STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Homeward" #40277-265 Story by Spike Steingasser Teleplay by Naren Shankar Based upon material by William Stape 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 This script is not for publication or reproduction.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 OCTOBER 27, 1993 STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - CAST STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Homeward" CAST PICARD DOBARA RIKER KATERAS DATA NIKOLAI BEVERLY VORIN TROI TARRANA WORF HELMSMAN'S VOICE GEORDI COMPUTER VOICE Non-Speaking Non-Speaking N.D. CREWMEMBERS N.D BORAALANS N.D SECURITY STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - SETS STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Homeward" SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE BRIDGE SICKBAY PLANET SURFACE OBSERVATION LOUNGE CORRIDOR TURBOLIFT READY ROOM STELLAR CARTOGRAPHY ENGINEERING TEN FORWARD VORIN'S QUARTERS BORAALAN CAVERNS THE PASSAGEWAY CAMP STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Homeward" PRONUNCIATION GUIDE BORAAL bore-AL BORAALAN bore-AL-en CABRAL cuh-BRAL DOBARA doe-BAR-uh DRAYGO DRAY-go KATERAS kuh-TARE-us ROZHENKO row-ZHEN-ko TARRANA tuh-RON-uh VACCA VACK-uh VORIN VORE-in STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - TEASER 1. STAR TREK: The Next Generation "Homeward" TEASER FADE IN: 1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) in orbit around a planet. The atmosphere appears turbulent and dangerous. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's Log, Stardate 47423.9. We have arrived at Boraal Two in response to an emergency distress call from Lieutenant Worf's foster brother, Nikolai Rozhenko. He has been stationed on the planet as a cultural observer. 2 INT. BRIDGE PICARD and RIKER are at their stations; DATA is at Ops; WORF is at Tactical; assorted N.D.s man the other stations. The mood is serious. PICARD Mister Data, analysis. DATA (off console) It appears the planet's atmosphere is dissipating, sir. Intense plasmonic reactions are destroying it. PICARD How far has it progressed? DATA The stratosphere is already breaking down, and there are turbulent radiation storms across much of the surface. (beat) I estimate the planet will be uninhabitable in less than thirty-eight hours. Reactions to the grim news. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - TEASER 2. 2 CONTINUED: RIKER The distress call was only four days ago. Why would Doctor Rozhenko have waited so long before sending it? DATA Atmospheric dissipation is a rare and essentially unpredictable event. When it occurs, it proceeds rapidly. Doctor Rozhenko would not have had much warning. Suddenly, the SHIP SHAKES and the LIGHTS FLICKER momentarily. PICARD What was that? DATA (off console) The dissipation effect is generating plasmonic energy bursts... RIKER Are they any danger to the ship? DATA I do not believe so. However, we may experience intermittent system failures and power surges as a result. PICARD Keep an eye on it. Picard turns to Worf who's busy working his console. PICARD (continuing) Mister Worf. Any luck? WORF There is still no response to our hails, sir... I am attempting to scan the observation post... Worf works his console. RIKER (to Picard) He could be hurt... maybe he can't respond... STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - TEASER 3. 2 CONTINUED: (2) WORF Sensor interference is significant, but the post appears to be intact... its power grid is still functioning... Worf is struggling to hide his concern. WORF (continuing) However, I am reading no life forms within the structure. A beat. RIKER (to Picard) It's hard to believe he would have left the post... PICARD Especially under these circumstances... Meanwhile, Worf has been continuing to scan, and now he breaks in anxiously. WORF (off console) Sir, I am detecting faint power emissions from a system of caverns near the post. It could be a deflector shield. Reactions. RIKER It can't be native to the planet. The Boraalans don't have anything close to that level of technology. WORF Captain. Request permission to lead an Away Team. PICARD Very well. But regardless of this planet's immediate situation, we must still observe the Prime Directive. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - TEASER 4. 2 CONTINUED: (3) PICARD (Cont'd) (beat) I'd like to minimize the risk of contact with the inhabitants. You're to go alone, Mister Worf -- and I want you surgically altered to pass as a Boraalan. WORF Yes, sir. Worf EXITS via the aft Turbolift and an N.D. moves to take his station. Off Picard and Riker's expressions. 3 INT. SICKBAY Worf is on the clamshell bed as BEVERLY scans his head with an OPTICAL SCANNER. A few additional MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS are nearby. Worf is impatient and distracted, and he's not doing a very good job of keeping his head still; Beverly stops scanning. BEVERLY Worf, you have to try to keep still. I need an accurate scan of your cranial anatomy... WORF I'm sorry, Doctor. Please continue. Worf composes himself, attempting to keep still; Beverly resets the scan and begins again. BEVERLY You're worried about Nikolai, aren't you? WORF (reluctantly) Yes. BEVERLY Are the two of you close? There is a hesitation before Worf answers. WORF We are... brothers. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/28/93 - TEASER 5. 3 CONTINUED: But Beverly has noticed the hesitation. She keeps taking measurements as she tries casually to draw him out. BEVERLY You've never talked much about him. What's he like? WORF (carefully) Nikolai is older than I... and we are not -- alike. We had many disagreements as we were growing up. BEVERLY That's not unusual. Again, Worf hesitates. He's trying gingerly to describe his brother without sounding disparaging. WORF Nikolai... has a mind of his own. He attended Starfleet Academy -- but he was unable to follow the rules. He left after one year. (beat) However, he has many fine qualities. He is... brilliant. Persuasive. A natural leader... BEVERLY Sounds intriguing... I look forward to meeting him. Worf gives her a look, but does not reply. For now, Worf has said all he has to say on the matter. 4 INT. PASSAGEWAY (OPTICAL) A dark passageway in a cavernous underground region of the planet. We hear the familiar hum of the Transporter and then WORF MATERIALIZES. We see that Worf has been surgically altered to look like one of the Boraal (precise physical features TBD), and is dressed in simple, loose-fitting clothes. Worf takes out a TRICORDER and scans the area for a beat. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - TEASER 5A. 4 CONTINUED: WORF (taps combadge) Worf to Enterprise... RIKER'S COM VOICE (fritzed) Go ahead... STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - TEASER 6. 4 CONTINUED: (2) WORF I am picking up faint life signs approximately two-hundred meters from my position. I am heading toward them. RIKER'S COM VOICE (fritzed) Understood. The plasmonic interference is getting worse... start checking in every thirty minutes to make sure we have a fix on you. WORF Aye, sir. Worf moves off. 5 ANOTHER SECTION OF PASSAGEWAY Worf is moving slowly and carefully, continuing to scan with his tricorder. VORIN (O.S.) What are you doing here... ? Worf reacts to the voice and quickly conceals his tricorder. He turns to see a figure moving towards him... 6 VORIN an adult, Boraalan male, emerges from a dark passageway, holding an ALIEN OIL LAMP. He is dressed in clothes similar to Worf's. A POUCH containing many ORNATE PAPER SCROLLS is slung over his shoulder. 7 RESUME SCENE as Vorin cautiously approaches Worf. VORIN You're not from our village. Who are you? As Vorin speaks, an elderly Boraalan male, KATERAS, emerges from the passage to join him. