STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Sins of the Father" #40273-165 Based on a script by Drew Deighan Teleplay by Ronald D. Moore & Reed Moran 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 1990 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights Reserved. This script is not for publication or reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department. FINAL DRAFT JANUARY 5, 1990 STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - CAST STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Sins of the Father" CAST PICARD KURN RIKER K'MPEC DATA DURAS BEVERLY KAHLEST TROI GEORDI WORF WESLEY Non-Speaking KLINGON SUPERNUMERARIES TRANSPORTER TECH KLINGON COUNCIL MEMBERS TWO KLINGON ASSASSINS Non-Speaking KLINGON GUARD SUPERNUMERARIES KLINGON WOMAN CLERK STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" 1/5/90 - SETS STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Sins of the Father" SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM KLINGON SHIP (STOCK) TURBOLIFT CORRIDOR KLINGON CITY (MATTE) TRANSPORTER ROOM OLD CITY STREET TEN FORWARD KLINGON HOME SICKBAY CAPTAIN'S DINING ROOM KURN'S QUARTERS KLINGON CITY ANTE ROOM GREAT HALL PEDESTRIAN TUNNEL KLINGON HOME K'MPEC'S CHAMBERS STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/8/90 - PRONUNCIATION STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Sins of the Father" PRONUNCIATION GUIDE biHnuch bekh-NOOCH* cha'DIch cha-DICH* DURAS DYUR-as 'el L ghIj qet jaghmeyjaj geej ket JAG-mee-jaj ghojmoK GOJ-mok Ha'DIbah KHA-di-bakh JA'ROD JAH-rod jIlaj jil-LAZH jIlajneS jil-LAZH-nesh KAHLEST KAY-lest K'MPEC KIM-peck KHITOMER KIT-to-mur KURN KURN kut'luch cut-LUCH* len'mat LIN-mat LORGH LORG Mek'ba MICK-bah mev yap MIV-yap MOGH MOHG STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/8/90 - PRONUNCIATION CONTINUED: nuqneH nook-NEKH nuqneHneS nook-NEKH-nesh PAGH PAH patahk PAH-tock Qapla' khap-LA seloh SEE-low tam TOM tlhIH ghIj jIHyoj te-LIKH gizh jikh-YOZH tuHmoH tookh-MOKH * ch as in chew or artichoke. NOTE: Many Klingon words are pronounced with guttural or vibrating vocal cord sounds. See reference by Marc Okrand (provided separately). STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/7/90 - TEASER 1. STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Sins of the Father" TEASER FADE IN: 1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND KLINGON SHIP (OPTICAL) The two ships facing each other (STOCK FOOTAGE). PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, Stardate 43685.2 As part of a continuing exchange program, the Enterprise is taking aboard a Klingon officer to return the recent visit of Commander Riker to the cruiser Pagh. 2 INT. CORRIDOR PICARD and RIKER are walking along the corridor toward the Transporter Room. PICARD We must take care that while he is with us, Commander Kurn is accorded all the rights and responsibilities due the first officer of this ship. If he should feel patronized in any way... RIKER We'd know about it, sir. One does not patronize a Klingon warrior. PICARD I'm quite sure your experience aboard the Pagh will prove invaluable during the commander's tour. Be sure that the crew is prepared for any... unusual orders. RIKER The Klingons are very thorough, Captain. I'm sure Commander Kurn has studied for his assignment with us just as I studied to serve with them. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - TEASER 2. 2 CONTINUED: PICARD (acknowledges) I understand that he specifically requested the Enterprise... Moving into -- 3 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL) Picard and Riker ENTER. TRANSPORTER TECHNICIAN is waiting at the console. TECHNICIAN Commander Kurn is ready for transport, Captain. PICARD Energize. The Technician works the console and the Transporter EFFECT begins. Kurn materializes on the stage. Kurn is clad in full Klingon regalia... he bears a striking resemblance to Worf and is about the same age. Picard and Riker step forward in greeting. PICARD Welcome aboard the Enterprise, Commander. I am Captain Picard. Kurn steps off the stage. There is a slightly awkward moment as Kurn remembers the human custom of greeting. He hesitates only briefly and then extends his hand. Picard smiles and shakes his hand. Kurn responds politely, but it sounds rehearsed and stilted. KURN Thank... you, Captain. I am ready for duty. PICARD This is Commander William Riker who will be yielding the first officer's position to you during your tour... KURN (to Riker) You are relieved. (to Picard) May I take my station, Captain? STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - TEASER 3. 3 CONTINUED: Picard and Riker react to the Klingon's impatience. RIKER I thought that I might show you your quarters... Riker stops as he sees fire come to Kurn's eyes struggling to keep his temper. KURN (to Picard) I am ready for duty, sir. I ask that I be allowed to take my station. Picard and Riker exchange a glance. PICARD Very well... If you will accompany us to the bridge... They head for the door. There is a slight moment of awkwardness as Riker almost goes through the door ahead of Kurn. Riker catches himself and allows Kurn to go first. Kurn glares at this near-breach of protocol, but says nothing. 4 INT. MAIN BRIDGE WESLEY at Conn, WORF at Tactical, DATA in Command. Picard, Riker and Kurn ENTER from the turbolift. Picard leads Kurn down into the Command area. Everyone watches to see the reaction as Worf and Kurn see each other for the first time. Worf is uncomfortable. Kurn runs his eyes over him... silently taking his measure of Worf... then looks away as if he'd seen nothing worth his time. PICARD May I present your bridge crew... And it is a question, so Kurn feels free to answer -- KURN Unnecessary, Captain. I am prepared to take command. PICARD (reacts) Proceed. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - TEASER 4. 4 CONTINUED: KURN (to the crew) I am Kurn, commander rank, Klingon Defense Force. You will address me as "Commander" or "sir" at all times. Moving about the bridge... making strong, challenging eye contact... bellicose... KURN I am fully aware of all Starfleet regulations. They will be strictly adhered to by all personnel while I am in command. It is my intention to bring a sense of discipline that you may not be accustomed to. The last is said at Worf... then to Picard -- KURN (continuing) With your permission, of course, Captain. Picard rather enjoys this, covers it. PICARD By all means, Commander. Wesley throws a do-you-believe-this glance to Riker. Kurn notices, moves face to face with Wesley... KURN Do you wish to speak, Acting Ensign Wesley Crusher? Wesley is surprised that he knows his name. WESLEY Nosir, Commander, sir. KURN (to the crew) I have studied all your service records. Impressive. We shall see if you live up to your reputations. The crew awaits your orders, Captain. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - TEASER 5. 