STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Samaritan Snare" #40272-143 Written by Robert L. McCullough Directed by Les Landau 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 1989 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 This script is not for publication or reproduction.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 REVISED FINAL DRAFT MARCH 8, 1989 STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/7/89 - CAST STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Samaritan Snare" CAST PICARD GREBNEDLOG RIKER REGINOD DATA PULASKI SURGEON TROI BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST GEORDI WORF WESLEY Non-Speaking SONYA SEVERAL PAKLEDS TRANSPORTER CHIEF (V.O.) NURSES MEDICAL TEAM Non-Speaking ANESTHESIOLOGIST N.D. CREWMEMBERS ORDERLIES STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/7/89 - SETS STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Samaritan Snare" SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE SICKBAY/PULASKI'S OFFICE SHUTTLE TWO SHUTTLE BAY TWO CORRIDOR MONDOR TRANSPORTER ROOM OBSERVATION LOUNGE STARBASE 515 MAIN ENGINEERING MEDICAL COMPLEX MONDOR BRIDGE WEAPONS BAY SHUTTLE TWO STARBASE SCYLLA 515 SURGICAL SUITE STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare - 3/7/89 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Samaritan Snare" PRONUNCIATION GUIDE RHOMBOID DRONEGAR SECTOR Romboyd DRAWN-i-gar PAKLED PACK-led GREBNEDLOG Greb-NED-log REGINOD REGG-in-odd BONESTELL BONE-stel NAUSICAAN NAW-sik-can THORACIC POLYCHROMATICS thu-RAS-ik poly-kro-MAT-iks HETEROCYCLIC DECLINATION het-ah-row-SYK-lik dek-lah-NAY-shun MYOCARDIAL ENZYME my-ah-CARD-ee-el EN-zime STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Samaritan Snare" TEASER FADE IN: 1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) Cruises at warp speed as we hear: PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, Stardate 42723.8. The Enterprise is en route to the Epsilon Nine Sector for astronomical survey of a new pulsar cluster. In the meantime, Ensign Crusher will be diverting to Starbase five one five for progressive Starfleet exams... 2 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - THE TURBOLIFT DOORS open and WESLEY enters the bridge, where RIKER, DATA, and WORF are at their usual stations, supernumeraries filling in as needed. Wesley steps up to Riker, who hands him a Starfleet communications rectangle. RIKER This just came in from Starfleet-- WESLEY (taking the disk) The testing parameters? Data steps up to them: DATA Do not be apprehensive. I found the Academy examinations quite elementary. WESLEY You would. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 2. 2 CONTINUED: RIKER Your earlier test results were good enough to get you Academy credit for your work here. I don't think you have anything to worry about. WESLEY But those Academy cadets are pretty competitive, you know. RIKER They don't have your practical experience, Wes. DATA Commander Riker is correct. While the information imparted to cadets at the Academy is unquestionably vital for prospective Starfleet officers, it nevertheless requires a significant period of supplementary systems training and situational disciplines. RIKER Data... isn't that what I just said? DATA Yes, Commander. But not quite as perspicuously. Riker and Wesley react to that as we GO TO: 3 INT. SICKBAY/PULASKI'S OFFICE - PICARD paces in front of PULASKI, obviously being evasive: PICARD I won't have you telling me what course to set! PULASKI As chief medical officer, I am ordering you to report to Starbase five one five immediately! PICARD Oh, please. I feel fine. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 3. 3 CONTINUED: PULASKI The truth is, you've neglected this far too long. PICARD This ship has a mission to carry out. PULASKI An astronomical survey to be conducted by the science officers, I believe. PICARD I've been looking forward to seeing the Epsilon Pulsar Cluster for myself. PULASKI Then we'll perform the procedure right here. PICARD Absolutely not. PULASKI My staff and I are perfectly capable of giving you the replacement. PICARD That's not the point. Not only am I in splendid health, but it would be inappropriate for you to perform the procedure. PULASKI Why Captain Picard, I had no idea. You do have an ego, don't you? PICARD Clarify. PULASKI You're concerned about your image. PICARD I never said that. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 4. 3 CONTINUED: (2) PULASKI Don't worry. Get yourself down to Starbase five one five and your image will be safe with me. He reacts to that, exiting as we GO TO: 4 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - THE TURBOLIFT DOORS open and Picard steps out, nearly bumping into Wesley who was about to enter the turbolift: WESLEY Captain... excuse me. PICARD I understand you're heading for Starbase five one five. WESLEY Yes, sir. I was just on my way to Shuttle Bay Two. PICARD Good. I have some business of my own there. I shall accompany. you. Wesley reacts, eyes widening, his voice cracking: WESLEY You will? (then, composing himself) I mean, yessir! PICARD Prepare the shuttle for immediate departure. WESLEY Aye, sir. Wesley exits via the turbolift; Riker reacts to all of this, steps up to Picard. RIKER Is there something I can take care of for you at Starbase five one five? STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 5. 4 CONTINUED: PICARD I'm afraid not, Number One. RIKER But you'll miss the Epsilon Pulsar survey. PICARD I'm very well aware of that. You have the bridge. Carry on. With that, Picard turns and exits into the Ready Room. Riker considers all of this, shares a concerned glance with the other bridge officers and then follows Picard into the Ready Room as we GO TO: 4A INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM - PICARD turns to face Riker, as the door slides shut behind them: PICARD What is it, Number One? RIKER Is something wrong? This trip to Starbase five one five seems rather unexpected. Picard smiles awkwardly, goes about the business of picking up some reading material for his journey: PICARD Not to worry. Ensign Crusher and I will rendezvous with you on your return from the Epsilon Pulsar Cluster. RIKER Forgive my saying so, sir, but you're being rather enigmatic. PICARD Consider it captain's privilege. RIKER As first officer, I have complete security clearance-- STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 6. 4A CONTINUED: PICARD This has nothing to do with ship's business. (then, with a sigh) Suffice it to say that this is strictly a matter of ...vanity. Picard heads for the door with his books and exits as we GO TO: 5 INT. CORRIDOR - GEORDI is on his way to Engineering with SONYA, walking with Wesley, who is obviously worried about something: GEORDI Starbase five one five's not exactly around the corner, Wes. You have quite a trip ahead of you. WESLEY Yeah. I know. GEORDI Relax. You'll do fine on your exams. WESLEY It's not the exams I'm worried about. It's Captain Picard. SONYA Why? He's not taking the exams. WESLEY He's coming with me to starbase. Just the two of us. Nearly a six-hour transit. What am I going to talk to him about for six hours? SONYA Archaeology...semantics... literature... art... you can learn a lot from Captain Picard. Just then, Picard approaches: STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 7. 