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - TEASER 7. 7 CONTINUED: KATERAS Who is this... ? His voice trails off as he sees Worf. This is absolutely the last thing Worf needed, and he tries to cover for himself. WORF My name is Worf. I am a... traveller... VORIN How did you survive the storms? Worf has run out of answers when a deep, strong voice booms out of the darkness. NIKOLAI (O.S.) I'd recognize that voice anywhere. Is it really you, Worf? 8 NIKOLAI ROZHENKO approaches from another direction, leading another N.D. BORAALAN and an adult Boraalan female, DOBARA. Nikolai is a large, powerfully-built human, but as he comes closer, we see that his features are similar to Worf's -- Nikolai also looks like a Boraalan. 9 RESUME SCENE Nikolai moves towards Worf. NIKOLAI It's good to see you... (smiles) You've changed a lot in four years... Worf isn't exactly sure how to react, and he has to stare for a moment before he recognizes who it is. WORF Nikolai... ? Nikolai grins broadly and engulfs Worf in a huge bear hug, genuinely glad to see him. Nikolai turns to the Boraal, introducing Worf with a theatrical gesture. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - TEASER 8. 9 CONTINUED: NIKOLAI This is my brother, Worf... (beat) He's come to help us. OFF Worf's confused expression. FADE OUT. END OF TEASER STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT ONE 9. ACT ONE FADE IN: (NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.) 10 INT. CAVERN It's a larger, more open, section of the caves. Small collections of SUPPLIES, including a few ALIEN OIL LAMPS, are scattered throughout the area, suggesting that the Boraalans have been here for several days. There is a CAMPFIRE in the center, and off in a corner, an underground spring has formed a natural POOL. Several more N.D. BORAALANS are here, including a young woman, TARRANA. The Boraalans all wear simple, loose-fitting clothes. (NOTE: these people are not primitive tribesmen. They could be thought of as similar in development to Arabs of the late Middle Ages -- they'd be able to build and use a telescope or a sextant, but they might also believe in magic.) Nikolai ENTERS leading Worf and the other Boraalans from the passageway. VORIN (to Worf) If you were able to get here, the storms must have subsided... Do you think it's safe enough to return to the surface? Worf has no idea what's going on here. He needs to talk to Nikolai -- alone. WORF Please... I must speak with my brother for a moment... Worf quickly takes Nikolai aside so they can talk privately. Worf keeps his voice low and controlled, but he's clearly angry. WORF (continuing) Nikolai, what have you done? NIKOLAI They were dying. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT ONE 10. 10 CONTINUED: NIKOLAI (Cont'd) I refused to sit there... safe in that observation post... and watch it happen. (beat) I set up a deflector shield to screen these caves from the radiation and then I brought them here. WORF What have you told them? NIKOLAI They think I'm a Boraalan. I told them I'm from another village far from here. Worf relaxes slightly. WORF At least you had that much sense... The two men look at each other. NIKOLAI I knew the Enterprise was in this sector when I sent my distress call... but I wasn't sure you'd be the one to come. He places his hand on Worf's shoulder. Nikolai is always very physical, never afraid to show his feelings. NIKOLAI (continuing) I'm truly glad you're here, Worf. Nikolai's words are heartfelt and Worf softens. He has conflicting emotions: he's relieved to see his brother alive, but he still feels Nikolai has really messed up. WORF There is nothing we can do for these people. You have only postponed their deaths. Nikolai responds with a look of determination. NIKOLAI I'd like to discuss that with your Captain. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT ONE 11. 10 CONTINUED: (2) WORF I am certain he will want to speak with you. Worf and Nikolai hold each other's gaze for a beat. Then Nikolai turns away and moves back to the group of Boraalans. NIKOLAI Friends... Worf and I must return to the surface... The news sends a concerned murmur through the group. NIKOLAI (continuing) He has equipment and provisions and needs help to bring them here. We'll return shortly. Worf reacts -- surely Nikolai knows they can't come back. Dobara seems particularly worried. DOBARA It's too dangerous. The storms can occur without warning. If you're caught in one... NIKOLAI Don't worry... (beat) My brother is a seer. He understands the nature of the storms. He'll know when it's safe to travel. Nikolai turns to Worf, looking for confirmation... and Worf has no choice but to support him. WORF (reluctantly) That is correct. A murmur goes through the group -- they're very impressed. KATERAS (in awe) Our Seer died when the storms first came. We have been without his guidance for many weeks. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/29/93 - ACT ONE 12. 10 CONTINUED: (3) Worf reacts -- the attention is making him uncomfortable. VORIN (to Worf and Nikolai) Let me go with you. I know the terrain better than anyone, and I can help-- NIKOLAI No, Vorin. Worf and I will be fine. We'll be back soon. OFF Nikolai and Worf's expressions. 11 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) in orbit around Boraal Two. 12 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE Picard, Riker, TROI, Beverly, Worf, and Nikolai. Worf and Nikolai are back to normal: since their return to the ship, their Boraalan get-up has been removed. Nikolai is on his feet, pacing -- he's vital and energetic, a man with a mission trying to persuade others. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/29/93 - ACT ONE 13. 12 CONTINUED: PICARD Doctor, you were fully aware that the atmospheric dissipation could not be stopped. What were you hoping to accomplish by assisting these people? NIKOLAI I was trying to give them a future. (beat) I propose we create an atmospheric shield on the planet. We can camouflage the equipment just like my observation post. No one will ever know it's there. Astonished reactions around the table. RIKER You can't be serious. NIKOLAI I realize it would only provide atmosphere for a limited area of the surface. But it would be enough to save one village. PICARD I have no intention of compounding what you've already done by committing another gross violation of the Prime Directive. NIKOLAI The Boraalans have a rich and beautiful culture... a deep spiritual life. They deserve the chance to survive. It's hard not to be moved by Nikolai's passion. NIKOLAI Isn't that what the Prime Directive was truly intended to do... allow cultures to survive and grow naturally? TROI Not entirely. The Prime Directive was designed to ensure non-interference. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/29/93 - ACT ONE 14. 12 CONTINUED: (2) Beverly is feeling a little conflicted -- she wishes they could do something. BEVERLY But aren't we intefering either way? If we take no action, it's a conscious decision to let the Boraalans die. Nikolai seizes on this. NIKOLAI Exactly. (beat) We have the power to save some of them... all we have to do is exercise it. But Picard is not persuaded. PICARD The Prime Directive is a principle we've all sworn to uphold. Until that is changed, we cannot follow any other course of action. Is that understood? There's a long beat as Nikolai struggles to control his emotions. Finally, he acquiesces. NIKOLAI There are several log recorders in my observation post... They contain most of my research. Since it appears that the only way I'll be able to preserve Boraalan culture is in a museum, I would like permission to return to the surface and retrieve them. Picard doesn't want to make this any harder on Nikolai that it already is, but Nikolai's ploy is transparent. PICARD I'm afraid that won't be possible. You may have full use of the ship's computers to set up a com link and upload your data from here. Nikolai nods silently. Picard looks around the somber table. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT ONE 15. 12 CONTINUED: (3) PICARD (continuing) If there's nothing further, you're dismissed. The meeting breaks up. Everyone files out except Nikolai who continues to sit, staring off into space. Worf approaches him, trying to help. WORF (gently) Nikolai... I am sorry. I wish there were another way. Nikolai doesn't respond; his expression is unreadable. WORF (continuing, presses on) I am quite familiar with our communications systems. If you wish, I will help you set up your com link. NIKOLAI No. I'll do it myself. Then Nikolai abruptly gets up and EXITS. OFF Worf's expression. 13 INT. BRIDGE Picard, Riker, and Beverly at their stations; Data is at Ops and Worf is at Tactical; various N.D.s man the other stations. DATA (off console) Captain, the atmospheric dissipation has accelerated over the past several hours. I estimate the planet's atmosphere will be completely gone within four minutes. As Picard and Riker exchange a grim look, the aft Turbolift DOORS OPEN and Nikolai ENTERS. He moves to Picard; he seems uncharacteristically subdued. NIKOLAI I've completed my data uplink, Captain. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT ONE 16. 13 CONTINUED: NIKOLAI (Cont'd) With your permission, I'd like to integrate my research logs into the ship's library computer. PICARD Of course. Nikolai nods and moves to an aft science station; he doesn't even look at Worf as he passes by. Nikolai begins to works his console. DATA (off console) The mesosphere is gone. Ionic reactions are now beginning to break down the troposphere. PICARD Put it on-screen... 14 THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) displays the planet, as before. 15 RESUME SCENE (OPTICAL) Picard and Riker reacts to the grim sight. Suddenly, the VIEWSCREEN image FRITZES OUT, filling with STATIC. PICARD What's going on? DATA It appears that the plasmonic reactions are continuing to interfere with our sensors. RIKER I thought you'd already compensated for that. DATA (puzzled) I had, sir... (beat) I will attempt to engage additional filtering elements... Data works his console for a beat. A moment later, the VIEWSCREEN CLEARS and the original image returns. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT ONE 17. 15 CONTINUED: DATA (continuing) Visual re-established. A beat, then Picard stands and addresses the entire Bridge crew as he looks the Viewscreen. PICARD This is one of the times when we must face the ramifications of the Prime Directive... and honor the lives we cannot save. Nikolai moves away from his console. NIKOLAI I find no honor in this whatsoever, Captain. You'll excuse me if I don't stay. Picard watches Nikolai as he EXITS via the aft Turbolift. Then the room becomes silent as everyone stares at the Viewscreen... 16 THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) shows the final moments of the planet as its last layers of atmosphere disappear. In a few moments, it's all over. The planet has gone from a verdant globe to a charred, barren rock. 17 RESUME SCENE It's an incredibly difficult moment. Beverly looks down... Riker is deeply affected... Data's expression is unreadable... and Picard watches the Viewscreen unflinchingly. A silent, emotional beat. PICARD Number One, I'll be in my Ready Room. You have the Bridge. Riker acknowledges and Picard EXITS to the Ready Room. The mood on the Bridge slowly returns to normal. RIKER Helm, take us out of orbit. Set course for Starbase eighty-seven, warp five. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT ONE 18. 17 CONTINUED: HELMSMAN'S VOICE (O.S.) Aye, sir. Suddenly one of the Aft Science stations SPARKS and goes dead. RIKER What happened? DATA There appears to be an unusual power drain in the EPS distribution net... RIKER What's the source? DATA Unknown, sir... it is difficult to localize. Worf checks his own console. WORF The power drain has registered on my security grid as well, sir... it appears to be coming from deck ten. RIKER (considers) All right, Worf. Get a security team on it. Worf acknowledges. He moves to the Turbolift and EXITS. 18 INT. CORRIDOR - JUNCTION Worf is with TWO N.D. SECURITY OFFICERS; each person has a TRICORDER. WORF (checks tricorder) Concentrate your scans on the EPS transfer links... The N.D.s nod and the group splits up. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT ONE 19. 19 ANOTHER SECTION OF CORRIDOR - NEAR HOLODECK as Worf moves down the hall, scanning. He stops in front of the entrance to a Holodeck and looks at his tricorder, puzzled. He taps the door control, but nothing happens. WORF Computer. Open Holodeck Five. COMPUTER VOICE Unable to comply. Holodeck Five is in use. WORF Override. Authorization, Worf Theta-six-one-nine. COMPUTER VOICE Unable to comply. Holodeck control systems have been bypassed. Worf reacts, surprised, but before he can do anything else, the Holodeck doors suddenly OPEN. Worf peers inside, but it's extremely dark -- he can't see a thing. NIKOLAI (O.S.) Worf... Come in... Worf cautiously steps in... 20 INT. HOLODECK/CAVERN (OPTICAL) as Worf ENTERS, the DOORS CLOSE behind him. It's still dark, but now he can see Nikolai standing there, holding a PADD. WORF What are you doing here? NIKOLAI I have to show you something. Follow me... Nikolai leads Worf down a short passage. As they walk, Worf realizes that they are in a cave. Nikolai stops in front of a section of the cave wall. NIKOLAI (continuing) Whatever you do, stay quiet. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT ONE 20. 20 CONTINUED: Worf still has no idea what's going on, but he nods. Nikolai taps the PADD, and a small section of the cave wall DISAPPEARS, leaving a hole. Nikolai motions to the hole. NIKOLAI Look. Worf steps up. He peers through the hole and sees... 21 THE BORAALANS - IN THE CAVERN - WORF'S POV (OPTICAL) It is identical to the scene that Worf saw on the planet. Everyone of the Boraalans is there, most of them sleeping, and nothing seems out of the ordinary. 22 RESUME SCENE Worf pulls back from the hole and stares in shock at Nikolai. Worf doesn't even have to make the accusation. NIKOLAI I've done what you refused to do. I've saved them. OFF Worf's expression. FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT TWO 21. ACT TWO FADE IN: 23 INT. ENTERPRISE - CORRIDOR Worf and Nikolai on the move. Worf is barely listening--he's seething, so angry he can't speak. Nikolai, on the other hand, is energized, expansive -- taking relish in the ingeniousness of his plan. NIKOLAI I started thinking about this days ago... when it became clear the planet was doomed. I knew if I could get access to your ship's computer, I'd be able to generate a replica of the caves... He glances at Worf for a response, but Worf doesn't even look at him. NIKOLAI The hard part was transporting the Boraalans into the Holodeck without anyone on the Enterprise noticing. But I was able to blank out the sensors and make it look like interference from the plasmonic (TECHS). They come to a halt in front of a Turbolift. NIKOLAI And it worked. Perfectly. The Boraalans were transported while they were sleeping -- they didn't even know anything had happened. The Turbolift door OPENS and the two go in... 24 INT. TURBOLIFT - CONTINUOUS WORF Bridge. NIKOLAI It's a simple plan, really... that's the beauty of it. (beat, a glance at Worf) Trust me, Worf -- this is going to work. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT TWO 22. 24 CONTINUED: That's all Worf can take. WORF (furious) Trust you? You never had any intention of obeying the Captain! Nikolai doesn't back down an inch. NIKOLAI I wasn't going to let those people die just because your Captain started quoting Federation dogma to me. WORF Your duty was to respect the Captain's orders and uphold the Prime Directive. Nikolai eyes him. NIKOLAI Duty. That's all that really matters to you, isn't it? (beat) Well, I refuse to be bound by an abstraction. The lives of the people of Boraal are far more important to me. Nikolai regards Worf for a moment, then smiles, claps him on the shoulder in an attempt to break the tension of the moment. NIKOLAI Worf... you worry too much. You always did. Everything will work out. But Worf isn't having any. He pulls away. WORF You have disgraced yourself... and you have disgraced me. I want nothing more to do with you. And he turns his back on Nikolai. CUT TO: STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT TWO 23. 25 INT. READY ROOM Picard and Nikolai. The scene is already in progress; Picard is furious. PICARD You realize your career is finished. NIKOLAI I know that, Captain. And I would do it all again. PICARD What do you expect us to do now? You've left us with a colony of Boraalans who think they're still on their planet. NIKOLAI I didn't beam them up here without a plan. I've given this a lot of thought. Nikolai begins to move around the room, excited, persuasive... NIKOLAI I believe we can find a new planet... an M-class world... which can become their new home. Picard is extremely skeptical. PICARD A home which would look very different from Boraal... you can't really believe they'd be fooled... Nikolai smiles, confident. NIKOLAI That's where the Holodeck comes in. I'll go back and tell the Boraalans we're going on a journey... to a different place, where they'll be safe from the storms. The Holodeck can change the terrain gradually as we travel... so that at the end, the Holodeck simulation will match the conditions on the new planet. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/29/93 - ACT TWO 24. 25 CONTINUED: NIKOLAI (Cont'd) (beat) And then, we'll beam them down. It's a troubling, but intriguing notion. Picard doesn't have many options, and he considers this one carefully. PICARD What if it doesn't work? What if they become aware that something strange is going on? NIKOLAI I can't prepare for every contingency. But I assure you -- I'm used to thinking on my feet. I'll deal with the situation as it evolves. Picard takes a breath, comes to a decision. PICARD I'm not enthusiastic about this plan... but I don't see another option. We'll give it a try. Nikolai is pleased, but Picard remains troubled. CUT TO: 26 INT. STELLAR CARTOGRAPHY Picard, Data and Beverly are standing around the central globe as GEORDI, Worf, and Nikolai work at of one the large monitors. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/29/93 - ACT TWO 25. 27 ANGLE ON PICARD, DATA, AND BEVERLY BEVERLY There are countless M-class planets in Federation space which could support the Boraalans. We'll have to narrow the parameters. DATA I estimate it will take approximately nine and one half hours to complete the analysis. PICARD And even then there's no guarantee we'll be able to find a suitable planet... DATA That is correct. GEORDI (O.S.) Excuse me, Captain... but I think you better take a look at this... Beverly and Data turn their attention back to their search as Picard moves to join Geordi and the others. 28 GEORDI, WORF, AND NIKOLAI are studying an OKUDAGRAM which shows an intricate schematic of the Holodeck systems. Worf is treating Nikolai as if he weren't there. Picard joins the group. PICARD What is it? GEORDI We've got a problem, sir. I don't think it's going to be possible to keep this Holodeck simulation stable. PICARD (concerned) Why not? STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT TWO 26. 28 CONTINUED: GEORDI The plasmonic energy surges from the planet have affected some of the ship's systems. We're having problems with the EPS subsystems and the power distribution matrix. NIKOLAI As a result, the Holodeck imaging processor has been severely destabilized. GEORDI It's not a question of whether the simulation is going to break down... it's a question of when. A beat. PICARD There's no way around it? GEORDI Not while it's running. To fix it, I'd have to shut down all of the Holodecks and re-initialize the entire system. PICARD That would take hours... NIKOLAI We'll just have to hope the simulation holds long enough. PICARD Very well. Let's try it. (to Geordi) Monitor the situation closely, Mister La Forge. (MORE) 184:[4,#b] STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT TWO 27. 28 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD (Cont'd) Keep an open com link with the Holodeck so you can be apprised of any problems. GEORDI Aye, sir. Geordi moves off to join Data and Beverly, leaving Picard alone with Nikolai and Worf. Nikolai is eager to begin. NIKOLAI I'll go back to the Holodeck as soon as my surgical alterations are complete. I'll prepare the Boraalans for their "journey." PICARD Considering the situation you've put us in, I don't think it's wise to leave you alone with those people. Mister Worf will accompany you. Worf is caught off guard by this. WORF Sir. Perhaps someone else would be a better choice. Counselor Troi is familiar with -- PICARD No, the Boraalans already know you. There's no need to introduce anyone new. WORF (reluctant) Yes, sir. PICARD Keep a close eye on your brother. I don't want him making the situation any worse than it is. Picard moves off, and Worf shoots a baleful glare at Nikolai. This is the last thing he wants to do. FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT THREE 28. ACT THREE FADE IN: 29 INT. HOLODECK/CAVERN as seen earlier. 30 WORF AND NIKOLAI ENTER from one of the passages. Each man has a large, heavy SACK slung over his back (NOTE: Worf and Nikolai are back in their Boraalan make-up and costume). The Boraalans, including Vorin, gather around, overjoyed to see them alive. NIKOLAI Here... we have food... Nikolai feels very comfortable with these people, and he's clearly happy to be back. But Worf is keeping to himself, still wary of his role here. Nikolai addresses the group. NIKOLAI (continuing) My friends, this is difficult to say... but you have the right to know. (beat) By the time Worf and I reached the surface, the village was gone. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/29/93 - ACT THREE 29. 30 CONTINUED: NIKOLAI (Cont'd) The storms had destroyed everything. There is nothing for us to return to. The news is devastating to the Boraal. DOBARA We can't survive in here... our supplies won't last forever. NIKOLAI That is why we must leave. There is a place far from here where there are no storms. It will be a difficult journey, but in the end, we will have a new home... WORF I know a way through the caves. We can travel safely until we return to the surface. The words don't come easily to Worf -- he's very uncomfortable in this role -- but it seems to satisfy the group. However, Vorin still seems a bit unconvinced. VORIN Where is this new land? Worf, of course, doesn't know -- the new planet hasn't been found yet. He tries to keep it as vague as he can. WORF As we said, it is far from here. It will not be like the home you knew... even the stars may be different. It's hardly a satisfying answer, and Vorin continues to press him. VORIN Why would they be different? And how do you know we'll be safe there? STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT THREE 30. 