran's body off the Bridge. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT FIVE 45. 31 CONTINUED: VEKOR (to Picard) Orders? PICARD Maintain course and speed for now. I'm going to find out where and when we're supposed to deliver our cargo. VEKOR Aye... Captain. It's been a while since anyone called Picard that and he can't help but smile a little at the irony... then he and Tallera EXIT. CUT TO: 32 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) (FOMERLY SCENE 33) at impulse. 33 INT. READY ROOM (OPTICAL) (FORMERLY SCENE 34) Riker working on a PADD. WORF'S COM VOICE Worf to Commander Riker. Minister Satok of Vulcan Security is standing by on a secure channel. RIKER Put it through in here. The desktop MONITOR is activated, and we see the image of SATOK -- a middle-aged Vulcan male, appear on the screen. SATOK Greetings, Commander. How may I be of service? RIKER Minister, I wanted to let you know that the mercenary ship which has been raiding planets in the Taugan sector is probably on its way to Vulcan right now. SATOK I do not understand. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT FIVE 46. 33 CONTINUED: RIKER I'm sorry. It's been a difficult couple of days. (beat) I know that one of your operatives has been investigating the assembly of the psionic resonator on a mercenary ship for several months. I didn't want someone to make a mistake and start firing at them when they approach your planet. A long beat as Satok thinks. He looks at Riker with a puzzled expression. SATOK Commander, I believe there is a problem. (beat) We have no operative aboard a mercenary ship. Riker looks blankly at the screen for a moment... then he starts to realize. OFF Riker's shocked reaction... CUT TO: 34 INT. BARAN'S QUARTERS Picard and Tallera are at the computer console which has a great deal of text information on the screen. The two pieces of the resonator are sitting on a nearby table. PICARD (off monitor) According to Baran's logs, the two artifacts are supposed to be delivered... to the T'Karath Sanctuary on Vulcan. TALLERA I know that place. It was an underground stronghold for one of the factions during the last civil war. It's been abandoned for centuries. Picard hits his combadge. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FIVE 47. 34 CONTINUED: PICARD (to com) Galen to Bridge. Alter course for Vulcan. VEKOR'S COM VOICE Understood. Picard sits back and his gaze is drawn to the two pieces of the resonator on the table. His curiosity is piqued and he carefully examines them... PICARD (to Tallera) Perhaps you can help me with something... I've been able to translate most of the writing on these pieces... 34A INSERT - ON RESONATOR PIECES Picard picks up the two pieces together and runs his fingers over the intricate inscriptions. PICARD'S VOICE For the most part, they're just warnings of death and destruction for those who oppose the resonator... 34B RESUME SCENE As before. Picard turns the large piece over and shows Tallera the bottom of the base piece. PICARD But this hieroglyph on the anterior has me a bit puzzled. 34C INSERT - ON BASE PIECE The bottom of the base has TWO large SYMBOLS -- one an intricate series of circles and lines, the other a more abstract drawing of heroic Vulcan figure. There is a large NOTCH missing from the base at the point where the third piece is supposed to fit into it. PART of a jagged LINE borders the area of the missing piece -- it's incomplete, suggesting yet another symbol on the other piece. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT FIVE 48. 34C CONTINUED: PICARD'S VOICE This is clearly the Vulcan god of war... and this is the god of death... 34D RESUME SCENE Picard indicates the point where the missing piece would fit. PICARD But if you look closely you can see that there is a third symbol missing -- which should be on the final piece. The odd thing is that typically, the gods of war and death would stand alone on an artifact... they would never be combined with a third glyph. Tallera looks it over for a moment. TALLERA Fascinating. But I am not an archaeological expert. PICARD Hmmmm. I'm anxious to see the final artifact... it may provide a new insight into Vulcan mythology. Picard continues to look at the pieces. Tallera brings them back to the business at hand. TALLERA When we arrive at Vulcan, I will take these pieces to a secure holding area before going to the Sanctuary. I prefer to go alone... it will arouse less suspicion among the isolationists. PICARD (nods agreement) We shouldn't have any problems entering orbit. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT FIVE 48A. 34D CONTINUED: PICARD (Cont'd) I told Commander Riker to contact the Vulcan authorities from the Enterprise and warn them of our approach. Tallera is caught off-guard by this and her face momentarily registers surprise. PICARD (off her reaction) I didn't want to risk a misunderstanding... someone might have mistaken this for an actual raid... Picard trails off... he saw the quick look of shock on Tallera's face... he's beginning to feel that something is definitely not right here. TALLERA (covering) It was a wise precaution. A beat. Picard's suspicions have been raised by this quick look of surprise... he begins to probe around a bit, watching her reactions carefully. PICARD Perhaps I should contact the Enterprise... have them meet us at Vulcan in case these isolationists try to escape. TALLERA Your offer is appreciated... but our security forces are more than adequate. PICARD I see. (beat) Are you sure it's wise for you to go to the Sanctuary alone? After all, they're expecting Baran to show up, not you. If I accompanied you, it may seem more plausible that -- STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FIVE 48B. 34D CONTINUED: (2) TALLERA Captain, I understand your human emotional need to be there at the final moment... but this is a Vulcan matter. Tallera has given him perfectly valid answers to all his questions... he smiles in agreement, but there is still something bothering him at the back of his mind. PICARD Of course. TALLERA Thank you. She picks up the two pieces of the resonator and EXITS. Picard looks after her for a moment... then follows. CUT TO: STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/11/93 - ACT FIVE 49. 35 EXT. SPACE - MERCENARY SHIP AND VULCAN (OPTICAL) The Mercenary ship enters orbit around the planet Vulcan. 36 INT. MERCENARY SHIP - BRIDGE Picard in command, Tallera, Vekor, and Narik at their stations. VEKOR We have entered orbit of Vulcan. Tallera takes the two pieces of the resonator and moves toward the transporter pad. But Picard stops her. PICARD Tallera... I've decided on a change of plan. Leave one artifact here for now. Take the other... and once we have our payment in hand, we'll complete the delivery. Tallera looks at him, trying to gauge what he's up to. This is a delicate game being played out in full view of the mercenary crew. TALLERA That was not the agreement. PICARD I realize that. But it would be safer for all concerned if we kept one piece here. TALLERA They will not pay us until they get both pieces. PICARD They've waited a long time for this. They won't take any risks at this stage. Take the piece and beam down. Tallera holds his gaze for a moment. After a beat, she decides on a bolder move. She moves to him, confronting Picard directly. Again her words are meant for the benefit of the crew, who are watching them both closely. TALLERA That is all I was waiting for. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT FIVE 50. 36 CONTINUED: She turns and faces the rest of the crew. TALLERA (to Vekor) Go to the navigational computer and check file one-three-seven-slash-omega. You'll find a message secretly transmitted to the Enterprise, containing our entire flight plan. There are shocked reactions around the Bridge. Vekor goes to the navigational console and works for a moment. Picard knows she has him dead to rights and he can't deny it. VEKOR (shocked, off monitor) She's right. TALLERA That message was sent by Galen... he's a Starfleet officer. The crew reacts with dismay. Narik grabs a phaser and points it at Picard. NARIK (to Tallera) Why didn't you tell us before? TALLERA I wasn't sure until he tried to stop me from taking the artifacts to the surface. Then I knew he was intentionally obstructing our plans to keep us from being paid. Picard's mind races... looking for a counter move. PICARD Tallera's right, I am a Starfleet officer... but what she's not telling you is that those artifacts in her hand are part of an incredibly powerful weapon. There's no reward waiting for you down on the surface. Tallera will take the artifacts and leave you here, to be captured by Starfleet. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT FIVE 50A. 36 CONTINUED: (2) Everyone looks at Tallera, who has to think fast. She looks at them. TALLERA I've served on this ship for almost a year now... fought by your sides... protected you from Baran when I could... and now I've exposed a spy in our midst. (beat) I think I've proven my loyalty. PICARD (to others) You know Tallera... you know she's a woman of great patience. She's bided her time and waited for this moment. All she cares about is assembling that weapon. If she leaves this ship you'll never see her again. There's a beat as they consider this. VEKOR (to Tallera) I don't care what it is you want, Tallera. I don't care if that's a weapon for your private use or if you're really just making a delivery as planned. All I care about is my money. (beat) So I propose a compromise. Narik and I will go with you to the surface to guarantee we receive payment. After that, you can go wherever you want. TALLERA Agreed. (re: Picard) Bring him as well. We can use him as a hostage if Starfleet arrives... if not we'll kill him on the surface. Picard has little choice in the matter as Narik nods and roughly shoves him toward the pad. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FIVE 51. 37 INT. VULCAN CAVERN (OPTICAL) This used to be a hideaway for Vulcan soldiers over two thousand years ago -- think of the catacombs where Christians used to hide from the Romans. The cavern itself is dark and gloomy, and there are remnants of decaying Vulcan artifacts lying around... some cracked and peeling glyphs on the walls... a very old and dusty place. A crude stone altar dominates the room. In front of the altar is a modern storage CONTAINER. Tallera, Vekor, Narik, and Picard MATERIALIZE next to the altar and look around. Tallera indicates the storage container. TALLERA There. Your reward as promised. Vekor heads for the storage container while Narik guards Picard. Tallera moves to the altar and picks up the third piece of the resonator and begins to link it to the other two. 37A ON PICARD as he reacts to something with puzzlement... 37B POV PICARD - CLOSE ON THIRD PIECE The underside of the third piece has a unique Vulcan symbol on it. As Tallera assembles the resonator, this symbol falls neatly into place with the other two symbols we have seen earlier. 37C RESUME SCENE as Vekor OPENS the storage container and examines the bars of gold-pressed latinum within. NARIK Is it all there? VEKOR No. This is less than half of what we were promised. (to Tallera) Where is the rest of it? Tallera never takes her eyes off the resonator -- it's fully assembled now. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FIVE 51A. 37C CONTINUED: TALLERA That is all I could manage. I suggest you take it and leave. Narik stands and points his phaser directly at Tallera. NARIK I did not come this far to be cheated. I want it all. Now. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FIVE 52. 37C CONTINUED: (2) Tallera turns to him and a DISSONANT CHORD can be heard in the room... it quickly increases in volume and there is a sense of growing power in the room. TALLERA Very well. You will get what you deserve. 38 ON NARIK (OPTICAL) As a DISTORTION suddenly appears in the air in front of him... he gives it a puzzled look for a moment, and then a LOUD CRACKLE of energy BLOWS him backwards across the cavern as if by an unseen hand... he falls to the floor, dead. 39 VEKOR (OPTICAL) Reacts to Narik's death and points her phaser at Tallera, but she's too late -- the DISTORTION appears in front of her and then Vekor is also killed. 40 WIDER As Picard faces Tallera alone in the silent cavern. His eyes automatically drop to one of the phasers lying nearby on the ground -- but it will do him little good in these circumstances. TALLERA Go ahead, Captain. Pick up the phaser. See what good it will do. PICARD You can't win, Tallera. Starfleet won't stand by while you tear apart one of the founding worlds of the Federation. TALLERA How little you understand what you are facing, Captain. She takes a few steps toward him... a cat toying with her prey. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT FIVE 53. 40 CONTINUED: TALLERA (continuing) You are used to fighting enemies like yourself... people on ships with energy weapons, defense shields, warp drives... but this is unlike anything you have ever faced. This is the power of the mind. (beat) Pick up the phaser, Captain. A tense beat... then suddenly: 41 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL) As Riker, Worf, and TWO N.D. SECURITY GUARDS MATERIALIZE in the cavern. Tallera whirls around to deal with this new threat, but Picard makes a sudden realization and shouts to his officers... PICARD Drop your weapons! Do it! Riker and the others respond instinctively to Picard's command and they drop their weapons. PICARD (continuing) Make no aggressive movements. The resonator amplifys violent thoughts and emotions. The officers do as they're told. Tallera concentrates on them and the DISSONANT CHORD is heard building in the room. PICARD (to Tallera) That's why you wanted me to take the phaser -- and why you were able to kill Narik and Vekor. It wasn't until I saw the image on the last artifact... that I realized what the message on the resonator was. (beat) The third image is the Vulcan symbol for peace... that symbol is positioned between the symbols for war and death. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT FIVE 53A. 41 CONTINUED: PICARD (Cont'd) It's a warning... that the resonator's power can be overcome by peace. TALLERA You're about to see how wrong you are. The DISSONANT CHORD grows in volume. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/11/93 - ACT FIVE 54. 41 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD (to officers) Clear your minds of all aggressive thoughts... Tallera concentrates... clearly this is a great effort for her. 42 ON RIKER (OPTICAL) As the DISTORTION forms in front of him. He steels himself... tries to ignore it... closes his eyes... and then the distortion PASSES DIRECTLY THROUGH HIM without harm. 43 TALLERA Reacts... the effort tired her. TALLERA (shocked) No... PICARD Think, Tallera -- two thousand years ago, your people were being consumed by war... then they found the way of peace and logic. During the same period, the resonator was dismantled... don't you see the connection? (beat) When peace came to Vulcan, the resonator became useless. That is why it was dismantled. Tallera summons her strength and tries one more time. 44 WORF (OPTICAL) keeps himself calm... as a DISTORTION forms and passes THROUGH HIM. 45 NEW ANGLE Tallera sags to one knee... sweat pouring down her forehead... the effort is exhausting her. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FIVE 54A. 45 CONTINUED: PICARD (quiet) You were right... the resonator cannot be stopped with phasers or shields. But like every other form of violence... it can be stopped with peace. Tallera glares up at him... makes one final effort... but the DISSONANT CHORD only briefly grows in volume... then fades away completely. Tallera drops the resonator to the ground. Picard quietly moves to the resonator... picks it up... and carefully removes the pieces. It's finally over. OFF his expression... CUT TO: STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT FIVE 55. 46 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship in orbit around Vulcan. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's Log: Stardate 47169.2. Security Minister Satok has taken Tallera into custody and begun a search for the rest of the isolationists. 47 INT. CORRIDOR Picard, Riker and Data are walking through the Corridor. Picard is still dressed in his Mercenary outfit. Mid-conversation. RIKER Once we realized you weren't on the mercenary ship, we scanned the surface for your neural implant... and tracked the signal to the cavern. Picard nods in understanding. DATA What will happen to the resonator? PICARD Satok assured me that all three pieces will be destroyed. DATA It is unfortunate that it cannot be studied. The resonator is a key artifact from a remarkable period of history. PICARD Normally, I would be the first to agree with you... but perhaps there are some things best left in the past. RIKER What's going to happen to the mercenaries? PICARD They have been detained by the Vulcan authorities, for the moment. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - REV. 08/10/93 - ACT FIVE 55A. 47 CONTINUED: PICARD (Cont'd) But they're also facing charges from the Klingons, the Cardassians, the Ferengi, and about seven other worlds. We won't be hearing from them for quite some time. They stop outside Picard's quarters. PICARD Number One, set course for Starbase two-twenty-seven. I'll be on the Bridge shortly. STAR TREK: "Gambit, Part II" - 08/06/93 - ACT FIVE 56. 47 CONTINUED: (2) RIKER (with humor) Wait a minute... You were declared dead, remember? You can't give orders around here. Picard smiles at the joke, but Data misses the humor and thinks for a moment. DATA (to Riker) If we are to adhere to the exact letter of Starfleet regulations, then technically sir, you have been declared a renegade. In fact, I believe you are facing twelve counts of court martial offenses. You cannot give orders either. Picard is quick to jump on this. PICARD (to Data) Quite right. I'm going to get some sleep. In the meantime I suggest you escort Commander Riker to the brig. DATA Yes, sir. Picard EXITS to his quarters and Data takes Riker by the arm. DATA This way, sir... RIKER Data, he was just joking... you know that, right? Data? As they head off down the Corridor... FADE OUT. END OF ACT FIVE THE END