Screenplay by
Nicholas Meyer & Denny Martin Flinn
Story by
Leonard Nimoy & Nicholas Meyer
Fifth Draft
12/28/90
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.......................................................................
1 STARFIELD 1
VFX VFX
Credits OVER serene space when SUDDENLY...
an enormous EXPLOSION, sending debris FLYING at WARP
velocities...
2 OMITTED 2
VFX VFX
3 CU A TEACUP 3
WIDEN TO REVEAL
INT. BRIDGE, USS EXCELSIOR
The polyglot CREW is busy.
Seated in the CAPTAIN'S CHAIR, a familiar face: SULU.
He has his own command and is drinking a CUP of tea.
The SCIENCE OFFICER stands next to him, conferring,
handing him a datacount. Sulu muses over the contents.
SULU
According to this we've completed
our exploration of the entire
sector.
SCIENCE OFFICER
Fifty-four planets - and their
gaseous atmospheric anomalies. Our
sensing and analytic equipment
worked well.
SULU
Then it's time we were heading
home. Three years is...
The ship starts to TREMBLE.
4 ANGLE ON SULU'S TEA CUP 4
shaking in its saucer... Sulu and the CREW look at
each other as the SHAKING increases. The TEACUP
SMASHES.
SCIENCE OFFICER
I have an energy wave from 240
degrees mark six port --
SULU
Visual!
4 ON THE SCREEN 4
VFX VFX
an ENORMOUS GASEOUS WAVE, a subspace shock front.
SULU
(continuing)
My God. SHIELDS.
5 EXT. THE GALAXY 5
VFX VFX
Meteors and asteroids SMASHING PAST. Burning chunks
fly by at WARP speeds. EXCELSIOR reels.
6 INT. USS EXCELSIOR BRIDGE 6
The ship rolls, throwing everyone off balance.
SULU
What the Hell is going on?
The crew jumps to. Computers light up. Information
flies across screens and monitors. The ship is BATTERED
like a fighter's punching bag with shocks and jolts and
tremors.
7 INT. CREW'S QUARTERS, GALLEY CORRIDORS, ETC. 7
Sleeping members are thrown from their berths. The
CLAXON alarm sounds pervasively...
CREW etc.
What the -- Look out --
stations -- etc.
8 INT. EXCELSIOR BRIDGE 8
LOJUR
Captain, she's not answering her
helm --
SULU
Starboard thrusters. Turn her into
the wave!
9 INT. EXCELSIOR ENGINE ROOM 9
Chaos. Valves hiss PURPLE. Crew running, knocked
about.
ENGINEER
Engine room. What's going on up --
10 INT. EXCELSIOR BRIDGE 10
SULU
Quarter impulse power!
EXCELSIOR has been knocked about and everyone on the
bridge is holding on or sliding around. She settles
and one by one her CREW resume their stations.
SULU
Damage report.
VOICE
Seems to be in one piece, Captain.
We're checking all systems...
10 THE SCREEN 10
VFXA VFXA
shows Excelsior getting bumped about by the final
fragments drifting past, bouncing off the shields.
SULU
(to Science Officer)
Don't tell me that was any meteor
shower.
SCIENCE OFFICER
(over his console)
Negative. The subspace shockwave
originated at bearing three-two-
three, mark seven-five, the
location is...
(turns to Sulu)
Praxis. A Klingon moon. Barren of
indigenous life forms but -
SULU
Essential as a resource. Praxis is
their key energy production
facility.
(thinks)
Send to Klingon High Command:
"This is Excelsior, a Federation
Starship traveling through Beta
Quadrant. We have monitored a
large explosion in your sector. Do
you require assistance?"
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Aye, sir.
SULU
Mr. Valtane, any more data?
SCIENCE OFFICER
I have confirmed the location, sir,
but...
SULU
What is it?
SCIENCE OFFICER
... I cannot confirm the existence
of Praxis.
