STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "The Child" #40272-127 Based on a Premise by Jaron Summers and Jon Povill Teleplay by Maurice Hurley Directed by Rob Bowman 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 1988 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 This script is not for publication or reproduction.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. 3RD REV. FINAL DRAFT SEPTEMBER 20, 1988 STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - CAST STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "The Child" CAST PICARD HESTER DEALT RIKER DATA PULASKI Voice-Over TROI REPULSE VOICE GEORDI WORF WESLEY GUINAN CREWMEMBER TRANSPORTER CHIEF TEACHER (MISS GLADSTONE) IAN (BABY) IAN (AGE THREE) IAN (AGE EIGHT) Non-Speaking CREWMEMBERS MEDICAL ASSISTANTS SECURITY TEAM GROUP OF KIDS Voice-Over SICKBAY VOICE COMPUTER VOICE STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - SETS STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "The Child" SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE SHUTTLE BAY MAIN BRIDGE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM DOOR USS REPULSE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM CHIEF ENGINEER'S OFFICE 'AUCDET NINE MAIN ENGINEERING CORRIDOR ANOTHER CORRIDOR CREWMEMBERS' QUARTERS TROI'S QUARTERS CARGO DECK FIVE TEN-FORWARD OBSERVATION LOUNGE CARGO HOLD FIVE DOCTOR PULASKI'S OFFICE SICKBAY - MATERNITY CORRIDOR - ENTRANCE TO SICKBAY CORRIDOR - ENTRANCE TO TROI'S QUARTERS CHILDREN'S PLAY AREA TRANSPORTER ROOM THREE STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "The Child" PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 'AUCDET NINE O-det Nine GUINAN GUY-nun RACHELIS Ra-CHEL-is DELOVIAN SOUFFLE Del-O-ve-an MAREUVIAN TEA Ma-RU-ve-an THEASIAN TEA Thee-A-see-an PROMETHEUS Pro-ME-thee-us ALGORITHMS AL-gor-i-thums HEURISTICS Hur-ISS-tics VOILA Vwa-LA CYANOACRYLATES Si-a-no-AK-re-lates STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER 1. STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "The Child" TEASER FADE IN: 1 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND THE USS REPULSE (OPTICAL) The Enterprise has rendezvoused with the other Federation ship near the spectacularly beautiful binary system -- Alvacorn Major. 1A INT. ENTERPRISE - SHUTTLE BAY (OPTICAL) The shuttlecraft leaves the Enterprise for the USS Repulse. 2 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Picard is not on the bridge. RIKER has the command chair - DATA is at Science Station, WESLEY is at Conn -WORF is at Tactical. The other positions are filled by n.d. crewmembers. Riker watches the Main Viewer as the shuttlecraft closes with the Repulse. RIKER (to Worf) Open hailing frequencies. WORF Hailing frequencies opened. RIKER Repulse, this is the Enterprise. We are getting underway. REPULSE VOICE Acknowledged, Enterprise. Transfer complete -- good luck on your mission. RIKER And to you. REPULSE VOICE Give my regards to your captain. Repulse out. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER 2. 2 CONTINUED: WESLEY The Shuttle Bay is secure. RIKER Thank you Mister Crusher. Make all preparations to get underway. 3 OMITTED 4 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM (OPTICAL) Picard is there with GEORDI. Geordi is showing Picard the plans for a device he is proposing to build. GEORDI We will construct this large enclosure on Cargo Deck Five. The door CHIME SOUNDS. PICARD Come. Riker enters and makes his report. RIKER The transfer is complete. Doctor Pulaski is being shown to her quarters. We are ready to get underway. PICARD Very good. Take a look at the containment module our new chief engineer has designed. Riker steps over. RIKER "Chief engineer," that has a nice ring to it. GEORDI It does to me. (then to business) Each will have total atmospheric control... temperature, radiation, light, humidity, plus electrical spectrums. RIKER And these are put into the large containment area? STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER 3. 4 CONTINUED: GEORDI Yes, these modules will keep the specimens alive -- the large containment area will keep us alive. Now, I have to go and replicate this five hundred and twelve times. This will mean it will be necessary to divert power from the warp engines to the replicator. PICARD How long will we be on impulse power? GEORDI For a few hours, but it can't be helped. Picard nods. RIKER When we leave 'aucdet Nine - I'm going to want all the power you can slam into those warp engines. GEORDI You'll have it. Geordi exits. PICARD I will relieve you at zero three zero zero. Riker acknowledges and leaves. 5 INT. MAIN BRIDGE as Riker walks back onto the bridge. RIKER Take us out of orbit, Mister Crusher -- set course for 'aucdet Nine. WESLEY Aye, sir. Course for 'aucdet Nine has been input. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER 4. 5 CONTINUED: RIKER Maximum impulse velocity. WESLEY Aye, sir. RIKER Engage. 6 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) as it makes a slow graceful turn. 7 EXT. SPACE - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) The Enterprise starts as a dot in the distance -- quickly approaches at impulse speed and makes a close passby. After a beat, a heretofore unseen speck begins to glow, then moves -- chasing after the starship. 8 EXT. SPACE - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) as the glowing ENERGY closes on the Enterprise. It catches the ship and approaches from the rear -- going between the warp engines. 9 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Minimal crew. Data is at the Science Station studying the display screen. DATA Engineering -- this is Science One. I just observed what appeared to be a random energy transference. 10 INT. CHIEF ENGINEER'S OFFICE Geordi is working at the panel on the far wall. GEORDI Where? DATA'S COM VOICE Aft. Outboard of the port nacelle. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER 5. 10 CONTINUED: GEORDI Hold on -- I'll check. 10A INT. MAIN ENGINEERING Geordi moves to the center console. GEORDI No -- I show nothing here, Data. 11 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Data is not satisfied and continues running checks. RIKER Problem, Commander? DATA Possibly. An unexplained power fluctuation. RIKER Let me know if it reoccurs. 12 EXT. SPACE - CLOSE ON THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ball of light moves closer to the Enterprise. It slides along the skin of the ship; then, without damage to the hull, the ball goes inside. 13 INT. CORRIDOR (OPTICAL) The corridor is empty. If there were nighttime in space, this would be it. The ship is quiet. The little glow of energy emerges. It pauses as though getting its bearings, then cautiously moves off. 14 INT. CORRIDOR - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) We FOLLOW the glow as it continues along. The turbolift doors open and TWO CREWMEMBERS exit. The glow blends into the corridor wall and neither crewmember sees it. The glow falls in behind them as they pass. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER 6. 15 INT. CORRIDOR - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) At an intersection the crewmembers turn left. The energy again pauses, then continues straight ahead resuming its journey - or is it a search? The energy exits up through the overhead. 