30 CONTINUED: (2) Nikolai sees that Worf is floundering... and the last thing they need is dissension here -- Nikolai has to cover for him. NIKOLAI (with conviction) Vorin. Remember -- my brother is a Seer. If he says we'll be safe... you can trust that we will be. Vorin seems a little chastened, though still not satisfied. But before he can reply, he's interrupted by a SCREAM from across the cave. 31 ANOTHER ANGLE - INCLUDING THE POOL Tarrana is standing near the natural pool, obviously terrified. A BUCKET is on the ground at her feet. Everyone rushes over to see what's happening. Kateras goes to Tarrana and holds her. KATERAS What's wrong? TARRANA Look... She points a trembling hand at the pool. Worf, Nikolai, and Dobara peer cautiously into the pool... 32 INSIDE THE POOL (OPTICAL) the Holodeck grid lines appear below the surface of the water. 33 RESUME SCENE Dobara pulls back in fear and wonder. Nikolai and Worf exchange a look. Worf knows he has to come up with an explanation quickly -- as well as get rid of this Holodeck glitch. Since he's been forced into the role of Seer, he might as well play into it. WORF Do not worry... it is an omen... DOBARA What does it mean? STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT THREE 30A. 33 CONTINUED: Worf gets an idea. He speaks slowly and deliberately, emphasizing certain phrases -- he's trying to get a message across... STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT THREE 31. 33 CONTINUED: (2) WORF This is the sign of... La Forge. It is a message to travellers... 34 INT. ENGINEERING Geordi is keeping an eye on the Holodeck and monitoring Worf's communications. But right now, he's looking a little puzzled. WORF'S COM VOICE (continuing) It is said that when these lines appear and disappear in a pool of water... Geordi gets it. He quickly works the console as Worf's voice continues in the background. WORF'S COM VOICE (continuing) The road ahead will be filled with good fortune... GEORDI (to himself) Hang in there, Worf... just give me a second... (beat) There, that should do it... 35 INT. HOLODECK/CAVERN - THE POOL (OPTICAL) as the water returns to normal. Worf breathes a sigh of relief. The group -- including Vorin -- regards Worf with renewed respect. NIKOLAI (to group) You see? Our journey is already blessed. We have a long road ahead. Let's have a meal, and then we can make preparations to leave. As the Boraalans move away, Tarrana gives Worf a little smile -- she's clearly impressed with him. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT THREE 32. 35 CONTINUED: NIKOLAI (continuing, quieter to Worf) Good work... (beat) It seems we're not such a bad team after all. WORF (disgusted) We are not a "team." I am here because Captain Picard ordered me here. NIKOLAI Worf -- don't we share the same goal? Aren't we both trying to make this plan work? WORF Only because you forced us into it. NIKOLAI I'm not ashamed of what I did. I'm not sorry I saved their lives... WORF You have not changed. You still expect others to solve the problems you create. Nikolai stares at him, realizing that there is more here than resentment over the present situation. NIKOLAI I'm not here to work out the issues of our childhood. I'm trying to save a people I care about. And if that upsets you -- so be it. He walks off, leaving Worf in frustrated turmoil. CUT TO: 36 INT. STELLAR CARTOGRAPHY Data and Beverly are standing front of the large monitor. Data works the console. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT THREE 33. 36 CONTINUED: DATA These are the two planets which best match our search criteria... 37 THE MONITOR displays graphics of two similar-looking planets and associated information. 38 RESUME SCENE DATA Draygo Four features an unusually large temperate zone. However, it is within three light-years of Cardassian space. Beverly reacts, dismayed. BEVERLY There are constant border disputes in that sector... DATA The alternative is Vacca Six. It is located in the Cabral sector... BEVERLY (hopeful) That's pretty isolated... DATA It offers a less hospitable climate than the Boraalans are accustomed to. However, it would still appear to be the better choice. Beverly studies the monitor unhappily -- this is not an easy decision to make. DATA Do you disagree, Doctor? BEVERLY No, Data... you're right. It's just that... the enormity of what we're doing is overwhelming. We're deciding the future of a species. DATA It is a formidable responsibility. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT THREE 34. 38 CONTINUED: BEVERLY There are so many questions we can't answer... what if the climate is so different that it affects them in some way we can't anticipate? Can we even be sure they'll survive? And if they do, how will their society evolve here... and what impact will it have on the Vaccan system? (beat) We have no idea what this decision will mean for their future. DATA I do not believe we can offer any guarantees, Doctor. We can simply make the best choice we have at the moment. She stares at the images. BEVERLY Right. (beat) Well, Vacca Six it is, then. DATA (taps combadge) Data to Bridge... INTERCUT: 39 INT. BRIDGE Picard and Riker at their stations. PICARD Picard here... DATA We have located a new home for the Boraalans, sir. It is Vacca Six in the Cabral sector. Riker checks his chair console. RIKER (to Picard) At maximum warp, we could be there in less than forty-two hours, sir. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT THREE 34A. 39 CONTINUED: PICARD Very well. (to helm) Helm. Set course for Vacca Six. CUT TO: STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT THREE 35. 40 INT. HOLODECK/CAVERN Worf sits alone in a corner of the cave, fuming. As he eats some simple food, he sees Nikolai and Dobara preparing a meal together across the cave. They're sitting close to each other, laughing and touching -- it all seems very intimate. The scene doesn't help Worf's attitude at all. He tries to concentrate on his food. Then Worf hears a light SCRATCHING SOUND. He turns to see Vorin, sitting nearby, looking at him. Vorin has a long SCROLL unrolled in front of him, and as he watches Worf, he draws on the scroll with an intricate-looking ALIEN STYLUS. Worf moves over to him, curious, and looks down at Vorin's scroll. 41 THE SCROLL is a beautifully-detailed drawing, filled with figures and symbols and delicate alien script, similar in feel to hieroglyphics. Vorin is working on a representation of TWO MALE FIGURES leading a small group of people. 42 RESUME SCENE WORF What is this? VORIN (simply) Our chronicle. He sees Worf's puzzled expression. VORIN (continuing) The history of our village. Doesn't your village keep a chronicle? WORF (covering) Not in this manner. VORIN Then how do you teach your children their history... who their ancestors were... and where they come from? (MORE) STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT THREE 36. 42 CONTINUED: WORF We tell each other stories... make up songs... VORIN Stories change with each person who tells them. This... (indicates scroll) ... will always be the same. (proudly) Our chronicle has been maintained for seventeen generations. I was only able to save the last six. The regret on Vorin's face is clear -- these scrolls mean a great deal to him. He indicates the drawing of the two figures he was working on. VORIN (continuing) This shows the destruction of our village... and this is you and Nikolai leading us to safety. To Worf, the thought of being incorporated into the history of these people is a bit unsettling. WORF (loudly) We must leave. Gather your belongings. In the b.g., the group begins to stir, picking up their things. Meanwhile, Vorin is looking around frantically for something. VORIN (concerned) One of the scrolls is gone... (thinks) I must have dropped it in the passageway... I'll go look... STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT THREE 37. 