Sulu reacts, goes over to the science console and looks
at the screen. Nothing there.
SULU
Praxis?
SCIENCE OFFICER
What's left of it.
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Captain, I'm getting a message from
Klingon High Command.
SULU
Onscreen.
11 ON SCREEN: 11
a snowy picture of a WILD-EYED KLINGON OFFICER.
OFFICER
This is an emergency! We have
suffered -
He looks around, the GROUND is shaking under him; as
Sulu watches, the pictures collapse, then comes on
again, with a different face.
KERLA
This is Brigadier Kerla, speaking
for the High Command.
There has been an incident on
Praxis. However everything is
under control. We have no need for
assistance. Obey treaty
stipulations and remain outside the
Neutral Zone. Transmission ends
now.
12 The screen goes black. Sulu looks incredulous. 12
SULU
An INCIDENT?
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Do we report this, sir?
SULU
Are you kidding?
(swivels to the
communications officer)
Send to Starfleet Command...
13 EXT. SPACE 13
VFX VFX
Excelsior warps off into the galaxy.
14 OMITTED 14
THRU THRU
22 22
22A CU STARFLEET SHIELD 22A
Kirk walks into shot.
KIRK
What are we doing here?
WIDEN TO REVEAL
23 INT. STARFLEET BRIEFING ROOM - DAY 23
The room fills with BEMEDALED BRASS, Kirk's CREW among
them - the only starship complement in the room. They
can't help looking at each other, questioning. They
are in uniforms.
BONES
Search me. Anybody know how come
we made the A list?
UHURA
My shore leave was just cancelled.
(reacting)
Isn't this just for top brass?
CHEKOV
Where is Mr. Sulu?
KIRK
Captain Sulu... on assignment...
anyone seen Spock?
A door opens and STARFLEET ADMIRAL DONALD, austere and
impressive, enters and gavels the meeting to order.
ADMIRAL DONALD
This briefing is classified. There
will be no recording devices.
Ladies and Gentlemen, the C-in-C.
All rise as the STARFLEET COMMANDER IN CHIEF enters
with a briefcase and pulls materials from it.
CinC
As you were. I'll make this as
simple as I possibly can. The
Klingon empire has roughly 50
years of life left to it.
They look at each other in disbelief.
CinC
(continuing)
For full details, I am turning this
briefing over to our Special
Federation Envoy.
He makes a sign and another door opens. Spock walks to
the podium. Kirk and company are astounded.
SPOCK
Good morning.
VFX OMITTED VFX
SPOCK
(continuing)
Two months ago a Federation
Starship monitored an explosion on
the Klingon moon Praxis. We
believe it was caused by over mining
and insufficient safety precautions.
The moon's decimation means an
almost eighty percent loss of
available energy and a deadly
pollution of their ozone. Due to
their large military expenditures,
the Klingon economy is in a very
weakened condition. They do not
have sufficient resources to
manufacture air shelters in large
enough quantities to sustain
anything like their current
population. Last month - at the
behest of the, uh, Vulcan
Ambassador - I opened a dialogue
with Gorkon, Chancellor of the
Klingon High Council. He proposes
to commence negotiations at once.
ADMIRAL DONALD
Negotiations for what?
SPOCK
The dismantling of our space
stations and star bases along the
Neutral Zone, an end to seventy
years of unremitting hostility - a
hostility the Klingons can no
longer afford.
Audible mutterings. PAN the crew. Is the war over?
SPOCK
(continuing)
If the Klingons sue for peace, we
could accumulate savings in defense
expenditures, leaving the
Federation economy free to grapple
with urgent social problems...
A MILITARY MAN
Bill, are we talking about
mothballing the Starfleet?
CinC
I'm sure our exploration and
science programs would not be
affected, but the facts speak for
themselves, Captain.
ADMIRAL DONALD
I must protest. To offer the
Klingons a safe haven within
Federation space is suicide.