4 CONTINUED: (2) Picard looks around the bridge and sees his crew sitting straight, alert, indeed ready. Picard swallows a grin and sits in the captain's chair. It takes Kurn a couple seconds to realize where his place is, but then sits down with confidence in Riker's accustomed seat. Riker moves to the seat on the other side of Picard. PICARD (casually) Take us into the outer cometary cloud, Commander. KURN (booming) Set course one-one-four, mark two-three-zero, one-third impulse power! WESLEY (works console) Aye sir. KURN Execute! (Wesley works furiously) Execute! WESLEY (a little rattled) Engaged. Increasing to one-third impulse power, sir. Kurn grunts and shakes his head. As Picard sits back, even faced, knowing we're in for an interesting ride... CUT TO: 5 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship accelerates to full impulse power. FADE OUT. END OF TEASER STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT ONE 6. ACT ONE FADE IN: 7 INT. TEN FORWARD Riker ENTERS, sees Wesley at a table and goes over to him. Wesley is staring into space with a look of unhappiness on his face. RIKER Mind if I join you? WESLEY No, sir. RIKER (sits down) Something wrong, Wesley? WESLEY No, sir. RIKER (beat) Commander Kurn perhaps? WESLEY He... just doesn't seem to like me, sir. I can't do anything right for him. Every time I respond to one of his orders... he jumps down my throat. I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong. RIKER He's just... Riker's voice trails off as he notices that GEORDI has just come up to the table looking outraged. RIKER Problem, Geordi? Geordi hesitates slightly, he doesn't really want to bother Riker with his problems, but he's clearly at the end of his rope. GEORDI Well, sir... it's our new first officer. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT ONE 7. 7 CONTINUED: RIKER (can't help but smile) I take it he found something wrong in Engineering? GEORDI (exasperated) Just the entire section. He made a surprise inspection in the middle of a maintenance cycle! I tried to explain to him, but... RIKER He wouldn't listen. GEORDI We're all going to be doing double shifts to get things ready for the next inspection. RIKER (to both of them) His style of command is just different. Klingons believe in a strict formality of command and obedience. GEORDI But this isn't a Klingon ship. He's got to loosen up a little, Commander. WESLEY It's not just us. He's leaning pretty hard on everybody except... (hesitates) Off Riker's look... GEORDI Except the one guy who wouldn't mind it... 8 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE ON WORF Kurn in Command, Worf at his station. WORF Sensors picking up asteroidal debris ahead, Commander. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/7/90 - ACT ONE 8. 8 CONTINUED: KURN Can you identify the coordinates, Mister Worf? Kurn stands up and moves up the ramp to the Tactical station. WORF Bearing zero-zero-one, mark point-oh-three, range three hundred thousand kilometers. KURN Excellent. Please scan the asteroid field for me, Lieutenant, and report. WORF Approximately two thousand small objects, none in our direct flight path, sir. Kurn is now standing near Worf. Kurn's attitude is easy, gentle, almost as if he thinks he might bruise Worf if he isn't careful. As Kurn's manner becomes more soothing and polite, Worf slowly begins to overheat at this treatment. KURN So, no course correction is necessary, is that what you're saying? WORF (tightly) It should not be needed, Commander. KURN Very good, Lieutenant. You handled that well. This is too much for Worf. He looks sharply at Kurn. Kurn notices... challenging -- KURN Yes? Worf looks away from Kurn... stares straight ahead. Kurn studies him for a moment. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT ONE 9. 8AA EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) Cruising at one-third impulse. 8A INT. TURBOLIFT Riker is inside as the door opens and Kurn ENTERS. RIKER (greeting) Commander. Kurn nods an acknowledgement... RIKER Captain's mess... ? KURN Yes. RIKER (to computer) Resume. The doors shut and they proceed. A beat of silence for a few steps before Riker decides to bring up what's been on his mind. RIKER Your knowledge of our systems and procedures is very impressive... (off his look) ...Sir. Getting a little tired of this... RIKER I would like to make one suggestion, sir. KURN A suggestion... Friendly, charming -- RIKER When I served aboard the Pagh, the hardest part for me was in recognizing and adapting to the demands of the crew. They needed an iron hand. They wanted it. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT ONE 10. 8A CONTINUED: RIKER (Cont'd) I can imagine how difficult it must be for you to work with a crew that is so different. I'd be happy to guide you in this regard if it would be helpful. KURN (beat) No. It wouldn't. The door opens. As Kurn begins to exit... RIKER (a little burned) This is not a Klingon ship, sir. Kurn pauses, glances threateningly back at Riker -- KURN No, Commander, it is not. If it were a Klingon ship, I would have killed you for offering your... "suggestion". And EXITS. Riker reacts... 8B INT. CAPTAIN'S DINING ROOM - CLOSE ON A ROASTED TURKEY (REPLICATED) As a hand puts a carving knife to work... and pull back to see Picard in a chef's apron, carving at the head of an elaborate buffet table. Kurn observes, in line near Geordi. KURN (concerned) How long has the bird been dead? It appears to have been lying in the sun for some time. GEORDI (reacts) It's not really dead, it's replicated. But you do understand we... cook many of our foods... STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT ONE 10A. 8B CONTINUED: KURN Ah yes... I was told to prepare for that... I will try some of your burned replicated bird meat. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/7/90 - ACT ONE 11. 8B CONTINUED: (2) Picard puts a slice on his plate. PICARD I have attempted to select a menu that will allow you to sample a variety of dishes, Commander. And indeed, the table is filled with a variety of foods... and garnished with a beautiful flower centerpiece... all the senior officers are there, filling up their plates... Riker, Geordi, Worf, BEVERLY, TROI, Data. Mozart is playing in the background. BEVERLY Try some caviar... KURN The odor is not palatable. What is it? DATA The unhatched eggs of a large scaleless fish. Kurn reacts, are you serious... ? PICARD It is from the Caspian Sea on Earth, Commander. A delicacy and a personal favorite of mine. Our replicators have never done it justice. I managed to store a few cases aboard for special occasions... Kurn reluctantly takes some. KURN (dubious) I am honored, Captain. And as he decides to finish this process of collecting the Earth foods, he takes a good sampling of the flowers from the centerpiece and puts them on his plate. 8C ANGLE - THE DINNER TABLE As Kurn sits opposite Troi... the others follow to the table... Worf chooses not to be too close to Kurn. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/7/90 - ACT ONE 12. 8C CONTINUED: TROI Are you adjusting to your new environment, Commander? KURN I find the constraints quite difficult to conform to... I'm sure any Klingon warrior would... Worf reacts... as Kurn continues, casually -- KURN ... just a short time ago, I had to stop myself from killing Commander Riker. Troi laughs before realizing Kurn is not joking. During all this, Kurn eats with much gusto and noise and with his hands... then slowly realizes the others are waiting for the others to sit before they begin to eat... KURN I believe he was trying to communicate the crew's discomfort with my style of command... under different circumstances, I would take that as a challenge to my authority. Picard now joins them at the table... and everyone starts to eat with their knifes and fork, quite daintily... Kurn watches tries awkwardly to imitate... PICARD One of the goals of the exchange program is for all of us to learn tolerance, Commander. As for my crew, it may be healthy to shake up the status quo occasionally. Feel free to disagree, Mister Riker... Picard is deliberately displaying a casual example of starship command by welcoming disagreement... RIKER Well, I'd say the commander certainly has the crew on their toes... STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/7/90 - ACT ONE 13. 