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Scanned PDF page 1
STAR TREK II
Pages 1 thru 86 revised, at which
time (July 11) RF informed me that Gene Roddenberry
he had not had the authority to June 30, 1975
order revisions.
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STAR TREK II
FADE IN:
EXT. PLANET VULCAN
CAMERA TRAVELING across the desolate, wind-ripped, sacred
mountains of Gol. An unearthly landscape, above which we
see the red-hued Vulcan sky. Then, descending lower...
the sound of the wind shrilling through strange, knife-
edged rock formations. We pass through contrails of rad
dust where the terrible force of the wind rips deep into
fissures of volcanic ash.
Still lower...ahead a pillar of wind-lashed geothermal
steam. We pass the ruins of a great and incredibly
‘ancient temple structure. Then other ruins, graceful,
timeless. in a land which reckons its past in thousands of
centuries.
EXT. THE ABODE. OF THE MASTERS
CAMERA DESCENDING into the most ancient, most revered
place in all Vulcan. Only the Masters, the greatest of
Vulcan's teachers, come here at the end of their life to
end their.days in meditation. To preserve the wisdom
accumulated here, a few pupils are permitted to meditate
and, if found worthy, will be permitted to absorb their
thoughts in Vulcan mind-meld with the Masters.
CAMERA IS CENTERING AND-MOVING IN on just such a pupil now.
SPOCK
Emaciated, ribs protruding, sitting clad in a remnant of
loin wrapping, unkept hair grown past his shoulders, his
eyes hypnotically fixed and unseeing. Unbathed, he seems
a shocking version of the half-human Vulcan we once knew as
second in command of the starship Enterprise. The Abode
Master PAI-AD stops and looks down at him. By Earth
measurements, this Master would be over three hundred years
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2.
old, and even by Vulcan standards, he is near the end of his
existence.
PAI-AD
Spock.
Spock slowly becomes aware that someone is addressing him.
When he looks up, he is startled to see the ancient Master
standing there.
WIDER ANGLE
Eight other Vulcan Masters approach too, each almost as
old as Pai-ad, each as distinguished and individualistic.
The very look of them-as well as Spock's awe should leave
no doubt but that we are seeing an extraordinary gathering of
the greatest minds of this ancient planet.
PAI-AD
We will use the tongue
of your mother parent.
It takes a moment's concentration for Spock to remember
how to form words in the human language. His words have
the dry rasp of one long unaccustomed to any speech, and
to a bare minimum of food or water.
SPOCK
A mere student greets the
nine who have achieved.
The others move in, watching as the Master lowers himself
to the volcanic ash in front of Spock, sits examining his
face curiously.
PAI-AD
Did you think to cast
out the human within
yourself? You have not.
SPOCK
Then, I am nothing,
Pai-ad. I cannot exist
in two halves.
PAI-AD
Your halves are
needed, Spock. Move
your thoughts with
me to Earth.
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Pai-ad reaches out, cupping his hands against Spock's
temples: Spock, surprised, realizes the Master is offering
mind-meld. He reaches out, takes the old man's temples in
his own hands. Their eyes close. Then, Spock starts, begins
Slowly to tremble.
SPOCK
Pai-ad...Master...
there is a mind there,
opening to us...
PAI-AD
Because it thinks of
you. You called him
Captain...and friend...
SPOCK
What approaches him?
What else is there? Evil...
good...is it both, Pai-ad?
No, it is neither...it is
more...
(shouts)
Jim! Do not listen to
it!
PAI-AD
You are needed there,
Spock.
CAMERA MOVES INTO ECU onto Spock's face as he opens his eyes,
beginning to reflect horror at what his mind sees:
SPOCK
[Friend] Jim! It is beyond
your understanding!
Do not listen to it!
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ECU on an eye pupil only, the color flecks exploding into
the pinpoints of a stellar nebula. And we're in vastness
of space, the stars and galaxies of the universe extending
into infinity beyond as we go to TITLES:
STAR TREK II
FADE OUT:
FADE IN:
EXT. ORBITAL SPACE - ANGLE ON EARTH -- DAY
A magnificent view of blue-tinged, cloud-patterned Earth
about 400 miles below, the North American-Pacific area
Filling most of the frame.
A gleaming pinpoint of light directly between us and Earth.
Moving rapidly toward us, it translates into the hull of
a small Starfleet command shuttlecraft. We see the blast
of its decelerating jets as it passes us close.
ANGLE ON THE SHUTTLECRAFPT
Glowing, headed toward the spectacular panorama of the
orbital San Francisco Naval Yards, the living and recreation
facilities, the complex of repair and storage facilities,
engineering plants, solar generators, and the various repair
and transport vehicles of the starship construction and
repair. In FOREGROUND, dominating everything else is the
familiar, immense form of the U.S.S. Enterprise in the midst
of being renovated. Its command (saucer) hull is detached
from the warp drive secondary hull: Areas of the starshinp's
engineering section and warp engines have been stripped open
for the installation of new equipment. We can see automated
repair vehicles and the flashes of laserweld equipment at
work. Dockyard vehicles shuttle between the Enterprise and
the various facilities.
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KIRK'S VOICE OVER
Earthyear 2231.71. Personal
log, James T. Kirk, Rear
Admiral, commanding San
Francisco Naval Yards. The
redesign of the U.S.S Enterprise
continues on schedule with
the starship now ready for
refueling.
TRAVELING WITH SHUTTLE -- TOWARD ENTERPRISE
Using ANGLES which emphasize the enormous size of the [U.S.S.
Enterprise] as it looms larger, larger. Through the forward
window of the shuttlecraft, we can make out the tiny figure
of a Helmsman, further dramatizing the massiveness of the
Enterprise. The side of the port nacelle of the starship's
.warp drive is open, awaiting delivery and insertion of its
anti-matter fuel.
KIRK'S VOICE OVER
Although the improved,
new warp engines reguire
an unprecedented amount of
anti-matter, the delivery
of those pods in their
magnetic-field carrier is
now considered a routine.
procedure.
ANGLE INCLUDING ANTI-MATTER CARRIER
The most unusual-looking of all orbital vehicles -- the
anti-matter carrier which is being carefully guided by
three orbitugs toward the starship's open engine-nacelle.
Though smaller than the Enterprise, the anti-matter carrier
Still dwarfs the small orbitugs and shuttlecraft. Its main
body is a hollow series of huge concentric magnarings,
glowing with power. Floating inside the magnetic field of
these rings, the pods of anti-matter fuel -- writhing, flashing
shapes of kaleidescopic color, pattern, and blackness
suggesting the fury of imprisoned alien mass completely
opposite to everything around it.
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KIRK'S VOICE OVER
As was theorized by
Einstein three centuries
ago, the annihilation of
matter by contact with
anti-matter is the greatest
energy source in [the universe.]
It seems incredible that we
now handle such power almost
as casually as our ancestors
once gathered firewood. I
find it hard to ignore the
feeling that we are approaching
the millennium...that the.
universe is, at last, coming
within our understanding.
INT. COMMAND SHUTTLE
Rear Admiral JAMES T. KIRK watching as Lieutenant Commander
CHEKOV maneuvers the shuttle to hover a hundred meters
away from where the orbitugs are maneuvering the anti-matter
carrier toward the Enterprise. Through the shuttlecraft's
broad forward port, the immense bulk of the Enterprise
dominates everything. The interior of the shuttle is small
compared to a starship bridge, consists mainly of helm and
communications positions, a computer station with hooded
viewer. At the rear of the cabin is a small, two-position
transporter chamber. Other shuttle personnel are First
Officer MAXINE PEROT at the helm and a Communications Officer
ICAL, a native of another Federation planet. From his
communications panel we can hear the radio CHATTER of tug
and Enterprise personnel who are aligning the anti-matter
carrier into position.
ICAL
Alignment complete,
Commander.
CHEKOV
{to Kirk)
Commence refueling,
Admiral?
CAMERA CENTERS on Kirk who has suddenly begun to frown, a
puzzled expression playing over his face.
KIRK
Save what ship?
CHEKOV
Sir?
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KIRK
That's strange. I
thought I heard Spock's
voice. [Or], Did you say
something was “beyond my
understanding?”
CHEKOV
No sir. I asked if: you
want to give the refueling
order.
A puzzled Kirk [nods]. [moves to the computer screen which is
flickering through a sucession of headings, trigonmetrical
symbols and numbers which give the relative positions of
the antimatter carrier, the Enterprise engine nacelle,
and the status of the various forcefield screens.
KIRK
Begin positioning anti-
matter pods.
CHEKOV
(to Ical)
Commence refueling.
EXT. ORBITAL SPACE -- AT ENTERPRISE ENGINE NACELLE
The orbitugs carefully maneuvering the anti-matter carrier
in closer. From the open Enterprise nacelle we begin to see
the flickers of dim (ANIMATED) forcefield beams interlocking
and beginning a precision guidance of the carrier into final
approacn.
INT. COMMAND SHUTTLE
As they observe. Chekov turns to Kirk:
CHEKOV
It's not surprising you'd
think of Spock at a time
like this, sir.
(indicates toward
Enterprise)
Like the old days, being up
here with her again.
KIRK
(nods)
Seems long ago, Mister
Chekov.
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CHEKOV
I don't know how you kept
your temper with me.
(grins)
If I had a raw ensign like
that, so totally ignorant and
so certain he knew everything
about everything...
(snaps)
Watch your laterals, Perot.
LT. PEROT
Aye, Commander.
Kirk is amused.
CHEKOV
How does it feel for you, sir?
The Enterprise about ready
to go out again...under a new
captain?
Suddenly, Kirk isn't amused at all. The thought comes near
getting under his skin and Chekov realizes it was a foolish
question. This is interrupted by a signal heard from the
communications, station. Communications Officer Ical turns
to Kirk, speaking in his strangely pitched alien voice:
ICAL
Subspace message...
starship frequence...
coming from relative
close in.
(checking instruments)
But unusual interference
of some nature...
Chekov has crossed quickly to the command shuttle''s computer
station, taking a reading.
CHEKOV
Have it on the sensors.
Ident-signal...United
Spaceship Potemkin.
(reacts ata
reading)
Admiral! There's
another object out there
too...
Kirk has moved over to check the readouts with Chekov.
ICAL
(overlapping)
Potemkin's signal is
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CHEKOV
(overlapping)
An Object appeared there
for Jugt an instant, sir.
A thousand times the size
of the Potemkin.
KIRK
You're scanning the asteroid
belt region, Commander...
CHEKOV
That was no asteroid, sir...
ICAL
(overlapping)
I have Potemkin on audio,
Admiral. Switching.
U.S.S POTEMKIN VOICE
{through static)
...Object reads to be...
sensors must be off...size
can't be possible....and then
it isn't there. If it's a
vessel...appears and disappears
....like not always in our
time and space....
CHEKOV
Locking in visual!
Aim antennas.
Chekov has achieved a flickering image on the main viewing
screen. Then it becomes a LONGSHOT of the Starship U.S.S
Potemkin.
As the antennas lock in, the message clears.
U.S.S. POTEMAIN VOICE
...an attack of some kind,
aimed precisely at...
KIRK
(interrupting)
U.S.S Potemkin from San
Francisco orbital command.
We're receiving you now.
Repeat message.
U.S.S. POTEMKIN VOTCE
Potemkin here. We were
investigating unusual sensor
readings inside Jupiter orbit
when a large Object seemed
(CONTINUED)
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10.
U.S.S. POTEMKIN VOICE (CONT'D)
to blink into existence
here. Repeating...an extremely
large object suddenly appeared
for just an instant, sending out
an intense gravitational field.
A slingshot effect...yanking
a large cluster of asteroids
out of the belt and whipping
them precisely in your direction.
Are you receiving this?
KIRK
(to Chekov)
Request lunar tracking to
confirm any asteroids heading
our way.
(into microphone)
This is orbital command,
Potemkin. Describe sensor
readings on Object.
U.S.S. POTEMKIN VOICE
Sensors showed nothing we
can understand. But there
has to be intelligence
behind it. The asteroids have
been aimed at your dockyards
as precisely as ranging a
laser beam at you...
(breaks off;
alarmed)
Object has reappeared! If
you've got us on your screen...
The subspace radio message breaks up into high pitched
squealing static.
CHEKOV
Sir!
He's pointing at the viewing screen where we see an Object
which has suddenly appeared, bearing down on the image of
the Potemkin. - Its shape and texture seem to change constantly.
As it approaches the starship its enormous size begins to
become apparent. Chekov has whirled back to computer
readouts, calls out rapidly:
CHEKOV
Object is on interception
course with them!
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11.
On the main viewing screen, the enormous Object begins to
dwarf the Potemkin as it bears down on the starship. Then,
we see the Potemkin firing photon torpedoes, white globules
of intense light-energy.
KIRK
Photon torpedoes. The
Potemkin's firing at it...
CHEKOV
Trying to force it
to veer off.
The torpedoes seem to drift slowly across the rapidly
diminishing distance...then the first soread of torpedoes
disappears into the Object, absorbed comoletely by it.
Then as the secona spread of torpedoes are swallowed up
harmlessly too, the incredible mass is upon the starshin.
The U.S.S. Potemkin disappears in a flash of light, crushed
by the unidentified thing which now sweeps past the
viewing screen and is gone.
CHEKOV
The Potemkin's gone...
Squashed like a bug.
ICAL
Lunar tracking station
confirms asteroids, Admiral.
Headed our position. Mass
seven; impact estimated
in 2.13 hours.
KIRK
(alarmed)
Mass seven!?
CHEKOV
Have them on our sensors
now. My God...!
Kirk moves quickly to the computer where an equally alarmed
Chekov is peering into the hooded viewer. He steps aside
for Kirk to have a look.
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12.
CHEKOV
Hundreds of them! They'll
miss Earth. But in two
hours, there's no time
to move this base out o£
their path.
(to Ical)
Stand by to order evacuation...
KIRK
(interrupting)
Negative on that! Have
orbitugs suspend refueling.
They'll be taking the fuel
carrier out toward asteroids.
(to Chekov)
We're enough anti-matter
here to vaporize a dozen
times that asteroid mass.
Plot an interception course.
ICAL
_ (overlapping)
Starfleet message!
Commariding Admiral on
security frequency.
Communications Officer Ical adjusts his controls and the
image of ADMIRAL ALVAREZ comes on the main viewing screen.
Trim and young-looking for his years, appearing in every
way a sharp professional, he is sitting alone in his office.
Kirk turns to the image:
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13.
KIRK
Dockyard Command suspending
refueling operations, sir.
Potemkin has reported
asteroids headed our...
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
I have full-reports on them
and the Potemkin's destruction.
You're to stand by, take no
action.
KIRK
(surprised; then)
Sir, respectfully submitting
it is imperative to have our
tugs put the anti-matter on
an immediate interception
course with the incoming
asteroids. If we move now, our
anti-matter fuel will impact and
destroy them at a safe distance.
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
Permission denied. You are
not, repeat, not to use the
anti-matter in an interception
attempt... You. are to take no
action whatever!
Kirk is nonplussed. The commanding admiral's attitude makes
no sense to him at all.
KIRK
I'm sorry, sir, I just can't
accept that unless Starfleet
has some alternative plan in
action.
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
James, are you suggesting
we defy the clearly expressed
will of God?
Kirk stares at the image on the screen. The Admiral's
appearance and voice are normal enough.
KIRK
I'm afraid I don't
understand the reference
to "God," sir...
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ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
And I find it hard to
understand your density, Kirk.
You saw Him destroy the Potemkin
for attempting to interfere with
His will.
Except for Perot, the others on the small command shuttle:
bridge are frozen almost into disbelieving immobility by
what they've been hearing.
KIRK
Sir, under Command Article
Eleven, I am respectfully ©
appealing your decision and
requesting immediate Starfleet
staff ruling on...
ADMIRAL ALVARES
(overlapping)
How unfortunate you're
unable to understand this,
Kirk.I'm afraid I must
order you to place yourself
under arrest and return to
this headquarters immediately.
Who's in command of your
shuttle there, please?
Chekov moves to stand next to Kirk.
CHEKOV
Lieutenant Commander
Chekov here, sir.
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
Do you understand what is
happening, Commander?
Chekov fights to hold his features expressionless.
CHEKOV
I think so. Yes, sir.
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
Then, you've heard my
orders. Starfleet Command,
out.
The viewing screen goes blank. Chekov turns to Kirk.
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15.
CHEKOV
He's gone crazy.
KIRK
I hope it's that simple.
(to Perot and Ical)
We're disregarding Starfleet
orders. The responsibility
is totally mine.
(to Chekov)
Give orbitugs interception
course with asteroids.
(to Ical)
Stay off all frequencies
that can be monitored fron
Earth. Have tugs begin
moving the fuel carrier out.
EXT. ORBITAL SPACE
The three orbitugs are moving the anti-matter carrier away
from the starship Enterprise. The command shuttle is moving
in to hover nearby.
ANGLE EMPHASIZING ORBITUGS AND ANTI-MATTER CARRIER
The orbitug jets beginning to blast, their tractor beams
pull the huge anti-matter carrier out of the dockyards,
slowly accelerating on a course out into space.
INT. COMMAND SHUTTLE
On the shuttle's viewing screen we see the tugs and anti-
matter carrier moving into space, becoming pinpoints of
light in the distance. Chekov looks up from his computer
viewer.
CHEKOV
Anti-matter carrier on
course.
KIRK
{to Ical)
Signal the tugs to turn
back once they've accelerated
it to warp point five.
(to Chekov)
Anything on the sensors?
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16.
CHEKOV
(checking his viewer)
No sign of any Object out
there now.
(looks up)
Which doesn't make much sense.
If something wanted to destroy
this base, or the Enterprise,
or whatever...why is it
letting us go after the
asteroids?
LT. PEROT
God works in mysterious
ways, Commander.
They whirl toward Perot in surprise, find her with a
strange, transfixed look on her face. Chekov turns back
to Kirk, indicates the main viewing screen.