15A OMITTED 16 INT. CREWMEMBERS' QUARTERS (OPTICAL) The energy enters. It pauses over the sleeping form of one of the male crewmembers... then moves away. 17 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL) The energy enters the room, passing effortlessly through the closed door. It pauses -- again getting its bearings. It has a definite sense of purpose as it moves slowly toward the sleeping form on the far side of the room. 18 ANOTHER ANGLE - THE BED (OPTICAL) We recognize COUNSELOR DEANNA TROI. The energy pauses by her head, then LEAVES THE FRAME as it moves down her body. We HOLD on Troi's face. After a beat she turns -- the restless movements of a tortured dream... sweat beads up on her forehead, SUDDENLY she wakes. For a moment she does not move -- then she looks around the room for the "person" (lover) she knows must be there. There is no one. The room is empty. But she knows that someone or something has been there and that she will never be the same again. Off her look of concern... and fear... we: FADE OUT. END OF TEASER STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 7. ACT ONE FADE IN: 19 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) as it continues along at impulse speed. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, Stardate 42073.1. There has been an outbreak of a yet unclassified Plasma Plague in the densely populated Rachelis system. We are on an emergency run to a Federation Research station on 'aucdet Nine, where specimens of Plasma Plague are kept. We will then transport that deadly cargo to Science Station Tango Sierra, where hopefully an antidote can be manufactured. Every hour we delay, thousands die. 20 OMITTED 20A INT. CARGO DECK FIVE In the center of the huge cargo bay, a crewmember is assembling a very large containment area which will hold the five hundred and twelve modules. GEORDI How's it going? CREWMEMBER Finished, just waiting to insert the modules. 21 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Picard comes out of his Ready Room: PICARD Number One. RIKER Lieutenant La Forge says we will be able to engage the warp drive within the hour. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 8. 21 CONTINUED: Picard nods an acknowledgement as he takes his seat. PICARD Mister Data, when we receive a complete list of all the specimens we will be carrying, I want you and Doctor Pulaski to go through it... by the way. Where is our new doctor? Has she reported in? RIKER Not yet. Picard is obviously irritated by the breach in procedure. PICARD Sickbay, this is the captain. SICKBAY VOICE Sickbay, aye. PICARD Is Doctor Pulaski there? SICKBAY VOICE (slight hesitation) Ah... no, Sir. The doctor is in Ten-Forward. PICARD What?! (surprised, then annoyed) A few hours on board and she's already found Ten-Forward. Riker starts to rise. RIKER I'll go and get her. PICARD No, Number One. I'll go. Picard rises and strides toward the turbolift. WORF Not the best way to meet your new captain. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 9. 22 INT. CORRIDOR As Picard exits the turbolift, he encounters Wesley. WESLEY Hello, Captain. PICARD (a greeting) Ensign Crusher. Picard continues to stride purposefully down the corridor with Wesley a few steps behind trying to keep up. PICARD I'm sorry this mission will delay your reunion with your mother. WESLEY It's all right. I can use the time to finish some projects. PICARD (dismissive) We shouldn't be more than a week or so. Wesley wants to continue the conversation. WESLEY It is going to be hard to leave the Enterprise... PICARD Mixed feelings for all of us. Picard glances back and sees the look of sadness in the young man's eyes. PICARD (continuing) It's always difficult leaving any ship, as it was for your mother when she left to become head of Starfleet Medical. But going from one assignment to another is part of the life which you are choosing. WESLEY Yes, but this isn't "any" ship. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 10. 22 CONTINUED: PICARD Truly. Wesley stops and watches Picard continue to Ten-Forward. The sadness remains in the young man's eyes. 23 INT. TEN-FORWARD As Picard enters he crosses with a CREWMEMBER. The crewmember's reaction tells us very clearly that Picard is not a frequent visitor to Ten-Forward. We FOLLOW Picard as he walks over to the BARTENDER. This is the first time we get to see this wonderful room. 24 ANOTHER ANGLE - PICARD AT BAR GUINAN is behind the bar. PICARD (greets her) Guinan. She nods a greeting. GUINAN Captain. PICARD Where's Doctor Pulaski? With a hand motion, Guinan indicates a table. 25 ANOTHER ANGLE as Picard approaches one of the tables. We can see that DOCTOR KATHERINE PULASKI is talking with someone, but we cannot see with whom. Picard strides purposefully up. Clearly his ire is up. PICARD Doctor Katherine Pulaski? Pulaski looks up. PULASKI Ah... you must be Captain Picard... STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 11. 25 CONTINUED: PICARD Doctor -- protocol on your last assignment might have been lax, but here on the Enterprise... PULASKI (she abruptly cuts him off) Sit down, Captain. You better listen to this. 26 ANOTHER ANGLE - TABLE We now see that the doctor is with Troi. Picard and Troi exchange looks. Picard senses trouble and moves a step closer. 27 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE (OPTICAL) Riker, Data, and Worf have assembled. Picard enters with Doctor Pulaski and Troi. As he walks briskly toward his seat. PICARD (he touches his communicator) Lieutenant La Forge, status report. GEORDI'S COM VOICE The containment area is completed, the last of the modules are being inserted. PICARD Take us to warp six as soon as possible. GEORDI'S COM VOICE Acknowledged. Picard takes his seat and moves on to other -- equally urgent business. PICARD This is Doctor Katherine Pulaski. We will handle the formal introduction later. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 12. 27 CONTINUED: The SUBTLE APPRAISALS, the doctor of the crew and the crew of the new doctor, are cut short as Picard takes his seat and announces. PICARD (continuing) Counselor Deanna Troi is pregnant. The reactions of the crew. During what follows we will INTERCUT the reactions of everyone. These will change as each new piece of information is revealed. Data, almost in awe. Life, any life, is amazing to him. Riker glances over at Troi and thinks however briefly of what might have been. Worf -- suspicious, distrustful. RIKER A baby! Worf is noncommittal, Data curious. Riker surprised, and the question is clearly on his mind (whose baby?). RIKER (continuing) This is a surprise. TROI More so for me. Before Riker can react to that statement, Pulaski takes control of the meeting. PULASKI This pregnancy is unlike anything I have ever encountered. Since she came to me a few hours ago, I have made two complete examinations of Counselor Troi. She activates the wall viewer on which appears the sonic representation of a healthy, humanoid fetus. PULASKI (continuing) This is from the first examination. The fetus is about halfway through the first trimester -- about six weeks old. Understand, we... (MORE) STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 13. 