Klingons would become the alien
trash of the galaxy. And if we
dismantle the fleet, we'd be
defenseless before a bellicose
people with a foothold on our
territory. The opportunity which
presents itself here is to embargo
trading, force them to run through
their own resources faster, and
bring them to their knees. Then
we'll be in a far better position
to dictate terms.
A vocal minority of the briefing supports this, but not
all. Kirk simply stares at Spock.
CinC
Starfleet is under civilian
control, Admiral. The decision is
a political not a military one -
and it's been made.
KIRK
Sir -
CinC
Captain Kirk?
KIRK
(eyes Spock briefly)
Sir, I'm no diplomat, but the
Klingons have never been
trustworthy. I'm forced to agree
with Admiral Donald. This is -
(he gropes for tact)
- a terrible, a terrifying idea...
CinC
Your son was killed by a Klingon,
wasn't he, Captain?
KIRK
Yes, sir.
CinC
I'm sorry. But Commander Spock has
persuaded the Federation that this
situation is too promising to
ignore.
SPOCK
It is imperative that we act NOW to
support the Gorkon initiative, lest
more conservative elements persuade
his empire that it would be better
to attempt a military solution and
die fighting.
CinC
Captain Kirk, you are to be our
first olive branch.
KIRK
Me?
SPOCK
We have volunteered to rendezvous
with the Klingon ship that's
bringing Chancellor Gorkon here,
and escort him safely through
Federation space.
Kirk is too startled to speak.
CinC
As it happens, Kirk, the Chancellor
specifically requested you and your
officers.
KIRK
Why, in God's name?
CinC
There are some Klingons who feel
the same about the peace treaty as
yourself and Admiral Donald.
They'll think twice about attacking
the Enterprise under your command.
SPOCK
I have personally vouched for you
in this matter, Captain.
KIRK
You have personally -
CinC
You will accord Chancellor Gorkon
full diplomatic Courtesy, Captain
Kirk.
KIRK
(straining)
Surely a full Ambassador would be
better equipped to -
CinC
If there's no further business I
wish you and your crew Godspeed.
Thank you all.
He charges out as ALL RISE. Everyone files out.
ADMIRAL DONALD
I don't know whether to
congratulate you or not, Jim.
He moves off before Kirk can reply. The room is
empty...
except for Spock, still at the podium and Kirk sitting
alone in the auditorium. He is furious, betrayed.
Spock knows it.
KIRK
WE volunteered?
SPOCK
There's an old Vulcan proverb: only
Nixon could go to China.
KIRK
(incensed)
How could you vouch for me?
That's...
(words fail him)
... arrogant presumption -
SPOCK
I was asked by my father to open
neg-
KIRK
I know your father's the Vulcan
Ambassador for heaven's sake, but
you know how I feel about this:
they're animals.
SPOCK
Jim, there is an historic
opportunity here -
KIRK
DON'T TRUST THEM. DON'T BELIEVE
THEM -
SPOCK
They're dying.
KIRK
LET THEM DIE.
Spock looks at him in silent reproach. Kirk hears
himself and doesn't like it.
KIRK
(and what's more)
Has it occurred to you that this
crew is due for retirement in three
months? WE'VE DONE OUR BIT FOR
KING AND COUNTRY.
Spock is patient. They stare at each other.
ON Kirk's face.
KIRK
(finally)
You should have trusted me.
24 OMITTED (POSS. ALTERNATE) 24
& &
24 VFX 24 VFX
25 INT. THE BRIDGE, USS ENTERPRISE 25
The elevator doors open. An attractive VULCAN
LIEUTENANT leaps out of the command chair, whips to
attention.
BONES
Well, I've heard some whoppers in
my time...
UHURA
(overlaps)
They're mothballing the fleet?
CHEKOV
(overlaps)
We will regret this...
LT. SAAVIK
Captain on the bridge.
The CREW stands to.
KIRK
As you were. Lieutenant...?