CHEKOV
Sir...when we first
saw that Object out there,
did any thoughts about "God"
come into your mind?
Kirk is surprised and suddenly very interested. He nods.
KIRK
Yes. I assumed I was
remembering some biblical
quotation. One of those
idle thoughts that pop into
your mind...
CHEKOV
(nods)
...and you shoved it aside.
The exact same thing happened
to me.
LT. PEROT
"Behold, I am the Lord thy
God."
Kirk and Chekov whirl toward her, their expressions revealing
this is the exact thought which had entered their minds.
KIRK
Yes, that was it.
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17.
CHEKOV
I was worried about
myself for a moment. It
didn't leave my mind
easily; I had to fight it.
Lt. Perot suddenly leaves the helm, drops to her knees:
LT. PEROT
Our Father, Who art in
Heaven...
(continues prayer
over the following)
Kirk looks from her back to Chekov:
KIRK
Imposed telepathy.
CHEKOV
Thought emanations?
From whatever that is
out there?
--
KIRK
(nods)
But affecting some minds
more than others.
(turning)
Lieutenant Ical?
ICAL
(shakes head)
I felt nothing. The concept
of God is unknown on my
planet.
KIRK .
Then tell me this...Commander
Chekov and I believe we're
not affected. Does it appear
to you we're acting rationally?
ICAL
Yes, Admiral. It appears
likely your planet is
being attacked. And you
are responding rationally.
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17A.
Kirk makes up his mind, turns to Chekov.
KIRK
Notify Starfleet I’m
beaming down. I want
to see for myself what's
happening there.
ANGLE EMPHASIZING KIRK
As he moves to the small, two-position transporter chamber.
Chekov moves to the transporter controls. Ical looks up
from his communications station.
ICAL
Starfleet acknowledges.
They'll bring you down
from our transporter position
one.
Kirk steps into the first of the two transporter chamber
positions.
LT. PEROT'S VOICE
There'll be a witness
beaming down with you.
Lt. Perot moves INTO SCENE at the transporter, holding a
phaser pistol level at Kirk.
LT. PEROT
You're guilty of blasphemy
and mutiny, Admiral. It's
my duty to tell them exactly
what's happened up here.
The fanaticism in her eyes is obvious. The threat of her
phaser forces Kirk to the other transporter position. Lt.
Perot takes Kirk’s transporter position number one from
which she can cover him and the others with her weapon.
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18.
KIRK
There'll be two to beam
down, Mister Ical. Signal
we're ready.
Kirk and Lt. Perot begin to fade from view in the star
sparkle of the transporter EFFECT.
INT. STARFLEET TRANSPORTER ROOM - ANGLE ON TRANSPORTER CHAMBER
Much larger than the small subshuttle transporter, many
more receiving positions. In the two positions in use, we
see the familiar sparkle and then two human forms
shimmering into view in the transporter EFFECT. But something
is wrong -- the form next to Kirk seems oddly misshaven!
ANOTHER ANGLE - INCLUDING TRANSPORTER ENGINEER
As the problem is seen, the TRANSPORTER ENGINEER tries quickly
to make an adjustment. He shouts into his panel microphone:
TRANSPORTER ENGINEER
Stasis control, cut position
one...!
It''s too late; we can already hear a piercing eerie SCREAM!
ANGLE EMPHASIZING TRANSPORTER POSITIONS
Shock! Next to Kirk's position, the transporting Lt. Perot is
a horrible, writhing mass of misshapen flesh; some of the
skeletal bones and pumping organs on the outside of the “body.”
Only fragments of her uniform have beamed in; we can sée a
twisted, clawlike hand still holding the phaser. The SCREAMS
are coming from a horrible-looking, bleeding mouth somewhere
in the midst of it. Kirk, fuliy solidified now, whirls
helplessly toward the horror next to him.
WIDER ANGLE
To include a handsome Black officer, CAPTAIN HARCOTTE and a
female Asian Officer, CAPTAIN CHING standing next to the
Transporter Engineer. Kirk has whirled in that direction,
throwing himself from the chamber toward the control position.
KIRK
Beam her out!
TRANSPORTER ENGINEER
I'm trying to repattern,
The controls aren't responding!
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19.
By now, Kirk is at the controls too, rapidly manipulating
them with absolutely no effect as SCREAMS continue from the
blob of misshapen flesh at transporter position number one.
The Captains, Harcotte and Ching, watch, unmoving, merely
a resigned and sad expression on their faces. Then, in
B.G., we see the twisted claw-hand move the phaser pistol
it holds -- then a phaser EFFECT, the sudden brilliant
green glow and the horrible thing is gone, disintegrated..
TRANSPORTER ENGINEER
It seemed to be holding
a phaser...
KIRK
She turned it on herself.
Captain Harcotte uses this moment to step in, extend a
hand to Kirk.
HARCOTTE
We're met only once, Admiral.
I'm Captain Harcotte, commanding
admiral's adjutant; this is
Captain Ching...
Kirk is astounded at ‘being offered introductions at a time
like this. He interrupts, making no move to take the
proffered hand.
KIRK
Captain, we've just lost one of
our people. Shuttle helmsman,
Lieutenant Perot!
HARCOTTE
Yes. God used her to beam
in at the transporter position
you were to use. To demonstrate
His presence to you.
CAPTAIN CHING
And remind you that He can be
a God of wrath as well as
of mercy.
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20.
EXT. ORBITAL SPACE - NAVAL YARDS
Again, the panorama of the San Francisco Naval Yards with
the blue-tinged, cloud-patterned Earth 400 miles below.
KIRK'S VOICE OVER
Kirk, J.T., personal log,
supplemental. What was it
we saw? A vessel? An
"entity,” some fantastically
powerful living thing?
An enormous explosion of light far out in space, so great
that the dockyards go white and the entire surface of Earth
reflects the brilliance.
INT. COMMANDING ADMIRAL’S OFFICE - DAY
Empty except for Kirk, Admiral Alvarez, and a record CLERK.
Through the tinted windows we can see the continuing anti-
matter explosion far out in space. The view through the
windows is indistinct, bathed in the brilliant white
reflection of the space explosion.
KIRK'S VOICE OVER
(continuing)
Is it testing us? Or
amusing itself with us?
Whatever it is, one frighten-
ing fact is clear. It is.
centering its attention
on those humans who control
Starfleet, the most powerful
assemblage of vessels and
weaponry in all the known
galaxy.
During which, the brilliance begins to fade, through the
windows we begin to make out a city of the year 2231. (It's
not the sterile, towering cubes of glass and concrete so
often forecast. It is the city of a society which has learned
to exist in harmony with nature. Much more prominent than
buildings are the lakes, waterfalls, vast parklands and century-
old groves of trees.)
EMPHASIZING KIRK
As he turns and faces Alvarez. The Clerk is busy at the
transceiver panel, monitoring reports. From the expression
on Kirk's face, we will gather he's had difficulty believing
what has transpired in this room up until now.
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21.
CLERK
Lunar station reports
asteroids have been
destroyed, sir.
Alvarez nods. There is nothing fanatical in his demeanor
or voice as he turns to Kirk. His tone is kindly; his
attitude is that of patiently trying to understand an
error made by a valued subordinate:
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
The asteroids would
never have harmed us.
They were simply a test
of our faith.
KIRK
May I ask how you know
that so positively, sir?
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
God speaks constantly to
all of us. To all who
would open their minds to
Him.
KIRK
Admiral...on the shuttle,
some of us felt thoughts
which seemed to be forcing
themselves into our minds...
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
He has taken an interest in
you James. He has selected
you to do His work. And since
you've done only what he
intended you to do, your arrest
order is rescinded, of course.
KIRK
Can't you understand how
ridiculous all that is. The
creative force behind our
universe, call it "God" or
whatever, it doesn't go around
appearing, reappearing, changing
its mind, favoring one of us
over another.
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
(amused)
And may I ask how you know
that so positively?
Scanned PDF page 24
22.
The Clerk looks up from the transceiver, reports to
Alvarez.
CLERK
Asteroid destruction has
caused no major damage
or injury, Admiral.
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
Praise God for being
ever merciful.
CLERK
Amen.
Kirk has the expression of a man finding it impossible to
believe his own ears.
KIRK
Admiral, we are being
attacked by something!
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
James! I am an old
friend trying to help you
save yourself! Can't
you even consider the
possibility that despite
all our advances, our
technology, our searches
in space, that our forefathers
were closer to the truth than
ourselves? That there is
a Living God who created us?
KIRK
Who plays with asteroids
like a white-bearded Jehovah
with thunderbolts?
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
Is it so impossible for
God to have ways beyond
your comprehension?
Scanned PDF page 25
KIRK
Who has revealed Himself
to you?
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
Perhaps our universe is
not only stranger than
you believe, James, it may
be stranger than you can
now imagine.
EXT. THE CITY -- ESTABLISHING - DAY
STAR TREK's 23rd century Earth. In no way is this a place
of towering, futuristic skyscrapers so often depicted on
sci-fi magazine covers. What architecture we can see has
become a blend with nature. Commerce and transportation
extend underground rather than upwards, leaving the land
surface to be enjoyed rather than crowded and exploited.
We aim at a feeling that humanity is on the way to achieving
an almost Eden of peace and tranquility. We want to feel
that this life and this level of civilization is too qood
to lose. .
In LONGSHOT, happy children at some kind of lawn-court
game with a huge inflated ball. A courtyard where elder
citizens sit in games and in dialogue with each other. Like the
vegetation, animal life also co-exists here with man --
in the distance, we see a fine herd of grazing deer.
EXT. MALL -- ANGLE ON KIRK - DAY
Kirk, in civilian clothing, moving along the mall. It's
an uncrowded place for enjoyment rather than commerce. The
garb of the people is casual, colorful, highly individualistic,
ranging from Grecian-style robes to tailored form-fitting
attire, from gossamer and almost transparent capes, to
traditional ethnic attire. A large cheetah lays curled up,
napping in the sun. Bright awnings cover a profusion of
untended fruits and vegetables from which an occasional
passerby will freely select what catches his eye, then
continue on his way. A child passes astride an ostrich pet,
exciting no attention. A young couvle bathes their
laughing infant in a fountain. A small group watches an
artist who paints an exquisite picture on an electronic
screen by manipulating a sophisticated keyboard in his lap.
Scanned PDF page 26
24.
EMPHASIZING KIRK
Passing on through the mall. Here and there, small
graceful structures which connect by turbo-elevator with the
more complex city underground. A dour-looking PREACHER
TYPE approaches Kirk:
PREACHER TYPE
He is coming, James.
Kirk is surprised at a stranger knowing his name. Then he
quickens his pace, but the Preacher Type follows:
PREACHER TYPE
He is coming!
KIRK
{over shoulder;
quickly)
I worship my own way.
PREACHER TYPE
Did you think to hide
this meeting from Him?
Just as he knows the
fall of every leaf, he
knows your every word,
your every thought...
The Preacher Type has grabbed Kirk's arm. They’re intercepted
by a woman clad in simple, form-fitting pale blue attire.
Unarmed and unequipped except for a small tricorder-like
device over her shoulder, she is a MEDIATOR, a law and peace
regulator of this society. Her attitude is calm, friendly.
MEDIATOR
May I help, citizens?
Is this disorder or
dialogue?
Delivered almost smilingly, yet with reasoned firmness.
(Like everything else we've seen, we should fervently wish
that police work could some day be done like this.) Kirk says
nothing.
PREACHER TYPE
I verged on disorder,
‘Mediator. Do you wish
my I-card?
MEDIATOR
I serve you. Do you
wish to register this
event?
Scanned PDF page 27
25.
PREACHER TYPE
(shaking his head)
It is ended, Mediator.
Preacher Type moves off. The Mediator has given Kirk a
curious look, and exits too. Kirk turns, starts on his way
and then sees his former Starfleet Nurse, CHRISTINE CHAPEL,
watching him from across the mall. She wears civilian
clothing too, carries a small packet, crosses toward him now.
KIRK
Nurse Chapel...
(corrects himself)
Doctor Chapel now. I'd
forgotten.
Kirk sees that the Preacher Type has turned and is looking
back, watching the two of them talking.
CHAPEL
I suggest you smile,
Admiral.
(extends hand) -
As if we just accidentally
met...Care for a stroll?
Kirk shakes her hand, puts a smile on his face. They begin
walking together.
KIRK
I had a message to
meet Chief of Staff out
here.
CHAPEL
Yes. I'll give you this
packet for him when it's
safe. Fleet medical research
on which minds we believe are
most affected by it, plus
our theories on which can resist
it and why.
KIRK AND CHAPEL - WALKING DOWN MALL
Passing the Preacher Type who watches them pass. Then Kirk
speaks very quietly:
KIRK
I've never seen that man
before. How did he know me?
Scanned PDF page 28
26.
CHAPEL
If we're right, then
whatever that is up there
it probably described you
to him. And right now, it's
probably telling the commanding
admiral exactly where you are
and what you're doing.
KIRK
You said Fleet medical has a
theory on why some are more
affected?
CHAPEL
Mainly those with insecurities,
or some need to welcome
outside help or intervention.
KIRK
Anything else?
CHAPEL
Starship experience seems
to help. Out there, a mind
gets assaulted in so many
ways, it may build up an
immunity, muscles, or mental
callouses against imposed
telepathy.
EXT. LAKESIDE - DAY
Secluded, lovely. In distant background the mall of the city.
Kirk sits with Chief of Staff ADMIRAL WAVELL who is studying
the Fleet medical research packet.
‘KIRK
What are you going to do
about Alvarez?
WAVELL
We can't pull down a
commanding Admiral just
because he believes in God.
KIRK
John, he's being controlled
by something that's attacking us.
Scanned PDF page 29
27.
WAVELL
We'll have to prove
that. And with all the
eyes that thing has watcning us,
that'll take time.
KIRK
Why would it have some
special interest in me?
Assuming Alvarez wasn't
lying about that.
WAVELL
Maybe because you've had
more starship duty than
any man now here at home
base. Alvarez had none;
he was easy. Maybe you're
a challange.
Wavell finishes studying the medical report, puts it aside.
WAVELL
On the other hand, Jim...
suppose Alvarez isn't
wrong about it? Or totally
wrong? Suppose some of
the old religious legends are
right? That there has been
some sort of entity, not
God but so powerful it is
Godlike compared to us...
suppose it's been connected
with humanity since its
beginning...
(hesitates; decides
to say it)
...something so far beyond
our comprehension that it
could actually punish you
through all eternity if you
refused to believe in it?
KIRK
(hesitates, then)
Would I worship it or fight
it?
(nods)
I'd fight anything that
would torture a living creature
that way...
Scanned PDF page 30
28.
WAVELL
Let's hope it isn't
that powerful. Either
way, we think it could
have been after the
Enterprise. We estimate
that its new engines may
produce a forcefield
capable of withstanding
the impact that destroyed
the Potemkin.
KIRK
If so, Alvarez knows that,
which means the Entity does
too, It'll destroy the
Enterprise first.
WAVELL
Could be it reads in Alvarez'
mind that he plans to put a
"Godfearing” captain in
command. If it lets them
complete the work on the
Enterprise...you're going
to take her over. By force
1f necessary.
KIRK
Make a mutiny?
WAVELL
(nods)
I know a crew that'll follow
you. The only one ever brought
back reasonably intact after
five years out there.
KIRK
They're scattered; some
with their own commands now,
some out of service...
WAVELL
All of them, Jim. Tf
there's any possible way
to do it!
Scanned PDF page 31
29.
INT. TURBO CARRIER
We're beneath the surface garden-city, Kirk one of
several passengers in a cab much like the vertical-
horizontal turbo-elevators of the Enterprise but much larger.
It's part of the underground transportation system of the city.
Occasionally, passengers will leave or enter and through
the doors we'll see parts of the incredible subsurface
complex which supports the almost idyllic life of this
century. Then CAMERA MOVES IN ON KIRK as something begins
to happen to him -- he frowns, seems a bit dazed by
whatever it is.
KIRK
{to self)
Spock...?
(holds his head)
Your master...what? Helps
you...tell me...warn
me?
The other passengers on the turbo-carrier eye Kirk a bit
nervously as his knees sag, his face contorts as he tries
to understand something that seems to be trying to enter
his mind. Kirk looks up, hurries to the turbo carrier
controls.
KIRK
Excuse me...must get
to the surface...
The turbo-carrier begins ascending horizontally, rapidly.
Kirk turns back to the passengers:
KIRK
It's all right.
There's something happening...
about to happen...
EXT. THE CITY - SURFACE TURBO CARRIER BUILDING - DAY
We can see the elevator doors snapping open inside the
building and Kirk dashing out onto a mall. As he stops, looks
upward expectantly, CAMERA BRINGS HIM INTO CLOSE SHOT. He
scans the horizon. Then we hear a CRY of alarm, excited
VOICES. Kirk whirls in that direction.
Scanned PDF page 32
KIRK'S POV
Across the lovely surface mall, the Object coming into view
over the-horizon. From the mall all around us we can hear
frightened cries, the excited chatter of others, one distant
shrieking voice. Among the citizens we can see a few who are
taking it as some sort of religious manifestation.
ANGLE ON KIRK
As he looks up toward the mysterious Object just as it
blinks out of existence, then reappears at another point
further over the horizon. New cries of excitement accompany
the change in position. Kirk quickly examines the excitement
happening around him. A Dignified Man lurches heavily past,
Kirk hurries alongside him.
KIRK
Is it saying something
to you?
But the man completely ignores Kirk, continues on.
Kirk starts to turn toward another group of people but then
he notices two aliens from another Federation planet who
stand together watching the Object. These are Phallians.
PHALLIANS
As Kirk moves toward them.
KIRK .
Since your people read
thoughts, friend Phallian...
(indicates Object)
...does this speak to
you?