8C CONTINUED: (2) GEORDI ... And then some. (quickly realizing his error, to Kurn) No offense meant, sir... KURN None taken. I never kill anyone at the supper table, Mister La Forge. Kurn has struggled the best he can with his dinner, cannot eat any more... BEVERLY Don't you like it, Commander? KURN (trying to be tactful) Our food has much more... taste to it. While I'm sure this is... well prepared, it is far too bland for the stomach of a Klingon... And the natural glance in the room has to be at Worf who is enjoying his meal when he hears Kurn say this... GEORDI It seems to agree with Worf. KURN Yes. And Worf feels extremely self-conscious, promptly losing his appetite... and Kurn glances at him out of the corner of his eye to put a little punctuation into the moment... 9 thru OMITTED 10 11 INT. KURN'S QUARTERS Kurn is standing near the table, looking over some information on a computer terminal. The door CHIMES. KURN Enter. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT ONE 14. 11 CONTINUED: He turns around and the door opens, revealing Worf standing in the corridor. Worf does not enter right away. KURN 'el (Enter.) Worf steps into the room, stands stiffly at attention. WORF Permission to speak freely, sir? KURN For what purpose? WORF I have questions I wish to pose. Kurn looks around his cabin with disdain and ignores Worf's request for the moment. KURN Are your quarters so... comfortable? WORF They serve me. KURN This entire ship seems built for... comfort, relaxation, being at ease. It is not the ship for a warrior... not the ship for a Klingon. Worf says nothing, and after a beat Kurn returns to Worf's request. KURN You cannot ask these questions within the boundaries of protocol? Worf is definitely agitated. Kurn's attitude is really getting under his skin. WORF They are... of a personal nature, sir. Kurn thinks for a second and then sits down. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT ONE 15. 11 CONTINUED: (2) KURN Permission granted. Pose your questions. Now we can see a little more of the fires that are burning within Worf. His entire demeanor now changes and he cannot prevent the anger he feels from rising to the surface. WORF I wish to know if I have given you offense. KURN I am not a human... if you had given offense, you would not need to ask. WORF Perhaps I have not performed my duties to your satisfaction? KURN I find you to be a capable Starfleet officer. A credit to your ship. WORF Yet you dishonor me at every opportunity. KURN Have I? I was not aware that being polite to a Starfleet officer would bring dishonor on him. WORF (very tight) I am a Klingon. Kurn looks at him almost with amusement. He decides to push a little harder. Kurn stands and casually turns away from Worf. KURN Really? (beat) Perhaps your blood has thinned in this environment. I simply don't want to... hurt you. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT ONE 16. 11 CONTINUED: (3) This too much. Worf explodes with rage. He snarls a roar of challenge and moves to Kurn, knocking over a chair and small table in the process. Kurn whirls, ready for anything, but brings Worf up short before they can actually exchange blows. KURN mev yap! (That is enough!) Worf stops, but it is a struggle. Kurn relaxes a bit, but is still ready in case Worf should move on him. Kurn looks over Worf with satisfaction... "that's more like it!" KURN So... your blood is not so thin after all. WORF I am Klingon... if you doubt it, a demonstration can be arranged. KURN That is the response of a Klingon. The response I would expect... from my... older brother. Push in on Worf's reaction to this news. FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT TWO 17. ACT TWO FADE IN: 12 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship is cruising at impulse speed. 13 INT. KURN'S QUARTERS A short time later. Kurn is acting less like Worf's superior and more like his brother. But there is still tension between them. He goes to a window, looks out. He is thinking back over the early years of his life and we can see the shadows pass before his eyes. KURN I was barely a year old when you went to the Khitomer Outpost. The outpost was new... unfinished. You... our mother and father were not going to stay long. It was decided that I did not need to go. I was left with our father's friend, Lorgh, until you returned. (beat) You never did. WORF The Starfleet officer that rescued me was told by the Klingon High Command that I had no living relatives. KURN They assumed I was killed with the family at Khitomer. Moving to Worf... KURN Lorgh had no sons. He took me into his family. It was not until I had reached the Age of Ascension that I was told the truth. WORF So you asked to serve aboard the Enterprise... to watch me. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT TWO 18. 13 CONTINUED: KURN It was an excellent opportunity to find out what kind of Klingon you were... or if you were Klingon at all. WORF Your deception offends me, brother. KURN (pleased) It should. But it was required. WORF To satisfy your curiosity. KURN No. Much more. You are the eldest son. The challenge is yours to make. WORF Challenge... ? KURN The Klingon High Council has judged our father a traitor to the empire. On Worf's reaction... 14 INT. READY ROOM Picard and Worf. Picard has just learned the news, reacts with concern. PICARD What are the allegations, Worf? WORF My father is accused of aiding and abetting the Romulan attack on the Khitomer outpost. PICARD The attack in which he himself was killed... ? WORF It is a lie. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT TWO 19. 14 CONTINUED: PICARD But why now... after twenty years? WORF I do not know, Captain. I will hear the evidence when I arrive. The charge has been made by Duras, the son of my father's greatest rival. (beat) Our family name will be disgraced for seven generations. It is my responsibility to clear his name or answer for his crimes. PICARD Answer for them? WORF The family of a Klingon warrior is responsible for his actions and he is responsible for theirs. If I fail in my challenge, I will be executed. (beat) Will you grant my leave, Captain? A long beat as Picard mulls this with great concern. Then... PICARD No. Worf reacts. PICARD If I understand correctly, a Starfleet officer, a respected member of my crew could stand accused of a capital crime. Your actions in this matter reflect on this ship and the Federation. (beat, personal) Therefore, it seems only appropriate for your captain to be at your side as you make your challenge, Lieutenant. I'm sure you would do no less for me. On Worf's reaction... STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT TWO 20. 15 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Kurn, Riker, Troi in Command. Data, and Wes at their stations. Picard and Worf ENTER from Ready Room. PICARD Commander Kurn... KURN Sir. PICARD We are changing course. Set coordinates for the First City of the Klingon Imperial Empire. Kurn reacts with surprise. He had not expected the Enterprise itself to change course. Kurn looks over at Worf and we can see respect forming in their relationship. KURN Mister Crusher... WES (instantly) Sir! KURN Lay in a course for the Klingon System. Bearing one-four-five by two-four-oh... WES (overlapping Kurn) Ready sir! Kurn is pleased. Quite calmly -- KURN Execute. 16 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship makes a sweeping turn and accelerates to warp speed. 17 INT. TEN-FORWARD (OPTICAL) Worf is seated by the forward windows, lost in thought. Kurn ENTERS, sees Worf and then goes over to him. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT TWO 21. 17 CONTINUED: KURN We arrive within the hour. WORF Yes. KURN The Council will receive you at high sun in the Great Hall of-- WORF I know the procedures of the challenge. Kurn nods. He's beginning to look at Worf in a different way... as his older brother rather than as a Klingon in a Starfleet uniform. KURN You'll need a cha'DIch to defend you. While you are accused, you will not be allowed combat. Pause a beat as Kurn decides to take the next step. KURN I would be honored if you chose me. Worf looks at Kurn and can see that his brother's opinion of him has started to change. Worf himself is starting to think of this as their fight rather than just his. WORF (formally) I ask you to stand with me... to be my cha'DIch. KURN jIlajneS. ghIj qet jaghmeyjaj. (I accept. May your enemies run with fear.) The two sons of Mogh -- together, we shall restore the family honor. WORF No. For the proceeding, you will not reveal your true father. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT TWO 22. 17 CONTINUED: (2) KURN (reacts) I must... WORF (firm) You will not. KURN (understands) Because it would mean my death as well if you fail. A Klingon's honor means more than his life. Perhaps your human values cloud your judgment. I insist... WORF On this ship, you are my commander. And I obey. In the council chamber, you are my cha'DIch. You do not insist. You obey. And now the reversal of roles is complete. KURN (with due respect) Yes, brother. 18 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND KLINGON HOME WORLD (OPTICAL) The ship enters orbit. The planet has a single large land mass, and the world is dominated by a vast ocean. The tilt of the planet's axis has created wild seasonal changes and the atmosphere should appear turbulent and showing extremes of both warm and frigid weather on the planet. 19 EXT. THE FIRST CITY (MATTE SHOT) A large, sprawling city that was once an enormous fortress. The architecture should reflect a soldier's sensibilities for ease of defense and Spartan decoration. The city is dominated by the Great Hall. CUT TO: STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/7/90 - ACT TWO 23. 20 INT. ANTE ROOM (OPTICAL) A spare, simple room adjacent to the Great Hall, which can be entered through an ornate door. There is a table, chairs and a few decorations. It is basically a waiting room for the Great Hall. Picard, Troi, Riker, Worf, and Kurn BEAM IN. Taking in their surroundings -- RIKER (quietly to Picard) There was a time... when just standing here would have been a death sentence for us. WORF Captain, I am honored that you... Commander Riker... Counselor Troi... have chosen to accompany me. Your presence will surely impress the council. PICARD We're here as long as you need us, Worf. WORF Once I make the challenge, I assume the sins of my father. I will be in disgrace until his innocence is proven. I would request that you not remain for the entire proceeding. TROI You will never be a disgrace to us, Worf. KURN It is a matter of personal honor to my brother. PICARD I understand. (to Kurn) You will advise us when it is appropriate to depart. WORF (somber) It will be clear. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT TWO 24. 20 CONTINUED: He moves toward door and they follow him to... 21 INT. GREAT HALL Worf, Kurn, Picard, Troi, Riker, ENTER. The hall is a parliament/supreme court/public square. One end of the room is dominated by a raised dais with chairs for the High Council. There is a large, open floor area and the floor itself is emblazoned with the triangular Klingon insignia. There should be small partitions to suggest that the room is used for a variety of functions. Several KLINGON SUPERNUMERARIES are present. There is a general buzz of noise which builds as our characters enter the hall. The COUNCIL MEMBERS, including K'MPEC and DURAS ENTER the Hall and take their seats at the dais. The council members are mostly older Klingons, with one or two young upstarts. Worf and Kurn lead the way to the center of the room. Worf stands squarely in the center of the insignia on the floor, Kurn at his side, the others behind them. The crowd moves back and stands at the edges of the insignia. A hushed silence falls over the hall. People glare at Worf and the others from the Enterprise. Worf faces the council squarely. WORF I am Worf, son of Mogh. I have come to challenge the lies that have been spoken of my father. A buzz goes around the room as we... 22 OMITTED FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT THREE 25. ACT THREE FADE IN: 22A EXT. KLINGON FIRST CITY - MATTE SHOT - DAY 23 INT. GREAT HALL As before. Worf still facing the council. K'mpec now stands and addresses Worf. K'MPEC Worf, son of Mogh, you have challenged the judgment of the council. Are you prepared to answer for this if you fail? WORF With my life, K'mpec. K'mpec now turns his attention to Kurn. K'MPEC Why do you come before us, Commander? KURN I am Kurn, son of... Lorgh. I will stand by Worf's side. I am cha'DIch. K'mpec nods to a GUARD, who steps forward and hands Kurn a ceremonial scabbard and short sword which Kurn will wear from now on. Duras stands and walks down to Worf and Kurn. His attitude is hostile. DURAS (to Worf) You claim a birthright you have forsaken. WORF I have not forsaken my heritage. I am Klingon. My heart is of this world... my blood is as yours. DURAS Yet you come to us wearing a child's uniform... (looks at Picard) And you bring outsiders to our hall. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT THREE 26. 23 CONTINUED: Picard steps forward. PICARD I am here at my own request. (moving forward, to council) I am Captain Picard of the Enterprise. I extend greetings on behalf of the Federation. DURAS Your words have no meaning here. K'mpec raises a hand, silencing Duras, and waits for Picard to continue. PICARD Lieutenant Worf has served under my command with distinction. He has earned my admiration and my respect. It is my greatest wish that this council in its wisdom will clear his family name and return him to duty. K'MPEC (nods with satisfaction) The trust of a commanding officer is admirable... the council has noted it. Picard glances at Worf, then moves off to the side with Troi and Riker. That done, K'mpec turns his attention back to Worf. K'MPEC Speak the accusation. Duras moves forward again. DURAS (to council) For many turns, the truth about Khitomer has lain dormant... unknown. Now the truth is revealed. The traitor, Mogh, sent the defense access code to the Romulan patrol ships and allowed them to destroy the outpost. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/12/90 - ACT THREE 27. 23 CONTINUED: (2) DURAS (Cont'd) (to crowd) Thousands died on Khitomer... my father died on Khitomer. Their deaths must be avenged! The crowd grumbles for a moment. 23A OMITTED 23B ANGLE ON DURAS AND WORF DURAS (steps close to Worf) Your father was a traitor! By posing this challenge, you are a traitor! Duras slaps Worf hard. 23C PICARD, RIKER, TROI react. 23D ANGLE ON DURAS AND WORF Duras grabs the sash on Worf's chest. DURAS You will not wear the emblems of our people! Duras rips the sash from Worf as the crowd look on. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/7/90 - ACT THREE 28. 