42 CONTINUED: (2) Vorin begins to move towards a passageway. But considering the problems with the Holodeck, Worf is reluctant to let him leave the group. WORF We must stay together. You will have to leave it behind. VORIN (shocked by the suggestion) Worf. The chronicle is the life of our village. Without that past, our future means nothing. I must find it. A beat. WORF Go... and return quickly. Vorin nods and moves off. As Worf watches him go... KATERAS (O.S.) Seer! Kateras comes up to Worf, a smile on his face. KATERAS (continuing) I'm an old man... would you help me with my gear? Kateras has definitely taken a shine to Worf. He leads Worf to another spot in the cave; Worf follows reluctantly. Worf begins to help him pack his gear, which consists of a small BEDROLL and some BLANKETS. As they work, Tarrana walks by, deliberately passing close to Worf. She gives him a sweet look and then picks up a blanket and moves away. KATERAS (continuing, proudly) That is Tarrana... my daughter. I am fortunate that she was old enough to survive the storms. WORF She is a... fine girl. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/29/93 - ACT THREE 38. 42 CONTINUED: (3) KATERAS She is a beautiful girl. Worf reacts -- he can see where this is going. KATERAS (continuing) She hasn't been promised to anyone. If I don't reach our new home -- I would like her to become your wife. At every turn, Worf is getting more and more involved with these people -- and that's the last thing he wanted to do. WORF You will reach your new home... I promise. CUT TO: 43 INT. HOLODECK/CAVERN (OPTICAL) Vorin is moving slowly through a passage holding a lamp, searching carefully. A look of relief comes over his face -- up ahead, he sees a SCROLL lying on the ground. But as he moves to pick it up, he pulls back in astonishment. On the wall in front of him he sees A PIECE OF THE HOLODECK ARCH sticking out of the cave wall. He tentatively reaches out and touches the Arch piece. As he does, a section of the CAVE WALL DEMATERIALIZES, revealing the ENTIRE HOLODECK ARCH/EXIT. Vorin stares at the Arch in astonishment. He sets down his lamp and takes a step toward the arch; the DOORS OPEN, revealing the Enterprise Corridor. OFF Vorin's stunned expression. FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FOUR 39. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 44 INT. CORRIDOR Vorin is moving down the corridor, confused and overwhelmed by everything around him. He passes a few N.D. CIVILIANS who give him puzzled looks. Vorin has never seen people like these and it terrifies him. He has to get away from them... He stumbles towards the Ten Forward doors which OPEN... 45 INT. TEN FORWARD (CONTINUOUS) The usual crowd. Riker and Troi are sitting together at one of the tables when the DOORS OPEN and Vorin ENTERS. Vorin looks around in horror -- this is even worse than the corridor. The room, the people, the windows looking out into empty space -- everything here terrifies him. People are beginning to notice him... an N.D. CIVILIAN approaches Vorin slowly, trying to calm him down... Vorin backs himself against the windows as people gather around, trying to help... 46 ANOTHER ANGLE By now, Riker and Troi have moved in to take charge of the situation. Riker motions to the crowd of N.D.s surrounding Vorin. RIKER All right, everybody... back off... As the group backs off, Troi moves closer to Vorin, slowly and carefully. Her voice is soothing, calming... TROI I know things must look very strange to you... but everything's going to be fine. No one is going to hurt you... There's no answer, just raw, inarticulate fear. Vorin appears close to tears. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FOUR 40. 46 CONTINUED: TROI (continuing) We're friends of Nikolai and Worf... Don't be afraid... Vorin reacts to the name. VORIN Nikolai... ? Troi seizes on the fact that the name is something he recognizes... TROI Yes, he is my friend... and that means you are, too. I promise I won't hurt you... Troi's words are having an effect... Vorin makes a tentative move toward her... VORIN Please... help me... He begins shaking uncontrollably. VORIN Where am I? Troi puts her hand on Vorin's shoulder, trying to comfort him. She and Riker exchange a worried look. CUT TO: 47 INT. SICKBAY Vorin is sitting quietly on the main Sickbed. Troi is nearby, staying close to him; an N.D. Security Guard watches Vorin warily. Beverly and Picard are off to one side, conferring in low tones. BEVERLY I'm sorry, there's nothing I can do... his neural physiology is unusual. I can't wipe his memory. PICARD I see... (long beat) How is he? STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FOUR 41. 47 CONTINUED: BEVERLY As well as can be expected. I gave him a mild sedative, and Deanna's been talking to him the whole time. He's calmed down a lot. PICARD Does he understand the situation? BEVERLY I think so. A beat. PICARD All right. Get in touch with Mister Worf... make sure he knows what's happened. Beverly nods and EXITS. Picard moves to join Troi and Vorin. TROI This is Captain Picard. PICARD Vorin, isn't it? Vorin nods, eyeing Picard, unsure of his intentions. He's on edge, still frightened and confused, unsure of the people and surroundings in this strange place. VORIN Why did you bring us here? PICARD Your planet was dying... it could no longer support life. So we took you away from it. Vorin struggles with the concept, trying to understand. VORIN But... we never left the caves... It's not easy to explain. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/28/93 - ACT FOUR 42. 47 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD We have the ability to create the... illusion of other places, like the caves on your planet. You have actually been on this starship for the last two days... not on Boraal. Each answer is another blow to Vorin's sense of reality. He tries to keep himself under control as he turns to Troi. VORIN Then our home... is gone? TROI (beat) Yes. Vorin is in anguish, lost -- he has no idea what to say or do. Picard tries to give him some hope. PICARD Vorin. Listen to me. We can travel to many worlds. We will take you to one where your people can build a new life... Vorin is extremely upset by this. VORIN A new life... ? STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/28/93 - ACT FOUR 43. 47 CONTINUED: (3) Picard tries to explain. PICARD A chance... for your people... your culture... to survive and grow. Vorin sinks back onto the Sickbed in despair. VORIN How can we grow when everything that made us who we are... is gone? Picard doesn't how to respond -- Vorin's words echo his own feelings about the Prime Directive and this entire situation. OFF Picard's disturbed expression. CUT TO: 48 EXT. HOLODECK/SURFACE - RUGGED TERRAIN - DAY The Boraalans have emerged from the caves onto barren, rocky terrain. Everyone is loaded with gear in simple PACKS on their backs; a couple of people are also hauling TRAVOIS (a pair of wooden poles joined by a strip of canvas) loaded with supplies. Nikolai is in the lead with Dobara and several of the others. Meanwhile, Worf is helping Kateras over a rough patch of ground. Kateras huffs with the strain of the march. Worf takes Kateras' pack from him. WORF I will carry this. Go join the others... KATERAS Thank you, Seer... STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/29/93 - ACT FOUR 44. 