The Phallian has turned and now eyes Kirk curiously. The
small fanged mouth of the other Phallian puckers into the
WHISTLING SOUND of Phallian speech. The first Phallian
answers in kind, then turns to Kirk and contorts his mouth
in the effort necessary for human language, trilling the
words slowly:
PHALLIAN
It...speaks...not...to
...us. To...humans...only.
KIRK
Can you read what it is
saying to humans?
Scanned PDF page 33
31.
The Phallian turns to the other one for interpretation,
exchangine the WHISTLE SOUNDS. Then it turns back to Kirk
again:
PHALLIAN
It...calls...self...
father. It calls...
you...children...of
father. Your father...
has returned.
On Kirk's reaction, cut to:
INT. STARFLEET SUBSPACE COMMAND - DAY
PAN SHOT of the commanding officer CAPTAIN UHURA on the
floor of the vast installation amidst the considerable
confusion going on. Again, a few of the people in view are
reacting as if to some religious manifestation. But Starfleet
training has kept the others at their posts. A young,
tricorder-carrying ENSIGN is nurrying along at Uhura's side
as a COMMUNICATIONS SECURITY OFFICER enters and Uhura turns
to him, indicating:
UHURA
Get those people off
their knees! Anyone
who's left station,
I want listed.
COMMUNICATIONS SECURITY
Yes, Captain.
During which,Kirk has: entered, calling to Uhura, overlapping
the previous:
KIRK
Captain Uhura...
UHURA
Yes!
(turning;recognizing
him)
I'm sorry, Admiral, I...
KIRK
I need a moment.
UHURA
(distracted)
Now?
Scanned PDF page 34
32.
KIRK
(indicating the
confusion)
I doubt if I could
pick a better time.
Uhura has become finally aware of the message in Kirk's
expression. She nods to the Ensign.
UHURA
That'll be all for
now, Carter.
The Ensign exits; Uhura and Kirk move off together. When
they're clear of being overheard by anyone:
KIRK
I'm going to need you
to use your facilities
here for me. You alone,
closed circuits. First,
I need to get in touch
with Spock. Fast.
UHURA
He's gone. back to Vulcan.
Two years ago...
KIRK
(nods)
You've got to get a
message there, get his
location somehow...
UHURA
(interrupting)
He's disappeared. Not
even the Vulcans know
where.
KIRK
Try! and McCoy...
UHURA
He's refused messages
from us before. You'll
have to go to him.
KIRK
Montgomery Scott?
Scanned PDF page 35
33.
UHURA
(nods)
Fleet Engineering
stays in touch with
him. Same place,
same condition!
KIRK
Damn! All right. Chekov
and Sulu should be no problem
at least. I'll want you to
contact them, set up a
meeting.
UBURA
Do I explain why?
KIRK
I'll tell them when I
tell you. What I'll ask of
you isn't going to be
easy, Captain.
INT. STARFLEET GYMNASIUM - DAY
LONG ANGLE DOWN on two Starfleet personnel occupied in
various athletic conditioning and training. In a FOREGROUND
zero-gravity field, a pair of young officers float in
Simulated combat, propelling themselves with a jet harness
strapped to their bodies. Far down delow, we see Lt.
Commander Chekov crossing the huge gymnasium toward a small
glassed supervisor's office.
INSIDE SUPERVISOR'S OFFICE
As Chekov enters. CAPTAIN SULU is seated near a computer-
transceiver-desk from which he is able to monitor and direct
his Starfleet physical training command. Sulu's chair is
pushed out away from the desk, revealing he is without legs
except for thigh stumps. PROSTHETIC TECHNICIAN is bent over
working on a pair of sophisticated mechanical legs which end
in electronerve attachments for the stumps. The bottom of the
"legs” terminate into normal-looking Academy boots. With
the Technician in the office, Chekov's and Sulu's words are
obviously guarded:
CHEKOV
Captain Sulu.
SULU
Oh yes, Chekov. We had a
paragame scheduled, didn't
we.
Scanned PDF page 36
34.
SULU (CONT'D)
(indicates "legs")
The damned things stopped
working a few minutes ago.
TECHNICIAN
(working the "leg"
mechanisms)
Lateral tension, fine.
Good knee action, toes...
EMPHASIZING TECHNICIAN.
He manipulates the mechanical legs in almost perfect natural
movements. Chekov turns to Sulu, indicating’ outside:
CHEKOV
Since our friend's
probably waiting for us,
T'll go on ahead and...
TECHNICIAN
(interrupting)
Might be better if you
wait and help the Captain here, sir.
In case I don't get these
operating right.
Our ANGLE on Technician lets us see what Sulu and Chekov miss --
the man seems a little over-eager to keep both of them here,
late for their appointment.
INT. GYM PARAGAME ROOM - DAY
A most unusual large room, consisting almost entirely of a
billowing oiled surface which is convoluting constantly in
wave action and changes of angle. On this slick, surging surface
slide four lovely, long-limbed Starfleet females, almost nude
except for scanty, metallic-colored “paragame suits" offering
little more resistance than bare skin as they expertly take
advantage of the constantly shifting slick oiled surface to
propel themselves through the game.
CLOSER ANGLE ON THE PARAGAME WOEMN
Extremely well-formed young women, healthy, strong but yet
lovely, their oiled skin glistening almost sensually. Each
Co
of the teams carries a "blocker" (a bar with each end terminating
in heavy pad for striking, blocking and knocking away oppo-
nents); the other female on each team carries a shorter
"scoring" prod (an electrical device which signals a score
when brought into contact with the thin metallic fabric
worn by an opponent).
Scanned PDF page 37
35.
Supplely writhing to take advantage of the constantly
changing surface, the women slide on bellies, backs, rising
to their knees -- a fascinating, fast, potentially brutal
game. Using the toes of their boots, the one friction
point on their costumes, they propel themselves in sliding
curves across and down the changing wave-slopes of the
surface. We see one team block cut the other, a prod touches
metallic fabric, a score registers itself on the board high
on one wall.
ANGLE ON PARAGAME OBSERVATION DECK
Above the paragame surface where MARIS watches.‘ Like the
Others, she is long-muscled, extremely lovely, wears the
Same costume as the women bélow. She holds one of the scoring
prods. Kirk enters; she turns, recognizes him with a smile.
He's surprised at seeing her here.
KIRK
Hello, Maris. How
are you?
MARIS
Neglected.
KIRK
I'm sorry.
(indicates below)
About finished? I
had the court reserved.
MARIS
A secret meeting of
some kind, darling?
KIRK
(eyes her; shakes
his head)
A game.
Kirk moves to the edge of the platform, watching the action
below.
MARIS
With Captain Sulu and
Commander Chekov?
Kirk throws her a surprised look. She has moved in beside
and slightly behind to put her arms around him. Then she
speaks softly, her lips close to his ear:
Scanned PDF page 38
36.
MARIS
Did you know, darling...
that the Lord is your
shepherd?
It takes only a split-instant for her words to sink in; he's
warned but too late...Maris has thrown her full weight against
him, propelling Kirk off the observation platform, hurtling
down to the glistening surface below.
EMPHASIZING KIRK
As he lands, tumbling, sliding toward one of the waiting young
women who swings her blocker at him, hard, stunning him as it
spins him around. Behind, Maris has propelled herself more
gracefully down onto the surface, her scoring prod in hand.
MARIS
Thou shalt not want,
Jim...
ANOTHER ANGLE
The five glistening, lovely females expertly converging on him.
Without toe boots to change direction or propel himself, Kirk
is nearly helpless as the surges and wave motions of the surface
prods are already making a quick adjustment at the handles...
the tip of hers touches Kirk first. At its tip a CRACKLING ARC
OF BLUE ELECTRICITY convulses him in sudden, surprised pain.
MARTS
He maketh thee to
lie down, doesn't He?
Kirk has fought his way to his knees but SECOND PARAGAME WOMAN
swings her blocker, knocks him flat again. Then FIRST PARAGAME
WOMAN uses her scoring prod on him -- another BLUE FLASH
convulses him with pain.
FIRST PARAGAME WOMAN
He leadeth thee in the
paths of righteousness.
SECOND PARAGAME WOMAN
...for His namesake...
This accompanied by another driving blow from another woman's
blocker. Then he dodges the next blow, rolls to his feet on
the slick, heaving surface.
KIRK
Maris! What in
Scanned PDF page 39
37.
MARIS
You've always loved women
like us, Jim. Wouldn't
this be a frightening way
to die?
FIRST PARAGAME WOMAN
Or do our rods and our
staffs comfort thee?
Extremely strong and agile, the five of them are suddenly
all over him. A couple of them are laughing as they drag him
down sliding to where some of the clear oil from the surface
has gathered into a temporary shallow pool. Despite his
struggles, Kirk's head is plunged into it.
FIRST PARAGAME WOMAN
And we shall also anoint
thee...
SECOND PARAGAME WOMAN
(laughing too)
...until thy cup runneth
over...
Kirk comes up, coughing, choking.
MARIS
You are in the valley of the
shadow of death, dear friend.
He tries to fight the prod out of the hands of Maris but he's
caught another stunning blow behind by one of the blockers.
Maris now prods him strongly, long flashes of the BLUE ELEC-
TRICAL FLAME convulsing him. Before he can recover, the women
one by one encirele him with their legs, applying scissor-grips
around his torso, neck and legs. Four of them hold him helpless,
motionless, while Maris moves in nose-to-nose with Kirk...
then caresses him.
MARIS
Or, there are a thousand valleys
of pleasures, too. You can
have either.
FIRST PARAGAME WOMAN
Open your mind to Him.
One by one again, the women begin releasing their leg grips
on Kirk.
Scanned PDF page 40
37A.
MARIS
He's trying to warn you.
You can exhaust even His
love for you.
Kirk wipes a trickle of blood from the corner of his mouth,
looks around at the five women. Then, as if warned by someone
or something, they begin exiting, sliding toward the entrance
at the far end of the room. Kirk hears a sound above, looks
up.
ANGLE TO INCLUDE OBSERVATION DECK
Where Chekov and Sulu, artificial "legs" working now, move
into view and look down in surprise at finding Kirk below.
Scanned PDF page 41
38.
EXT. MC COY'S HOUSE - NIGHT
Rural setting. Sound of HOOFBEATS and we se# the dim figure
of Kirk astride a horse, pulling up in the darkness. He
dismounts, moves to the house, knocks.
INT. MC COY'S KITCHES - NIGHT
Kirk entering a strange blend of the old and new. The
construction is advanced 24th century materials but McCoy
has gone out of his way to include items like a wood cooking
stove, a hand water pump and sink, racks for food drying,
and so on. An unusually attractive, dark-haired young woman
SHAHLIA has opened the door for him. As she shows him in,
steps into better light, Kirk sees her delicate but undeniably
pointed ears. He's startled.
KIRK
McCoy?
SHAHLIA
In the barn with Stapleton's
mare.
(smiles)
I'm Shahlia.
KIRK
It's been years since
I've seen the doctor. ARe
you Mrs. McCoy?
She moves to serve Kirk a cup of coffee. |
SHAHLIA
In most ways. But the
old goat would never let
himself be that trapped.
KIRK
How does...the old goat
feel about your Vulcan
logic?
SHAHLIA
I’m Romulan. Or rather,
my great, great grandfather
was.
(laughs)
As far as being logical,
that's the last thing I am.
I think Leonard enjoys the
fact I have these ears and
yet I'm so scatterbrained.
Scanned PDF page 42
39.
KIRK
Yes, I imagine he would
find that refreshing.
During which, McCoy has entered, stopped surprised at Kirk's
being there. He throws a quick look at Shahlia, then back
to Kirk.
KIRK
Like old times,
isn't it?
Kirk has said this with a glance toward Shahlia.
MC COY
She’s fourth generation
human!
SHAHLIA
Third...
MC COY
Whatever!
(indicates an ear)
Except for that little
deformity, she's totally
human...
SHAHLIA KIRK
I told him... She told me...
MC coy
(to Kirk)
Well?
KIRK
Same old ailment,
Doctor. I thought you
might check me over.
SHAHLIA
(laughing)
Didn't you know Leonard's
a veterinarian?
MC COY
Which is the only field
of medicine with completely
sensible patients!
(to Shahlia)
Look in on the foal,
will you?
Scanned PDF page 43
40.
Shahlia nods, exits. Mc Coy waits until they're alone, then:
MC COY
She knows nothing about
my past. So I never have
to talk about it...sometimes
I can even stop thinking
about it. Don't spoil that
for me, Jim.
KIRK
I need you back, Bones. It's
important.
McCoy doesn't answer. He crosses to the stove, pours himself
a cup of coffee.
KIRK
There may be a lot of
lives at stake...
MC COY
They are constantly. In
everything. At every
moment. In every way.
KIRK
Bones, listen...
MC COY
Jim, do you see even a
transceiver set in this
house? I have no idea
what's going on in that
world out there and I
don't want to know. The
answer is no...no, so
completely, that your
arguing it would put our
friendship at stake. If
you were to tell me that
the entire galaxy depended
on my leaving this place...
(indicates)
...I wouldn't take the first
step out that door to interfere.
Mc Coy's statement is final, unequivocal. Kirk realizing he
has little chance to change McCoy's mind but tries anyway.
KIRK
No questions? Spock?
Sulu; his new legs? I don't
know anyone else who could
have saved him...the ship
almsot finished, power gone,
Scanned PDF page 44
41.
Shahlia enters, interrupting it. Kirk looks back to McCoy,
and can't ignore the plea on his face. He nods defeat, moves
to the door.
KIRK
Happiness, Shahlia
Kirk exits, leaving McCoy standing there feeling uncomfortable
over turning down the bast friend of his life...but still
also feeling satisfied over his decision. But meanwhile, a
puzzled look has begun to come over Shahlia's face...she lifts
her eyes toward the ceiling.
SHAHLIA
Yes...yes, he was here...
MC COY
(turns)
What in the hell are
you doing?!
Shahlia lowers her eyes, looks at McCoy.
SHAHLIA
Has it every occurred
to you how blessed we
are, Leonard? With His
bounty, His peace, His
understanding.
INT. MUSEUM TUNNEL -- NIGHT
The tunnel empty except for a pair of lights approaching
in the distance. Then we see they're from a replica of a
circa 1970's passenger bus which is approaching. This 24th
century re-creacion is too smoothly fabricated and sparkling
to be completely authentic. It seems to float on air and
we can hear the unmistakable sound of its advanced form of
turbine power.
As it passes, we can see destination scroll which reads:
"TWENTIETH CITY."
INT. MUSUEM BUS - ANGLE FROM REAR - NIGHT
Except for DRIVER, there is only one passenger aboard, and
he has his back to us. The "bus" pulls up to a passenger
ramp, the front door opens and passengers of all ages begin to
enter. A happy mood -- these 24th century citizens dressed
in a wide assortment of not completely authentic 20th century
costumes. Liek the "bus," their garb is almost too perfect in
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42.
outfits with trade tools, to recreational and business attire.
Bach carries a packet, apparently given to them as a part of
their trip. Kirk enters with the crowd.
ANGLE ON KIRK
Moving down the aisle, seating himself next to the passenger
already aboard whom we now recognize as Admiral Wavell. They
make a point to act as strangers. Kirk occupies his own
attention by examining the contents of his package while the
others seat themselves. The package contains a considerable
amount of dollar currency in various denominations. Meanwhile,
from amplified overhead speakers:
DRIVER'S VOICE
Welcome aboard your 20th
century omnibus, citizens.
For those of you making your
first visit to our Museum
City, the packets you're received
contain a currency exchange which
was known as "dollars." As in almost
all nations during this
historical period, this
Museum City uses what,.was
called a "purchase price"
on all items and services.
Part of the excitement of
your visit will be found in
the challenge of losing or
accumulating dollars in the
various games, manipulations
and commercial deceptions
of this acquisitive era.
All the above while the holiday mood passengers are seated and
the bus pulls out and heads down the tunnel again. A pair
of children have taken the seat in front of Kirk and Wavell
and, fortunately, the seat behind them has been occupied by
an elderly couple wearing old-style surgeon's and nurse's
attire. He carries a black bag labeled “DOCTOR KIT" and both
are happily absorbed in themselves and their trip. Kirk and
Wavell will wait until attention is focused on the Driver.
Then, Wavell shows deep fatigue, uncertainty, as they speak
quietly:
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43.
DRIVER
(through amplifiers)
These exhibits, known
as Twentieth City,
are designed to simulate
as accurately as
possible 1970 through
WAVELL 1960, the “Golden
My entire staff was Years” of Earth's
arrested this morning. former society. During
They're searching for these years, this
me now. industrial civilization
came close, it is
KIRK believed, to actually
Do they know what we're solving most of
planning? Does “it" mankind's problems...
seem to know? until finally defeated
by petty nationalism
WAVELL which led to the dark
I honestly can't say, decades of the 21st
Jim. I'm beginning to century, ending only
wonder if it isn't in the renaissance
simply toying with us, of our Unified Planet.
amusing itself. Have You will have the
strange things been choice of either
happening to you? observing or actively
participating in this
KIRK life style. Keep in
Yes. How long until mind that the Mediators
the Enterprise is of that era, called
ready? "Policemen," were
sometimes not above
WAVELL dishonesty themselves
Any time you can get and it can be highly
your old bridge crew stimulating to attempt
together. to solve and use the
authentic but puzzling
KIRK complex of regulations
There won't be many. I'll and deceptions which
talk to Scott tonight! govern life in this
Maybe I can get him at historically accurate
least! duplication.
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44.
EXT. MUSEUM CITY BUS STATION - NIGHT
A simulated 20th century bus depot which gleams and
glistens with the false perfection of what we've heard
described and romanticized as the "Golden Years" of that
civilization. In B.G., we hear and see the”bus" replica
gliding into the rear of the station.
INT. MUSUEM BUS - KIRK AND WAVELL - NIGHT
As it slows to a stop Kirk and Wavell's faces are grim,
reflecting the information they're quietly exchanging.