5 CONTINUED: GEORDI Nice day for a little trip, Captain? PICARD Hardly. Picard and Wesley head off down another corridor as Geordi and Sonya react to Picard's mood as we GO TO: 5A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) comes out of warp, decelerating to impulse speed while 6 OMITTED 7 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - DATA is in his "Ops" chair as he hears: PICARD (V.O.) Shuttle Number Two ready for departure. DATA We are at impulse speed and you are cleared for departure. 8 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) the shuttle exits the Shuttle Bay. 9 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL) - RIKER enters from the Ready Room, looking up at the viewscreen now to see the shuttle streaking away. He crosses to Data: RIKER Data... wasn't the captain looking forward to this mission to the Epsilon Pulsar Cluster? DATA So he had said. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - TEASER 8. 9 CONTINUED: RIKER Then what would make him change his mind? Why would he leave the ship now? Data reacts to that, exchanging a concerned glance with Riker. Suddenly, Worf pipes up with: WORF Receiving a Mayday on all frequencies, sir! RIKER Source? WORF Rhomboid Dronegar Sector zero-zero-six-- RIKER Detail. WORF Ship...unidentified...distress. Nothing more. RIKER Set course for Rhomboid Dronegar zero-zero-six at warp seven. Data looks to Riker, quietly concerned: DATA Sir... Rhomboid Dronegar sector will put us at considerable distance from Captain Picard. RIKER I know, Data. I know. FADE OUT. END OF TEASER STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 9. ACT ONE FADE IN: 9A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) flashes past at warp seven while 10 INT. THE BRIDGE - RIKER is in his chair while Data and Worf man their stations as: DATA Entering Rhomboid Dronegar Sector zero-zero-six. WORF I have a ship on target path. RIKER Slow to impulse speed. 10A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) decelerates 10B INT. THE BRIDGE - RIKER rises now: RIKER Viewer. Data taps his console appropriately and 11 THE MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL) comes alive with the image of an unusual alien ship. Hardly aerodynamic, this craft appears to be something of a throwback when contrasted to the Enterprise. It's dead in the water. Riker approaches the screen, curious while Worf remains cautious: STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 10. 11 CONTINUED: WORF Deploy shields, sir? RIKER Hold fast. (then) Data? DATA (re: the ship) Basic early design capable of sub-light travel only. WORF Commander, we are being hailed. RIKER On screen. The VIEWSCREEN image glitches for a split-second and then comes alive with the interior of the Pakled ship. It looks like an analog throwback to the late twenty-first century. A number of slothful, droopy-eyed humanoids appear to be working with great confusion on some engineering control panels in the b.g., as their commander, GREBNEDLOG, steps into foreground. RIKER I am First Officer William Riker. This is the USS Enterprise, responding to your distress signal-- Grebnedlog arches his massive brow, his eyes opening just a bit wider as he responds with typically wistful Pakled hypoplastic speech, almost a sense of hopeful longing in their every word: GREBNEDLOG Uh-hunh. Riker exchanges a curious glance with Data, then back to screen: RIKER What is your problem? GREBNEDLOG We are far from home. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 11. 11 CONTINUED: (2) RIKER So are we, but you sent out a Mayday-- GREBNEDLOG Uh-hunh RIKER Do you need help? GREBNEDLOG We are Pakleds. Our ship is the Mondor. (re the work in the b.g.) It is broken. Riker sighs impatiently, turns to Data: DATA Sensors indicate engineering problems. RIKER Lieutentant La Forge to bridge... DATA They have experienced total guidance system failure and they have less than twenty-four hours' reserve power. RIKER (to viewscreen) What brings you so far from home? GREBNEDLOG (wistfully) We look for things. RIKER What were you looking for? GREBNEDLOG Things we need. RIKER Can you be more specific? GREBNEDLOG Uh-hunh. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 12. 11 CONTINUED: (3) RIKER Then please do so. GREBNEDLOG Things that make us go. We need help. In the b.g., the turbolift doors open and Geordi steps onto the bridge, spots the viewscreen. He looks at the Pakleds, grins wryly: GEORDI Let me guess: their rubber band broke, right? RIKER (to viewscreen) What is the nature of your mission? GREBNEDLOG (nodding slowly) We look for things. RIKER (aside; to Data) Do you hear an echo? (then, back to viewscreen) Understood. Our chief engineer will beam aboard to help you-- (to Worf) Out. Geordi reacts to that as all eyes turn toward him: GEORDI Wait a minute... me? And as Riker pats him reassuringly on the back, Worf turns from his station, concern etched all over his Klingon countenance: WORF (re: the viewscreen) Do we truly need to send our chief engineer over to them? RIKER They obviously need our help. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 13. 11 CONTINUED: (4) WORF Why do we not simply give them the information they need to make their repairs? RIKER Do you honestly think they could handle our technical specifications? WORF We don't know that much about them. I urge caution. RIKER Acknowledged, Worf... but we have an obligation to render aid. (turns to Geordi). Report to the Transporter Room with all necessary gear. GEORDI Aye, sir. With that, Geordi exits. Worf remains concerned, leans in to Riker with: WORF We need more information. Riker turns to Data: RIKER Do you have anything else on them? DATA They are a relatively benign species. RIKER Don't they seem a little... slow? DATA They may merely have poorly-developed language skills. Worf leans in with: WORF What about weapons? STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 14. 11 CONTINUED: (5) DATA Our scan shows very limited armaments. RIKER I think we can relax, Worf. They can't even get their ship moving without our help, and we certainly have them outmanned and outgunned. Worf can't argue with that as we GO TO: 12 EXT. SPACE - PICARD'S SHUTTLE (OPTICAL) hurtling past us at impulse speed while: 13 INT. THE SHUTTLE - WESLEY handles the controls with confidence and aplomb. Picard checks the instruments with a scowl: PICARD E.t.a. thirteen-thirty hours. WESLEY Not exactly warp speed, sir. PICARD More like a late twenty-second century interplanetary journey. WESLEY Sir? PICARD You should read more history, Ensign. WESLEY Yes sir. PICARD (mumbling to himself) Complete waste of time... WESLEY Pardon, sir? STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 15. 13 CONTINUED: PICARD I shouldn't be taking this trip at all. I belong back on the Enterprise. WESLEY Why are you going with me to Starbase five one five, Captain? PICARD (snappish) It's certainly not my idea! Wesley reacts, afraid to probe further. Picard glances over at: PICARD (continuing) I'm sorry. I don't mean to take it out on you. (then) I just hate going through another damned cardiac replacement. WESLEY Cardiac replacement? I didn't know... PICARD Now you do. WESLEY A parthenogenetic implant? PICARD What else would it be? (then, a bit softer) My own heart was injured and a replacement was necessary. That would have been it except that the replacement is flawed and must now be put right. WESLEY Why would anyone use a flawed replacement? Picard ices over at that, glaring out at the stars ahead now: PICARD Just pilot the shuttle, Ensign. And on Picard's obdurate countenance, we GO TO: STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 16. 