24 PICARD - CLOSEUP (OPTICAL) His eyes deeply troubled for his officer... knows it is time to leave. PICARD (activates com badge) Picard to Enterprise. Three to beam up. The away team BEAMS OUT. 25 OMITTED 26 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Picard, Riker, and Troi ENTER from turbolift. PICARD (quietly) Mister Data... I want you to find out everything you can about the destruction of the Khitomer outpost. Cross reference with Romulan tactics and strategic information on the region. Request access to the Klingon central information net. (on the move to Ready Room) Computer. Presentation overview of Klingon custom and law pertaining to familial accountability. COMPUTER VOICE Acknowledged. PICARD In my Ready Room. Picard heads toward his Ready Room, and Data moves to one of the Aft Science Stations. CUT TO: 27 INT. GREAT HALL As before. Duras and Worf still face each other in the Hall. Worf's sash lies on the ground in tatters. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/12/90 - ACT THREE 29. 27 CONTINUED: DURAS You are a fool. Your challenge will only result in a fool's death. WORF (coolly) It is a good day to die, Duras... and the day is not yet over. Duras returns to his place, and K'mpec stands. K'MPEC The council stands in recess. We will return for the mek'ba, when the evidence will be presented. Qapla' (Success! -- a traditional Klingon parting) The crowd begins to break up and the council adjourns. Duras and Worf scowl at each other, but they move off in different directions. 28 ON WORF AND KURN They move off to one side of the hall where they can plan their strategy, but before they can speak, K'mpec approaches them. Worf and Kurn straighten up at the sight of him. K'MPEC (to Worf) I would speak with you alone. A glance passes between Worf and Kurn, but one does not turn down such a request by a member of the council. Kurn bows his head briefly and moves a few feet away to give them privacy. 29 ON WORF AND K'MPEC as they move into a small cul de sac in the hall. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/12/90 - ACT THREE 30. 30 ON KURN he is watching for any move against him or Worf. A KLINGON WOMAN CLERK is routinely distributing PADDs to members of the council... laying them on desks, etc. As she comes to Kurn, she puts it on his desk and gives him a special look that points him toward the PADD, then moves off. He discovers a note underneath it... He reads it... glances at Worf... then heads out of the hall. 31 ON WORF AND K'MPEC As before. K'MPEC You should not have brought the challenge... there was no risk to you... what does it matter... ? WORF (not understanding) I am Klingon... K'MPEC Of that I have no question. But your life in the Federation would not be affected by this judgment. WORF My father... K'MPEC Is dead. He died long ago. (beat) I knew your father, served with him... this is not the way I wanted to remember him. But we must let the past be and protect what we have now. Worf gives him an enigmatic look. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/12/90 - ACT THREE 31. 31 CONTINUED: K'MPEC If you leave before the mek'ba... no shame will fall on you. Return to your ship... go back to your life. The challenge will be forgotten. WORF Why would you ask me to lay aside the honor of my father... my family... Are these the words of the council... ? K'mpec considers Worf. He is angry, but there is a trace of sadness in his voice. K'MPEC (draws himself up) I will not be questioned by you! Leave now or you too will be condemned as a traitor. K'mpec leaves. Worf reacts, wonders what the hell that was about... CUT TO: 32 thru OMITTED 36 36A INT. MAIN BRIDGE (FORMERLY SCENE 40) Data and Riker are at one of the Aft Science Stations looking at INFORMATION scrolling across one of the screens. Geordi stands nearby, watching their work with curiosity. DATA The Klingon council is refusing to allow us access to their information net, Commander. Riker lets out a breath in irritation. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/7/90 - ACT THREE 32. 36A CONTINUED: RIKER On what basis? DATA Orders of a member of the council. RIKER Duras... 36B ANGLE - GEORDI overhears... begins to get an idea and moves quietly over to another station to begin work. 36C BACK TO DATA AND RIKER RIKER What Federation starship was closest to Khitomer at the time of the attack? DATA The USS Intrepid, sir. They were the first ship on the scene. RIKER Contact Starfleet, request all logs of the Intrepid... (to Com) Riker to Doctor Crusher. BEVERLY Crusher here... RIKER Doctor, I want you to look over the medical records of all rescue vessels that responded to the Khitomer massacre... see if there is any information on the aftermath that could help us. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/7/90 - ACT THREE 33. 36C CONTINUED: BEVERLY'S COM VOICE Understood. GEORDI Uh, Commander, could I see you a moment... Riker moves to Geordi's station... GEORDI (lying) I was just making a few routine entries... and somehow, by accident, I just happened to... access the Klingon information net. Data and Riker react. DATA How could you obtain access without the proper authorization codes? RIKER I don't think we want to know, Data. As he exchanges a glance with Geordi, they begin investigation of the files. CUT TO: 37 INT. PEDESTRIAN TUNNEL Kurn is waiting... after a few seconds, Duras approaches him in the tunnel. Kurn prepares for an attack. KURN I should have known... come then Duras. Worf was right... it is a good day to die. DURAS That time has not yet come. (beat, then conspiratorially) It does not have to come for many turns. I know who you are, Kurn... son of Mogh. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT THREE 34. 37 CONTINUED: KURN (taken off-guard) What? DURAS A strange decision to serve as his cha'DIch. I was curious to know why. Nothing can be hidden from me, Kurn. (beat) It was a wise choice to hide your family name -- do not err by embracing it again... for you only embrace death. KURN We will see. DURAS Worf has made his choice and he will die for it. But you are still safe. Let him stand alone. He is no longer your brother... he is not one of us. I promise you no one will learn of your family line. You'll have your rank... maybe even a command of your own. KURN He is my brother. I will not betray him! We can see the rage boil up in Duras, but he just manages to keep control of it. DURAS Then you will die for him. Duras turns quickly and leaves. Kurn watches him go... looks around the empty tunnel and is about to leave when TWO KLINGON ASSASSINS suddenly attack him from behind. Kurn is caught off guard, but he manages to shake off the first attack. The assassins are wielding vicious-looking, yet ornate weapons. Kurn pulls his own knife and tries to keep them at bay... the fight is brutal and no quarter will be given by either side. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT THREE 35. 37 CONTINUED: (2) Kurn manages to disable one of the assassins, but the other slips under his guard and drives the weapon deep into Kurn's side. Kurn falls to the ground. The assassin twists the weapon viciously and then takes his companion and flees. Kurn is seriously injured and passes out. Linger on his prone form... FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FOUR 36. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 38 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The ship is cruising in orbit. 39 INT. SICKBAY Kurn is lying on the operating table, post op. A MEDICAL SUPERNUMERARY is checking on him using the surgical clamshell. Beverly moves to Worf nearby. Worf's spirits are beginning to sag. BEVERLY What kind of vicious weapon makes a wound like that... ? WORF A kut'luch... the ceremonial weapon of an assassin. BEVERLY Fortunately, his metabolic recovery is phenomenal... he'll be all right... WORF It does not matter. We should have let him die. Beverly reacts with shock, but Worf ignores her look. WORF Now that Duras knows his bloodline, we will both be executed. BEVERLY You sound like you've already lost, Worf. Worf just looks at her, that's how he feels, and EXITS. 