ADMIRAL WAVELL DRIVER
...the most fierce, destructive (through amplifiers)
emotions which can be felt ...and for longer journeys
by humans. It transcends reason, through the city, there
family, hunger, sex, and even are clearly marked vehicles
fear of death. known as “taxicabs” which
served as a kind of
KIRK surface transportation.
There's no logic in it doing Those of you traveling.
that. If it’s that powerful, on foot will be known as
that omniscient... "pedestrians." Thank you
for your attention and
ADMIRAL WAVELL all of us in Historical
Maybe it's insane, Jim. Museum work hope you will
Any reason why a God can't enjoy your visit.
be insane?
Wavell's last speech delivered forcefully and in the clear.
The "bus" has stopped, the front door opening, and most
passengers are already moving out into the aisle in order to
exit. No one seems to have noticed Wavell's words except the
young boy in the seat ahead of them. About eight years old,
he has turned in his seat to eye Kirk and Wavell in a strange,
solemn manner. The elderly “doctor” stumbles and bumps the
seat ahead as he and his wife get to their feet.
ANGLE EMPHASIZING KIRK AND CHILD
What is the expression on the handsome, almost pretty, young
boy's face? Hostility? A warning.of some kind? Then, the
boy's expression becomes a smile as he reaches into the
shirt top, pulls out an object on the end of a neck chain
there. It's a small golden cross which the boys dangles
meaningfully for a moment at them, still smiling.
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45.
EMPHASIZING KIRK AND WAVELL
Kirk has been eyeing the boy, puzzled, and now turns to
Wavell...finds the Admiral sitting ther2 in a strangely
stiff fashion, his face tilted up toward the ceiling, his
eyes closed. The boy and his seat partner have turned and
@re exiting up the aisle. The elderly “doctor” and "nurse"
wife are exiting up the aisle too.
KIRK
What is it?
Wavell doesn't move. The "bus" is emptying. Suddenly
concerned, Kirk reaches out, touches Wavell's shoulder.
WAVELL
Aghhhhh.......
Almost a sigh. Wavell's lower jaw drops limply, his lids
open to reveal eyes rolling back until only the lifeless
whites stare at the ceiling. Kirk finds something is pinning,
holding Wavell in his seat. CAMERA PANS AROUND AND IN CLOSER
as Kirk quickly circles the seat...to see the end of a long
surgeon's scalpel which has been driven-through the seat and
into Wavell’s back.
Wavell's dead, there's no doubt of it. And the elderly couple
is gone; final passengers are exiting the bus. Kirk
hurries to exit the bus too. Kirk sees the Driver look back,
seeing Wavell there. Does the bus driver know something too?
A shaken Kirk sees no point in waiting to find out.
EXT. TWENTIETH CITY STREET --- NIGHT
t
It's interesting to see how the 20th century is remembered.
We're seeing an idealized, almost “Disneyland” conception
of the 20th century, too plastic, too gleaming with perfection,
everything designed for happy nostalgia. The paint
everywhere is fresh, the windows sparkle, the 24th century
construction and materials are too advanced for any artistic
"ageing" to result in much reality. A holiday feeling amidst
the shops, taxi cabs, police station house, flower stands, etc.
It's hard to tell the costumed shop proprietors and other
museum employees from the costumed visitors but everyone,
adults and children, are enjoying themselves immensely.
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46.
ANGLE ON KIRK
He is very much aware that the holiday throng may hide
antagonists under the thought-control of whatever is
menacing Earth. Around him, what has been termed 20th
century “acquisitive agressiveness” is over-emphasized in
the sideboards, advertisements, and shouting hawkers of
merchandise. There are other slight historical errors
too -- a policeman directs traffic using signal paddles,
the taxi cabs (like the bus) have the hiss and whine of
turbo drive, there is MUSIC from a small marching band of
firemen, too many beds -of colorful flowers.
SHOPKEEPER
Ice cream, sir? Authentic
animal milk. .
The SHOPKEEPER is barring Kirk's path, too
agressively. Kirk shakes his head, tries to go around him.
SHOPKEEPER .
Only one half of a dollar,
Sir. It's called a special
sale purchase.
KIRK
No thank you!
Kirk gets around the man with difficulty, finds himself being
jostled by a throng. Carefully working himself clear, ..
he comes up face to face with the elderly "doctor" and
"nurse” from the museum bus.
DOCTOR
I had a feeling you
Wished to speak with us. ’
The older man's eyes are twinkling with humor, there seems
to be no threat at all from his wife or him.
KIRK
No, my business isn't
with you.
NURSE
You can't hide from Him.
They say not a sparrow falls
without knowledge.
KIRK
Excuse me.
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47.
He gets away from them, strides hurriedly up the street
checking back once over his shoulder to see that he isn't
being followed.
AT MOTION PICTURE THEATRE
Kirk is alert to the fact that a man here, a woman there,
seem to be watching him with more than casual interest.
Then. as Kirk passes the theatre, a roar of LAUGHTER from
inside it. He looks up to see the billboards colorfully
advertising it as an authentic 20th century “two-dimensional
sex film." LAUGHTER also from a couple who are exiting
the theatre, so overcome with the humor of what they've seen
that they are almost clutching each other to stay on their
feet. A greater roar of LAUGHTER from inside where the
24th century audience is breaking up over the 26th century
concept of "immorality" as Kirk continues on.
EXT. SCOTTY'S PLACE - NIGHT
Advertised as "SCOTTY'S -- GRAIN ALCOHOL BEVERAGES --
PERIOD ENTERTAINMENT.” Kirk enters SCENE from down the
street and exits into the building.
INT. SCOTTY'S BAR - NIGHT
Again, the same kind of idealized duplication of the past.
A bar, a small stage above a piano, a collection of tables
and chairs all in a gaudy "Scottish" motif. On the stage,
a considerably inebraited MONTGOMERY SCOTT in Highland kilts
doing something of a “Harry Lauder" rendition of ROAMIN' IN
THE GLOAMIN'. Fairly good enthusiasm from the crowd, many
of whom are obviously having their first experience with 20th
century Scotch whiskey.
PANNING KIRK
Making his way through the tables, then seeing the one which
expects him. CAMERA PANS KIRK TO REVEAL the table around
which sit Sulu, Uhura, Chekov, Chapel...even McCoy. Kirk
is astounded. His entire former brudge crew is present in
this room. As Kirk moves toward them, a THUMP of someone
falling in B.G., but the singing and music stop for a moment.
They turn to see:
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48.
EMPHASIZING SCOTT
He has stumbled almost off the stage. He picks. himself
up laughing.
SCOTT
You see, lads and lassies,
what happens when a mon
gets too dry?
Scott pours himself a glass of scotch from a bottle atop
the piano.
SCOTT
Hello, you gorgeous
thing!
His words are directed to a slug-faced alien at a front table.
Then Scott moves into the song and dance step again.
AT KIRK'S TABLE
As Kirk moves to the table.
MC COY
What in the hell is
that up there?
Something has happened to McCoy. His face registers some
private agony he feels.
KIRK
What are you all doing here?
CHEKOV
(puzzled)
We all got your message.
KIRK
Message?
UHURA
That we meet with you
here tonight. Urgent-
SULU
{surveying room; smiles)
The old bridge crew together
again. Every one of us but
Spock.
(to Kirk)
Why?
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49.
KIRK
I didn't call any of you here
tonight. I came to talk
to Scott for the sama reason
I've mat with each of you.
To make certain you're not
affected by whatever that
is up there. Later, I hesed
to convince you to join me
in something, something very
desperate...
MC COY
(interrupting)
None of that concerns me,
Jim. That thing up there
killed Shahlia.. I want to
know what it is.
KIRK
I'm sorry Bones. And I
don't know what it is. -
(to others)
But whatever it is, the
new Enterprise may be the one
thing powerful enough to fight
it. I plan to take her over,
by force. When that happens,
I'll need an experienced crew...
SULU
I've some excellent people
in my command, Admiral.
UHURA
Mine too, sir. I'm sure
if there's some way any of
us can help...
KIRK
(interrupting)
I need you! All of you. The
one crew available here that's
already worked together,
that can take over the ship the
minute you get aboard...
Interrupted by applause as Scott's singing has come to an end.
Seeing Kirk and the others, still inebriated, Scott is hurrying
over to them. The others are still astonished at what Kirk
has just said to them.
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50.
ANOTHER ANGLE
Kirk and thé others, all on their feet, standing around the
table as Scott moves beside Kirk, joining them. - (Their
positioning is almost exactly that of the U.S.S. Enterprise
transporter chamber positions.)
SCOTT
Captain...ah, Admiral!
(including the
others)
Doc, Sulu...all of you.
What a lovely, lovely...
In the midst of which, we begin to hear the transporter sound,
and the shimmering EFFECT begins.
INT. ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM
Transporter EFFECT, the sparkle. Then the slowly solidifying
figures. As Kirk fully solidifies, he suddenly becomes aware
that he is now wearing a Starfleet Captain's uniform. Whirling
toward the other transporter positions, he sees them equally
astounded at being here and puzzled over finding themselves
uniformed in the grade they wore years ago as his bridge crew.
ALDEN
Welcome aboard, sir.
The sound of BOSUN's WHISTLES
WIDER ANGLE
To include Transporter Chief ALDEN and a welcoming party
appropriate to receiving a starship captain aboard. An
astonished Kirk steps out of the transporter chamber followed
by the others.
KIRK
Chief Alden?
(recognizing
others)
Abrams, Cooper, Matthews...
ALDEN
As ordered, sir. Almost
all of the original crew
is aboard.
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51.
UHURA
What's happening? I'm in
a Communications Lieutenant's
uniform!
MC COY
Jim! Did you do this
ae to us?
KIRK
No!
(to Alden)
How did you repattern
our clothing?
ALDEN
I didn't, sir.
(to Kirk)
When I received the
signal to beam you up...
KIRK
We sent you no signal,
Chief! Did you say that
almost the entire old
crew is here?
ALDEN
You mean you don't know,
sir? Each of us got orders
directly from you!
During which, everyone is startled by the vessel seeming to
lurch (CAMERA SHAKE), throwing all of them to oneside.
KIRK
What's happening?
Who's on the bridge?
ALDEN
No one, Sir...
Kirk is already headed out of the transporter room, followed
by Sulu and Scott.
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52.
INT. CORRIDOR
Kirk racing into view, followed by others. Enterprise crew
personnel there are clearly pleased at being with their
former captain again. But they're also surprised at feeling
another vessél lurch (CAMERA SHAKE). Kirk heads for the bridge
elevators, fast.
EXT. ORBITAL SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE
The naval yards with that portion of Earth below us in night
darkness. In FOREGROUND, the command (saucer) section of the
U.S.S Enterprise is maneuvering in to link-up with the
stardrive (engineering and engine nacelles) section of the
huge vessel. We can see the flashes of maneuvering jets
as the two sections move toward alignment. .
INT. BRIDGE - INCLUDING ELEVATORS
The bridge has the same familiar configuration but its
orbital redesign has made it far more sophisticated than in
the past.
One of the two sets of elevator doors snaps open, Kirk
hurries out onto the bridge, followed by Sulu and Scott.
While most of the panels are dark and inoperative, the command
Maneuvering panels are lit and functioning. The main
viewing screen is on, showing a rear angle image across the
command section as it maneuvers toward link-up with the rest
of the vessel. Kirk hurries to the helm, reaches out for
a control and again is knocked back by a FLASH (ANIMATED) of
forcefield shielding.
KIRK SCOTT
Controls are on intruder (looking around;
alert! dazed; upset)
Ah, my lady, my baby. You're
SULU not the same at all,
(indicates viewing at all...
screen)
Ship's sections are
linking up.
The other elevator door opens. McCoy, Uhura and Chekov hurry
on to the bridge. Sulu calls a warning:
SULU
Careful! Controls are
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53.
Sulu, McCoy ana Uhura make no move toward their old bridge
positions. Scott remains half-intoxicated, dazed. Only
Chekov responds along with Kirk. Uhura is watching main
Viewing ’.screen.
KIRK
Everyone! I did not have
you beamed up here! I did
not send those orders to
the rest of the crew!
UHURA
(watching viewing
screen)
Stardrive and command
modules are linking up!
EXT. ORBITAL SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE
As link-up occurs, the command impulse engine section and
engineering pylon sliding smoothly into place. We see more
starship LGIHTS begin to flicker on.
INT. BRIDGE
A final slight jarring motion (CAMERA SHAKE), lights flicker
on at the library computer, engineering, and other bridge
panels. Almost immediately, the helm signal and control
LIGHTING flashes brighter and we begin to hear the growing
HUM of power. Kirk whirls to watch the main viewing screen
as the image flickers and becomes that of Earth below.
KIRK
This wasn't done by
Starfleet either. Something
else wants us here, wants
the ship linked up for
stardrive...
Chekov has seen a change in control settings occur. Reading
them quickly, he interrupts:
CHEKOV
Controls resetting
themselves. We're
being taken out
of Earth orbit...
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54.
On the main viewing screen, the image of Earth has been
retreating into the distance. Chekov moves to the helm
position, seating himself, checking the controls. Meanwhile,
an elevator door has opened again to admit Dr. Chapel, who
has crossed carrying a syringe to the still inebriated
ex-engineering officer Scott. Surprising him, she has pressed
it to his arm and we hear the familiar HISS of the injection.
SCOTT
What? What's that...?
CHAPEL
(to Kirk)
Tri-dalcimine. He'll be
sober in a moment.
KIRK
Heading, Mister Chekov?
CHEKOV
We're on-course for planet
Vulcan, sir.
MC COY
Vulcan? What in the hell
is going on!?
KIRK
(snaps)
For one thing, Nurse
Chapel is doing something
you should have thought
of five minutes ago.
CHAPEL
(looks up,
apolocgetically)
Sir...it's Doctor Chapel...
CHEKOV
Intruder alert is off!
We've got control of the
ship now.
KIRK
Take bridge positions!
Sulu, Uhura, Scott...
Kirk moving to his command chair position. The others
throwing him surprised uncertain looks.
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55.
KIRK
(continuing; hard)
Your old positions! The
Ship's answering to helm;
we need a crew here!
SCOTT
Aye, sir.
(puzzling over
his panel)
Not at all sure of these
new readouts.
Kirk takes his command position. Uhura and Sulu move to
their former positions, but not enthusiastically. Only
McCoy doesn't move.
KIRK
Take medical stations.
CHAPEL
Aye, sir.
She leaves but McCoy still holds his ground.
MC COY
Jim, I'm sorry. Tricking
me into this uniform
doesn't make me ships's
doctor again.
The look on Sulu's and Uhura's faces suggest they feal the
same way. Kirk turns to Chekov.
KIRK
Helm, see if she'll
head back to Earth.
At the instant Chekov tries to change course, forcefield
FLASHES (ANIMATED) knock him from the controls. He throws
Kirk apuzzled look, then tries another control adjustment.
No problem. Then he tries to change course again and again a
forcefield FLASH knocks his hand away.
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56.
CHEKOV
I can't turn us away
from Vulcan, sir. Ittll
let me do anything but
change course.
MC COY
(to Kirk)
You swear you had
nothing to do with this?
KIRK
My word, Bones.
MC COY
Then maybe whatever's
doing this isn't interested
in us at all. It may be
after you. The seduction
of James Kirk.
KIRK
What?
MC COY
(indicates Kirk's
sleeve stripes)
Captain James Kirk again.
All the years rolled back, no
longer a junior admiral with
a tedious dockyard command...
(gestures across bridge)
Voila! It's all like it was
again. I've an idea that
this is what you've wanted more
than anything else in creation.
Or am I wrong?
All eyes are on Kirk. His expression answers for him before
he ever opens his mouth.
KIRK
No. No, you're not wrong
Bones. Unless you think
I can be bought. Not
this way... I hope not any
way.
Scanned PDF page 60
MC COY
But like it or not, we've
all got a price...or, at
least a breaking point.
KIRK
Then it may have one too.
Whatever it calls itself,
Bones, it's not "God." It's
not omnipotent. It may have
miscalculated putting this
crew aboard here.
CHEKOV
(eyes his
own stripes)
Well, at least it's
"lieutenant." I'm not
back to ensign again.
UHURA
(to Kirk)
But we're really not
that crew...not the one
you're remembering. I've
had a command of my own,
I'm accustomed to making
my own decisions...
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58.
SULU
(nods agreement)
The reasons are different
for all of us...but we're
not the same people you
used to have.
SCOTT
{to Kirk)
Aye...we're not. But I'd
give anything to be the man
I was...Captain!
MC COY
Is that your price, Engineer?
SCOTT
I've been danced around by
the devil, Doctor. Until
I'm sick of it. And I'll not
let some charlatan calling
itself "God" begin a new
tune.
Interrupted by the bridge ALARM signal and flashing lights.
Sulu has looked up at the main viewing screen, reacts:
SULU
Captain!
ANGLE TO INCLUDE VIEWING SCREEN
The Object in the distance, approaching them fast, growing
rapidly in size:
KIRK
Chekov, take over the scanners.
{to McCoy)
Action stations.
Mc Coy doesn't move. He keeps watching the viewing screen
where the Object continues toward them. Meanwhile:
KIRK
Engineer, stand by on
forcefields. On my order,
go to full emergency.
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59.
SULU
(overlapping)
Object decelerating
.. holding position now...
MC COoY
(to Kirk)
Fire into it!
CHEKOV
Distance...104,000 meters...
MC COY
(to Kirk)
Fire into it! While there's
a chance!
Kirk suddenly GROANS, his face contorting, his knees buckling
as thought emanations power their way into his mind.
KIRK
Engin...engineer...forcefields.
Max...maximum...
Scott works rapidly at his panel controls. McCoy turns to
support the sagging, agonized Kirk. ce pes
SCOTT
Forcefields maximum.
As the forcefields come up, Kirk is instantly relieved.
McCoy throws Kirk a questioning look.
KIRK
It was trying to force
its way into my mind.
We've learned something...
our forcefields can block
it out.
CHEKOV
It's gone, sir.