14 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) as it maintains its position near the Mondor while 15 INT. THE BRIDGE - RIKER turns his attention to the viewscreen where the Pakleds continue with their inefectual attempts at repair. RIKER All right. Let's get these repairs made so we can all be on our way. (then) First officer to La Forge... 16 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL) - GEORDI is on the transporter platform, "tool kit" in hand: GEORDI Aye, Commander. Ready for transport. RIKER (V.O.) Proceed. GEORDI Energize... And as Geordi DEMATERIALIZES, we GO TO: 17 INT. THE PAKLED SHIP "MONDOR" (OPTICAL) - GEORDI MATERIALIZES, startling the Pakleds who react with their own brand of anxiety: GEORDI Hey, hey, it's okay. I'm here to help. Take it easy. Grebnedlog approaches tentatively with what appears to be profound, heartfelt sincerity: GREBNEDLOG We are far from home. Geordi reacts to that non-sequitur, eager to get down to business: STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 17. 17 CONTINUED: GEORDI What seems to be the problem? GREBNEDLOG Our ship is the Mondor. GEORDI Right. I got that already. (then, looking around) Who's in charge of engineering? GREBNEDLOG My friend. His name is Reginod. GEORDI (looking around) Think I could meet him? Another Pakled steps up. Grebnedlog makes the "introduction": GREBNEDLOG We have an engineer. GEORDI Great... GREBNEDLOG He is Reginod. GEORDI Yes, I think you mentioned that. REGINOD We look for things. GEORDI So I've heard. REGINOD (re the ship) It is broken. GEORDI Well... maybe I can fix it. GREBNEDLOG Can you make our ship go? GEORDI I think so. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 18. 17 CONTINUED: (2) GREBNEDLOG (to Geordi) We look for things to make us go. Geordi reacts, feeling like somebody's "got their needle stuck". He smiles patiently: GEORDI Fellas... why don't you show me where your guidance system is? Geordi starts wandering toward the back of the ship. Reginod turns to Grebnedlog, smiling: REGINOD He is smart. Grebnedlog returns the salivary smile as we GO TO: 18 INT. ENTERPRISE'S MAIN BRIDGE-TURBOLIFT DOORS (OPTICAL) open and Troi enters the scene, immediately riveted by what she sees up on the viewscreen. She steps over to Riker and Data, who regard the scene with Geordi with bemusement: TROI Commander... Lieutenant La Forge is on an alien ship? RIKER Yes. We're rendering assistance to some curious throwbacks. DATA How they ever mastered the rudiments of space travel is a genuine curiosity. TROI Commander... Those aliens... what they feel is not helplessness ... Lieutenant La Forge is in great danger! Riker and Data react to that new input as STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT ONE 19. 18A GEORDI goes about his work, unaware of any hazard as we FADE OUT. END ACT ONE STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 20. ACT TWO FADE IN: 19 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) remains in position, in some proximity to the Mondor. 20 INT. THE MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) - TROI remains transfixed, Riker, Data and Worf reacting as she stands there, staring at the viewscreen: TROI Danger... great danger... RIKER Can you be more specific, Counselor? TROI They are insincere... It is not our help they want. RIKER Help is all they're going to get. They certainly can't force anything upon us, can they? TROI You feel they are weak. RIKER (re: the viewscreen) Look at them. Not exactly Jarada or Romulans. Data looks over at Riker, shares her concerns now: DATA Our Betazoid counselor is often aware of things beyond our perceptive abilities. Riker reacts to this, exchanges a glance of concern with Worf as we GO TO: STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 21. 21 EXT. SPACE - PICARD'S SHUTTLE (OPTICAL) continues on its journey while 22 INT. THE SHUTTLE - PICARD appears to be reading, ignoring Wesley. Then, putting his reading down for a moment: PICARD Van Doren's technique has been perfected to two point four percent. WESLEY Sir? PICARD The cardiac replacement procedure. It has a very low mortality rate. Two point four percent. WESLEY Those are pretty good odds. He considers that for a beat, then admits: PICARD The fact is, I'm not interested in having my innards become the subject of Starfleet gossip. WESLEY Of course, sir. But why didn't you have Doctor Pulaski perform the operation? You could've trusted her to keep it quiet. PICARD Let's just say I have personal reasons and leave it at that, shall we? Picard returns to his "reading". Wesley reacts, his curiosity stifled now as we GO TO: 23 INT. THE MONDOR - GEORDI is hard at work on the Pakled guidance system, really enjoying himself. Several Pakleds including Grebnedlog and Reginod hover nearby, observing him as he explains: STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 22. 23 CONTINUED: GEORDI The power needs to be rerouted through this venturi chamber before it can be channeled through the engine coils. REGINOD It is broken. GEORDI But not for long. See? We're going to reconfigure these separators here... Reginod looks to Grebnedlog, who nods in agreement: GREBNEDLOG It is broken. REGINOD (to Geordi) You are brilliant. Geordi reacts, flattered, but realistic: GEORDI Actually, any first year engineering intern could do the same thing-- Just then, Geordi reacts to his communicator as he hears: RIKER (V.O.) Lieutenant La Forge, this is Commander Riker... Geordi taps his communicator and responds: GEORDI Yes, Commander. Go ahead. 24 INT. THE ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Riker and Troi stand before the viewscreen, observing Geordi aboard the Mondor: RIKER Are you all right? STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 23. 24 CONTINUED: GEORDI Sure. Why do you ask? RIKER Counselor Troi has expressed misgivings about your absence from The Enterprise. In the b.g., Grebnedlog and Reginod exchange an uncharacteristically alert glance by way of response to that while: GEORDI I don't think there's much to worry about. RIKER Understood. But as soon as the repairs are completed, I want you back here. GEORDI Aye, sir, I should be done momentarily. Riker looks to Troi who remains unshaken in her convictions while: 25 INT. THE MONDOR - GEORDI twists the last framiss on the final spigot, looks up with a smile: GEORDI There. Guidance is up and running. Suddenly, the lights flicker, dim, and go dark. A GROAN is heard as reserve power kicks in, lights come up one-half and Geordi smiles: GEORDI Main power failure? GREBNEDLOG Will our ship go now? GEORDI The guidance system's repaired, but you're not going anywhere without main power. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 24. 25 CONTINUED: GREBNEDLOG (to Reginod) It is broken. REGINOD (to Geordi) Can you make it go? Geordi looks at the Pakleds, sighs heavily, then taps his communicator: GEORDI Commander Riker, it looks like this might take a little longer than I anticipated... And as Geordi returns to this new problem... 