27 CONTINUED: (2) PULASKI (Cont'd) (indicating herself and Troi) ... believe conception occurred about eleven hours ago. RIKER What? PULASKI It gets better. The screen changes. PULASKI (continuing) The second exam, an hour later was consistent, except for the fact that the fetus "appeared" to be several weeks older. She steps away from the screen. PULASKI (continuing) At this growth rate, Counselor Troi will have her baby within the next thirty-six hours. The normal gestation for a Betazoid is ten months. For a beat, the group is in stunned silence. RIKER I do not mean to be indelicate, but... (pause) ... who's the father? TROI Last night, while I slept... something... which I can only describe it as a presence, entered my body. Troi turns and looks at the image of the fetus. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 14. 27 CONTINUED: (3) PICARD A life-form of unknown origin and intent is breeding right now inside Counselor Troi. Our purpose here is to determine what is to be done about this very "unusual" situation. Discussion. RIKER Let me get this straight -- Deanna was impregnated by... by what? (to Pulaski) Doctor, what do your tests show? Is it a humanoid? An alien? She stands, goes to the display screen and activates it. PULASKI It's a male human... or in this case half-human -- half-Betazoid. RIKER Exactly the same as Deanna! PULASKI In every way. There is no indication from any of my tests of any other genetic patterns except hers. 28 TROI We HOLD on Troi as she continues to watch the child moving inside her. The discussion fades from her consciousness. RIKER I don't think this is a random occurrence. There is a purpose here -- a reason. What, I don't know. WORF Captain, obviously the pregnancy must be terminated. RIKER Why? STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 15. 28 CONTINUED: WORF For the safety of the ship and crew. Troi stares at the moving fetus on the viewscreen. Seeing it, alive, helpless, touches other emotions. However it was conceived, it is hers. She does not completely lose her uncertainty and apprehension, but other, stronger instincts begin to emerge. RIKER Worf, you can't assume its intent is belligerent. WORF That is my safest assumption. DATA Captain, this is a life-form. Not to allow it to develop naturally would deny us the opportunity to study it. WORF If the fetus is aborted, laboratory analysis is still possible. RIKER Is there any health risk to Counselor Troi if the fetus is aborted? PULASKI Medically, no. PICARD Doctor, is that your recommendation? As the words swirl around her, she knows in her Betazoid heart that the child must be born, and she makes her decision. Troi gets everyone's attention. TROI Captain, do whatever you feel is necessary to protect the ship and the crew... but know this. I am going to have this baby. Everyone reacts, then: STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE 16. 28 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD I believe that ends the discussion. 29 OMITTED FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 17. ACT TWO FADE IN: 30 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) coming out of warp. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, supplemental. We have finally arrived at 'aucdet Nine. We will pick up the specimens of Plasma Plague and transport them to Rachelis. 30A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) approaching 'aucdet Nine. PICARD (V.O.) (continuing) It is only because so many lives are at stake that I am willing to put this ship and crew at such great risk. 31 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Picard is in his command seat, Riker beside him. Data is at Ops and Wesley has the Conn. Troi enters from the aft turbolift. She is FIVE months pregnant. The crew can't help watching as she crosses and takes her place next to Picard. PICARD How are you feeling? TROI I should be feeling uncomfortable with all the changes in my body... but, I'm not. I feel fine -- better than fine. Wonderful. There is a look of concern in his eyes - not only for his counselor, but because he still isn't sure what is going to be born onto his ship. RIKER Standard orbit. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 18. 31 CONTINUED: WESLEY Standard orbit, aye. PICARD Open hailing frequencies. WORF Hailing frequencies open. PICARD 'Aucdet Nine, this is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the USS Enterprise. There is a pause, then the viewscreen comes alive. A MAN APPEARS. He's dressed in a disposable lab coat and wearing a twenty-fourth century medical mask pushed up on the top of his head. His name is LIEUTENANT COMMANDER HESTER DEALT. INTERCUT VIEWSCREEN WHERE NECESSARY. HESTER Ah... yes... Enterprise you're here at last. Good. PICARD Excuse me, to whom am I speaking? HESTER Oh... I'm Lieutenant Commander Hester Dealt. The medical trustee of the Federation Medical Collection Station. PICARD Are the specimens ready for transfer? HESTER Yes, but with your permission I would like to inspect the containment area before we proceed. It is not that I doubt the ability of your crew; we just cannot afford a mistake. PICARD I appreciate your caution -- in the same vein, I need a complete, detailed manifest of everything which you intend to bring on board my ship. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 19. 31 CONTINUED: (2) HESTER I will allow access to the computer banks. The screen returns to a view of 'aucdet Nine. PICARD (to Data) Download the inventory and go through it with Doctor Pulaski. (to Riker) Number One, arrange to have Hester Dealt transported up. TROI Captain, I'm suddenly feeling a little tired. I'll be in my quarters if you need me. Picard nods. Troi gets slowly up and walks to the turbolift. Picard watches her leave. In the b.g. Worf also watches. He is still very uneasy. 32 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS She steps up to her sink. She touches her face with a wet cloth as she studies her image in the mirror. The emotional strain of this event is etched on her features. She looks down at her swollen body.... TROI It won't be long now. Soon you'll arrive and so many questions will be answered. The thought makes her smile. 33 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) in orbit around 'aucdet Nine. 34 INT. CARGO HOLD FIVE Hester Dealt continues his inspection on the containment area, which is a very large rectangular object suspended off the floor of the Cargo Deck. It has a very sophisticated monitoring system for the hundreds of compartments within. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 20. 34 CONTINUED: HESTER This is very good. Exactly what's needed. GEORDI I just followed your instructions. HESTER Good. Exactly what I wanted. Hester moves around the containment area -- over -- under -- up -- down -- inspecting it from every possible angle. HESTER (continuing) Five hundred and twelve compartments. Individually controlled. Very good. Independent of one another. Perfect. Ah, they can be monitored from here. And, isolation is assured. Very, very good. GEORDI I wanted to be sure they wouldn't get out. HESTER Good, Lieutenant. Very good indeed. RIKER'S COM VOICE How's it coming, Mister La Forge? HESTER It will be just a little while longer. I want to go over it again in more detail. GEORDI It will be another couple of hours, Commander. HESTER You do understand, it's critical that we have zero growth. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 21. 34 CONTINUED: (2) GEORDI (then to Hester Dealt) Oh, yes. I understand. So, you go over it as many times as you want. 34A EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) in orbit around 'aucdet Nine. PICARD (V.O.) It's been fourteen hours since we arrived at 'aucdet Nine. Hester Dealt is making final selections of the specimens we will carry. Meanwhile, we continue to receive desperate pleas from the Rachelis System. 35 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Data is finishing up something at Science One. DATA Captain, the final manifest has been received. PICARD At last. Review it with Doctor Pulaski. I want both of you to be completely familiar with it. DATA Aye sir. Data leaves Science One and crosses to the turbolift. 36 INT. CORRIDOR The turbolift doors open and Data steps into the corridor. As he turns toward Sickbay he sees Troi, walking with some difficulty. He quickly goes to her aid. TROI Data -- help me get to Sickbay. He offers his arm for support and together they continue along. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 22. 37 INT. DOCTOR PULASKI'S OFFICE The Doctor looks up as someone enters. 38 ANOTHER ANGLE It's Troi and Data. TROI It's time. PULASKI Oh, you bet it is. Let's get you into Sickbay. As she helps Troi through Sickbay, Data touches his communicator. DATA Worf -- assemble your security team in Sickbay. PULASKI Is that necessary? DATA Yes -- captain's orders. He then follows them into Sickbay. PULASKI (to Troi) Strange to need armed guards in the delivery room. TROI Yes, and strange to think my child is the cause. PULASKI Before you referred to it as "the child," now it's become your child. TROI Yes, whatever his beginnings, that's what he's become. They exit Sickbay. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 23. 39 INT. SICKBAY - MATERNITY They enter and Pulaski leads Troi to the bed. Her MEDICAL ASSISTANTS move to prepare for the delivery. Data comes up behind them. PULASKI How frequent are your contractions? TROI Very close together. PULASKI In all my other deliveries -- with a couple of exceptions -- the father was present. TROI Difficult under the circumstances. PULASKI It's unfortunate you have to go through this alone. It helps to have someone with you. DATA Perhaps I could serve in that capacity. I can quickly review the procedures I will be required to execute. PULASKI Troi is going to need the comfort of a "human" touch... Not the cold hand of technology. Data reaction. TROI Doctor. I think Commander Data will do nicely. A look from the doctor to Troi and back to Data. PULASKI Your choice. 40 ANOTHER ANGLE as the doctor and her assistants prepare Sickbay and Troi for the delivery. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 24. 40 CONTINUED: TROI There is nothing specific you have to do, Data, you just have to be with me. PULASKI There is nothing to be nervous about. DATA This is very interesting to me. Although I understand in technical terms how life is formed, there is still a part of the process which eludes my understanding. I began my existence as an adult. I have no memory -- no cognizance of conception, birth, childhood, so to be allowed to witness this event is... Troi grabs his hand. TROI It's happening. DATA (alarmed) Doctor! Pulaski steps over. PULASKI This is an impatient baby. He's eager to make his appearance. She picks up her hypospray. PULASKI (continuing) I'll give you something for the pain. It won't in any way diminish the experience. TROI I have felt no pain. PULASKI None? TROI No... none at all. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 25. 40A INT. CORRIDOR - ENTRANCE TO SICKBAY Worf and SECURITY TEAM arrive. 41 ANOTHER ANGLE - SICKBAY They now have Troi in position in the birthing chair. Worf and the security team enter and take up their positions as Pulaski and her Assistant prepare for the delivery. PULASKI Have your security team stand over there. I understand the need to have you here, but keep out from under foot. 42 AND NOW THE BIRTH (INTERCUT THE PIECES OF THE EVENT) This is more than just the wondrous act of life. It has as well the added tension of Worf and his security team. Data, and his first close encounter with creation of the thing he understands least -- life. As this sequence begins, Riker appears in the background. He stands to the side -- out of the way, but there in case his friend, Deanna Troi, needs him. WE WILL LAY THIS OUT, BASED ON HOW A CHILD IS BORN ON THE TWENTY-FOURTH CENTURY ENTERPRISE. And the CHILD comes out -- Worf edges closer -- the doctor takes it to one side. Ties the cord, cleans it, and brings it back to Troi. This is an effortless birth -- no pain -- no strain. PULASKI Are easy births the norm for Betazoids? TROI Not according to my mother. PULASKI (as she hands it to Troi) It's a boy. A normal, healthy, six pound, three ounce baby boy. Then to Worf. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 26. 42 CONTINUED: PULASKI (continuing; without any edge) You can come the rest of the way in now. Worf enters and approaches the baby as he would a deadly snake. 43 ANOTHER ANGLE as Worf and the newborn exchange looks. PULASKI No threat here, Lieutenant, you and your men can relax... it's just a baby. Worf reacts. 44 TROI as she holds the baby. Data leans in to see the child. DATA It was remarkable. Thank you for allowing me to participate. PULASKI Do you have a name? TROI Ian Andrew, after my father. PULASKI (she touches her communicator) Captain. PICARD'S COM VOICE Picard here. PULASKI Counselor Troi is the mother of a very healthy baby boy. Mother and child are both doing well. PICARD'S COM VOICE Counselor, my best wishes to you and your son. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 27. 44 CONTINUED: TROI Thank you, sir. Riker now steps forward to pay his respects. He leans down and kisses her on the forehead. TROI (continuing) Have you been here all along? RIKER Yes. (then just for her) He's beautiful, Deanna... just like his mother. (to Worf) I don't think you are going to be needed here, Lieutenant. Worf nods an acknowledgement and leads his security team off. Riker and Troi exchange looks and he too exits. PULASKI How do you feel? TROI Fine. Absolutely wonderful and thank you, Doctor... for everything. PULASKI (as she does a scan of Troi and the baby, her face registers surprise) Amazing. 45 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) in orbit around 'aucdet Nine. 46 INT. MAIN BRIDGE The turbolift opens and for the first time Pulaski steps onto the bridge. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 28. 46 CONTINUED: PICARD Welcome to the bridge, Doctor. How's Counselor Troi? Did she have a good night? PULASKI I have delivered dozens of babies. But none like this. There was no pain, no trauma. It was effortless for both of them. PICARD I'm not sure of your point. PULASKI She had the baby yesterday. If I were to examine her now, I would not be able to tell that she just had a baby, or ever had a baby. It's as though the incident never happened. PICARD (to Data) How long before we are ready to begin the transfer? DATA Two hours, nineteen minutes. PICARD (he stands) You have the Conn, Number One. RIKER Aye, sir. PICARD Doctor, you would accompany me, please. I think it's time I paid my respects. 