He's indicating the viewing screen. The Object is gone;
we see only the passing stars.
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60.
MC COY
But it was into your
mind for a moment?
KIRK
(nods)
And gave me our
one missing element.
Spock's location on
Vulcan. The exact
coordinates.
EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE
Approaching Planet Vulcan.
KIRK'S VOICE OVER
Enterprise log, James
T. Kirk...Captain.
Stardate 2241.11. There
has been no further, sign
of the alien Object...
And still no explanation,
not even a clue, why it
has let us take over
the Enterprise.
ANGLE ON PLANET VULCAN
Enterprise in orbit.
KIRK'S VOICE OVER
(continuing)
I hope Spock can find us
some answers. If I do
find Spock. I am beaming
down to Vulcan, almost
blindly, using the
coordinates which the
Object has put into my mind.
EXT. ABODE OF THE MASTERS
We're near the entrance of the most ancient and most impressive
temple ruins of all. At least double the height of any
temples ever built on Earth, the architecture has a Vulcan
symmetry. An impressive edifice which dates back to the
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61.
youth of the Vulcan race. Extending into the distance, the
harsh, knife-edged jaggedness of the Vulcan landscape set
against the red sky. In immediate B.G., on low ground just
past the temple entrance, the harsh terrain is broken by
a crystalline pool of water inset in low columns which are
probably as old as the temple itself. Someone is bathing in
the pool.
Transporter EFFECT, the star sparkle, then the shimmering
figure of Captain Kirk. As he fully solidifies, he quickly
looks. around, relieved to have made it down, but curious
at being in a place on Vulcan he has never seen or even
heard described.
CLOSER ON KIRK
As he hears a sound coming from the direction of the pool,
turns:
LONG SHOT -- POV ANGLE
Spock being helped from the pool by two young Vulcan women.
One is putting a drying robe about Spock as he takes a seat
on a low, carved stone. The other Vulcan woman has produced
a pair of strange-shaped shears and begins to cut away
Spock's shoulder-length hair.
BACK TO SHOT
Before Kirk can call to Spock, a deep multi-tone VULCAN CHIME
pulls Kirk's attention toward the temple itself. Whatever
he sees inside makes him realize he's expected to go there.
PANNING KIRK
As he moves into the ancient temple. The nine meditation
Masters are there, humbly seated on the floor. In accordance
with custom, the seat prepared for the visitor is higher,
pillowed with intricately designed Vulcan fabrics. On the
arm rest 1s both food and drink. PAI-AD indicates toward it.
PAI-AD
As our guest, your
presence is honored,
James Kirk. Do you.
know us?
Kirk takes his seat, ponders the question. Then,he nods.
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62.
KIRK
I...know what thoughts
Spock seemed to be sending
me. He was in mind-meld
with...Pai-Ad of the Nine
Masters?
PAI-AD
"Masters?"
(then understands;
nods)
Ah, yes. Earth uses that
word differently. On
Vulcan, one "masters" one's’
self, never others.
(indicates the others)
We are teachers who have
come here at the end of
our lives, to meditate,
to pass on our knowledge
before we ourselves pass on.
KIRK
And that "Thing" over Earth?
Do you know what it is,
Pai-Ad? What it wants of
us?
PAI-AD
Of all the planets of the
Federation, you humans are
the one race which has
believed itself the prime
creation of God, and where
God's coming is still awaited
by some.
CLOSER ANGLE - KIRK AND PAI-AD
The statement surprises Kirk, puzzles and troubles him.
KIRK
Pai-ad...you're not even
suggesting that this "thing"
is God?!
PAI-AD
We can only say what name
it gives to itself. The truth
of that, or the portion of truth
in that, we cannot say. You humans
have knelt down to so many Gods
in so many images.
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63.
KIRK
But Vulcan once had its
Gods too.
PAI-AD
In our youth, we gave names
to forces we did not understand.
But only on Earth was Goa
believed to take physical
form, to visit you, to favor
some men and some tribes of
men over others. Only humans
had Gods who called themselves
your "king,” who demanded
fear and obadience...and who
punished all who failed to
worship and obey. In the religion
of your own ancestors, James
Kirk, there is a book named
"Genesis": which tells of a God
which punished man for eating
of the fruit of a tree called
"knowledge," a God which became
jealous and wrathful when man's
eyes were open and he sought
to understand. This concept
of God has always puzzled us.
KIRK
These beliefs can be interpreted
in many ways...
PAI-AD
But we are concerned that such
events may have once happened
to your race and the entity
or entities you called "God"
has returned. We are concerned
at the thoughts we feel it
placing into human minds,
promising to favor humans over
all others if again they worhsip
and obey.
Kirk is astonished. It's an incredible thought. Is it
also something that could be possible?
KIRK
And we humans do control
Starfleet.
Scanned PDF page 67
64.
PAI-AD
(nods)
And until now, it was the
correct choice. Humans
were the youngest of the
Federation, with the
agressiveness and curiosity
of youth, still fascinated with
devices, measuring yourself
against time and distance
and new places, seeking wisdom
outside yourselves as do all
children.
KIRK
Then why has it put me and
my crew into the Enterprise?
And let us come here for
Spock? We don't believe in it.
It must know we'll fight it.
All of this seems...
SPOCK'S VOICE
"Highly illogical," Captain?
Spock enters. Although he wears a Vulcan robe, he's now
bathed, his hair clipped to regulation length.
KIRK
Exactly, Mister Spock.
(smiels)
It's very good to see
you again.
Kirk is disappointed to see Spock make no response. His
manner is controlled, even glacial. He turns to Pai-ad:
SPOCK
IT am as ready as I shall
ever be, Pai-ad.
EXT. PLANET VULCAN
The Enterprise continuing in orbit over planet Vulcan.
INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
Scott standing with Chief Alden at the panel. A pair of
Security Guards stand nearby and enter too. Meanwhile, Scott
checks a reading on the panel, nods.
Scanned PDF page 68
65.
SCOTT
Let's bring them up.
ANOTHER ANGLE - THE TRANSPORTER CHAMBER
Transporter beaming EFFECT. All are relieved to see Kirk
returning, unharmed. Then, most eyes are on Spock in his
Vulcan robe as he steps down from the transporter chamber.
His manner is glacial as it was below. No nods of
recognition from him, nothing. Kirk turns to McCoy.
KIRK
We'll meet in the
briefing room.
{to Spock)
In fifteen minutes,
Mister Spock.
Kirk exits. Scott has looked up from a transporter panel
reading to release the Security Guards.
SCOTT
Dismissed.
(to MeCoy)
It's Spock all right. Only
minor pattern changes.
McCoy is giving Spock an intent look. Scott smiles, calls
warmly.
SCOTT
Welcome aboard, Spock.
Good to see you.
Spock looks in Scott's direction, merely nods.
MC COY
You look a bit thinner.
SPOCK
By 4.3 kilograms, exactly.
MC COY
No doubt consisting of
what few ounces of charm
you did possess.
Scanned PDF page 69
66.
McCoy turns, exits. Spock starts out of the room, finds
himself confronting Nurse Chapel.
CHAPEL
I think coming back
must be very difficult for
you. If there's anything I
can do to make it. easier...
Spock gives her a cool nod too, then exits the transporter
room. Scott turns to Nurse Chapel:
SCOTT
Back to the old drawing
board, eh lassie?
CHAPEL
I thought he nodded very
warmly.
EXT. SPACE THE ENTERPRISE
Turning away from Vulcan, beginning to pass through the
stars on its way back to Earth.
INT. BRIEFING ROOM
Spock entering, wearing the uniform of Space fleet Commander.
He crosses and sits across the table from where Kirk and
McCoy are waiting. A SIGNAL from the briefing table
viewing screen, then the image of Sulu speaks to Kirk:
SULU
On course, Captain.
Warp nine; Earth orbit
in 8.67 days.
KIRK
Sensors?
SULU
No sign of the Object.
KIRK
Thank you, Mr. Sulu.
Scanned PDF page 70
67.
Sulu pressing something out of view; his image fades form
the viewing screen. Kirk turns to eye both Spock and
McCoy. Finally:
KIRK
First, McCoy.
{to Spock)
He said that the Object
killed a woman he...he
was fond of.
{to McCoy)
I want to know how?
SPOCK
I suggest we should
waste no time on personal
considerations, Captain.
Since we may find ourselves
confronting that unexplained
phenomenon at any moment...
KIRK .
(interrupting)
I'll have a few personal
questions for you too,
Mister Spock. I intend to
confront this thing with a
unified crew giving maximun
effort! And I can't get
that when the two people I
depend on most have something
eating at them.
(to Spock)
An old Earth expression,
meaning...
Scanned PDF page 71
68.
SPOCK
I'm acquainted with
the phrase, Captain.
KIRK
(to McCoy)
Well?
MC COY
She killed herself.
KIRK
I'm sorry Bones. Truly.
Spock's expression doesn't change. We can see that this
coolness annoys Kirk and also McCoy, who hesitates, then:
MC COY
I've cared for three
things in my life, Jim.
My wife, who was killed
in this service, my
daughter, Joanna whom
I saw once at birth and
only one other time in her
28 years...and Shahlia.
SPOCK
A Romulan word, feminine
gender, meaning...
MC COY
(snaps)
Meaning nothing you could
ever understand!
(to Kirk)
She found her mind telling it
about me, about your visit; she
realized it could soon make
her do anything it wanted,
and she had enough...
(embarrassed glance
at Spock)
...different blood to
be able to refuse to live
that way.
KIRK
I see.
Scanned PDF page 72
69.
MC COY
No you don't. You had a
chance to fire into it and
you didn't. Whether it would
have worked or not, you
should have at least tried.
KIRK
I can't promise you I'm
going to blindly attack
anything, Doctor. And that
has to be good enough for
you.
MC COY
It's not.
KIRK
I can't do this job without
total support, McCoy! Why
in the hell do you think we've
held on to our old job
descriptions like "captain"
and "lieutenant" and who's
got the helm, and chains of
command and all that? Because
it is still the best way we
know to guarantee the vessel
commander being supported by
every nerve fiber and ounce
of muscle by every person
aboard.
{to Spock)
And even with cries of joy
if that’s what he happens
to need, Mister Spock.
(to both)
And that is what I damn well
intend to have. If you can't
give that, I suggest you select
your own replacements and
send them here now.
Scanned PDF page 73
70.
SPOCK
That would be unwise,
Captain. We are clearly
the most proficient in our
assignments.
Kirk turns to McCoy who hesitates, nods.
MC COY
You don't leave me much
choice.
(sees Kirk expects more)
All right! We'll do it
your way, all the way.
KIRK
All right, Spock, you!
SPOCK
Captain, I spent five years
on this vessel, half-human,
half-Vulcan, able to be
neither, with one constantly
torn against the other. But
the cost was such that I
found myself unable to
continue as two halves. I
had to choose, and I chose to
become Vulcan. Since then,
the small strokings of humor
and greetings and other emotions
which consume so much human time and
energy have become repugnant
to me in extreme.
KIRK
Then, since I can't make my
crew think like Vulcans, you'll
have to do the changing.
SPOCK
I recognize I must change,
Captain. And for other reasons
perhaps more important.
KIRK
Right now there’s nothing more
important than a functioning crew!
SPOCK
Perhaps only one thing. It may
be quite valuable if I can
present a human mind to this
thing we face.
Scanned PDF page 74
71.
KIRK
(understands; nods)
And if it reads your human
thoughts and believes it to
be all that you're thinking...
SPOCK
(nods)
It may not suspect there
are other thoughts in mv
Vulcan half. You'll have at
least one of us who can plan
against it without it knowing.
MC COY
You're going to lie to it,
Spock? You finally admit
you're capable of dishonesty?
SPOCK
I am, after all, half-human.
(extends hand to McCoy)
Dector McCoy, it is so good
to see you again.
McCoy gets a look from Kirk, then takes Spock's hand.
SPOCK
Captain, I have neglected
congratulating you on your
appointment to Admiral, wnich
was a proper recognition of
your...your skill and...experience...
He seems to run out of the proper human phrases...extends
a hand to Kirk who shakes it. Spock stands.
SPOCK
And now, if you will forgive
me, I have many things to
study...and to practice.
Spock remains standing there with a strange expression on
his face. His mouth muscles move...he seems to be forcing
them to do something. Finally, he achieves a trace of a
smile for a moment.
SPOCK
My friends...I solicit your
understanding.
Scanned PDF page 75
72.
CLOSER ON KIRK AND MC COY
As Spock exits. Then Kirk glances at the doctor, sees a tear
in McCoy's eyes. He puts a hand on McCoy's
shoulder.
KIRK
Bones, she was a lovely
woman...
MC COY
(shakes head)
Dying's easy, Jim...
(indicates where
Spock exited)
...compared to what he's
going through.
EXT. SPACE
The Enterprise traveling at warp speed. Then the Object
blinks into existence in the distance, disappears. Then it
blinks into existence closer.
INT. BRIDGE
ALARM sounding, red light flashing. Kirk and Scott appear
from the two elevators, seconds apart, hurrying to their
positions. The rest of the regular bridge crew is there,
including Spock who is bent over the library-computer viewer,
the lights from its readings reflecting on his face.
SCOTT
Forcefield shields on full,
Captain.
CHEKOV
Got it on the viewing
screen, sir.
The main viewing screen image flickers to a side view,
revealing the Object several miles distant to the side,
traveling with and parallel to the Enterprise.
SPOCK .
(interrupting)
I am measuring shifts in
our forcefield shields
which could indicate an
attempt to probe us, Captain.
Scanned PDF page 76
73.
KIRK
Probe us how? With sensors?
A weapon, an attempt to
communicate with us...?
SPOCK
I am uncertain. These are
readings I have never before
encountered.
Kirk considers all this for a moment.
KIRK
Open a subspace channel
through our forcefields,
Mister Chekov.
{to Uhura)
We'll have to risk
trying to communicate. Hailing
frequencies open.
UHURA
Sir...?
(then understands)
Yes sir. Hailing freq....
{the word becoming
a SCREAM)
Uhura, continuing to SCREAM, falls writhing to the deck,
attempting to pull her transceiver piece away from her ear.
Spock gets there first, yanking it away. The SCREAM becomes
an agonized CRYING, Uhura continuing to writhe in pain,
semi-conscious. Kirk has hurried there too. Then:
UHURA
Mmm...message...
(CRYING it)
...message...Captain...
KIRK
What message?
She seems to be trying to get to her feet. Kirk assists her.
She's now as if in a trance, her body stiffening, quivering...
and if something is in "possession" of her. Then her eyes
open, wide, almost glaring in their intensity, she opens her
mouth. Then a THUNDERING VOICE, not Uhura's, not even human.
It comes out in deep, shattering volume:
VOICE FROM UHURA
I AM THE BEGINNING!
Scanned PDF page 77
74.
The force of it RATTLING instrument panels, the ELECTRONIC
SQUEAL Of a short circuit in one of them, part of its lights
going out, smoke rising from that point. But the volume
of the VOICE is increasing as:
VOICE FROM UHURA
I AM NOW!
Chekov's control panel erupts in flame and smoke, another
flight deck position shakes its panel face loose, spewing
sparks. Chekov slaps at a control through the flames.
CHEKOV
Going to manual on...
VOICE FROM UHURA
I...AM...FOREVER!
Chekov's voice drowned out, the entire bridge shuddering
{CAMERA SHAKE) from the force of it. Smoke, electrical
Short circuiting and flames errupting froma third of the
control panels.
SCOTT
Shutting down secondaty
power...!
ANGLE EMPHASIZING SCOTT
Hands flying, hitting a half-dozen controls almost at once.
The bridge dims to emsrgency lighting, Scott yanking an -
insert unit bodily from the panel, tossing it aside, using a
coil to interconnect’ the gap, calling at the same time:
SCOTT
Life support to manual;
helm, inertial stasis is
out!
SULU
Freezing helm controls,
engineer!
KIRK
(overlapping)
Spock, give Engineer
a hand...
Scanned PDF page 78
75.
WIDER ANGLE
In the battery lighting, we can see Kirk busy lowering an
unconscious Uhura to the floor. Spock's face is still lit
from his library-computer viewer.
SPOCK SCOTT
Positive sensor readings, Forcefields now on
Captain, correlating... manual! Gravity control
going...
Kirk has whirled to Uhura's station, hits-intercom:
KIRK
Medical to the bridge...
SCOTT
Elevator power is gone,
Captain. I'm trying to
patch over...
Kirk turns to hurry to Scott, finds the move has thrust him
from the deck; he's floating with the bridge going to
zero-gravity. Sulu has accidentally propelled himself away
from the helm, trying to grab a hold on something. Chekov
has wrapped a leg around his seat, Scott has managed the
same, keeps working.
SCOTT
Condition zero-gravity...
KIRK
(overlapping)
Report on Object,
First Officer!
SPOCK
(overlapping;
calmly)
Holding position to
our starboard, Captain.
SSCOTT
(over lapping)
Crossing over stasis,
crossing over gravity...!
Scanned PDF page 79
76.
Some servo unit WHINES SHRILLY into life for a moment;
bridge lighting brightens; gravity control suddenly returns,
Slamming most of the bridge crew down to the deck hard. The
rest fight to keep balance from where they were hanging on.
An elevator arrives, McCoy with Chapel ana a couple of
Crew Members hurry in, see Uhura unconscious and bend quickly
over her, yanking their medical kit open and begin examining.
Only Spock's voice remains totally calm as he stays over his
hooded viewer, reporting:
SPOCK
In my opinion, Captain,
although it may have
been attempting to impress
us with its power, I
believe it is not attacking
us but merely curious about
our response to its message.
KIRK
Uhura?
McCoy looks up, nods. In B.G.,Scott hits final controls
which extinguishes the last panel fire. Kirk walks
to Spock's position, notices a Crew Member on his knees,
praying. He catches McCoy's eye, indicates.
KIRK
Medical detention,
observation.
SULU
Helm now responding
normally, sir.