LT. SAAVIK
Saavik, sir. We were told you'd
need a helmsman -
(to Spock)
... so I volunteered.
She salutes. He smiles, returns the salute.
SPOCK
Lieutenant, I am pleased to see
you.
(to Kirk)
The Lieutenant is the first Vulcan
to be graduated at the top of her
class as the Academy.
KIRK
Congratulations, Lieutenant. That
must make you very proud...
LT. SAAVIK
I don't believe so, sir.
BONES
She's a Vulcan all right.
KIRK
(down to business)
All right, let's get this over
with... departure stations...
(pushes the comm)
Scotty?
They assume their familiar stations.
SCOTTY'S VOICE
Aye, sir?
KIRK
You find the engine room?
SCOTTY'S VOICE
Right where I left it, sir.
KIRK
Standby. Get me the dock master,
Uhura.
UHURA
Control tower, reading, Sir.
KIRK
Control, this is Enterprise
requesting permission to depart.
VOICE OVER
This is control. Enterprise, you
are granted permission to
depart... 30 seconds for port
gates...
LT. SAAVIK
Clear all moorings...
KIRK
Awaiting port gates from this
mark.
FILTERED VOICE
Mooring lines cleared...
LT. SAAVIK
Aft thrusters -
KIRK
(overlaps)
Thank you. Lieutenant, one quarter
impulse power...
LT. SAAVIK
(she turns to face him)
Captain, may I remind you that
regulations specify thrusters only
while in space dock?
The CREW - old and young - watch this exchange keenly.
Spock is poker faced
BONES
(next to Chekov)
Uh, Jim...
KIRK
You heard the order, Lieutenant.
Saavik swivels away, rolling her eyes so Kirk can't see
and hits the panel -
The ship begins to rattle slightly, then
26 EXT. SPACE DOCK 26
VFX VFX
the Enterprise SCREAMS out of the dock and exits through
the just-opening bay doors into outer space.
27 OMITTED 27
THRU THRU
29 29
30 INT. BRIDGE, USS ENTERPRISE - NIGHT 30
Kirk sits comfortably with a smile on his face.
KIRK
(continuing)
Lieutenant...
Saavik faces him.
KIRK
(continuing)
... I don't care if I'm senile. If
I sit in this chair and give the
word you jump.
Spock watches.
LT. SAAVIK
Aye, sir.
KIRK
Plot a course for Kronos,
Lieutenant.
LT. SAAVIK
(startled)
Kronos, sir?
KIRK
I'm still in the chair, Lieutenant.
LT. SAAVIK
Aye, sir.
Other reactions. Kirk has taken command.
31 EXT. SPACE 31
VFX VFX
Enterprise cruises purposefully through the void.
KIRK'S VOICE OVER
Captain's log. Stardate 8679.225.
They say you can't teach an old dog
new tricks - and maybe they're
right. It seems to me our mission
to escort the Chancellor of the
Klingon High Council to a peace
summit is problematic at best.
32 INT. KIRK'S CABIN 32
Kirk is unpacking his bag as he dictates, hanging up
his uniforms, his shaving tackle going next to the
sink, etc.
KIRK
(continuing)
I have never trusted Klingons and
never will. I have never been able
to forgive them for the murder of
my boy. Spock says this could be
an historic moment and I'd like to
believe him, but how on earth can
history get past people like me?
He sets up a photo of DAVID next to his berth.
A delicate COUGH.
Kirk realizes he's not alone. Swivels to face
LIEUTENANT SAAVIK standing in the bulkhead doorway.
LT. SAAVIK
Sorry -
KIRK
Come on, Saavik, you COULD knock -
LT. SAAVIK
We're almost at the rendezvous - I
thought you'd want to know...
KIRK
Right -
He gets up and puts on his jacket. She watches.
LT. SAAVIK
Permission to speak freely, sir?
He doesn't stop her.