47 INT. CORRIDOR - ENTRANCE TO TROI'S QUARTERS Picard and Pulaski approach the doorway. The CHIME SOUNDS. From inside Troi says: TROI Come in. The doors open and they enter. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 29. 48 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS Troi's back is to him. She is doing something with her child. PICARD I wanted to come by and see how you were and have a look at your... At this moment the CHILD looks out from around Troi. It is already THREE YEARS OLD! PICARD (continuing) ... baby! My goodness. The Doctor takes out her medical recorder and does a quick body scan of the child. PICARD (continuing) How old is he? PULASKI In actuality a day. PICARD Yes, but... PULASKI ... In appearance, almost four earth years old. TROI Ian, say hello to Captain Picard. PICARD You mean he can talk? The boy answers. IAN Hello. Picard is stunned. PICARD Hello, Ian. Picard moves closer. IAN Don't worry. Everything is fine. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO 30. 48 CONTINUED: Off their reactions we: FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 31. ACT THREE FADE IN: 49 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) in a parking orbit near 'aucdet Nine. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, supplemental. We are faced with two major problems: Troi's child and the deadly cargo we are about to load, which is so desperately needed in the Rachelis system. In the hours since his birth, Troi's baby has continued to age and now appears, physically and mentally, to be a child of eight. And still there is no indication as to who he is, or why he is here. 50 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Picard and everyone else in place. RIKER Sickbay, this is the bridge. We are ready to begin loading. PULASKI'S COM VOICE We need a little more time. It's taking longer than we anticipated. 51 INT. DOCTOR PULASKI'S OFFICE (OPTICAL) She is at her desk-top computer terminal as Data enters. PULASKI Data, (she says "Data" with a short A) look at this. DATA (he corrects her) Data. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 32. 51 CONTINUED: PULASKI What? DATA My name. It is pronounced Data. PULASKI (with a wry smile) Oh? DATA You called me Data. PULASKI What's the difference? DATA One is my name and the other is not. PULASKI Is this possible? Data is puzzled by the apparent non sequitur. Pulaski stands, picks up her medical recorder, steps over to Data and begins a body scan. PULASKI (continuing) In all of your neural nets, algorithms, and heuristics, is there some combination which makes up a circuit for bruised feelings? Data looks confused. PULASKI (continuing) Apparently so, because I think I just offended your tender sensibilities. She looks at the puzzled Data. PULASKI (continuing) Possible? Then with an amused look, gets back to business. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 33. 51 CONTINUED: (2) PULASKI (continuing; indicating the CRT) I am unfamiliar with these symbols. Data steps around and examines the screen. DATA It indicates a genetically engineered biological life-form. PULASKI About twenty percent of the specimens fall into that category. (to herself) Some eager beaver at play. DATA Query... "eager beaver?" PULASKI In this case, 'eager beaver' refers to some overachieving genetic engineer, who probably for lack of something better to do forced this strain of virus to mutate, just to see how bad, bad can get. (touches her communicator) Captain Picard. INTERCUT WITH MAIN BRIDGE AS NEEDED. PICARD Picard here. PULASKI Just so you fully appreciate the risks we are about to take... PICARD Enlighten me. PULASKI If the most innocuous specimen on the manifest list gets loose, it will destroy all life on the Enterprise in a matter of hours. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 34. 51 CONTINUED: (3) PICARD I understand, Doctor. Do you have a recommendation? PULASKI Considering how desperately this is needed, no I don't. Just want you to know what we're carrying. PICARD Thank you, Doctor. Commander Data, if you have completed your review, you are needed in Transporter Room Three. DATA Yes, sir. (to Pulaski) Excuse me, Doctor. PULASKI That's okay... (with long A, then short A) Data, Data... whatever. He gives the doctor a look. Doctor Pulaski returns to her viewscreen. 52 INT. CHILDREN'S PLAY AREA (OPTICAL) Troi is standing by the door with the TEACHER (MISS GLADSTONE). They are watching a GROUP OF KIDS playing with a half a dozen puppies. Sitting right in the middle of everything and playing with abandon is IAN, WHO IS NOW ALMOST EIGHT. Troi is enthralled by the actions of her "son." TROI Ian! The boy looks up and smiles when he sees his mother. Then he notices a LITTLE GIRL next to him. Ian takes his hands off the puppy, and puts them (without any sense of threat, just curiosity) on the girl's hair. MISS GLADSTONE He's a very tactile child. He wants to touch and feel everything. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 35. 52 CONTINUED: TROI Come on, sweetheart, time to go. Ian scrambles to his feet and trots over to his mother and gives her a big hug. MISS GLADSTONE Unbelievable -- I think he's actually grown since you dropped him off. IAN I like it here, Mommy. TROI I thought you would. Thank Miss Gladstone for having you, and let's go get you something to eat. IAN (to the teacher) Thank you. Ian then turns and waves to the other kids who are still involved with the puppies. IAN (continuing) Bye... Some of the other children wave -- most are too involved in what they are doing to notice. TROI (also to the teacher) Thank you. Miss Gladstone nods an acknowledgement, then watches them leave. Her eyes reflect the amazement she feels about Troi's unusual child. 53 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM THREE Data arrives. TRANSPORTER CHIEF The transporter is not making a positive lock. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 36. 53 CONTINUED: DATA The built-in inhibitor is restricting onloading of life-forms known to be hazardous to the occupants of this ship. Have you attempted override? TRANSPORTER CHIEF I don't have the authority. Data steps in behind the console. DATA Computer, recognize -- Lieutenant Commander N-F-N, N-M-I, Data. COMPUTER VOICE Authorization accepted. DATA Initiate override protocol. COMPUTER VOICE Override protocol is not recommended in this situation. DATA Acknowledged. On my authority -- begin override. There is a pause. COMPUTER VOICE Sequence complete. The TRANSPORTER CHIEF inputs the coordinates. TRANSPORTER CHIEF Cargo Deck Five. We will commence transport on your command. 54 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE Riker, Geordi and a couple of crewmembers are by the containment grid. Geordi does a final visual survey of the area. GEORDI Transporter Three -- we are ready to receive. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 37. 55 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM THREE as Data watches the Transporter Chief manipulate the controls. 