CHEKOV
(from Uhura's
position)
All decks condition six
or better.
Now at Spock's station, Kirk peers into the hooded
viewer too.
Scanned PDF page 80
77.
KIRK
You say “no offense
intended?"
SPOCK
Captain?
KIRK
It wasn't attacking us?
Spock's attention is diverted back to his hooded viewer as
he sees a change in the measurements there. Then he motions
Kirk to have a look.
SPOCK
Note the forcefield
distortions.
KIRK
Our forcefields are back
on maximum, Spock.
SPOCK
Nevertheless, the Object
is learning how to penetrate
them.
On the main viewing screen, ‘the “object ‘begins to appear more
solid. It is circling, moving around, over and under the
Enterprise viewing angles to keep it in sight. Kirk gives a
questioning look to Spock who takes another look into his
hooded viewer. Then, alarmed:
SPOCK
Object now measuring
positive mass!
Overlapped by bridge ALARM sounding and flashing.
SULU
Collision course!
KIRK
Forcefields, emergency power!
On the main viewing screen, the Object has begun growing rapidly
in size as it now hurtles toward the Enterprise.
EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND OBJECT
ANGLED TO EMPHASIZE the incredible size of the Object -- the
starship hardly more than a metallic speck against the incredible
bulk of the thing rushing toward it.
Scanned PDF page 81
77A
INT. BRIDGE - INCLUDING MAIN VIEWING SCREEN
As the oncoming Object fills the viewing screen, comes closer
and closer. During which:
SCOTT
Forcefields at emergency!
Then, abruptly, the Object slows and stops. On the viewing
screen, we can see it hovering there, holding its close
distance,
CHEKOV
It's stopped!
(quickly checking
instruments)
Holding at 24,000 meters.
Kirk and Spock exchange puzzled looks. Then Kirk suddenly
GROANS, throws his hands to his head. His face contorts in
pain; his knees almost buckle.
KIRK
En...engineer...more...
more power on forcefields!
Scanned PDF page 82
78.
Scott complies. The bridge lighting dims, the forcefield
HUM grows as he throws full power into the shielding. Kirk's
face shows immediate relief.
KIRK
It started to get
through again, Spock. Why
me? Why not your minds too?
SPOCK
Our turn will come, Captain.
Kirk looks up at Spock, recognizing the tone of voice,
KIRK
You sound like you've become
certain of something.
SPOCK
(nods)
Its interest in us. There
is no other logical possibility.
(indicates bridge
and crew)
What do we see represented
here? Humanity is capable of
no technology more sophisticated
nor powerful than this. It is
operated by what is certainly
the most experienced crew
ever assembled. To it, we are
a test tube, a container of
humanity's best capabilities.
Perhaps also some of its most
dangerous.
KIRK
And if it can learn to control
and use us...?
SPOCK
(nods)
What else human could then
protect itself? Or dare try?
Scanned PDF page 83
79.
EXT. SPACE
The Object staying close to the Enterprise as they pass
together through star clusters. Although it appears to be
more solidly matter now, its coloration and texture shifts
keep its real nature uncertain, mysterious.
INT. BRIDGE
Forcefields still HUMMING at maximum power, the bridge lighting
still dimmed by the power needed by the forcefields operatin
at this level. Kirk, Spock and the bridge crew watching
tensely as the Object stays close. Kirk turns to Scott.
KIRK
Keep forcefields at this
level.
SCOTT
We're near overload, Captain.
Six or eight hours, maybe...
KIRK
Longer! It may take days
to work out some alternate
defense.
UHURA
(to Kirk)
You mean...if we can. Suppose
it is some manifestation
of "God?"
KIRK
It is a vessel. It was
probing us; a probe indicates
sensors of some type. Sensors
require a physical power source...
SPOCK
It has been held conceivable,
Captain, that thought emanations
could produce readings like these,
by somehow affecting a root bond
between matter and energy. Thus,
some powerful form of entity could...
Scanned PDF page 84
80.
KIRK
(interrupting)
It is a vessel, Mister
Spock.
Spock's eyebrow starts to go up. Then he nods:
SPOCK
Yes, Captain.
EXT. SPACE
The Object remaining close to the Enterprise now as they
continue passing through star formations. Although the
Object appears to be composed more solidly of matter now,
if it is a vessel, it is certainly not a product of any
science we can recognize. .
INT. KIRK'S CABIN
Kirk is troubled. He has picked up a library player-screen,
about the size of a book, is considering inserting a recorded
cube. into it. CAMERA MOVES IN TO EMPHASIZE SCREEN as he
inserts cube, the screen lights up and we see it electronicaliy
displaying the title page of the Bible. Kirk hits a button,
the next page reveals itself, the opening paragraphs of
Genesis.
Scanned PDF page 85
81.
ECU - KIRK'S FINGER
Touching a button marked “voice.”
BACK TO SHOT
As the library-player switches to sound:
LIBRARY-PLAYER
In the beginning God created
the heaven and the earth.
And the earth was without
form and void; and darkness.
was upon the face of the deep.
And the Spirit of God moved
upon the face of the waters.
And God said, Let there be
light: and there was light...
INT. MEDICAL CLINIC
McCoy just. finishing an examination of a crew member who
now exits. Nurse Chapel is working at an electronic record
device. In B.G., intercom viewing screen switches on,
revealing Spock.
SPOCK'S VOICE
Nurse Chapel?
McCoy looks up in interest; Chapel comes to her feet fast.
CHAPEL
Sir?
SPOCK
Come to my cabin, please.
Spock hits an 0.S. switch, his face fades from the viewing
screen. Chapel continues standing there, surprised.
MC COY
Well, Chapel? Go
see what the Commander
wants.
Scanned PDF page MISSING
PAGE 82 MISSING
Scanned PDF page 86
83.
SPOCK
It is urgent that I begin
thinking and reacting in a
human manner. As quickly
and fully as possible, Doctor.
I would appreciate your assistance
in some immediate exercises.
CHAPEL
Exercises, sir?
SPOCK
(nods)
And it seems logical that
the most difficult of such
exercises should improve my
performance most rapidly. I
refer, of course, to those meaningless
inanities practiced between
human males and females in
ritual procreational preludes.
I am certain that as a human
physician. you are well acquainted ,
with the subject.
CHAPEL
(uncertain)
As a physician...?
SPOCK
Yes. You have had experience
in the field of how human
males and females interrelate?
CHAPEL
Well...yes. But I don't
usually, I mean I haven't
always approached it as...
as merely a physician...
SPOCK
Excellent.
(smiles)
You have been most kind to
me, Chapel.
Scanned PDF page 87
84.
As happened in the briefing room, the smile is a forced one
and lasts only briefly. By now, Chapel isn't that all sure
what is going on.
SPOCK
Please answer in any
appropriate manner.
CHAPEL
It's...it's not that I'm
necessarily trying to be
kind to you, Mr. Spock.
It is...my wish to please
you. I've always wanted
to please you. In fact...
SPOCK
(interrupting)
Sufficient.
(another smile)
Have I ever...? No
that would be a falsehood
since I know I have not.
(new smile; a
new start)
I have never told you that
you are a most attractive
human female.
CHAPEL
(small smile back)
No, you haven't.
SPOCK
It is not necessary to
confirm my statement, Miss
Chapel. Please simply react
to it in an appropriate
manner.
Chapel isn't quite certain what to do. She decides to take
Spock's hand. It's his turn to be surprised.
CHAPEL
Mr. Spock...I don't
believe this is really
happening...
Scanned PDF page 88
85.
EXT SPACE
The Enterprise drifting through star fields with the Object
still holding close to the starship, occasionally changing
relative position in PERSPECTIVE ANGLES which continue to
emphasize its frighteningly huge diameter and the starship's
relative tiny size.
INT. ENGINEERING STATION
Engineering TECHNICIANS working grimly, rapidly to maintain
the forcefields at their high power level.
SPOCK
...then by shifting magnetic
fields here...and here...then
by patching over for immediate
full reverse power flow here...
SCOTT
(shaking head)
Spock, you're talking about
reversing the polarity of
our entire forcefield system.
If I had ten days, I could
maybe manage it...
Scott looks up in surprise. Spock is patting Scott's shoulder,
giving him an almost genial smile.
SPOCK
For some starship
engineers, Mister Scott.
But you...?
SCOTT
Spock laddie, will you stop
grinning at mé like a Cheshire
cat? I'll need at least
a week!
SPOCK
I am indicating a warmly human
faith in your ability, my good
friend.
(another similar
smile)
Forty-eight hours?
Scanned PDF page 89
86.
INT. BRIEFING ROOM
ANGLE ON OBEJCT, THEN CAMERA PULLING BACK TO REVEAL it is
an image on the briefing room computer screen, Kirk sits
puzzling over it, worried, as McCoy enters and takes a seat.
KIRK
Spock?
MC COY
In his cabin...with
Nurse Chapel.
KIRK
Again? What does she
say is happening there?
MC COY
Jim, if you think I'd
snoop into an obviously
private matter like that...
(sees it's not.
working; admits)
She's hélping him bring
out his human half. Whatever
that may...
It's interrupted by Uhura's face appearing on the computer
screen.
UHURA
Captain, subspace message from starship
U.S.S. Cinco de Mayo, 5.11
parsecs away on interception
course. Transmission reads:
"Reduce to warp one and stand by
to be boarded."
KIRK
Ignore message; put deflectors
on ready; condition two alert.
Scanned PDF page 90
86A. 86A
UHURA
Aye, Sir.
Her image fades from the screen. During this, Spock has
entered. Kirk and McCoy become aware of a strange expression
on his face as he nods.
KIRK
Something troubling you,
Mister Spock?
Spock looks up, suddenly puts the genial grin onto his face.
SPOCK
Do I appear unhappy,
Captain?
. KIRK
Spock...please don't
do that. Not to me.
{indicates computer)
Can we get on with what
you wanted to show us?
Spock hits computer buttons, producing a screen image listing
names of starships, locations crew changes, ship status,
and various coded references, all of which are constantly
changing with changes in stardates.
SPOCK .
Current Starfleet status,
Captain. You will note
that all experienced
captains and some entire
crews have been replaced
and at least one Constitution
class starship is now in
vicinity of every Federation
planet. In my opinion,
Starfleet Command is only
awaiting some final encounter
between the Object and ourselves,
and plans then to launch an
immediate attack on all other
Federation planets.
(another computer
button combination)
Witness, this recent subspace
broadcast from Starfleet
Command.
Scanned PDF page 91
87. 87.
The image has shifted to one of Admiral Alvarez, in the
midst of broadcasting a statement. His manner is quiet,
sincere, almost loving:
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
...and it is not just our
friendly desire but also
our duty as brothers to carry this
message of love throughout the
Federation, securing for, all
life forms the blessings of peace,
understanding and equality which
are possible only under one God
and one law, a law rooted not
only in his omniscience,his
compassion, but also his presence.
We know now that our ancestors
were right; God is not just a
name, a force. [ ] He
speaks to us, moves us, guides us. He exists.
Spock hits another combination of buttons,the screen image
is replaced with a MONTAGE OF SILENT IMAGES SHOWING PEOPLE
IN 24TH CENTURY SETTINGS TRYING TO LITERALLY APPLY BIBLICAL
AND OTHER RELIGIOUS PRECEPTS. Some wear sackcloth and ashes,
others try to give away worldly goods, some meditate in
painful physical positions, others kiss and embrace as
they meet, still others are fasting, flagellating themselves
and so on. But whatever is happening on Earth is not universal.
We' see many curious, non-participating onlookers. During this:
SPOCK
If limited to Earth, the
current religious phenomenon
would present little danger.
Diverse beliefs and practices
have begun to meld into a
unified form of worship.
Whatever I may think of their
logic, their sincerity is
obvious...
KIRK
(indicating screen)
But far from everyone's
involved in it.
SPOCK
(nods)
Only one-third of humanity,
approximately. Strong minds
continue to exist. Also
Scanned PDF page 92
88. 88.
MC COY
Why now? Four thousand
years ago, a common religion
might have helped us,
certainly would have prevented
a hundred bloody wars...
KIRK
Even if it thinks that it's
God, it must see that we
don't need that kind of
help now. If we haven't
built Eden yet, we were at
least getting close to it
again!
SPOCK
But perhaps not its conception
of paradise, Captain.
MC COY
Are you saying it isn't
a rational thing, Spock?
Computer viewing screen images change to that of Sulu, reporting?”
SULU
Starship Cinco de Mayo
on visual, sir.
KIRK
We're on our way.
PANNING THEM to the briefing room door.
SPOCK
I am merely saying, Doctor,
that as was once rumored,
perhaps it works in mysterious
ways.
INT. CORRIDOR
Kirk, Spock and McCoy to an elevator.
Scanned PDF page 93
89. 89.
INT. ELEVATOR
As the doors close behind them.
KIRK
Spock...are you saying it
could be...in some way far
beyond our understancing..
some manifestation of a
God force?
SPOCK
Why should it remain beyond
our understanding? I propose ,
we beam over to it.
MC COY
And I propose that you are
out of your silly Vulcan mind!
INT. BRIDGE
As an elevator door snaps open, Kirk, Spock and McCoy
move to their positions. Main viewing screen shows an
image of another starship on an intercept course.
KIRK
I'm afraid I agree
with McCoy.
UHURA
Cinco de Mayo signaling
"heave to," Captain. Or
they will fire into us.
SULU
Deflectors, auto to full.
(then indicating
screen)
Captain!
The starship Cinco de Mayo has fired photon torpedoes
(ANIMATION) from extreme long distance...in the same instant,
the Object has loomed into view, absorbing the torpedoes
which disappear harmlessly into its bulk.
Scanned PDF page 94
90. 90.
UHURA
Cinco de Mayo signaling
again...
(listens)
It is disengaging, returning
to base.
Spock calls from the hooded viewer at his library-computer
position.
SPOCK
Mister Chekov, I'd like
confirmation on this.
(to Kirk)
The ,Object is now registering,
Earth level oxygen atmosphere
and gravity.
Spock has stepped aside to let Chekov make the reading too.
CHEKOV
Captain, this is hard to
believe but...there's also
a life form reading, an
odd fragmentary pattern,
no size-registry, no
definite location but there's
definitely a life form over
there,
Kirk is, at first too stunned to reply. He gives Spock a
long quizzical look.
MC COY
Jim, I have a feeling you
shouldn't even think about
it.
KIRK
(nods)
And yet it does seem like
an invitation...
Interrupted by:
UHURA
Aye, Captain.
(into microphone)
_ Transporter room, set
coordinates 0051 Mark 27.334
Sub 4 Sub 798.8. Lock
onto Captain Kirk and Mister
Spock, they'll beam from here.
Scanned PDF page 95
91. 91.
It's said and finished before anyone can stop her. Uhura's
eyes are wide and set, she's quivering in the trance state
we saw earlier.
ANOTHER ANGLE
As Chekov whirls to his intercom:
CHEKOV
Transporter room, cancel
bridge message! SULU
(hits another button) (into computer)
Transporter Room, come in! Computer, cut off
communications panel...!
UHURA
Energize!
Kirk and Spock begin to dematerialize.
MC COY
Jim!
McCoy moving as if to bodily prevent it; Scott intercepting
him, holding him back. As Kirk's image becomes the sparkle
CAMERA ZOOMS INTO FULL ON IT.
EFFECT ANGLE
Kirk's sparkling sphere of energy suddenly hurtling away
from us through blackness. It's joined by the second which
represents Spock, both moving so fast they are suddenly
only distant pinpoints.
INT. GODSHIP - EFFECT ANGLE
Kirk's and Spock's twin spheres of energy traveling along
rivers of patterned fluid, light. Their shape and: pattern
should suggest that we are passing through titanic sized
conduits constructed by a science in which the Enterprise's
electronics would seem as crude as a flint axe.
LIGHT PATTERN ANGLE
Titanic gelatinous shapes which must be either a unique
new form of matter or some kind of living tissue. Either
way, the size of the chamber dwarfs the twin energy spheres
of Kirk and Spock into tiny sparkling beads as they rocket
into view and pierce the light patterns, pulling strands of
pattern into new shapes. Strands of light patterns seem to
adhere to Kirk's and Spock's energy sphere; gradually slowing
their movement.
Scanned PDF page 96
92. 92.
KIRK AND SPOCK
They're slowly materializing now, tumbling and falling
through light patterns. As they become fully solid and
aware of what is happening to them, they can hear a
strange thusnping and wailing SOUND coming from around them.
Are they inside some form of living thing? The regular
throb they hear, plus the gelatinous, half-living tissue
shapes seem to indicate this possibility. But other
geometrical patterns and darting rods of colored light
seem to suggest incredibly sophisticated machinery of
some kind.
Then their tumbling motion slows, stops...they seem to be
drifting downward now past gelatinous shapes and light
patterns which get thinner, fewer in number. They're
drifting toward black darkness below. Their voices seem
to come from far away as:
SPOCK
Are you uninjured?
KIRK
I think I'm conscious,
breathing. You, Spock?
Interrupted ad they drift down through growing darkness past
a light pattern which flashes intermittently, producing a
shattering STATIC SOUND as if it is malfunctioning, or even
short-circuiting in some way. More darkness, then a similar
display. This time, the intermittent flashes are brilliant.
enough to light up which seem dead, non-functioning
duplicates of pulsing, brilliantly colored shapes we have
seen earlier. Again the far-off voice quality, as:
SPOCK
Incredible! But I've
formed a theory, Captain,
which does seem to fit all
this...
Interrupted as they gently come to rest on a half-solid, dimly
glowing, heaving surface (AIR OR WATER-FILLED FLOURESCENT
BLACK PLASTIC).
LONG SHOT ANGLE DOWN
In the eerie dim glow far below, the tiny figures of Kirk and
Spock, hardly larger than upright ants. On all sides, we
can now make out crystalline clear geometrical shapes which
are faintly glowing too.
Scanned PDF page 97
93. 93.