LT. SAAVIK
(continuing)
I gather you are not enthusiastic
about the assignment... I don't
think many on board are.
KIRK
You piloted well out of spacedock,
Lieutenant -
LT. SAAVIK
(almost smiles)
I always wanted to try that.
KIRK
(passing her)
Only don't try putting words in my
mouth.
And leaves her with that.
33 INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE SPOCK'S QUARTERS 33
Saavik approaches; this time she's smart enough to
KNOCK.
SPOCK'S VOICE
Enter.
34 INT. SPOCK'S QUARTERS 34
In contrast with his Spartan personality, the room is a
voluptuous incense-laden lair, filled with curtains and
smoke. Spock lights a votive candle; surveys her. He
is out of uniform.
SPOCK
You have done well, Saavik. As your
sponsor at the Academy I have
followed your career with...
satisfaction. And as a Vulcan.
LT. SAAVIK
(intense)
Sir, I speak to you as a kindred
intellect. Do you not recognize
that a turning point has been
reached in the affairs of the
Federation?
SPOCK
I am not certain such speculations
are included among your duties,
Lieutenant.
VOICE FILTERED
Klingon battlecruiser off the port
bow. All hands on deck. Repeat...
She's startled.
SPOCK
(off her look)
In time you may come to view so-
called turning points with...
skepticism.
He starts to get into uniform.
SPOCK
(continuing)
You must have faith.
LT. SAAVIK
Faith...?
SPOCK
That the universe will unfold as it
should.
35 INT. BRIDGE, USS ENTERPRISE 35
The cruise is proceeding evenly as Kirk arrives out of
one turbo-lift. Spock and Lt. Saavik emerge from
another.
VOICE
Captain on the bridge.
CHEKOV
Captain, shall we raise our
shields?
Spock looks at Kirk: trust me. Kirk scowls at him and
stares at the screen. They all follow his gaze.
35 THE MAIN DISPLAY 35
VFX VFX
A KLINGON battlecruiser. HUGE.
KIRK
(finally)
Never been this close.
SPOCK
The Chancellor is undoubtedly
awaiting our signal.
Boy is this hard for Kirk - finally:
KIRK
Uhura, hailing frequencies. Right
standard rudder, bring us
alongside...
LT. SAAVIK
Right standard rudder, Z plus five
degrees...
UHURA
Channel open, Captain.
KIRK
This is the Starship Enterprise,
Captain James Kirk commanding.
36 GORKON comes up on the main visual display. 36
GORKON
This is KRONOS One. I am
Chancellor Gorkon.
KIRK
Chancellor. We've been ordered to
escort you through Federation space
to your meeting place on Earth.
GORKON
Thank you, Captain.
KIRK
(does his best)
Uh, would you and your party care
to dine this evening aboard
Enterprise with my officers as
guests of the United Federation of
Planets?
37 A few of the crew look around at Kirk. 37
GORKON
We'd be delighted to accept your
gracious invitation.
KIRK
(nuts)
We'll make arrangements to have you
beamed aboard at 1930 hours.
GORKON
I shall look forward to it.
He disappears. Kirk turns to Spock.
KIRK
I hope you're happy.
LT. SAAVIK
Captain.
He turns.
LT. SAAVIK
(continuing)
- there is a supply of Romulan ale
aboard - it might make the evening
pass more... smoothly?
Kirk smiles, relieved.
KIRK
Officer thinking, Lieutenant.
38 AT THE COMMUNICATION CONSOLE 38
Chekov leans over to Uhura.
CHEKOV
Guess who is coming to dinner.
39 EXT. SPACE 39
VFX VFX
Both ships cruise parallel in space.
40 INT. ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM 40
Scotty stands by the console. Kirk, Spock and Bones
stand next to him. They are spiffed up.
SCOTTY
Maybe if their particles just got a
wee bit mixed...
KIRK
Energize...