56 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE (OPTICAL) Riker and Geordi watch as the deadly little ampules are BEAMED into position. Next to Geordi is a CRT which reads out the contents of the little containers. GEORDI (to Data) Data, the first batch is in place. Ready for the next. RIKER Inform me when loading is complete and the cargo secure. GEORDI Aye, sir. Riker exits the Cargo Deck as the second batch of specimens appears within the containment grid. 57 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM THREE The Transporter Chief sets in the coordinates and beams up the next load. 58 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS Troi and eight-year-old Ian are there. The doors open. Picard and Pulaski enter. PULASKI I wanted to stop by and see how Ian was doing. TROI We're doing fine. I was just going to give Ian his supper. IAN (to Picard) Do you want your supper now, too? PICARD No, Ian, but thank you for the invitation. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 38. 58 CONTINUED: IAN You're welcome. A spoon which Ian is playing with more than using, slips out of his hand and falls on the floor. Picard retrieves it. IAN (continuing) Have you ever played with puppies? Picard looks to Troi for an explanation. Troi smiles. TROI They had a litter today in the nursery. PICARD No, I have never played with puppies. IAN You'd like it. You should go to the nursery while the puppies are still there. PICARD. Perhaps later. Troi puts the boy's supper down in front of him. It includes some hot steaming soup. Picard and Pulaski watch as Ian examines his food. He tries to touch the steam coming off the soup, then feels the wetness on his little fingers. Everything connected with his physical senses fascinates the child. He sticks his hand into the hot soup and holds it there for a beat: IAN (pulling it out) Ouch... He looks at his scalded fingers. Tears well up in his eyes and like any other child his age; he runs to his mother. IAN (continuing) Ow... Mommy... ow... Troi gathers the boy into her arms as the doctor steps over. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 39. 58 CONTINUED: (2) PULASKI Let me look at that. Ian holds out the fingers and watches with great interest as Pulaski uses one of the instruments from the pocket of her smock to medicate the fingers. PULASKI (continuing) It's not serious. Ian studies his fingers as he realizes the pain is gone. Then he touches his cheek and feels the tears. IAN My face is wet. Troi gently dries his tears with the tips of her fingers, then lovingly strokes his hair. TROI Is it better now, sweetheart? The boy nods and cuddles in against his mother. PULASKI He allowed himself to be burned. PICARD Yes, for the experience. PULASKI Who is he? Why is he here? What does he want? 59 PICARD He watches the child intently. PICARD Ian, could you tell us why you are here? IAN Because Mommy said it was time to eat. Reactions from Troi and the doctor. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 40. 59 CONTINUED: PICARD No, I mean... why you are here on this ship? IAN I live here. TROI Ian, the captain wants to know if you are ready to tell us why you came here. IAN No. Not yet. Ian picks up the glass, which unlike the soup, this is cold. TROI The answer is within him. When his cognitive powers develop sufficiently, he will be able to articulate it. PICARD I hope he will tell us soon. He takes some of the liquid into his mouth... rolls it around, swallows some, and lets the rest run down his chin. Picard watches as Ian pours some of the liquid onto his leg just to know how it feels, then he turns and walks toward the exit. RIKER'S COM VOICE Captain to the bridge. PICARD I'm on my way, Number One. (to Troi) Keep me apprised of his progress, Counselor. Pulaski stays behind with Troi and her baby. IAN (too late for Picard to respond) Bye... STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 41. 60 OMITTED 61 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Picard steps off the turbolift to the bridge. Riker is beside him. Data is at Ops -- Worf at the Tactical Station. The other positions are filled with n.d. crewmembers. RIKER The cargo has been loaded and is secure. PICARD Take us out of orbit, Number One -- then set a course for Rachelis -- warp nine. 62 thru OMITTED 63 64 EXT. TEN-FORWARD (OPTICAL) Wesley steps up to the window, still carrying the weight of his decision. Guinan watches him cross the room and stand in front of the large center window. 65 GUINAN AND WESLEY (OPTICAL) She comes up beside him. GUINAN Can I get you something? WESLEY No. I just wanted to stand here. GUINAN I don't blame you -- it's beautiful. WESLEY Yes. GUINAN How about some nice Mareuvian Tea? WESLEY No. Nothing thank you. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 42. 65 CONTINUED: GUINAN You're going to be leaving soon. WESLEY Yes. They both watch as the Enterprise leaves orbit. The planet 'aucdet Nine slips away. As Wesley watches the ship maneuver into position, Guinan watches him. GUINAN What do you see when you look out there? WESLEY Over there is the Lorenze cluster, and there Arneb and there Epsilon Indi. GUINAN No, I don't mean that. I mean when you look there don't you see your future? Wesley gives her a little sideways look. WESLEY It will still be there. GUINAN How about a cup of nectar direct from Prometheus? WESLEY No -- nothing. That's the third time you've asked me. GUINAN It's what I'm expected to do. Don't you always do what's expected? WESLEY I try to. GUINAN Even if it's not what you really want? STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 43. 65 CONTINUED: (2) WESLEY Sometimes. Sometimes you have to consider others more than yourself. GUINAN That's true. But sometimes the game is to know when to consider yourself more than others and to give yourself permission to be... selfish. He looks at her. Then -- before he can answer, the Enterprise leaps to warp speed. The star field becomes a spectacular display. We PLAY THE REACTIONS of Guinan and Wesley. 66 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) moves along at warp speed. 67 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE (OPTICAL) A concerned Hester Dealt is scanning the containment grid with his very sophisticated monitoring equipment. HESTER (real concern) Something's wrong. Geordi approaches Hester Dealt. GEORDI What is it? HESTER Growth. GEORDI Where? HESTER L-seven-three. Geordi steps over to the side of the containment area, and activates a CRT screen. The screen has a display of the 512 modules inside. Each has a series of indicators, ONE ON THE FAR SIDE IS FLASHING. Geordi manipulates the panel so the display turns, giving him a better look at the flashing light. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE 44. 67 CONTINUED: GEORDI (touches his communicator) Bridge, this is Cargo Deck Five. PICARD'S COM VOICE Yes, Lieutenant La Forge. GEORDI There is a malfunction in the containment area. PICARD'S COM VOICE How serious? HESTER Very. FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 45. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 68 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) traveling at warp speed. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, supplemental. For reasons as yet unknown, one of the specimens of Plasma Plague is growing. 