25A INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - RIKER AND TROI react to that with mutually mounting concern as we go to... 26 EXT. SPACE - PICARD'S SHUTTLE (OPTICAL) continues its impulse-speed journey while 27 INT. THE SHUTTLE - PICARD finally puts his reading down. Rubs his eyes. It's a long trip. He seems lost in his thoughts, somewhat unfocused as he studies the passing starfields. At his side, Wesley checks his instruments carefully, takes a deep breath as all seems well. Then, building his courage for a beat, he turns to Picard: WESLEY You don't really care much for people, do you? PICARD What? WESLEY It's okay. You can just do without most people. I can understand that -- STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 25. 27 CONTINUED: PICARD Ensign...Wesley. That's not true. I have great regard for you, for example. You're a fine young man. WESLEY You don't have to say that. PICARD I do not say what I do not mean. WESLEY Well, it's pretty obvious how you feel. PICARD Is it? How so? WESLEY Well, everyone knows. You don't like kids. PICARD I simply have... other priorities. WESLEY That's too bad. (then) You might've made a pretty good father. PICARD Thank you. WESLEY Didn't you ever wish you had kids of your own? A moment of silence as Picard considers that. Then: PICARD Wishing for a thing does not make it so. Wesley ponders that reality as we GO TO: 28 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) remains positioned near the Pakled ship Mondor while STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 26. 29 INT. THE MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Worf, Data, Troi and Riker are all in position. Riker is beginning to lose his patience as he turns to Data: RIKER We send him over there for one set of repairs and now they need him for more. DATA Their ship is apparently quite fragile. Riker steps forward to the viewscreen where he can see the Pakleds working on their ship, Geordi in the distant b.g., hard at work in a console panel: RIKER This is Riker on board the Enterprise. The Pakleds ignore Riker's summons, continue milling around looking for the solution to their myriad problems: RIKER (continuing) I repeat. This is Commander Riker of the Enterprise. Geordi looks up from his work briefly, calling to Riker from the b.g.: GEORDI Almost got it, Commander-- He returns to his work as Grebnedlog turns to face the viewscreen now, his eyes almost completely disinterested: GREBNEDLOG We look for things. RIKER Apparently your ship is in need of more than minor repairs. GREBNEDLOG Things to make it go. RIKER We will use our tractor beam to tow you to your nearest base. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 27. 29 CONTINUED: GREBNEDLOG (re: Geordi) He can make it go. RIKER Yes, but we need our chief engineer back on board our ship-- Just then, all power is restored to the Pakled ship, and as lights come full-up, Geordi pulls himself out of the console panel in the b.g. to hear: GREBNEDLOG He is smart. Geordi steps up beside Grebnedlog. GEORDI All done, Commander. RIKER Prepare to beam over. 29A INT. MONDOR BRIDGE (OPTICAL) GEORDI Yes, sir. Reginod steps up behind Geordi with: REGINOD You are good. GEORDI Thanks. We aim to please. REGINOD We need you. GEORDI I'm flattered. Now I hate to repair and run, but if you'll excuse me... And Geordi steps away from the others, announcing to Riker: GEORDI One to beam aboard-- STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 28. 29A CONTINUED: Suddenly, Grebnedlog reaches over and with surprising sleight-of-hand, deftly snatches Geordi's small phaser away from him. GEORDI Hey! And as Geordi reaches to take the phaser back, Grebnedlog fires with the stun setting, knocking Geordi back, slamming him into a bulkhead, knocking his VISOR off: 29B RIKER (OPTICAL) reacts immediately, calling out: RIKER Transporter room, beam La Forge over immediately. TRANSPORTER CHIEF (V.O.) Aye... negative response, sir! RIKER Try again! TRANSPORTER CHIEF (V.O.) Negative response! DATA The Pakled ship has a shield up, sir! RIKER A shield? What kind? DATA It appears to be beyond their technology... similar to Romulan shields! Riker clenches his jaw, commands the Pakleds now: RIKER Do not interfere with our transporter beam. Repeat. Drop your shield-- Suddenly, the viewscreen glitches and goes to exterior view of the Mondor. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT TWO 29. 29B CONTINUED: RIKER Status! WORF Viewer transmission terminated and blocked. Riker shares a look of mounting concern with his crew as we, FADE OUT: END ACT TWO STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 30. ACT THREE FADE IN: 30 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) remains in view of the Pakled's Mondor. 31 INT. THE MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER, DATA, WORF, TROI are all in position as Riker commands his crew: RIKER Hail on all frequencies. DATA Running frequency search... negative response. RIKER They're ignoring us! DATA Apparently so, sir. WORF Phasers ready, sir. RIKER Shields up. Worf responds, activating his security station console, reporting: WORF Shields up. RIKER Sensors at maximum sensitivity. Data responds with precision, then reports: DATA Sensors at maximum. WORF Phasers ready, sir. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 31. 31 CONTINUED: RIKER Hold fire. Lieutenant La Forge is on that ship. And as Riker and his crew contemplate that grim reality, we GO TO: 32 EXT. SPACE - PICARD'S SHUTTLE (OPTICAL) continues cruising at impulse speed while 33 INT. PICARD'S SHUTTLE - WESLEY carefully probes, eager to learn more about Picard: WESLEY Were you ever married? PICARD My career always came first. I never had time. WESLEY Don't you ever get lonely? PICARD There have been certain costs involved. WESLEY Well, I'll bet you've broken your fair share of hearts along the way... PICARD A man needs to be careful about that sort of thing. WESLEY Don't worry about me. Where women are concerned, I'm in complete control. PICARD Really? I've always had to work at it. WESLEY Have you always known what you've wanted... been so disciplined? STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 32. 33 CONTINUED: PICARD No. (re his chest) That's why I'm going in to get this thing replaced. WESLEY I don't understand. PICARD Well... I was a young Starfleet officer. Just a few years older than you are now. Green as hell. Top of my Academy Class, and oh, so proud. Too proud, as it turned out. WESLEY What happened? PICARD Several of us were on leave at Far Space Starbase Earhart... something of a galactic outpost in those days-- WESLEY Before the Klingons joined the Federation? PICARD That's right. My mates and I were at the Bonestell Recreation Facility, which was nothing more than a crossroads at the time. A trio of Nausicaans came in. They were spoiling for a confrontation with some fresh-faced young Starfleet officers like ourselves. Everyone in our group had the good sense to back away and give these Nausicaans wide berth. Everyone but me, that is. I stood toe-to-toe with the nastiest of the three and let him know what I thought of him, his partners, and his planet. I probably even made some passing reference to his questionable parentage. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 33. 