40 The beams reflect on the glass shield as half dozen 40
VFX Klingons, including one WOMAN start materializing. VFX
(NB Separate BEAM-INS for Gorkon, Azetbur, Chang).
Gorkon descends first. He is tall, splendidly
barbaric.
KIRK
Chancellor Gorkon.
The Klingons are lordly, formal; bow, taking in their
surroundings. An ELECTRONIC BOSUN'S WHISTLE pipes
them.
KIRK
(continuing)
Chancellor, may I present Commander
Spock, whom I believe you know, Dr.
Leonard McCoy, chief medical
officer, Montgomery Scott, chief
engineer...
GORKON
(to Spock)
Commander, face to face at
last.. you have my thanks..
Spock bows.
GORKON
(continuing)
Gentlemen, this is my daughter
Azetbur... my military advisor
Brigadier Kerla... and this is
General Chang my chief of staff.
Chang wears a PATCH over one eye. He advances on Kirk
with a grim smile, lone eyeball to eyeball.
CHANG
I've always wanted to meet you,
Captain.
KIRK
(smiles)
I'm not sure how to take that.
KERLA
Sincere admiration, Kirk -
CHANG
(soft)
As one warrior to another...
KIRK
(ducks this)
Uh, right this way, gentlemen. I
thought you might enjoy a brief
tour...
The party leaves. As they move past TWO CREWMEN...
1st CREWMAN
They all look alike.
2ND CREWMAN
What about that smell? You know
only the top of the line models can
even talk.
They turn to find themselves facing an expressionless
Lieutenant Saavik.
LT. SAAVIK
You men have work?
1st CREWMAN
Yes, sir.
LT. SAAVIK
Then snap to it.
41 INT. R DECK CORRIDOR 41
leaving the Enterprise Science Labs...
GORKON
Your research laboratory is most
impressive...
KIRK
Starfleet's been charting and
cataloging planetary atmospheres.
All vessels are equipped with
chemical analytic sensors...
GORKON
This cannot be easy for you,
Captain...
(off the look)
I would feel awkward if I had to
give you a tour of OUR vessel...
The man's courtesy makes Kirk feel guilty...
KIRK
Would you care to go topside?
CHANG
Very much.
CHEKOV
(pulling Kirk aside)
Captain, you're not going to show
them the bridge??
KIRK
(clenched teeth)
Full diplomatic courtesy, Mr.
Chekov...
The party passes Uhura and a YOUNGER CREWMAN.
YOUNGER CREWMAN
Would you want your daughter to
marry one?
42 OMITTED 42
42 REPEAT 39 VFX 42
VFX VFX
THE TWO SHIPS CRUISE PARALLEL
43 INT. OFFICERS' MESS, ENTERPRISE 43
A WINDOW IRISES OPEN REVEALING the stars gliding by.
A HAND POURS DEEP BLUE ROMULAN ALE into Gorkon's
crystal goblet. Dinner well underway. Principles from
both parties are at table. STEWARDS keep food and
drink in motion.
GORKON
I give you a toast: the
undiscovered country -
(off their looks)
the future.
All drink ROMULAN ALE, echoing "the undiscovered
country." The KLINGONS eat with their fingers,
scorning utensils.
SPOCK
HAMLET, act three, scene one.
GORKON
You have never experienced
Shakespeare until you have read
him in the original Klingon.
Chang turns to Kirk with a malicious twinkle.
CHANG
"To be or not to be, that is the
question" which preoccupies our
people, Captain Kirk. We need
BREATHING room...
KIRK
I beg your pardon?
KERLA
Captain Kirk, I thought Romulan ale
was illegal.
It takes Kirk a moment to regain his composure.
KIRK
One of the advantages of being
a thousand light years from
Federation headquarters.
Silence.
BONES
To you, Chancellor Gorkon: one of
the architects of our future.
All drink. As Romulan ale flows throughout the scene,
tongues get looser. Gorkon WATCHES.
SCOTTY
Perhaps we are looking at something
of that future here.