40 INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Data, Riker and Geordi are still looking through the Klingon computer files at two science stations. Data calls Riker to join him... STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FOUR 37. 40 CONTINUED: DATA Commander, I have discovered the basis of the charges against Worf's father. They move to look over his shoulder... DATA Apparently the Klingons recently captured a Romulan ship with logs that provided new information on the Khitomer attack. They clearly indicate a transmission from the outpost to the Romulans moments before the shields dropped. GEORDI From Worf's father? DATA (calling something up) It does correspond to Mogh's personal security code. Riker and Geordi frown. RIKER How can we be sure these records haven't been falsified? GEORDI We can cross check them against the Intrepid's sensor logs... DATA (operating controls) I will try... but the Intrepid was at the edge of sensor range during the attack and we cannot be sure if the scans are complete. Data works the console and the screen shows the resulting information. GEORDI Looks like a pretty good match-up, Data... INTERCUT: STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/10/90 - ACT FOUR 38. 40A THE MONITOR (OPTICAL) shows a split screen of parallel lines scrolling with various coded signals displayed (Okudagrams). Both sides match exactly. DATA Both the Intrepid and Romulan logs show a series of distress signals from Khitomer... When gaps appear on the left split screen... RIKER What happens here... GEORDI Gaps in the Intrepid logs, missing information because of the range... Data pauses the scroll. DATA This is where Mogh's alleged transmission should be. RIKER (frowns) Right in the middle of a gap. GEORDI Wait a second, Data. Back up. Geordi leans in and presses a few panels... GEORDI Look at this... just before the Intrepid gap begins, the timebase of both files are in perfect sync... but look at the signals just after the shields dropped. Now on the monitor, the split screens clearly don't match. DATA They are no longer synchronous. GEORDI Commander, somebody's been rewriting history. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FOUR 39. 40A CONTINUED: Off Riker's reaction...... 41 thru OMITTED 44 45 INT. READY ROOM Picard and Worf. Picard is quite animated. PICARD I will not pretend to fully understand the nuances of your world's law or culture, Mister Worf. But I do understand when somebody is trying to hide something... WORF (considering this) K'mpec urged me to drop my challenge, abandon my family honor... it was impossible to believe I was hearing a Klingon speak... PICARD Obviously, they did not expect and never wanted this challenge... you're getting close to something, Lieutenant... something they care a great deal about protecting... WORF If it is true, it is not just Duras but the High Council itself that is my enemy. (beat) Captain, I must choose a new cha'DIch. I would like your permission to ask a member of the crew. PICARD Of course, Lieutenant. Ask whomever you wish. Worf hesitates, not sure what Picard's reaction will be. Picard waits for him to go on. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FOUR 39A. 45 CONTINUED: WORF Sir, I would ask that you stand with me. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FOUR 40. 45 CONTINUED: (2) Picard reacts, very surprised. WORF (quickly) You may refuse... with no dishonor. PICARD I appreciate the gesture, Lieutenant. But I know there are stronger, younger men from which to choose... This is a difficult moment for Worf. He must actually voice some of his inner feelings and motivations, and it doesn't come easily. WORF A Klingon warrior knows that brute strength is not the most important asset in a fight. I have served under you in many conflicts... and know you to be a shrewd and forceful opponent. I can think of no one I would rather have at my side. Picard is moved by this expression of admiration by his officer. There is a brief pause. Picard walks over to Worf, looks him in the eye. PICARD (perfectly pronounced) jIlajneS. ghIj qet jaghmeyjaj. I accept. Worf straightens up and his face again hardens with determination. 46 INT. GREAT HALL Duras is standing in a cul de sac, talking with the two assassins seen earlier. 47 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL) The council ENTERS and sits in session. Picard and Worf BEAM IN. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FOUR 41. 47 CONTINUED: Duras reacts to them and moves away from the assassins. Worf moves forward to address the council and Duras. WORF (to Hall) My challenge will proceed. No threat, no treachery will stop it. (to Duras) Not even a trap for my cha'DIch set by a coward. Duras boils over and moves forward. K'MPEC (warning) Duras... DURAS I will not listen to this filth from the son of a traitor... Picard moves quickly in front of Worf in a defensive move and Duras is brought up short by this unexpected action. Duras is dumbfounded, and unsure just what the hell Picard thinks he's doing. DURAS Keep your place, Picard! PICARD This is my place. WORF He is now my cha'DIch. The crowd REACTS to this news. Duras is outraged. DURAS (to K'mpec) No! This cannot be allowed. (to Picard) This is not your world, human. You do not command here. PICARD I am not here to command. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FOUR 41A. 47 CONTINUED: (2) DURAS Then you must be ready to fight... something that Starfleet doesn't teach you. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/7/90 - ACT FOUR 42. 47 CONTINUED: (2) Picard confronts Duras directly. He's not taking any crap from this guy. Picard's voice is low and deadly. PICARD You may test that assumption... at your convenience. Duras's eyes narrow and they stand toe to toe for a few seconds before K'mpec intervenes. K'MPEC The cha'DIch is accepted. DURAS No! Duras has stepped over the line and K'mpec's tone calls him on it. K'MPEC You challenge my authority? Duras looks chastened at K'mpec, backs down. Picard gives Worf a look: "How was that?" Worf nods his head in approval. K'mpec motions to the guard, who then brings over a ceremonial scabbard and sword identical to the one that was given to Kurn. K'MPEC Mek'ba will begin. 48 thru OMITTED 49 50 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Riker, Data, Wesley, Geordi... Beverly ENTERS... BEVERLY I've got something... She moves to a science station, sits at a position... calling up a file... Riker joins her... BEVERLY Worf was not the only survivor of the Khitomer massacre. RIKER Another child? STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FOUR 43. 50 CONTINUED: BEVERLY No. A Klingon woman was found with Worf. The file is on the screen. RIKER Kahlest... who was she? BEVERLY I don't know. Just says here she had severe injuries... transferred to Starbase twenty-four for treatment. That's when she was separated from Worf. After she recovered, she returned home. RIKER We've got to find her if she's still alive. Data, scan the Klingon central net... see if there's any record of her... As Data goes to work... 51 thru OMITTED 52 53 INT. GREAT HALL Duras is at the apex of the insignia on the floor, addressing the entire hall. There is much noise and frequent interruptions by angry reactions. DURAS ... The Romulans lowered the outpost shields themselves. They were given the defense access code! The records clearly show the Romulan patrol ships receiving a personal transmission from Mogh just before they lowered the outpost shields. Mogh betrayed us. Four thousand Klingons died on Khitomer... and only the son of Mogh survived. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/10/90 - ACT FOUR 44. 53A OMITTED 53B ON PICARD His com badge BEEPS. RIKER'S COM VOICE Riker to Captain Picard. PICARD (hits com badge) Stand by. Picard moves over to a cul de sac in the Hall. Duras continues his presentation in the b.g. DURAS The Khitomer commander noted in his log that Mogh had been acting suspiciously... that he was often away from his post for long periods of time. The commander found that Mogh was sending coded neutrino pulses to a sector within Romulan territory. A formal charge would have been made, but Mogh betrayed them and thousands were killed. Over the above -- PICARD (sotto voce) Go ahead, Number One. INTERCUT: 54 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Riker standing near science station. RIKER We've located another survivor of the Khitomer massacre, Captain... a woman who was found with Worf. Her name is Kahlest... she resides in the Old Quarter of the First City. PICARD Well done. Picard out. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FOUR 44A. 54A NEW ANGLE including Worf and the council. Duras is still going through his evidence. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FOUR 45. 54A CONTINUED: DURAS ... another witness has testified that Mogh often spoke of his admiration for the Romulans... Their culture... their women. Jeers from the crowd. PICARD K'mpec. K'mpec nods to Picard. PICARD May we have a... short recess? K'MPEC (nods) Len'mat. (recess) Picard and Worf move off to one side. PICARD Have you heard of a woman named Kahlest? WORF She was my ghojmoK... my nurse. PICARD Then it's possible she was an eyewitness to your father's activities at Khitomer... WORF But she died in the attack--- PICARD She survived. She's living in the Old Quarter. I'm going to find her. WORF It is too dangerous. You cannot go alone. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/7/90 - ACT FOUR 46. 54A CONTINUED: (2) PICARD I am your cha'DIch. Worf knows he's right and nods in agreement. Picard EXITS. 55 ANGLE ON DURAS who is watching Worf and Picard from a hidden vantage. The two assassins stand behind Duras. As Duras leans over and whispers to the two assassins... FADE OUT. END OF ACT FOUR STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - 1/5/90 - ACT FIVE 47. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 56 EXT OLD CITY STREET A narrow, gloomy street in the oldest section of the capital city. A hooded figure in a cape moves down the street. The figure stops in front of a simple door, above which is a unique symbol (possibly a bigger representation of the emblem worn on Worf's sash?). 56A ON PICARD as he moves the hood enough so we can see him. He looks around and then sounds the door CHIME. After a few seconds, the door slides aside and Picard goes in. CUT TO: 57 INT. KLINGON HOME Picard ENTERS from the street. The home is small, yet comfortable. The furnishings should be in contrast to the martial decor of the rest of the planet... this is the home of an old woman with no need to proclaim power or strength. Picard looks around for a few seconds, lets his eyes adjust to the dimmer light. PICARD Kahlest? KAHLEST moves in the shadows. She does not step into the light yet, but answers from the safety of the darkness. KAHLEST What do you want? PICARD (toward direction of voice) Your help. KAHLEST No. Kahlest moves out of the shadows and we can see that she is quite old by Klingon standards. She barely looks at Picard as they talk. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FIVE 48. 57 CONTINUED: PICARD You don't even know what I want. KAHLEST You are cha'Dich. I know. PICARD Then you know that Worf's life is at stake. KAHLEST I cannot help. I am dead. (a whisper) A long time dead. PICARD Were you with Worf's father just before the attack on Khitomer? The the mention of Khitomer, Kahlest moves away from Picard and her face becomes even more tired and haggard. Her eyes are haunted. KAHLEST (vehemently) I am dead! (beat) My... life ended on Khitomer. I served a proud family... a strong house. All that is gone. PICARD Worf is not gone, Kahlest. The family you served needs you again. KAHLEST I cannot help. PICARD (quietly) Was his father a traitor? KAHLEST (defensively) No! (proudly) Mogh was loyal... to the emperor. Mogh suspected someone of plotting with the Romulans and followed them to Khitomer. Hope rising -- STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FIVE 49. 57 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Who? Who was the traitor? KAHLEST I do not know. Disappointment. A beat. Thinking... PICARD We know a signal was sent to the Romulans just before the attack... if you were with Mogh and his family... KAHLEST I was not. I was with Worf only. PICARD (sighs, concluding) Then, there is no way to prove Mogh's innocence, and Worf will die as the son of a traitor. KAHLEST You must leave, cha'DIch. I am dead. Picard cannot think of anything else, EXITS. 58 EXT. OLD CITY STREET Picard has left the house and is heading back up the street when the two assassins suddenly burst out of a recess in the wall and attack Picard. They are wielding the same ornate weapons seen earlier. Picard is not the easy mark they had taken him for, however. The captain is able to move out of the way before they can land a blow on him. He brings Assassin #1 to the ground by whipping off his cape and throwing it with a flourish in Assassin #1's face. Assassin #2 lunges forward with his weapon, but Picard has now pulled his own ceremonial sword and parries the thrust. Assassin #2 makes a hard thrust. Picard grabs the Klingon's hand and falls backward, yanking the Klingon off balance and bringing them both down. Picard holds his own sword steady and the Klingon falls directly on the point as he falls on top of Picard. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/15/90 - ACT FIVE 50. 58 CONTINUED: Assassin #1 is back on his feet and prepares to kill Picard as he's trapped under the fallen Klingon... when he suddenly grimaces in pain... as he falls we can see a knife sticking out of his back. 59 ON KAHLEST standing in her doorway watching. 60 NEW ANGLE including Picard and the Klingons. The first assassin is lying on the ground with knife that Kahlest had thrown sticking out of his back. Picard gets up and rubs his shoulder. PICARD My appreciation, madam. KAHLEST You are brave, cha'DIch. Worf chose well. Lessons hold. She starts to return inside. Picard gets an idea. PICARD Kahlest, would they know who you are? Would they recognize you? She pauses. KAHLEST K'mpec would remember Kahlest. I caught his eye back then. I had many suitors once. He wanted seloh (sex) with me. He was too fat. PICARD Then, come back with me. They do not know how much you know. Perhaps it will shake loose the truth. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/15/90 - ACT FIVE 51. 60 CONTINUED: Kahlest considers a beat... nods. KAHLEST I will come. As Picard begins to hope again... they move past the fallen Klingons and... 61 INT. GREAT HALL As before. Duras is finishing his presentation of evidence. DURAS The mek'ba is complete. The evidence is clear. I ask that the judgment stand... and that Worf be condemned as the son of a traitor to the Empire. The crowd growls in agreement. Worf shows no reaction. K'MPEC Worf, son of Mogh... K'mpec trails off as he notices something happening in the hall. 62 NEW ANGLE Someone is making their way through the crowd to the Council... Picard and Kahlest finally step forward. Worf reacts to the sight of the woman from his childhood. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FIVE 52. 62 CONTINUED: K'MPEC tam (Be quiet!) The crowd settles down and Picard and Kahlest move onto the insignia with Worf. K'mpec and Kahlest clearly know each other. Duras looks at K'mpec -- what the hell is this? K'mpec knows he has a problem. PICARD The mek'ba is not complete. I bring an eyewitness to the Khitomer massacre... with new evidence, K'mpec. K'mpec struggles a beat with how to handle this... KAHLEST Mogh was innocent. There is no way K'mpec is going to let her continue. He gruffly calls a recess. K'MPEC Len'mat. The crowd begins to buzz with confusion. The council breaks up and K'mpec indicates that Picard, Worf and Kahlest should follow him. Duras goes with them toward a side door. 63 INT. K'MPEC'S CHAMBERS A small, private room with a few decorations and furnishings. It is the Klingon version of a judge's chambers. K'mpec, Duras, Picard, Worf, and Kahlest ENTER. DURAS What is it you think you know, old woman? PICARD (to Kahlest) Do not answer. (to K'mpec) Rules of the mek'ba require that her evidence be presented in open council. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FIVE 52A. 63 CONTINUED: DURAS (to Kahlest) You will die before giving evidence. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/15/90 - ACT FIVE 53. 63 CONTINUED: (2) KAHLEST (to K'mpec) You stand there while this patahk threatens an old woman? K'mpec realizes that things have gone too far and there is no alternative. K'MPEC (to Duras) Be silent, Duras. Would you kill old women to cover your dishonor? And Duras backs away... and Picard realizes he has the lead he needs. Pulling the string... PICARD Yes, Duras, it is your dishonor we are protecting here, isn't it? DURAS I have no reluctance to kill you, human. PICARD Are you prepared to hear her evidence in open council, Duras? Duras glares at K'mpec... who hates all of this. K'MPEC Obviously, we are not. Kahlest, you will go now. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FIVE 53A. 63 CONTINUED: (3) She acknowledges... at the door -- STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FIVE 54. 63 CONTINUED: (4) K'MPEC It is good to see you again. KAHLEST You are still fat, K'mpec. And with a brief twinkle in her for Picard, she EXITS. K'mpec regards Worf with regret. Shakes his head. K'MPEC I asked you to leave, to let this judgment go unanswered... but you did not hear my words, and now it has come to this. WORF Why did you judge my father guilty when you knew he was not? K'MPEC (apologetic) Someone had to be blamed. The warriors who captured the Romulan ship had learned of the treachery. But only the council knew whose security code had been transmitted. Ja'rod, father of Duras. WORF (indicates Duras) This Ha'DIbaH (animal) should have been fed to the dogs! K'MPEC His family is powerful. If the truth were known, it would shatter the council... almost certainly plunge us into civil war. (looks at Worf) You were in Starfleet... we did not expect you to challenge the judgment. Nor did we know that there was another son of Mogh. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/15/90 - ACT FIVE 55. 63 CONTINUED: (5) PICARD Worf's challenge is successful. His family honor must be restored, K'mpec. K'MPEC (regret) You don't understand. His challenge was defeated before he ever made it. You will not be allowed to present this evidence. The judgment will stand and you will be condemned... as will your brother. PICARD You admit the truth and still expect him to accept punishment. What does this say of an empire that holds honor so dear? K'MPEC The empire will not be destroyed for one family's honor. PICARD This is unacceptable, K'mpec. DURAS You have no say in this, cha'DIch! PICARD I speak now as the captain of the USS Enterprise and Lieutenant Worf's commanding officer. You will not execute a member of my crew, sir. Nor will I turn his brother over to you. K'MPEC You risk much. This is not the Federation, Picard. If you defy the orders of the High Council in an affair of the empire, the alliance with the Federation could fall to dust. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FIVE 56. 63 CONTINUED: (6) PICARD The alliance with the Federation is not based on lies! Protect your secrets if you must, but do not sacrifice these men. DURAS A true Klingon will not run from his judgment, Captain. No matter what you would have them do. K'MPEC What will you do with Kurn? Make him a Starfleet officer? He is a Klingon. When his tour aboard your ship is complete he will have no place to go. He would rather die. WORF I will die for the empire. PICARD Lieutenant... Worf gives him a hard look -- WORF The cha'DIch will be silent. Picard blinks, shuts up. WORF Allow my brother to return to his life. Only you need know his true bloodline. DURAS Not acceptable. His honor would demand revenge. He is too dangerous. WORF If you allow him to live, I will give you something that will serve your purpose far more than my death. I will accept... discommendation. K'mpec and Duras exchange a glance -- this is pretty good for them. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FIVE 57. 63 CONTINUED: (7) DURAS You would do this in open council? Worf acknowledges. K'MPEC It would be the same as admitting your father's guilt, Worf. WORF So be it. K'MPEC (with respect) Your heart is Klingon. It will be done. (to others) What has been said here will never be spoken of again. Worf steps to Duras... one last thing to do. WORF You... are the son of a traitor. And he slaps Duras just as hard as Duras hit him earlier. Duras burns with the shame of it. WORF I am ready. 64 INT. GREAT HALL (OPTICAL) Picard is waiting off to one side for something. The transporter EFFECT begins and Kurn beams in along with a MEDICAL SUPERNUMERARY who is helping him. Kurn is recovering from his injuries, but is still a little unsteady on his feet. KURN (to supernumerary) Enough! I will stand alone in the hall. Picard nods to the ensign and Kurn steps forward on his own. He and Picard move slowly toward the other end of the hall. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/8/90 - ACT FIVE 58. 64 CONTINUED: KURN Why is he doing this? I was ready to die. PICARD Worf wants you to live... the name of your father must someday be cleared. He needs you alive... with your honor intact. KURN But to do this... PICARD There will be another day, Commander. Do not forget what he does here today... do not let your children forget. Kurn nods in agreement and they go through the crowd. 64A NEW ANGLE The council in session. Worf facing them as Picard and Kurn move to stand on either side of him. K'mpec faces Worf. WORF tlhIH ghIj jIHyoj. (I fear your judgment) K'MPEC biHnuch (Coward) The crowd REACTS with disgust. The council rises as one and turn their backs on Worf. The assembled crowd does the same. Worf turns to Kurn. WORF You must also... KURN (beat, then sotto voce) May you stand here again someday and roar over the fallen bodies of your enemies. WORF We will stand together... (sotto) ...brother. STAR TREK: "Sins of the Father" - REV. 1/9/90 - ACT FIVE 59. 64A CONTINUED: They share a moment of silent promise, then Kurn reluctantly turns his back on his brother. Picard moves to Worf and they walk side by side, heads held high through the crowd and EXIT. The double doors close behind with a LOUD CLANG as we... 65 OMITTED FADE OUT. END OF ACT FIVE THE END