33 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD (Cont'd) The next thing I knew, I had all three of them on me and I was fighting for my life. Acquitted myself quite well for several furious exchanges, I'm proud to say. WESLEY You fought them? And won? PICARD I had this one Nausicaan down on the floor in a particularly devious joint-lock when before I knew what was happening, one of his cohorts drew his weapon and impaled me through the back. Strange sensation, actually. Not much pain. Shock, certainly, at the sight of serrated metal coming out of one's chest, and then a certain giddy warmth. As I recall, I actually laughed aloud. It pierced my heart, of course, and if we hadn't been so near a medical facility I would surely have died. WESLEY Really? Really? Then what? PICARD Then nothing. I was no hero. I was an undisciplined, opinionated, loud-mouthed young man who was far out of his league. It was a great and painful lesson, but I learned it well. I only hope you won't need to learn it as I did... Wesley reacts with a gulp, realizing that he does indeed have a lot to learn as we GO TO: 34 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND THE MONDOR (OPTICAL) are as before while STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 34. 35 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER paces, doing his best to keep his temper in check as he looks to Data: RIKER Data, come on... DATA I am programming the comm system to scan the interference patterns, but a full analysis will take time. Data reacts, his hands dexterously flying over his console like nothing we've ever seen him do before as we GO TO: 36 INT. THE MONDOR - GEORDI (OPTICAL) is hit by yet another phaser stun, slams back into a bulkhead and then struggles to his feet, shaking off his phaser's stun effects: GEORDI Please... no more. GREBNEDLOG This is fun. Geordi reaches out, groping for his VISOR: GEORDI My VISOR... Reginod picks it up, studies it: REGINOD This does something. Geordi reacts, realizes the Pakled has the VISOR now: GEORDI Yes. It allows me to see. Reginod and Grebnedlog react curiously. They wave their digits in front of Geordi's face. He doesn't react, reaching out for the VISOR as they keep it away from him: GEORDI Where is it? Give it to me-- STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 35. 36 CONTINUED: GREBNEDLOG Can you make us go now? Geordi lunges for him, stumbling. Reginod realizes: REGINOD He cannot make us go. GREBNEDLOG He is not smart. (re: the VISOR) This is smart. He hands the VISOR back to Geordi, and he clicks it back into place, reacting now at the sight of his phaser in Grebnedlog's mitt: GEORDI (re: the phaser) Be careful with that thing. GREBNEDLOG You want to hurt us. GEORDI What? I came here to help you. (re: the ship) I fixed your guidance system and the main power generator, didn't I? REGINOD (re: the phaser) We can make more. Geordi reacts, realizing: GEORDI You have a replicator? GREBNEDLOG (with pride) It is not broken. GEORDI I didn't come here to give you weapons. GREBNEDLOG (re: the phaser, points it at Geordi) You will make more. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 36. 36 CONTINUED: (2) Geordi reacts to that threat, considering his options now as we GO TO: 37 INT. THE ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE - WORF crosses to Riker with: WORF Commander, a photon torpedo may penetrate their shield. RIKER Any hostile move on our part would only jeopardize Geordi. WORF But what do the Pakleds want? Riker glances over at Troi, hoping she has an answer: RIKER Counselor? TROI They have what they want... for now. Riker reacts to that as we GO TO: 38 INT. PICARD'S SHUTTLE - PICARD (OPTICAL) thumbs through one of the books he's brought along. Then, turning to Wesley: PICARD Did you read that book I gave you? Wesley reacts, barely concealing a grimace as he recalls: WESLEY Some of it. PICARD That's reassuring. WESLEY I just don't have much time. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 37. 38 CONTINUED: PICARD (re the book in his hand) There is no greater challenge than the study of philosophy. Wesley glances over at Picard's book: WESLEY William James sure won't be on my Starfleet exams. PICARD The important things never will be. Anyone can be trained to deal with technology, and the mechanics of piloting a starship. WESLEY But Starfleet Academy-- PICARD It takes more than just that. Open your mind to the past... to history, art, philosophy. And then... (re: the stars) ... this will mean something. Wesley considers this, almost embarrassed as he realizes Picard does truly care about him. Then: PICARD (continuing) Just consider James' wisdom: "Philosophy... is not a technical matter... it is our sense of what life honestly means... our individual way of feeling the total push and pressure of the cosmos." (then) That's what I want for you. Wesley reacts to that and as they move closer to starbase, we GO TO: 39 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) hasn't moved, still in sight of the Mondor while STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 38. 40 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - TROI steps up to Riker as she reports her feelings: TROI It is all deception. Lies. RIKER Everything? What about the distress call? TROI Nothing the Pakleds have said or done has been sincere. Data looks up from his console: DATA Intensified scan shows their guidance system is perfectly intact, as is their power generator. RIKER Then what was Geordi repairing? DATA Apparently, the putative malfunctions were carefully programmed into their ship's computer. RIKER I didn't think the Pakleds had that kind of technology. DATA They seem to have made some technological leaps forward, Commander. RIKER But why would they go through the charade of needing our help? TROI For the sole purpose of making Lieutenant La Forge their prisoner. RIKER Options? STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 39. 40 CONTINUED: WORF Tactically speaking, we have three choices: we can negotiate, attack, or simply abandon Lieutenant La Forge. Riker reacts to these uncomfortable options as we GO TO: 41 EXT./INT. STARBASE 515 MEDICAL COMPLEX Picard and Wesley approach the entrance to this high-tech Starfleet facility: PICARD You don't want to be late for your exams, Ensign. WESLEY I've still got some time, sir. PICARD Why do I get the feeling you're acting like some kind of escort? WESLEY Doctor Pulaski asked me to make sure you actually went inside. PICARD That woman. She would. WESLEY Sir? PICARD What is it? WESLEY I enjoyed our trip together. Picard's momentarily taken aback; the young man actually cares about him. PICARD So did I. After a brief, moment of mutual feeling, Picard turns and heads into the medical facility as we GO TO: STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 40. 41A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) hovers squarely in front of the Mondor. 42 INT. THE ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Riker and the others react as Data monitors his panel: DATA They are initiating visual contact-- RIKER Maybe we'll find out what the hell they really want. The viewscreen comes alive with the image of Grebnedlog holding Geordi's phaser in his mitt. Reginod and the other Pakleds all hold replicated versions of the original now. Geordi is in the background, slowly struggling to his feet once again, propped up by Reginod as other Pakleds play recklessly with their phasers. One of them takes a shot at his comrade, missing him, like children playing with dangerous toys. Grebnedlog turns to face the viewscreen: GREBNEDLOG Enterprise. RIKER We demand the immediate return of our crewmember. GREBNEDLOG Request denied. RIKER Lower your shield! GREBNEDLOG Request denied. With that, he turns back toward Geordi, gives him a quick stun blast from the phaser, and as Geordi is slammed back into the bulkhead again, he collapses in a heap. 42A RIKER (OPTICAL) reacts, truly beside himself with anger now: STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT THREE 41. 