UP ANGLE ON KIRK AND SPOCK
As Kirk moves to a low, horizontal part of one of the
crystalline shapes and climbs up onto its more solid
surface. As Spock joins him, CAMERA TILTS UP to reveal
past them the faintly glowing geomatrical shapes above
which seem to extend into infinity. Then from high above,
brilliant strobe flashes. It's from one of the seemingly
short-circuiting elements which they had earlier drifted
down past. And for a moment, it illuminates part of the
vastness above and around them. In that moment we see
that among the glowing crystalline shapes there are many
more, some lifeless, others shattered as if by some
cataclysmic event.
TWO SHOT - KIRK AND SPOCK
As their surroundings go dark and only faintly glowing
again.
KIRK
Your theory, Spock?
SPOCK
Confirmed by what we've just
seen. Perhaps answering the
Object's inconsistancies,
Captain. At first it tried
to destroy the Enterprise,
then seemed to assist you...
Another flash, then another so brilliant that for an instant
Kirk and Spock become NEGATIVE REVERSE IMAGES for a .
moment. Then:
KIRK
It's a damaged vessel...?
SPOCK
Almost certainly. The flashes
illuminated shapes up there
which seem dead, lifeless...
KIRK
Others which have been
shattered. It could also
account for it blinking in
and out of existence...
SPOCK
...as if finding its way,
learning to stay in this
dimension. Which suggests
that it may be repairing
itself, Captain.
Scanned PDF page 98
94. 94.
KIRK
And sending out thought
emissions about a God-
worship which seems forty
centuries out of date. I
wonder if...
Kirk suddenly GROANS, his knees buckling. Quivering, he
grabs his head in both hands as if to keep it from
exploding from the force of whatever is happening to him.
KIRK
Spock....! That's it!
(GROANS; through
- pain)
Yes, I under...understand.
You've returned. What...what
are you?
ANOTHER ANGLE
Inside the geometrical shape which they stand on, the one
brighter than all the others, the glow is congealing into
filaments of light which seem to be darting about as if
agitated and seeking to escape. Spock has dropped to his
knees beside Kirk whose last words have been almost a
scream of agony.
SPOCK
Jim...
Kirk sprawls face down, clawing at the surface, as if trying
to reach the darting filaments of light inside. He SCREAMS.
Kirk
Spock,...help me!
i'm...afraid...!
Spock is already trying to pull Kirk's face from the hard
surface, managing to get his hands on the Captain's temples.
SPOCK
Jim...meld with me. It's
Spock! Open your mind to me!
Kirk has bitten his lip hard, blood is flowing, mingling
with the tears flowing down his contorted face. He SHRIEKS
in agony.
SPOCK
It's Spock, Jim...let me share
it. I can help you fight it!
Scanned PDF page 99
95. 95.
Kirk's body convulsing, bucking, Spock using all his
strength to hold onto him. Then slowly, the Vulcan
mind-meld begins to take hold...and with it, Spock
begins to share some of Kirk's pain.
SPOCK
Yes...yes...we'll hear
you...yes, both as...
(GROANS)
...humans.
KIRK
His...human ancestors...
they worshipped you too.
Some of the pain seems to be fading now.
SPOCK
Yes, from inside our minds,
see what we've seen. Your
vessel's computers are
damaged. They're not able to
understand that Earth has
changed, everything has changed... _
KIRK
Yes...yes, it's much later.
Many Earth centuries later
than that.
EXT. SPACE
The, Enterprise and the Object.
INT. BRIDGE
Sulu and Chekov at the helm along with n.d. crew, they're
all watching. Scott is manning Uhura's communications
position and wearing a puzzled expression.
KIRK'S VOICE
Confirming Engineer. You
will beam two and set a
third transporter position
full open.
SCOTT
Set it for no pattern,
Captain?
Scanned PDF page 100
96. 96.
KIRK'S VOICE
This is a vessel, a damaged
one. We're taking aboard
a survivor which will form...
its own pattern there.
INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM - ANGLE ON TRANSPORTER POSITIONS
As the beaming EFFECT becomes Kirk and Spock. The third
position takes a bit longer, involves an intensely bright
and different kind of energy pattern...which then becomes
a human form too using the name HAMID, a tall and striking-
looking Masai type Black of about thirty years, wearing
an African robe.
WIDER ANGLE
To include Scott, McCoy and Transporter Engineer, watching
with both relief and nervousness. A team of four Security
Guards wait alertly in B.G. Kirk and Spock have watched the
visitor beam into a solid figure of the African Black, they
now watch him curiously as the three step down from the
computer platform.
HAMID
I have taken the form
of your revered Hamid,
to help ease any nervousness
which...
Then the visitor stops in some surprise as he scans the faces
of those present.
HAMID
I feel no recognition. Yet,
your prophet Hamid should
have been born in your old calendar
year 1969 in time to give his
life in 1996 so that his followers...
(frowns)
What a loss that you never
knew Hamid's teachings.
EFFECT ANGLE
Hamid turns to Kirk.
Scanned PDF page 101
97. 97.
HAMID
Then we must go much
further back. There
was another who was
respected for similar
work...
Hamid disappears in blinding energy pattern EFFECT which
patterns into another human, the unmistakable popular
conception of JESUS of Nazareth. A handsome, sensitive
face, reddish blonde beard, hair to the shoulders, a simple
but impressive robe. He turns to Kirk:
JESUS
...modeling this image from
your mind, Captain. Do you
remember from childhood a
painting in the bedroom of
your great grandmother Sarah?
Kirk is able to nod. With the exception of Spock, the others
are stunned, shaken. Even with the visitor stating that
he is simply taking the figure of Jesus to set them at ease,
the gentle voice and simple dignity make it seem all too
real. Spock's reaction is of course, enormous curiosity.
JESUS
(to McCoy; gently)
The woman Uhura. Please
have her brought to me.
(to Kirk)
Please now go about your
work.
(smiles)
Escorts and special attention
would be false to this image,
would they not?
The Jesus image exits the transporter room. Kirk watches
him go, sees that McCoy is giving hima questioning. look.
Kirk nods to the others.
KIRK
Normal routine, everyone.
(to McCoy)
Let him see Uhura.
The others begin to drift out but McCoy continues looking
at Kirk.
MC COY
You're going to let
that just wander about?
Scanned PDF page 102
98. 98.
Kirk answers by moving to a wall intercom, hits a button
combination. When he speaks, we can hear his voice amplified,
coming from other parts of this starship deck too.
KIRK
All decks, this is the
Captain speaking. The
Object traveling with us
is a vessel, from which
we have brought aboard...
INT. ENTERPRISE CORRIDOR
Crew listening to:
KIRK'S VOICE
...a Visitor who is to be
treated as a guest and accorded
every courtesy. To assist you
in relating to it...
INT. BRIDGE
The duty crew there listening and reacting to:
KIRK'S VOICE
...it has taken human form,
that of a historical figure
Jesus of Nazareth. Our
visitor makes no claim to
embody any religious concept.
This image was selected simply
because it is one which is
generally considered by humans
and even others...
INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM
As Kirk finishes his message.
KIRK
...as representing a concept
of peace and love. It...he
will be treated in this same
fashion by all personnel aboard.
Captain out.
Scanned PDF page 103
98A. 98A.
SCOTT
(disbelieving)
You'fre giving it full
freedom of the vessel,
Captain?
KIRK
(nods; to McCoy}
And if you disagree,
Bones, you have my
permission to have
security observe him,
restrict him, confine
him...
MC COY
You're damned right I'll...
Then, a strange look comes over McCoy's face. It's as if he
wants to move to the intercom but can't take a step toward it.
MC COY
Jim, I can't. I can't
move, I can't even speak when
I try to do that.
SPOCK
Nor could we, Doctor.
MC COY
What is it? What kind of
Survivor? What does it want
here?
SPOCK
An excellent summary
of what we must now determine,
Doctor.
INT. KIRK'S CABIN - CLOSE ON FOOD SERVER
Kirk's fingers working the keyboard...then a HUM and the wall
partition slides open to reveal attractively prepared hot food.
As Kirk carries the food away, CAMERA PANS INTO TWO SHOT
with Spock.
KIRK
Not hungry? You're
certain?
Spock shakes his head; Kirk sits to eat.
Scanned PDF page 104
99. 99.
KIRK
Impressive redesign on
the galley mechanisms.
I don't know how many
recipes it's capable of
now but...
SPOCK
In total, 21, 137
basic items. The combinations,
of course, are much greater.
The conversation lags. Kirk tries to enjoy the food.
KIRK
I understand Nurse Chapel
is helping you in some
form of exercise...?
SPOCK
The expansion of my human
consciousness, Captain. It
gives our visitor a mind
to probe and perhaps one
which feels safe enough.
Kirk looks up sharply. He tries to continue eating, but he's
really not hungry either. He pushes the food away.
KIRK
I've only one mind, Spock.
And I can't stop it from
thinking how we might test,
how we might control or
weaken him if it's necessary...
SPOCK '
(nods)
It is probably no more
dangerous to discuss it
aloud. And it may not
actually be capable of reading
all our minds constantly.
KIRK
I knew I was ordering Scott
to beam it over with us but
I couldn't stop what I was
saying.
Scanned PDF page 105
100. 100.
SPOCK
It did appear to be
trapped there as it
claimed. We've still
no proof it means us
any harm.
KIRK
But if it does? .
{eyes Spock)
You're not unhappy at
having it over here. Why?
SPOCK
I suspect that it cannot
exist without its computer---
vessel. It may require
energy and support from it
just as our own minds require
our bodies. Since it arrived
on board here, the shifts
in our magnetic and energy
fields have increased, as if
there is a constant exchange
of some nature between it and
its vessel.
KIRK
Is there some way to cut it
off from its vessel, Spock?
SPOCK
It's Christ image, Captain. An
interesting choice, don't you
think?
Kirk, puzzled for a moment, realizes that Spock is changing
the subject purposely.
KIRK
Yes. It seems at least
to be intimating that Christ
was their spokesman on Earth.
SPOCK
Or were those human concepts...
arrived at in spite of their
interference?
KIRK
(considers it a
long moment; then)
Scanned PDF page 106
101. 101.
SPOCK
(nods)
Yes, Jim.
INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE MEDICAL CLINIC
The Jesus figure walking along, passing crew members who
hardly know how to react. It's clear they've been told of
the visitor, that this is merely an adcoted form, but his
serenity and gentleness do seem real. One of the crew members
can't help but at least nod acknowledgement of his presence.
He smiles back.
JESUS
Thank you.
(to another}
Yes, doubt me all
you wish. No harm will
come of it.
A few steps further, a CREW MEMBER goes down to his knees.
CREW MEMBER
TI don't know, but.
but, Lord, if this is
really you...
The Jesus figure pulls the man gently back to his feet.
JESUS
God is in all life;
in you no less than me.
The Jesus figure becomes aware that someone has entered the
corridor behind him. It's McCoy, supporting Uhura who is
in medical clinic gown, her legs uncoordinated, her vacant
expression showing the effects of what happened to her. The
Jesus figure moves to them, looks at Uhura with an expression
of sympathy. Suddenly, he raises a hand and touches her
forehead.
JESUS
Be whole again.
Surprised by the move, McCoy moves too late to interfere --
and now he hesitates in disbelief as Uhura immediately
straightens, her eyes brightening, her expression alert and
happy. She turns to McCoy.
UHURA
I'm fine, thank you,
Doctor. I'll change
back into uniform now.
Scanned PDF page 107
102. 102.
Uhura turns; the clinic doors snap open, then close behind
her before the astounded McCoy can protest. Then he finds
Jesus smiling gently toward him.
JESUS
Of course. Examine her
as thoroughly as you wish.
Then Jesus continues on down the corridor. McCoy stands
there, puzzled, tormented, growing angry. Then he calls:
MC COY
Humbug !
Jesus turns, the same gentle expression and voice.
JESUS
And when I bring Shahlia
back to you?
(nods)
I can.
INT. BRIDGE
Kirk there with the entire Bridge crew. He is giving his
attention to Nurse Chapel who stands at the communications
panel next to Uhura.
CHAPEL
...completely tested,
Captain. She hasn't the
slightest indication of
any disorder or stress.
UHURA
(to Kirk)
A person knows when
they're well. And I'm
not being controlled,
Captain. I'm my own person
now. I can feel it.
During which, McCoy has entered from the elevators. Spock
looks up from the hooded screen at his library-computer position,
speaks to Scott.
SPOCK
An excellent piece of
work, Engineer.
{to Kirk)
May I suggest you solicit
Scanned PDF page 108
103. 103.
KIRK
(to Spock)
I don't understand.
SPOCK
It's best that you
don't in this case, Captain.
(indicates)
There is no bridge crew
in Starfleet that can match
the experience here. Their
comments may be most illuminating.
KIRK
(nods; to bridge)
Comments?
MC COY .
I've plenty. First, it’s
learning everything about us
but it hasn't revealed one
damn thing about what it
wants and what it plans. -
Meanwhile, it's confusing
and probably seducing your
crew with its hocus-pocus.
CHEKOV
Which could be the real
explanation behind the "Jesus"
form, Captain.
MC COY
And.even that image is a
fraud. The sensitive face,
the immaculate white gown...
any real historical Jesus
would be a rebel, he was '
hunted, rejected by most,
plagued by fatigue, probably
by heat rash and sand lice...
KIRK
But this image, what he was
or whether he ever existed,
isn't the point...
Spock looks up from his hooded viewer long enough to say:
SPOCK .
But it would be most interesting
if all that should turn out to
be pertinent, Captain.
Scanned PDF page 109
104. 104.
KIRK
To historians perhaps. But
answering McCoy, we do
know something about it.
They were energy-consciousness
beings which had progressed
beyond requiring physical
bodies. The Object is more
than just a vessel, it's a
computer form so advanced, it
is a living entity itself.
The vessel was damaged, by
what or how our visitor
doesn't seem to know...or,
at least, remember. But
we're certain it is a survivor.
of what was once aboard...or
perhaps by their measurement,
only a weak, last fragment
of a survivor.
SULU
They...the vessel, the
whole combination, were once
worshipped as God by humans?
KIRK
Over there, we were taken into
its mind; we saw back to that
time.
MC COY
Or you were tricked.
KIRK
That's possible, Doctor. But
we can't ignore the possibility
either that it was what humans
named Ra, Maza, Jehovah, Allah
and others.
MC COY
Then humanity was tricked. In
either case, what we have aboard
is...is...
(searching for the word)
SPOCK
{looking up from.
hooded viewer)
A Deceiver, Doctor? There are
legends about that name too.
Scanned PDF page 110
105. 105.
MC coy
A cosmic joke, Spock?
What we once worshipped as
one was actually the other?
UHURA
I refuse to believe that!
CHEKOV
Whatever it is, Captain,
Or was...what does it want
with Earth now? Or with
us?
The elevator doors snap open; the Jesus image steps out onto
the bridge. Spock looks pleased.
JESUS
Perhaps I can best
answer that.
(to Spock)
Is that what you wanted,
First Officer?
SPOCK
(looks up briefly;
nods)
Unless you find answers
too difficult.
JESUS
(to the others) .
The truth is never difficult.
I wished to learn more of
what has happened to a world
and a people we grew to love...
MC COY
And to force yourself into
their minds again?
JESUS
Those things have been
done by our vessel. It was
damaged, unaware that four
thousand years had passed.
It repaired itself, returned,
trying to follow its old
programming which would
explain us to your more
primitive ancestors...
Scanned PDF page 111
106. 106.
KIRK
And its first move was to
try to destroy the Enterprise.
JESUS
It believed the time to
be still forty centuries
ago, it saw your ship as
an alien visitor, menacing the
world we loved.
(to all)
When I finally gained some
control of our vessel, I
began to help you, did I not?
Of all the Earth ships I
Saw, yours contained minds
which might understand us...
ANGLE EMPHASIZING SPOCK
At his library-computer station, working feverishly as
if on the trail of something. Meanwhile:
KIRK
Or did it contain
minds that resisted you
most.
MC COY
That's it, Jim!
(to Jesus image)
We're the perfect study
tank. A forcefield that:
resisted you, in every way
this ship is ultimate in
human science...
JESUS
(interrupting;
same warm smile)
You have nothing to fear,
whatever I discover.
MC COY
(overlapping)
And a crew that represents
the maximum in human
experience with other life
forms. If you can learn to
capture our minds despite
all that, then you can take
over humans, anywhere.
Scanned PDF page 112
107. 107.
JESUS
You trouble yourself
unnecessarily.
ANGLE EMPHASIZING JESUS IMAGE
The Jesus image smiles, almost sadly. Meanwhile he moves
toward where Sulu sits.
JESUS
And you are troubled by
something too, my friend.
He bends, touching both hands to Sulu's trousers which
hide the mechanical legs.
JESUS
Sulu...be whole again.
He steps back. Sulu doesn't quite know what to make of it.
Apparently he's felt nothing. Then slowly, he does become
aware of some change of feeling. He looks down, tentatively
touches, reacts. Then he pulls up a trouser leg, stares
disbelievingly:
SULU
Captain...!
Sulu checks the other leg, then throws off a boot, lifting
a flesh and blood foot into view! He leaps to his feet, walks,
testing the feeling, the marvel of what has happened. Then.
he whirls to the Jesus image:
SULU
Is it real? It's not
just in my mind?
JESUS
You are complete again,
my brother.
(turning to Kirk)
Just as I will mend all
your comrades here into
one again.
{to the others) .
Open your mind to me in love.
Rejoice in gathering here.
Rejoice in being one again.
(suddenly, unexpectedly
touches McCoy)
Rejoice, physician.
Scanned PDF page 113
108. 108.
McCoy appears surprised, less at having been touched than
at what he finds running through his mind. He turns to
Kirk: .
MC COY
Despite his trickery,
Jim...whatever he does
to us...it is good to be
together again.
UHURA
(laughs)
"Hailing frequencies open,
Captain.” I’ve even missed
Saying that.