AZETBUR
Commander Spock, mindful of all
your work behind the scenes, and
despite the cordiality at this
mess, I do not sense an acceptance
of our people throughout your ship.
SPOCK
They're naturally wary, ma'am.
We've been at war a long time.
UHURA
How do both sides overcome
ingrained prejudice?
CHEKOV
Perhaps with a few small steps
at a time. Like this one.
BONES
And perhaps with a large step or
two. Like a peace treaty.
CHANG
Captain Kirk, are you willing to
give up Starfleet?
Kirk stares.
SPOCK
(looks at Kirk)
I believe the Captain feels that
Starfleet's mission has always
been one of peace -
KIRK
(glares)
Far be it for me to dispute my
first officer. Starfleet has
always -
CHANG
Come now, Captain, this dinner
is off the record: in space all
warriors are cold warriors.
SCOTTY
We have never tried to --
KERLA
You hypocritically presume that
your democratic system gives you
a moral prerogative to force other
cultures to conform to your
politics.
BONES
That's not true...!
KERLA
No?
Uhura turns to the Klingon next to her - all tact.
UHURA
General, are YOU fond of
Shakespeare?
He looks at her, his hands and mouth full of food. Ugh.
Chekov pursues -
CHEKOV
We do NOT impose democracy on
others. We do believe that every
planet has a sovereign claim to
human rights.
AZETBUR
(spits)
"Human rights." Even the name is
racist. The Federation is
basically a "homo sapiens" only
club...
SPOCK reacts to this. Chang is amused.
CHANG
Present company excepted, to be
sure...
UHURA
Well, I suppose we're not perfect -
SCOTTY
(rising)
Don't let them put words in your
mouth - ! I haven't served 30
years in the engine room of a
starship to be accused of gunboat
diplomacy!
KERLA
In any case, we know where this is
leading: the annihilation of our
culture. Klingons will replace
those on the lowest rung of the
Federation employment ladder,
taking menial jobs and performing
them for lower pay...
CHEKOV
That's economics, not racism -
UHURA
But you have to admit it adds up to
the same thing.
BONES
Don't be naive, Commander -!
UHURA
Who you calling naive -?
Kirk stares sullenly down the table throughout this.
CHEKOV
We're explorers not diplomats!
BONES
Starfleet's killed an awful lot of
natural phenomena in the name of
"exploration"...
SCOTTY
We follow orders...
CHEKOV
Since when has THAT been an excuse?
Diplomacy must resolve these -
SCOTTY
Right - leave it to the politicians
to muck it up and leave us
defenseless...!
A COUGH interrupts the fight. All eyes on Gorkon.
The Klingons conceal their amusement.
GORKON
(finally)
Well. I see we have a long way to
go.
Reactions from Kirk and his officers.
44 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM, ENTERPRISE 44
Both parties are gathered, saying goodbyes.
GORKON
Thank you, Captain Kirk. The
evening has been most... edifying.
KIRK
(wooden)
We must do this again soon.
Gorkon stares at him, smiles slightly.
GORKON
You don't trust me.
Kirk can't look at him.
GORKON
(continuing)
I don't blame you. If there IS to
be a Brave New World, we old people
will have the hardest time living
in it. Commander Spock.
SPOCK
Chancellor. A pleasure to meet
you, Ma'am.
AZETBUR
Captain, Commander...
KIRK
General Chang, a pleasure...
CHANG
(grins)
"Parting is such sweet sorrow,
shall we say goodnight till it be
morrow?"
Kirk is ready to slug him but turns his fist into a
SALUTE. The Klingons step on the transporter platform.
Chang speaks into his communicator, nods to Kirk.
KIRK
Energize.
44 They disappear. The Bosun's whistle. 44
VFX VFX
SCOTTY
Thank God.
CHEKOV
Did you see the way they ate?
Terrible table manners.
SPOCK
I don't believe our own conduct
will distinguish us in the annals
of diplomacy...