42A CONTINUED: RIKER Stop it! What do you want? GREBNEDLOG (re: the phaser) Your ship has bigger ones. RIKER For defense against attack. GREBNEDLOG Your ship is strong. Smart. RIKER Our strength contributes to peace in this region of the galaxy. We mean no one harm. GREBNEDLOG You think we are not smart. RIKER I think you need to continue to develop -- GREBNEDLOG We are smart. RIKER Prove it. Return our man to us. GREBNEDLOG (re: Geordi) You want him? RIKER Yes, dammit! GREBNEDLOG Good. We want all computer information from your ship. (aims the phaser at Geordi again) Now. Riker and the others react to this frightening demand as we FADE OUT: END OF ACT THREE STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 42. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 43 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) maintains its position within sight of the Mondor while 44 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE Riker, Data, Worf, Troi and Pulaski are gathered around the table. All are grim, tense: RIKER We've got a man held hostage by alien forces and all I have are non-option options! I'd like some input... PULASKI Is Geordi all right? WORF (bristling) They've already hit him with multiple phaser stuns. PULASKI (to Riker) He could need medical attention. WORF Security team stands ready to take the initiative, sir. RIKER Data? DATA Our options have not changed. We can either respond to the Pakled demand or not. We can either use force or not. RIKER I've already answered their demand. Allowing access to the Enterprise computers by alien forces would be a complete breech of Starfleet security. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 43. 44 CONTINUED: WORF Then force it must be. Riker reacts, considering that more seriously than ever before now as we GO TO: 45 INT. STARBASE 515 SURGICAL SUITE - (OPTICAL) Picard lies on an operating table, surrounded by twenty-fourth century surgical equipment as NURSES prepare him for his procedure. Off to one side, a MEDICAL TEAM preps the replacement heart. The SURGEON steps up to PICARD, reassures him: SURGEON Ready? PICARD Get on with it, Doctor. I've got work to do. The surgeon nods to the ANESTHESIOLOGIST: SURGEON Activate Sterile Field. Neural calipers. The anesthesiologist places a silver wire caliper to Picard's head. The caliper receives a signal from a small console, which the anesthesiologist now attends to. A beat later, Picard calmly closes his eyes in perfect repose. The surgeon looks to his team: SURGEON This will be a secondary cardiac procedure with mid-line entry and excision of the early model unit. I anticipate no complications as the patient has had positive primary results and exhibits extraordinary physical condition. (then) We'll all be home in time for dinner. (holds his hand out, palm up) Tissue mitigator. A nurse responds by slapping a small, glowing glass rod in his hand as we GO TO: STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 44. 46 INT. THE ENTERPRISE OBSERVATION LOUNGE - RIKER and his crew are still between the proverbial rock and a hard place as Data informs them: DATA There is very little information available on Pakled culture, but the eclectic range of their equipment would suggest that everything they have has been stolen from others. TROI And now they have become militant. DATA So it would seem. RIKER Rationale? TROI They are unwilling to wait for the timely evolution of their species' intellectual capacity. They seek instant knowledge, instant power and gratification. PULASKI You make them sound like petulant children. TROI Yes. Infantile humans are known for responses of a similar nature. RIKER Then suppose we treat them like children. DATA Sir? RIKER It's time we set some limits. DATA To what effect, sir? We are faced with an impossible conundrum. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 45. 46 CONTINUED: RIKER Not if we let Geordi give them something they want... and then create the right moment for him to take it away. TROI Would you be suggesting a ruse of some sort? RIKER I would. PULASKI And what if it fails? What'll happen to Geordi then? RIKER We don't have any choice. We have to try. 47 INT. STARBASE 515 SURGICAL SUITE - PICARD lies in repose, the surgical team calmly carrying out the cardiac replacement procedure. Hovering over Picard now is a large praying mantis-like piece of equipment that seems to reach down into his chest cavity: SURGEON There has been some capillary reaction here... let's proceed carefully... we'll need sharper focus on the thoracic polychromatics and verification of myocardial enzyme balance. The team attends to the equipment as the Surgeon continues his delicate work and now we GO TO: 48 INT. THE PAKLED MONDOR BRIDGE - GEORDI steels himself against the effects of the phaser shots he's already endured, looks up at the Pakleds: GEORDI Let me talk to them. I'll get you their computer banks. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 46. 48 CONTINUED: GREBNEDLOG We want to be smart. GEORDI So open the hailing frequency. They'll listen to me. GREBNEDLOG (to Reginod) We are smart. REGINOD We need their computer things. GREBNEDLOG Yes. (then, to Geordi) Yes. Grebnedlog turns an analog dial on a console and now 49 INT. THE ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) comes to life with the image of the Mondor bridge. Riker steps up, flanked by Data, Worf, Pulaski, and Troi, reacting to: GEORDI Commander Riker? RIKER Yes, Lieutenant. We're here. GEORDI The Pakleds seem pretty sincere. GREBNEDLOG We want what we want. RIKER Our computer banks are non-negotiable. GEORDI Excuse me, Commander, but let's consider that for a minute. The Enterprise's protected memory storage is so extensive that it would take well over twenty-four hours just to access. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 47. 49 CONTINUED: GEORDI (Cont'd) In that time, maybe we could all reach a more acceptable resolution to our little misunderstanding here. GREBNEDLOG We want to be smart. GEORDI (to Riker) Belive me, they're nothing if not persistent. GREBNEDLOG We want to be nothing if not persistent. GEORDI (to Riker) Nobody ever said they were great conversationalists. RIKER Where did they get their shields? GREBNEDLOG Yes. We like shields. GEORDI From what I've seen, half the systems on this ship have been stolen from Romulans, Jarada, Klingons, just about anybody they ever came in contact with. GREBNEDLOG We like to be smart. RIKER Confirmed, Lieutenant La Forge. They steal technology. DATA But they lack the ability to use it properly. Riker considers that, exchanges a conspiratorial glance with his crew, then clears his throat and intones: STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 48. 