SCOTT
(patting bulkhead
fondly)
She'll see us through,
Captain. She's twice the lady
she used to be.
The Jesus image turns to the surprised Kirk.
JESUS
Have I done you evil or
good? Will you love me
now as I love you, James?
ANGLE AMPHASIZING SPOCK
His Vulcan features registering enormous satisfaction. He
has found on his panel and viewer, exactly the combination
he has been looking for! He makes a control adjustment,
looks toward the Jesus image for a reaction.
ANGLE EMPHASIZING JESUS IMAGE
As he whirls toward Spock, surprised, His features show a
quick look of alarm, but he quickly puts it aside for the
serene expression again.
JESUS
You are mistaken,
Mister Spock.
Scanned PDF page 114
109. 109.
SPOCK
I've reversed our
forcefield polarity,
Captain.
(checking hooded
viewer)
I believe it is now cut
off from its vessel.
KIRK
(to Chekov)
Full intruder alert!
CHEKOV
Intruder alert, sir!
The alarm SIGNAL begins sounding; the red light begins
FLASHING. Uhura has turned quickly to her communications
panel:
UHURA
Security to bridge.
The Visitor looks to Kirk. Then, the same gentle smile
again.
JESUS
If I am no longer controlling
my vessel, it may do injury
to Earth.
KIRK
(to Uhura)
Monitor Earth frequencies.
(to Jesus image)
We'll have to risk that.
JESUS
Will you risk what I can
do here?
{indicates self)
Do not let this image lead
you into carelessness.
KIRK
Your best estimate, Spock.
The effect?
SPOCK
Until it learns to penetrate
this forcefield too, Captain,
it should grow weaker. I
believe it will have to spend
Scanned PDF page 115
110. 110.
JESUS
What does your puny mind
know of my power? Behold!
The Jesus image draws a finger across a bulkhead -- the moving
_ finger tracing fire and a white-hot molten gash deep into the metai
ANOTHER ANGLE
In B.G., an elevator door snaps open and a phaser-rifle armed
security team moves to step out onto the bridge. But the
Visitor has already whirled in that direction, pointing toward
the elevator:
JESUS
Begone!
The elevator interior errupts into flame, the team is afire,
writhing in surprised agony as the elevator drops suddenly
out of sight. From the open doors we can hear the SCREAMS of
the security team as the turbocab plunges down the deep shaft.
Then the screams are cut off as we hear the SOUND or it
hitting bottom.
KIRK
(overlapping;
to Jesus image)
No, please...!
JESUS
Release the forcefield!
SPOCK
Captain. There's a
change beginning!
Spock is indicating the Jesus image. Kirk whirls in’that
direction. Does the image look just slightly different? Is
there the sliqhtest touch of fatique now in the serenity of
the teatures? The long nair seems just slightly awry; there
are a few wrinkles now in the immaculate gown.
SPOCK
It's trapped in that
image, Captain. More
and more each time he...
Interrupted by McCoy who has stepped in, reaching into his
belt and bringing up a hand phaser. The Visitor whirls,
points--and McCoy's vhaser becomes a handful of molten metal.
The doctor falls qroaning to the deck, beating the hot metal
from his hand. But through his agony:
Scanned PDF page 116
110A. 110A.
MC COY
Jim...at least...I
was...able to...try!
He's...weakening...!
CHAPEL
(overlapping)
Doctor!
She's thrown herself toward McCoy, pulling a hypo out of
her medical kit.
ANGLE EMPHASIZING JESUS IMAGE
As he whirls toward McCoy and Chapel, starts to point again:
JESUS
Let him suffer!
But this time the Jesus image hesitates. And, as he turns,
we can see he's becoming markedly leaner, his hair is
beginning to show some tangles, discolor and bleaching of the
desert sun, his robe begins to show soil, heavily used
rough hand-loom fabric.
Nurse Chapel has hesitated at the Visitor's warning shout.
But now, despite the fact his eyes are following her movements,
she steps in, presses the hypo against McCoy...we hear it.
HISS and the doctor relaxes, the pain fading.
KIRK
Yes, I can see it Spock.
The Visitor whirls toward Sulu, brings a finger up as if
to point it at him.
JESUS
If I can give back your
legs, I can remove them.
It's a long moment for Sulu...and for Kirk.
SPOCK
Tell us who you are?
Who are you becoming?
Scanned PDF page 117
111. 111.
ANOTHER ANGLE
Suddenly angry at the question, the Visitor points
directly at Sulu -- who in agony falls to the floor, his
legs back to stumps. Then the image whirls to Spock,
pointing:
JESUS
Earth-Vulcan bastard,
unholy mixture!
Spock falls, his body contorting.
ANGLE ON KIRK
Horror at what he sees, CAMERA PANNING him as he races to
Spock. The First Officer has become a gruesome, small,
misshapen thing, a slobbering Earth-Vulcan twisted form,
a misplaced organ visible and throbbing just under the
skin of the neck...the eyes are that of a mindless idiot...
the half-open mouth slobbers...only the ears and a few
facial lines resemble the Spock we knew.
Kirk embraces the twisted form, looking up in anguish:
KIRK
No, please! Bring him
back!
The Jesus image steps into SHOT, looking down at the
Spock thing. The energy it has used this time has
worked huge changes in its image...the thin, boney face
of an ascetic, the uneven complexion of an often hungry
wanderer, the lips chapped by sun exposure, a tattered
gown soiled, the feet caked with dust...the eyes hollow
but large and beginning to show compassion. He seems uncertain,
half-puzaled over the twisted thing in Kirk's arms.
KIRK
{pleading)
I beg you...please,
please bring them all
back as they were. The
forcefield...if we remove
it...
Interrupted by McCoy entering SHOT, holding his blackened
hand:
Scanned PDF page 118
112. 112.
MC COY
No, Jim. We're
winning...!
JESUS
(uncertain)
The forcefield...
MC coy
(to Kirk)
There are five hundred
Million of us on Earth!
JESUS
(to Kirk)
You love him greatly.
KIRK
Yes...I love all of them.
JESUS
I'm...so thirsty...I've
come so far.
(uncertain again)
So far...from my vessel?
From...from...?
(indicates Spock)
Why does God torture us
in these ways?
Nurse Chapel enters scene, carrying water. Jesus looks
thankfully to her, takes the cup and drinks.
KIRK
Heal him...please.
(indicates)
And him, give him back
his legs...
JESUS
(surprised)
I am not a physician.
(small smile)
And some believe not
even a proper rabbi. A hot
compress for a boil, yes...
mare's milk for dust-blown
eyes...
Scanned PDF page 119
113. 113.
KIRK
You can heal! Touch hin,
feel love for him...think
him well and whole again.
You have powers you've
forgotten.
CHEKOV
Captain! Object on the
viewing screen.
The Jesus image is reaching for Spock; Kirk releases him
into the Visitor's arms.
ANGLE PAST KIRK - MAIN VIEWING SCREEN
Where the Visitor's vessel is hovering directly in front
of the starship. Its swirling hues of color are fading,
its surface is appearing more solid, more some form of
metallic honey-combing, growing darker than we've ever
seen it before. Chekov has gone to the hooded viewer and
now looks up from it:
CHEKOV
Captain...the vessel seems
to need him as much as he
needs it. Its power
readings are weakening; I'm
getting normal sensor patterns.
on magnetic and gravitational
fields...
KIRK
Intruder alert off; stand by
on phasers and photon torpedoes...,
MC COY
Jim!
PANNING KIRK
Whirling, dropping to his knees where we see a dazzed but
whole Spock still being held in the arms of the puzzled
Jesus image. McCoy is looking at his hand, no longer
charred and burned. Sulu walks into SHOT, looking from
his restored legs to the Visitor who has changed even more --
he looks haggard, ill, desperately fatigued now.
Scanned PDF page 120
114. 114.
JESUS
Yes...I’d forgotten what
I'd done. But it was
necessary...
(puzzled again;
then to Chapel)
The water...thank you
daughter. If you have goats,
perhaps some milk too, a small
loaf of bread...
SPOCK
(gets to his feet)
I believe I can find
something close to that,
Rabbi.
CHEKOV
Standing by on phasers,
photon torpedoes.
JESUS
(looking up; seeing
his vessel on viewing
screen)
Yes...yes, I must return
there...
KIRK
Yes, you came from there,
do you remember?
MC COY
Don't wait, Jim. Destroy
its vessel! If it gets
its probe through the
forcefield again, brings.
him out of this...
KIRK
(ignoring it)
Did you visit Earth long
ago? You and others, all
part of that vessel and it
part of you...did you visit
a place where there were
life forms like us?
Scanned PDF page 121
115. 115.
JESUS
(hesitates, uncertain;
then nods)
Yes...yes, we were cast out
from our...
(frowns)
What is your word...
dimension...?
KIRK
Another universe, a different
time and space?
JESUS
I am growing so tired...
(sits)
Forgive me, I have travelled
so far...
Spock enters with milk, a small loaf of bread.
JESUS
Thank you, my brother...
KIRK
(interrupting; intent)
No, think of your vessel,
who you were. Why did you
make us worship you? Why
was that important to you?
The Jesus image is drinking the milk, turning to the bread,
ignoring Kirk's question.
JESUS
Good, good, the loaf is
soft...
(indicating)
These lower teeth, they've
seen better times...
SPOCK
(to Kirk)
McCoy is right, Captain.
KIRK
(overlapping; protesting)
There's so much to learn. Was
it them who kept us from knowledge,
was the real serpent our own reason
fighting to learn, to know...
Scanned PDF page 122
116. 116.
SPOCK
(interrupting)
You must destroy its
vessel. Now.
KIRK
And him?
MC COY
This is only an image, Jim
Perhaps not an accurate
one in any way.
The Jesus image has suddenly sat upright, as if
feeling something familiar again. He stands, looks up
toward the main viewing screen image. At the helm, Sulu
has joined Chekov and they both look anxiously to Kirk.
SULU
All locked on target,
Captain.
KIRK
Fire phasers. Fire
torpedoes.
EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND OBJECT
As photon torpedoes launch from the starship, their eerie
balls of light-energy hurtling through space and into the
Visitor's vessel. The massed phaser banks of the Enterprise
are lashing their thin blue beams into it too.
INT. BRIDGE - INCLUDING VIEWING SCREEN ,
Sulu and Chekov firing photon torpedoes again, firing new
banks of phasers. For the moment, the Object seems to be
absorbing them without visible battery damage.
VARIOUS ANGLES INCLUDING PRINCIPALS
Kirk and Spock looking anxiously toward the Jesus image who
stands watching the viewing screen. The the Visitor turns
to Kirk, speaks quietly, firmly..
JESUS
I am becoming one
with it again.
Scanned PDF page 123
117. 117.
KIRK
{to helm)
All photon banks,
maximum rate.
On the viewing screen, the photon torpedoes begin firing
more rapidly. The starship bridge begins to shudder
(CAMERA SHAKE) from the effort. Scott turns from his
engineering station:
SCOTT
Moving toward overload,
Captain.
KIRK
Emergency backup power,
Engineer. Continue rate
of fire.
JESUS
(to Kirk)
Kal su, Teknon?
The Visitor brings up a hand, exhibiting it to Kirk. The
palm is gashed with a deep puncture, bleeding. Spock looks
anxiously to Kirk for his reaction, then relaxes as he sees
Kirk is unmoved by what he's seeing.
KIRK
"You too, my son?"
(shakes head)
Thank you for making me
certain about you.
(to Spock; indicates
image's palm)
It took that image and
those words out of my
mind. I put them there so
it yould try to deceive
me with them!
Kirk looks back to the viewing screen.
ANGLE ON VIEWING SCREEN
A glowing, twisting hot color pattern is appearing inside
the Object at the point where the photon torpedoes are entering.
EMPHASIZING KIRK, JESUS IMAGE AND SPOCK
The Jesus image in the midst of convulsing--a pattern of wounds
appearing across its forehead, blood dripping down the face.
Then, another convulsion, blood begins to show through the robe,
along its side. An unmoved Kirk watches it happen, then gravely
shakes his head.
Scanned PDF page 124
118. 118.
KIRK
No, you can't leave me
with any doubts now. I
understand exactly
what you are.
SPOCK
Captain, look!
Spock reaches out toward the image, then passes his hand.
completely through it. Even as he does this, the Jesus
image begins to show transparency, growing more and more
unsubstantial. But it’s also smiling at Kirk. As it
speaks, even the voice is thinner, as if coming from a rapidly
increasing distance.
JESUS
But I have a final gift for
you,
{turns intently
toward viewing screen)
A gift of love? Of doubt?
I'm not certain myself.
I'm no longer...
The voice, the image, both have faded and disappeared at
the same instant.
SULU
All engines reverse!
INCLUDING HELM
Where Sulu and Chekov have ceased fire and are working
rapidly at the controls. On the viewing screen above, we
can see the starship is rapidly converging on the Object
which is glowing brilliantly, changing shape.
CHEKOV
Something's pulling us
into it!
EXT. ORBITAL SPACE
The Object becoming some kind of distortion in time and space.
The starship is being drawn rapidly toward it, faster, faster.
Then it passes out of sight as if through a rip in the fabric
of space itself.
Scanned PDF page 125
119. 119.
INT. BRIDGE - INCLUDING VIEWING SCREEN
The Enterprise has been pulled into some kind of hyperspace.
The familiar stars are gone...or are they the black objects
being passed in a brilliantly white kina of reverse space?
SULU
Controls do not respond!
SCOTT
Engines read negative
power, Captain.
The bridge LIGHTS DIM to battery power...ship's power
SOUNDS FADE...even the bridge panels go SILENT. The
Enterprise drifts out of control through whatever time
and space dimension it has been drawn into.
KIRK
I've no idea what to do,
what orders to give...
He turns to Spock, finds him watching the viewing screen
as calmly as if nothing unusual was happening.
KIRK
The “parting gift” it
promised. Or threatened?
Again, no response from Spock. Kirk looks quickly around the
bridge, discovering that the others are sitting equally
unresponsive to whatever is happening. Then, the image on
the viewing screen seems to distort again, dissolving into
something else. Then, almost suddenly, they're back in their
own time and space...a planet looming up directly ahead of
them. Then Kirk recognizes it.
KIRK
Earth!
SCOTT
Almost five years to
the day, Captain.
KIRK
Almost what?
Scanned PDF page 126
120. 120.
SCOTT
Five years since we
left Earth, sir.
UHURA
Message from Starfleet...
"Well done, Enterprise,
welcome home." Signed,
Alvarez.
(smiles to Kirk)
Congratulations, sir.
Kirk turns to Sulu, a suspicion forming in his mind.
KIRK
Stardate, navigator?
SULU
(surprised at the
question)
It's 2324.15, sir.
KIRK
po oe That was years ago,
4 ‘Nese’
SULU
What was years ago, sir?
KIRK
(whirling to Spock)
That's the date we all |
returned from our five -
year mission. ,
SPOCK
Exactly, Captain. We are
back.
?
KIRK
It can't be then, Spock.
(indicating)
This isn't the same bridge
we had before. The enitre
ship is different from then.
(indicates)
And Sulu wasn't at the helm;
he was in sickbay with his
legs gone!
SPOCK
Indeed, sir? And when
was this.
Scanned PDF page 127
121. 121.
McCoy moves in, offers a hand.
MC COY
Well, we had our moments
out there, didn't we?
Kirk accepts the handshake, eyeing McCoy curiously.
KIRK
Going to stay in the
service, Bones?
MC COY
Never occurred to me
not to. Why?
KIRK
Thought you might want
to get away from all this.
I'm sure Spock does.
Spock's eyebrow comes up; he turns to Kirk.
SPOCK
No, Captain. I am
quite satisfied to be
where I am. As I am.
EXT. EARTH ORBIT
The U.S.S. Enterprise in standard orbit.
EXT. STARBASE COURTYARD - DAY
The city in distant background. Waiting across the courtyard
in dress uniforms, Admirals Alvarez, Wavell and others along
with other Starfleet commanders and technicians. In
foreground, the beaming EFFECT -- Kirk, Spock and McCoy appear.
EMPHASIZING KIRK, SPOCK AND MC COY
As Alvarez ana Wavell move in for handshakes. Even more
startling to Kirk, they're accompanied by McCoy's Shahlia
in Starfleet licutenant's uniform.
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
Welcome home, Captain.
Scanned PDF page 128
122. 122.
ADMIRAL WAVELL
(grins; indicating
waiting group)
Hope you don't mind a few
ceremonies. You're the
first to bring a ship and
crew back this intact.
ADMIRAL ALVAREZ
Will you join us over
this way, Captain?
Alvarez and Wavell move off toward the waiting group. Kirk
turns to Shahlia:
KIRK
Lieutenant...Shahlia?
SHAHLIA
(smiles)
How did you know that?
KIRK
You're someone I wanted
to introduce to our ship's
doctor here. Leonard
McCoy.
SHAHLIA
(offers hand to
McCoy)
Of course. I'm medical
records officer, Doctor. Can
I help you take care of your
clearances now?
MC COY
(grinning)
Delighted, my dear.
McCoy and Shahlia walk off together. Kirk hesitates before
moving on. Spock is watching him closely, then:
SPOCK
Put it out of your mind,
Captain. As I have done.
Kirk gives Spock a surprised look. Then it becomes obvious
to him that Spock knows!
Scanned PDF page 129
123. 123.
KIRK
Then you do know! Is
this the real way it
happened, Spock, the real
universe? Or is it the
one we just left?
SPOCK
Reality is never tomorrow
or yesterday, my friend.
It is always today. Accept
the gift.
CAMERA HOLDS AS THEY MOVE AWAY, walking toward the waiting
Starfleet ceremonies. We see Kirk turn his head toward
Spock, hear his words faintly:
KIRK
It can't be a gift. The
thing we met isn't capable
of that!
SPOCK
A highly intolerant
attitude, Captain. I'm
surprised to hear it from you.
They continue into LONG SHOT, joining the waiting group.
FADE OUT:
THE END