69 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE Geordi and Hester Dealt continue checking. With a handheld monitoring device, Hester Dealt makes a sweep of the Cargo Deck. GEORDI (touches his communicator) Captain, the power to the containment grid must have somehow been affected when we increased to warp velocity. INTERCUT THE MAIN BRIDGE AS NEEDED PICARD I don't see how that would be possible. GEORDI I don't either, but if we could return to impulse, we would know for sure. PICARD Impulse velocity. 70 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) as it comes out of warp. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 46. 71 OMITTED 72 INT. MAIN BRIDGE The tension level is growing. PICARD Report, Mister La Forge. 73 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE Geordi waits as Hester Dealt checks his monitoring equipment, then shakes his head. GEORDI There's no change. It wasn't the warp drive. 74 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Picard did not expect any. Riker is on his feet and heading for the turbolift. RIKER Permission to leave the bridge. PICARD Granted. RIKER Commander Data, you're with me. Data leaves his position and follows Riker. PICARD Doctor Pulaski. 75 INT. DOCTOR PULASKI'S OFFICE Pulaski is running through some medical records. PULASKI Yes, Captain. PICARD'S COM VOICE We are having some difficulties on Cargo Deck Five -- your presence is requested. She is thoughtful for a beat. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 47. 75 CONTINUED: PULASKI I'm on my way. 75A INT. TEN-FORWARD (FORMERLY SCENE 71) Wesley and Guinan are at the bar. Wesley is eating a twenty-fourth century Enterprise version of an ice cream sundae. His mood is much lighter, indicating he has come to some decision regarding his future. WESLEY You never talk about yourself. GUINAN Sure I do... all the time. WESLEY People say you are very old... GUINAN Oh? WESLEY ... and that you knew Captain Picard when he was on the Stargazer. GUINAN No. I never met the captain until I came onboard. WESLEY Everyone is very curious about you. GUINAN I'll bet they are. WESLEY About where you come from. GUINAN Where do they say? WESLEY I heard that you're from Nova Kron and that... PICARD'S COM VOICE Mister Crusher, report to the bridge. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 48. 75A CONTINUED: He's on his feet and heading for the door. WESLEY I've got to go. Wesley stops and turns back. WESLEY (continuing) Thank you. GUINAN There's nothing like a dish of Delovian souffle. WESLEY I didn't mean the souffle, I meant for... well... the rest. Thanks. GUINAN That's why I'm here. 76 INT. MAIN BRIDGE The turbolift opens and Wesley Crusher comes onto the bridge. PICARD Take the Conn, Mister Crusher. Wesley replaces the crewmember at that position. PICARD (continuing) On this course -- increase velocity to warp nine. WESLEY Aye, sir. Warp nine. 77 OMITTED 78 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE Hester, Data, Riker are gathered around the monitoring equipment. Geordi is off to one side peering at a distant sector of the containment field. THE INDICATOR LIGHT OF L-SEVEN-THREE CONTINUES TO FLASH. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 49. 78 CONTINUED: RIKER Why that module and not the others? DATA Computer, run diagnostic on module L-seven-three. COMPUTER VOICE All circuits functional. GEORDI (reading it off) Temperature -- as set -- minus ninety-seven degrees. Humidity -- twelve percent. Lumins -- zero. Electromagnetic containment integrity... Everything right down the line... exactly as it should be. DATA Perhaps it is a sensor malfunction. Computer -- query. Is growth actually occurring? COMPUTER VOICE Confirmed. 79 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) as the door opens and Doctor Pulaski enters. She nods a greeting to Riker and the others, then steps over beside Geordi who continues studying the distant section of the containment grid. RIKER One of the specimens is growing. PULASKI (to Hester Dealt) Destroy it, now. HESTER I can't. RIKER Data, prepare to jettison that module. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 50. 79 CONTINUED: HESTER We can't do that either. It will go into a spore and remain until it comes in contact with a planet or another ship. The results would be disastrous. RIKER Commander, your attitude tells me that however bad I think this is... it's worse. HESTER (he indicates the containment area) This is not going to hold it. RIKER Go on. HESTER The rate of growth is increasing. Within thirty minutes it will push out of the module. Within two hours, it will breach the containment area. GEORDI It can't break through this. HESTER Yes it can. RIKER (touches his communicator) Captain. We may not be able to get control of this situation. I recommend making arrangements to transfer all non-essential personnel to the saucer section. If we lose containment we should be prepared to separate. PICARD'S COM VOICE Make it so. PULASKI Why this one specimen and none of the others? Something is stimulating it. Do you have its etiology? How it was developed? STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 51. 79 CONTINUED: (2) Hester inputs the freestanding viewscreen, and the HISTORY OF "L-SEVEN-THREE" APPEARS. Pulaski looks at it. PULASKI It's a mutated strain developed by Doctor Susan Nuress during an outbreak of Plasma Plague seventy years ago in the Oby System. (she pauses as she continues to read) It was number nine in a series of tests. This particular one bombarded by low levels of Eichner radiation. (then she turns to Hester) Could exposure to Eichner radiation stimulate growth? As a reflex act, Hester Dealt makes a sweep of the area with his handheld monitor. HESTER Yes, it could, but... He stops... his expression says... HESTER (continuing) Uh, oh... PULASKI Don't tell me. HESTER I'm detecting low levels of Eichner radiation. RIKER Why didn't you catch it before? HESTER Because it wasn't here before.. PULASKI Well, it is now. What emits that type radiation? DATA A subspace phase inverter. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 52. 79 CONTINUED: (3) GEORDI We don't have one. DATA Certain cyanoacrylates. PULASKI Also, not on this ship... What else? Because it's here and we better find it. Data has no answer. 80 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL) Troi is putting the child to bed. She touches a control panel near the windows which turns them to their opaque configuration. IAN I can feel that some of the people are very... worried. TROI Yes. I feel it as well, but don't you worry. IAN It's me Mommy -- I'm the reason. TROI What? IAN It's me. TROI You? IAN Yes. I have to leave you now, or it will be very bad for everyone. TROI What are you saying? He smiles up at her. IAN I have to leave now. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR 53. 80 CONTINUED: TROI Leave? (senses what he is about to do) You are going to die. No. No, you can't. He smiles up and closes his eyes. TROI (continuing; she touches her communicator) Sickbay, this is Counselor Troi, I need the doctor in my quarters... right now. (then she lifts Ian to her) No... Ian... No. Off Troi's reaction. FADE OUT. END OF ACT FOUR STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 54. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 81 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS as Pulaski leads the others to Troi's quarters. TROI It's Ian. Please... please hurry. Pulaski moves quickly to the unconscious child; pulls back the covers. She removes an instrument from her smock and makes a scan of the child's body. In the b.g., Picard enters with Riker and Data. TROI (continuing) Save him, you must save him. PULASKI What happened? Did he eat anything? Did he fall? TROI No. Data, using his tricorder, confirms with a nod to Riker. DATA The child is the source of the unusual radiation. TROI He said he's the reason the ship is in danger. DATA That analysis is correct. Pulaski injects the child with hypospray. PULASKI I'm losing life signs. Troi stands by helplessly. Like any mother in this situation, she is beyond grief. Tears streak her face. TROI Oh, please. Please save him. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 55. 82 PULASKI resets the injector and again she administers a dose of hypospray. She waits for a reaction. There is none. 83 ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL) The room is very quiet. Pulaski stands. PULASKI I'm sorry. Troi moves next to the cot on which the child is lying. She is beyond despair. Her heart has completely broken. The others allow her a moment alone, then as Riker is about to move to Troi's side, a LIGHT -- the glowing energy which we saw at the beginning -- gathers from within the child and slowly rises. As it does, the body that was Ian fades away until there is only the LIGHT. 84 INTERCUT REACTIONS (OPTICAL) Troi reaches out and with cupped hands she collects the LIGHT, cradles it gently and brings it to her. As she holds it close, it makes her face all aglow. Slowly the pain and despair drain away, and through the tears she smiles. The joy she now feels shines from her eyes. The Betazoid within her, embraces the essence of the entity before her and she knows now why he came and what he wanted. Then, in an act of pure love, she releases the glowing energy as she would a dove. For a beat the LIGHT seems reluctant to leave. Then it does. It passes effortlessly through the wall of the ship and away. Troi stares after it for a beat. GEORDI'S COM VOICE (excited -- relieved) Captain. The containment field has stabilized. PICARD Thank you, Lieutenant. Troi turns and looks at her captain and shipmates. TROI Then Ian was right. He was the cause. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 56. 84 CONTINUED: PICARD Apparently so. Troi pauses, gathering her feelings and picking her words carefully. She settles her emotions. TROI He is a life-force entity... as we passed each other in space he was curious and wanted to know about us, and he thought the best way to learn was to go through the process. To be born, to live as one of us and in that way to understand us. She pauses, then: TROI (continuing) Captain, he never meant any harm. Picard nods -- he knows that is true. RIKER There was a moment when you smiled. TROI (she smiles again) He said thank you. (she pauses) I told him we will miss him -- and I will. The others will also miss him. 85 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) as it enters orbit near Science Station Tango Sierra. 86 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Picard is in his command chair, Riker beside him, Wesley at Conn. PICARD Standard station approach, Mister Crusher. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 57. 86 CONTINUED: WESLEY Standard approach, aye. PICARD Transporter Room Three, this is the captain. We have arrived. Let's make this transfer with all deliberate speed, and get on about our business. DATA'S COM VOICE Yes, sir. RIKER I will be glad to be relieved of this cargo. Picard rises. PICARD You have the bridge, Number One. RIKER Yes sir. As Picard crosses the bridge, Ensign Wesley Crusher buttonholes him. WESLEY Captain. PICARD Yes Ensign? WESLEY Could I see you when you have a moment? PICARD In my Ready Room when your duties permit. WESLEY Thank you, sir. Picard continues on and leaves the bridge. 87 INT. CARGO DECK FIVE (OPTICAL) Geordi and Hester Dealt are standing next to the containment area. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 58. 87 CONTINUED: GEORDI Good luck. The TRANSPORTER BEAM takes over and removes Hester Dealt from the Enterprise. GEORDI (touches his communicator) Data, you can lock on to the first group and begin transporting on my mark. 88 INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM The CHIME RINGS. PICARD Come. The doors open. It's Ensign Crusher. He enters and stands in front of Picard's desk. PICARD Yes, Ensign. WESLEY (hesitant) Captain... I have thought about this a lot. I want to remain on the Enterprise. PICARD Oh. Have you discussed this with your mother? WESLEY No, before I do that, I wanted your permission to stay. PICARD Wes, it's a little more complicated than that. WESLEY Captain, for right now... this is where I want to be. This is where I feel I belong. Picard studies the young man for a beat. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 59. 88 CONTINUED: RIKER'S COM VOICE Captain -- transfer complete. We are ready to leave orbit. PICARD Make it so, Number One. (then to Wesley) Return to your position. Wesley hesitates a beat because he still hasn't received an answer. 89 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Picard -- followed by Wesley -- comes on to the bridge. Troi steps off the turbolift and takes her place. RIKER All stations secure. PICARD Take us out of orbit, Mister Crusher and lay in a course for the Morgana Quadrant. WESLEY Yes, sir. Picard takes his seat. PICARD (loud enough for everyone to hear) Mister Crusher has requested to remain on the Enterprise. RIKER I'm not surprised. How did you respond? PICARD I haven't as yet, Number One. I don't think it's my decision alone. His remaining will cause difficulties for us all. RIKER Yes, indeed. With his mother not around, who will see to his studies? STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 60. 89 CONTINUED: PICARD Exactly. That duty would fall to Commander Data. RIKER And, who'll tuck him in at night? WESLEY Come on, Commander. WORF I will accept that responsibility. TROI Well, we know he'll get his sleep. PICARD Then, Number One, that leaves you the task of guiding young Mister Crusher through his most hazardous journey -- from youth to man. Are you willing to serve? RIKER Difficult question... Wesley turns and looks at Riker with a plea in his eyes. INTERCUT look between them. RIKER (continuing) ... Yes, I think I can do that. PICARD All right then. Mister Crusher, communicate with your mother at Starfleet Medical headquarters. Give her my regards and tell her you have my permission to remain on board the Enterprise. There is a big smile on Wesley's face. PICARD (continuing) But, that I will abide by her wishes. WESLEY Yes, sir... thank you sir... I just know she'll agree. STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE 61. 89 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Now -- if you have course and speed laid in. WESLEY (back to duty) Yes sir, they are. PICARD Then, Mister Crusher -- engage. 90 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) moves off to its next assignment. FADE OUT. END OF ACT FIVE THE END