48 CONTINUED: As Kateras moves off, he passes Nikolai coming back to join Worf. Nikolai watches as Kateras slowly makes his way to the others. NIKOLAI It'll be dark in a few hours... Can you tell Mister La Forge to create a suitable campsite for us a few kilometers from here? Nikolai trails off as he notices Worf's angry mood. NIKOLAI (continuing) What's the matter? WORF Vorin has left the Holodeck. NIKOLAI (shocked) How did he get out? WORF I don't know. But Doctor Crusher cannot erase his memory. NIKOLAI What will they do with him? WORF They have explained the situation to him... he must make his own decision. Nikolai looks at Worf with disbelief. NIKOLAI Are you saying that if Vorin wants to come back in here... they'll let him? WORF That is his right. He's not a prisoner. NIKOLAI If he comes back and tells the others what he's seen on the Enterprise, everything we've done will be for nothing... STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/29/93 - ACT FOUR 45. 48 CONTINUED: (2) Worf can't take any more of this -- he explodes. WORF You should've considered that before you beamed them aboard! Worf glares at Nikolai, the pent-up frustrations of the past pouring out of him. WORF But you never think about the consequences of your acts. NIKOLAI If you mean I'm willing to do something -- while others hesitate -- that's true. WORF Wherever you go, you create chaos. How many times did our parents lie awake at night, wondering what kind of trouble you were in? Stung, Nikolai lashes out. NIKOLAI If only I could have been more like you -- Worf, the perfect son. WORF I was not perfect -- but I was not wild and disobedient. NIKOLAI Of course not. You were too busy doing your duty. WORF I would rather be accused of that -- than of making our mother weep. The two men glare at each other for a beat. WORF (continuing) But it is clear you have no intention of changing. I see no reason to discuss it further. Worf walks away in disgust, and moves to join the rest of the group. Dobara, who is nearby, looks from one to the other, concerned. As the group continues on its march... STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FOUR 45A. 49 A ROCK OUTCROPPING (OPTICAL) begins to SHIMMER and DISSOLVE into the Holodeck gridlines (note: none of our characters sees this happening). The effect only lasts a few seconds, and the rock quickly returns to normal -- but it's clear that the Holodeck is breaking down. CUT TO: 50 EXT. HOLODECK/SURFACE - CAMP - NIGHT The Boraalans have made camp for the night. There is a CAMPFIRE and a few simple TENTS have been pitched. The tents are lit from within by the oil lamps, and the shadows of the Boraalans can be seen against the tent walls. The strains of an alien instrument can be heard in the b.g. It's a beautiful, peaceful sight. 51 ANOTHER ANGLE - WORF is off by himself in a secluded spot, talking on the com with Geordi. Worf is concerned and frustrated. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FOUR 46. 51 CONTINUED: WORF Commander, the Holodeck malfunctions are increasing... INTERCUT: 52 INT. ENGINEERING Geordi at a console. GEORDI I'm running every stabilization routine I know... WORF How much longer until we reach the new planet? GEORDI We'll be there in less than eight hours... You just have to hold things together a little while longer... Suddenly, Worf hears the sound of SOMEONE APPROACHING... WORF (to com) Someone is coming... END INTERCUT: A short beat later, Worf sees Dobara moving toward him. DOBARA May I speak with you? WORF Of course. They sit down on a couple of nearby rocks. DOBARA I don't know what Nikolai said to you, but please... forgive him. WORF It is an... old argument. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FOUR 47. 52 CONTINUED: DOBARA I've never seen him like this. He's usually so confident, so sure of himself... But now he seems... different. Do you know why? After a beat. WORF No. I do not. Dobara scrutinizes him carefully, as though to search for a deeper meaning behind his words. She proceeds carefully. DOBARA Ever since Vorin was lost, people have been afraid... worried that we won't reach our new home. (beat) We need Nikolai's strength now... more than ever. As she continues, Worf can see how intensely personal her feelings are for Nikolai. DOBARA (continuing) When the storms first came to our village, many of us were ready to die... but Nikolai refused to let us. He gathered us together and led us into the caves. He saved us. (beat) He's a brave and compassionate man... and I love him. Please go to him... make things right between you. I want us to be a family. Worf reacts. WORF Us? STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FOUR 48. 52 CONTINUED: (2) DOBARA Yes. I want you to consider yourself my brother. Dobara places her hand gently on her stomach. DOBARA (continuing) After all -- you're going to be the uncle of my child. OFF Worf's expression. FADE OUT. END OF ACT FOUR STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FIVE 49. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 53 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (STOCK OPTICAL) as it enters orbit around Vacca Six. 54 INT. BRIDGE Picard, Riker, and Data at their stations. DATA We are in synchronous orbit above the beam-down site, sir. PICARD Good. (to com) Mister La Forge. How much longer before we can transport the Boraalans? INTERCUT: 55 INT. ENGINEERING Geordi is working some consoles. GEORDI (worried) A few more hours, sir... but we've got some problems here. Picard and Riker exchange concerned looks. GEORDI (continuing) I don't think the Holodeck's going to last that long. We've had materialization errors and resolution failures all over the place -- and it's getting worse. The simulation could fall apart any minute. PICARD (to com) We'll have the Transporter room standing by... (MORE) STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FIVE 50. 55 CONTINUED: PICARD (Cont'd) We may need to transport the Boraalans whether you're ready or not. Keep Mister Worf apprised of the situation. END INTERCUT. GEORDI'S COM VOICE Aye, sir. Picard rises and moves to the Turbolift. PICARD (continuing) Commander, you have the Bridge... We still have one more problem to worry about... Picard EXITS. CUT TO: 56 INT. VORIN'S QUARTERS Vorin is sitting in the middle of the room, clutching his scroll, lost in his thoughts, a man out of place in a strange world. The door CHIMES. For a second, he doesn't know what it is, but then he remembers... VORIN Yes... The DOORS OPEN and Picard ENTERS. PICARD Vorin. We've arrived at the planet I told you about... (beat) Have you made a decision? Vorin tries to speak with conviction, but it's clear he's extremely uncertain. VORIN I believe I would like to go back to my people. Picard reacts -- he was afraid of this, but he knows he can't prevent it. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/28/93 - ACT FIVE 51. 56 CONTINUED: PICARD I see. (beat) And what do you intend to tell them? VORIN I don't know... PICARD If you tell them the truth -- what will happen? Will they believe you? VORIN I'm not sure. It is a fantastic story. PICARD It's possible they'll think you had an hallucination... or even that you're insane... Vorin considers this possibility. VORIN I don't think I'd like to live my life knowing what I know -- and being thought of as a madman... PICARD On the other hand, they may believe your fantastic story. They would learn about alien worlds and starships... VORIN That would be disastrous. It would destroy everything they believed in... Vorin comes to a sobering conclusion. VORIN I can't tell them the truth... but I don't think I can live with a secret. PICARD You can stay here. Make a future for yourself... with us. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FIVE 51A. 56 CONTINUED: (2) There's a long, silent beat as Vorin wrestles with this. VORIN I need some time... please... STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FIVE 52. 56 CONTINUED: (3) Picard nods and EXITS. OFF Vorin's lost expression. 57 EXT. HOLODECK/SURFACE - CAMP - NIGHT Worf and Nikolai are outside the tents, arguing. WORF How could you have mated with a Boraalan? What were you thinking? Nikolai turns and faces Worf squarely. The two men are head-on, bristling, ready for a fight. NIKOLAI I don't owe you an explanation. It's a matter between Dobara and me. WORF As usual, you are thinking only of yourself. Nikolai reaches out and gives Worf a little shove in the chest. NIKOLAI And as usual, you're here to point out the error of my ways. Worf gives Nikolai a shove right back. WORF You have treated Dobara with dishonor. Nikolai shoves Worf -- harder. NIKOLAI No -- I love her and I intend to raise our child together. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/29/93 - ACT FIVE 53. 57 CONTINUED: Worf is aghast at this. WORF That is impossible -- I cannot allow you to stay here. NIKOLAI You will have to kill me first -- Suddenly, there is a huge CRACKLING SOUND from the sky. Worf and Nikolai look up... 58 THE SKY (OPTICAL) is beginning to shimmer, dissolving into gridlines and then reforming... it's a spectacular and terrifying sight (NOTE: the Holodeck simulation is completely falling apart here and the precise optical effects should reflect that). 59 RESUME SCENE Nikolai and Worf exchange a look -- what are they going to do? At that moment, Dobara, Kateras, and several of the other N.D. Boraalans rush up and look fearfully into the sky. DOBARA (to Worf and Nikolai) What does it mean... ? Nikolai makes a quick decision. NIKOLAI (grimly) The storms have returned. Worf reacts -- what is Nikolai up to? But the words have the desired effect on the Boraalans -- they think they're doomed. KATERAS We will be killed... NIKOLAI No! Worf has the power to end the storms once and for all... Worf stares at him... then realizes what he's saying. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 10/28/93 - ACT FIVE 54. 59 CONTINUED: WORF Yes. But everyone must take shelter in the tents. KATERAS The tents won't protect us... NIKOLAI Worf will protect you. You must trust him. Nikolai tries to herd the Boraalans people toward their tents, but they are frightened and unruly. Worf moves away, talks quietly to Geordi. WORF Commander... it might help if you could produce a storm... 60 INT. ENGINEERING Geordi is working a console. WORF'S COM VOICE ... wind, lightning and thunder. GEORDI I'll see what I can do... 61 EXT. HOLODECK/SURFACE - CAMP The wind has started to blow... the camp is illuminated by flashes of lightning... thunderous booms can be heard... Everyone has to shout above the noise. NIKOLAI The storm is getting worse! You must go to your tents -- now! As the storm worsens, the Boraalans scramble madly into their tents... In a few moments, everyone is inside, leaving Worf and Nikolai alone in the middle of the camp... 62 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) It's a bizarre scene as the wind howls and lightning crackles. Worf and Nikolai check one last time, making certain that everyone is inside, and then... STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FIVE 55. 62 CONTINUED: WORF (to com) Commander... Energize... Worf, Nikolai and the tents DEMATERIALIZE... 63 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL) as everything MATERIALIZES in the same position and in what appears to be the same place -- except now it is a calm and peaceful night. (NOTE: this is now supposed to be the actual surface of the planet; it may be appropriate to make minor changes to the set such as placing various rocks in different places, etc.) A few moments pass and then the Boraalans slowly emerge from their tents. They stare all around in wonder. WORF The storms will not return. NIKOLAI What did I tell you? My brother has saved us. They look at Worf with awe and gratitude. Worf and Nikolai exchange a meaningful look -- they pulled together and it worked. 64 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) in orbit around Vacca Six. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's Log, Stardate 47427.2. The Boraalans have safely reached the site of what will eventually become their new village. None of them suspects they ever left their planet. However, our success has come at a high price... 65 INT. VORIN'S QUARTERS Vorin lies dead on his bed. Picard watches grimly as Beverly pulls the sheet up over his face. BEVERLY I think it was some form of ritual suicide... STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 11/01/93 - ACT FIVE 56. 65 CONTINUED: PICARD He said he had nowhere to go... It's a solemn moment. BEVERLY He'd have died even if we hadn't interfered... PICARD But he wouldn't have died alone... and afraid... BEVERLY Are you saying you're sorry we saved the Boraalans? PICARD No, of course not. Our plan worked out well for them... He glances down at the still form. PICARD (continuing) But I wish Vorin could have bridged the gap between our cultures. I would have liked the chance to know him better. Beverly has no comment. Off their expressions... CUT TO: 66 OMITTED 67 EXT. SURFACE - DAY Nikolai stands near their tent with Dobara as Worf approaches. Dobara looks at Worf a bit fearfully, uncertain if the two are going to fight again. NIKOLAI Dobara... go inside. DOBARA Nikolai -- don't... STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 11/01/93 - ACT FIVE 56A. 67 CONTINUED: NIKOLAI Please. She gives Worf a last look and then enters the tent. NIKOLAI I told you -- you'll have to kill me to get me away from here. Worf regards his brother for a long beat. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FIVE 57. 67 CONTINUED: (2) WORF I don't want to fight you, Nikolai. These are two men trying to reach each other, trying to find the way out of conflict and into resolution. Nikolai takes a breath, tries to cut through. NIKOLAI Nothing was ever easy between us, was it? WORF No. Nikolai is trying to set things right between them -- even if it means making difficult admissions. NIKOLAI It's my fault. If I'd been more like you, we wouldn't have had so many problems. Worf is touched by the gesture. WORF If you'd been more like me -- those people would not be here now. You gave them a chance at a new life. Nikolai regards him... takes the next step. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - REV. 11/01/93 - ACT FIVE 58. 67 CONTINUED: (3) NIKOLAI Worf... I intend to share that life with them. The village will need someone to begin a new chronicle... and my child will need a father. My place is here. (beat: a small smile) Don't you see? I'm finally taking responsibility. Worf hesitates, then smiles as well. WORF You were never good at drawing... how will you keep a chronicle? Nikolai smiles -- they've reached a resolution. NIKOLAI I learn quickly. WORF Then perhaps there is hope... Worf moves closer to Nikolai and picks up Vorin's pouch of scrolls which lies nearby. He searches through the pouch for a beat and then finds the one he was looking for. Worf unrolls it -- it's the drawing Vorin made of Worf and Nikolai. WORF (continuing) May I take this with me? NIKOLAI It's yours. A long beat as the two brothers share the personal moment. WORF I will attempt to explain all this to mother and father. NIKOLAI They won't understand. WORF They may. I will tell them... you are happy. OFF their expressions. STAR TREK: "Homeward" - 10/27/93 - ACT FIVE 59. 68 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) as it leaves the planet behind. FADE OUT. END OF ACT FIVE THE END