49 CONTINUED: (2) RIKER (back to Geordi) You're an excellent chief engineer, Lieutenant. GEORDI Thank you, sir. RIKER And of course, your knowledge of phaser and photon weaponry is unmatched. GREBNEDLOG (chiming in mindlessly) We like phasers. GEORDI That's kind of you to say, sir, but Lieutenant Worf -- RIKER (cutting him off) Our missions are always inherently dangerous. Any of us could be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice at any time. GEORDI Uh... yes, sir, but -- RIKER Speaking of time, Lieutenant, this may be your time. I shall personally miss you. Geordi reacts to that with confusion. Grebnedlog and Reginod glance at each other, concerned as Data steps up to speak to Geordi: DATA You will always be in my memory. GEORDI Data... wait a minute. Can't we.. ? DATA I shall miss you at weapons systems analysis. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 49. 49 CONTINUED: (3) Geordi wrinkles his brow as he considers that for a beat, then something begins to dawn upon him: GEORDI Weapons system analysis? (then, tentative, trying it out) I guess you'll just have to carry out the photon torpedo countdowns without me. DATA Exactly. Fond farewell. GREBNEDLOG (to Reginod) He knows about weapons. REGINOD He is smart. GREBNEDLOG (to Geordi) You can make us strong. GEORDI (with "humility") It's not something I like to talk about -- Just then, Worf steps up to face the viewscreen: WORF Lieutenant La Forge. GEORDI Worf... my old friend. WORF Any classified weapons knowledge you share with your captors will be considered treason. GEORDI (re the Pakleds) I may have no choice. WORF You will die without honor. GEORDI I know. Just my luck. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 50. 49 CONTINUED: (4) WORF You will never attain the twenty-four levels of awareness. Geordi reacts to that, making specific mental notes: GEORDI Twenty-four? That's quite a challenge. WORF Indeed. Twenty-four is the gateway to heroic salvation. With that, Grebnedlog reaches over to the console, twists the analog switch and cuts off further communication and the viewscreen goes black. Pulaski steps to Riker: PULASKI Do you think he understands? RIKER He'd better. TROI He is afraid. RIKER We all are, Counselor. 50 INT. THE MONDOR BRIDGE - GREBNEDLOG now turns to Geordi with new appreciation: GREBNEDLOG You are smart. GEORDI Not smart enough. I'm still here. GREBNEDLOG Make us strong. GEORDI I thought you wanted me to help you... "go". Why don't we work on that guidance system, okay? Grebnedlog levels Geordi's phaser at him: STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FOUR 51. 50 CONTINUED: GREBNEDLOG Make us strong. Or die. Geordi reacts to that, suppressing a mischievous smile as he surrenders to their commands while we GO TO 51 INT. STARBASE 515 SURGICAL SUITE - (OPTICAL) Picard remains motionless, even more awesomely technological gear in the room now. The surgeon perspires heavily; tension hangs in the air: SURGEON The metabilation occlusions aren't holding. A nurse hands him another set of metabilators; these have even more contractile expediators on them. The surgeon tries them, reacts angrily: SURGEON Damnit! I can't stop the heterocyclic declination! Fuse! A sharp BEAM flashes down from overhead, sending up a puff of smoke from Picard's thorax,. It doesn't work. The surgeon looks up, commanding now: SURGEON Again! The BEAM flashes again. Another puff of smoke. The surgeon sags as he realizes: SURGEON We need a Biomolecular Physiologist in here! This man is dying! With that, one of the nurses reacts, bolts for the doors and we FADE OUT: END OF ACT FOUR STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 52. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 52 EXT. SPACE - THE MONDOR (OPTICAL) remains in position. The Enterprise in proximity while 53 INT. THE MONDOR ARMAMENT BAY - GEORDI is ushered to their relatively primitive "gun turrets" by Grebnedlog and Reginod. Geordi reacts: GEORDI You've gotta be kidding. GREBNEDLOG Make us strong. GEORDI (re: the armaments) There isn't enough juice in these to blow off a passing asteroid. GREBNEDLOG Do it. Make us strong. Geordi studies the situation carefully, finally acknowledging: GEORDI I suppose we could increase the anti-matter charges. REGINOD Yes. We like power. Grebnedlog points to a set of weapon-force meters and lights: GREBNEDLOG Do not try to trick us. We can tell. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 53. 53 CONTINUED: And as Geordi starts to work, we GO TO 54 INT. STARBASE 515 SURGICAL SUITE - PICARD appears to be losing his battle for life, his face increasingly ashen now as the surgeon and a BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST crowd around the patient: BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST Metabilation? SURGEON Negative. BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST Heterocyclics? SURGEON Failing. And capillary integrity too unpredictable to attempt a resect. BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST You're unwilling to make the attempt?? SURGEON I'm not qualified. BIOMOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGIST I know someone who is. With that, the biomolecular physiologist touches a communications panel on the wall and we GO TO: 55 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) hangs close to the Mondor while 56 INT. MAIN ENGINEERING - SONYA looks up from the glow of the pool table to look incredulously at Riker and Data: SONYA Are you sure he can do it? He's an engineer, not a weapons specialist. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 54. 56 CONTINUED: RIKER True. But if anyone can improvise, it's Geordi. SONYA What makes you think the Pakleds even have that kind of gear on board? DATA Ongoing scanning indicates progressive weapons potential. (then, to Riker) The timing will be crucial. He must correctly interpret our intentions. RIKER Geordi's up to speed. I trust his instincts. DATA The Pakleds did hear our little fiction about Geordi's "weapons knowledge." RIKER Exactly. And since they obviously equate intelligence with strength, they won't pass up this chance to use that knowledge. (then, to Sonya) Can you do it? SONYA Count on it. Suddenly, Sonya's interrupted by the urgency of WORF (V.O.) Bridge to Commander Riker! RIKER Go ahead, bridge -- WORF (V.O.) I am receiving an emergency summons from Starbase five one five... Captain Picard is close to death! Riker reacts, stunned as he looks to Data: STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 55. 56 CONTINUED: (2) RIKER (to Sonya) Be ready! Riker and Data exit and Sonya goes to work on the anti-matter blender as we GO TO: 57 INT. THE MONDOR - GEORDI crawls out from the weapons bay. He's had better days, and he dusts himself off as he turns to Grebnedlog and Reginod who react with delight as their weapons-force meters and lights surge with new life: REGINOD (re the meters) We are strong. GEORDI You're now armed to the teeth. GREBNEDLOG Teeth are for chewing. GEORDI (with a patient sigh) You have photon torpedoes. You are strong. Grebnedlog "smiles" at Reginod now: GREBNEDLOG We are strong. We have power. And as the two Pakleds contemplate how to use their newfound might, we GO TO: 58 INT. THE ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER is in command position, Pulaski at his side, Worf at his station, Troi nearby as Data looks up from his scanner console, announcing: DATA Positive indication of armed photon torpedoes, Commander. RIKER Geordi did it. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 56. 58 CONTINUED: Worf turns from his security station, calling out: WORF Starbase requests we proceed to base at warp nine -- PULASKI We've got to go! TROI Yes. Captain Picard needs our help. RIKER We can't leave Geordi behind -- (then, to Data) I want the Pakleds on that screen and I want them now! DATA Forced spectrum communications are spotty at best, sir. RIKER Do it. 58A THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) comes alive with the very fuzzy, forced-spectrum image of the Mondor bridge where Grebnedlog and Reginod are settling into their command chairs as Geordi stands in the b.g. and now 58B RIKER (OPTICAL) quickly steps before the viewscreen: RIKER This is the Enterprise. Return our personnel or face immediate reprisal. GREBNEDLOG We are strong now. We have better weapons. RIKER Are you prepared to use them? STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 57. 58B CONTINUED: REGINOD We are a force now. We will have respect. Power. TROI They feel confident. RIKER We don't have time for this. You want power? This is power... (to computer) Bridge to Ensign Gomez... 59 INT. ENGINEERING - SONYA reacts, responds as she works furiously at some heavy-duty anti-matter work: SONYA Ready, Commander Riker -- RIKER (V.O.) Initiate sequencing. Sonya hits some new panels and now the engine core begins to react with a massive ROAR while 60 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER glares at the Pakleds and calls their bluff with: RIKER Begin firing sequence countdown from twenty-four. 60AA THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The Pakleds react, startled at Riker's aggressiveness as Geordi takes his cue, leans back into the weapons bay to make some "adjustments," assuring Grebnedlog: GEORDI They mean business. Let me just check something. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 58. 60A INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN ENGINEERING - SONYA moves quickly, efficiently, as she works to boost hydrogen output, as we hear: COMPUTER (V.O.) Twenty-one... twenty... nineteen... eighteen... 60B INT. MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER stands before the viewscreen, Worf ready at his station as they hear: COMPUTER (V.O.) Seventeen... sixteen... fifteen... fourteen... WORF Firing sequence proceeding, sir. RIKER Hold fast. COMPUTER (V.O.) Eleven... ten... nine... 60C INT. THE MONDOR BRIDGE The Pakleds debate the wisdom of their choices now, then turning to face Riker while Geordi works in the b.g. furiously making his "adjustments." GREBNEDLOG We will attack. (re the weapons meters) We are strong. REGINOD (to Grebnedlog) We should attack now. GEORDI Just another second here... GREBNEDLOG Hurry. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 59. 60D INT. THE ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER reacts to what he sees on the viewscreen, looks to Worf as they listen to: COMPUTER (V.O.) six... five... four... three... Tension mounts as 60E OMITTED 60F INT. ENGINEERING - SONYA is taut, poised over her console waiting: COMPUTER (V.O) ...two... one... RIKER Fire! she hits the appropriate controls now and 61 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) fires a heretofore unseen, unimagined blast of crimson energy field from the leading edge of the nacelles, fairly enveloping the Mondor in a huge, daunting shaft of red light, accompanied by a ghostly ROAR and now 62 INT. THE MONDOR BRIDGE - GEORDI looks up from his work in the weapons bay, shouts at Grebnedlog: GEORDI Now! Grebnedlog pulls the weapons lever but suddenly, the entire bridge is awash with a BRIGHT RED LIGHT. GEORDI Oh no! Too late! REGINOD We have fired! They will be destroyed. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 60. 62 CONTINUED: GEORDI But they used the crimson force-field -- He looks toward the weapons bay and now it emits a low GROAN. Grebnedlog looks at the weapons meters, reacts with a sag as he realizes: GREBNEDLOG It did not shoot. GEORDI Their crimson force-field disarmed us. REGINOD (re the Enterprise; awed) They are smart. GEBNEDLOG We are not strong. 63 INT. THE ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - RIKER (OPTICAL) gives the final warning as he stands before the viewscreen: RIKER Drop your shields and let us transport Lieutenant La Forge immediately. Grebnedlog waves a trembling hand to a minion who pulls a switch. DATA Shields are down. RIKER Transporter Room. One to beam to the bridge. Geordi immediately DEMATERIALIZES on the viewscreen. A beat later, he MATERIALIZES beside Riker, turns to his officer at CONN: RIKER Set heading for Starbase five one five. Warp nine. STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 61. 64 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) streaks off at warp nine as we GO TO 64A INT. THE ENTERPRISE BRIDGE - RIKER stands before the viewscreen where Grebnedleg appears, truly humbled.: RIKER We leave you in peace. GREBNEDLOG We want to be strong. RIKER Weapons alone do not create strength. You must learn restraint. GREBNEDLOG Yes. We will learn restraint. Then we will be strong. Riker reacts to that with a sigh. RIKER Off. The viewscreen goes dark as Geordi steps up: GEORDI What was that red blast? RIKER Hydrogen exhaust through the Bussard collectors. Harmless, but a nice light show. GEORDI Very impressive. RIKER Did you disable their photons? GEORDI Just in time. That's why you're all standing here... 64B EXT. STARBASE FIVE-ONE-FIVE - ESTABLISHING The medical center STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 62. 65 INT. STARBASE FIVE-ONE-FIVE SURGICAL SUITE - PICARD stirs now, his eyes slowly fluttering open. A beat. He's alive. And then he scowls as he grumbles: PICARD What in the hell are you doing here? 65A ANGLE - PULASKI stands over him, pulling her surgical mask down, snapping her gloves off smartly with: PULASKI Saving your life. PICARD Oh come on. This is a routine procedure. Quite commonplace. PULASKI True. But you are not a commonplace man. You'll be out of recovery in four hours. PICARD I didn't want you involved in this. PULASKI You're welcome. He regards her obliquely. Then: PICARD If you're here... the entire crew must know... PULASKI You're still the captain. Invincible. PICARD Thank you. She gives him a reassuring wink now as we GO TO: 66 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) cruises in orbit above Starbase five one five while STAR TREK: "Samaritan Snare" - 3/8/89 - ACT FIVE 63. 67 INT. THE MAIN BRIDGE - RIKER is in command position, Data, Worf, Geordi, Troi, and Wesley all in their respective positions; the engineering station is up. The turbolift doors open and Picard steps out. A round of applause erupts, and Picard glares at them gruffly: PICARD I beg your pardon. They fall silent. Geordi looks at Worf, comments: GEORDI Looks like things are back to normal... Picard walks down to his chair, stands before it. A beat. Then he announces: PICARD I'm pleased to report that Ensign Crusher's Starfleet exam results will enable him to continue with his studies on board the Enterprise. Furthermore, any rumors of my brush with death are greatly exaggerated. Is that clear? RIKER Yes, sir. PICARD Good. Set the course for Epsilon Sector. (to Wesley) Warp five, Ensign. Picard assumes his command position now and PICARD (continuing) Engage. 68 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) warps out of orbit as we FADE OUT: END OF ACT FIVE THE END