KIRK
I'm going to sleep it off. Let
me know if there's some other way
we can screw up tonight.
He starts out; others follow...
45 INT. KIRK'S QUARTERS 45
He comes in slightly drunk and pushes the button on his
log. Lies on his bunk and speaks. The SHIP'S BELLS
give 0100.
KIRK
Captain's log. Stardate 8679.15.
The Enterprise hosted Chancellor
Gorkon and company for dinner last
night. Our manners were not
exactly Emily Post. Note to the
galley: Romulan ale no longer to be
served at diplomatic functions.
He leans back, sighs, thinking -
KIRK
(continuing)
But is wasn't the ale. That was
just the excuse we needed to say
all the things that were really on
our minds...
SPOCK'S VOICE
(filtered)
Captain Kirk, you are wanted on the
bridge. Captain Kirk...
Kirk reacts, tries to shake himself awake.
46 INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE 46
Kirk enters. Glances at the main visual display: the
46 battlecruiser still travels silently alongside. 46
VFXA VFXA
Saavik still has the conn. Spock is at his post.
SPOCK
Captain.
KIRK
(rubs his eyes)
What is it?
SPOCK
I am uncertain.
KIRK
Spock, I'm really tired...
SPOCK
We are reading an enormous amount
of neutron radiation.
KIRK
(tries to focus)
Where?
SPOCK
Curiously it appears to emanate
from us.
KIRK
From Enterprise?
Spock remains silent. Kirk is disturbed, paces,
watching the displays.
KIRK
Saavik, you know anything about a
neutron energy surge?
LT. SAAVIK
Sir?
KIRK
Mr. Chekov, anything unusual?
CHEKOV
Just the size of my head -
KIRK
I know what you mean...
46 A photon TORPEDO suddenly streaks from the bottom of 46
VFXB the screen and hits the hull of the President's VFXB
flagship!
KIRK
What the -
SPOCK
We've fired on the Chancellor's
ship -
CHEKOV
Torpedo room--?
KIRK
Uhura, monitor!
LT. SAAVIK
Direct hit -
UHURA
Confirmed, Captain!
46 A second photon shoots out from the bottom of the 46
VFXC display screen toward the President's ship VFXC
KIRK
(frantic)
Who's doing that?
Saavik hits panel controls, trying to find out...
47 INT. GORKON'S STATEROOM, KLINGON FLAGSHIP 47
Gorkon, several advisors and soldiers were seated but
the impact has thrown them about. They speak SUBTITLED
KLINGON.
The entire FLAGSHIP is drenched in AMBER emergency
LIGHT.
ADVISOR
We're hit --!
Another blast. They start floating helplessly in the
air! Everything mobile RISES...WEAPONS FLOAT OUT OF
REACH...
SOLDIER
Gravity generator!
48 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM, FLAGSHIP 48
CLOSE ON
48 TWO SETS OF HEAVY GRAVITY BOOTS as they materialize. 48
VFXA The legs inside them wear STARFLEET UNIFORMS and VFXA
carry PHASERS at their sides. They SHOOT the Klingon
Transporter OFFICER. They STOMP HEAVILY through the
ALARMS and chaos, firing at the helpless, floating
CREW... CRIES of wounded... WEAPONS FLOAT out of their
holsters just out of reach in the AMBER LIGHT...
48 KLINGON BLOOD FLOATS IN THE AIR 48
VFXB VFXB
49 INT. FLAGSHIP CORRIDOR 49
where Klingon crew are FLOATING helplessly. The
GRAVITY BOOTS shoot anything in their way, WALK ON
WALLS, etc. as they hurry along to
50 INT. GORKON'S STATEROOM, FLAGSHIP 50
where they BLAST a GUARD at the door, SEVERING HIS ARM
and enter. The KLINGONS have weapons but are floating
and unable to aim. They are quickly shot as the two
HIT MEN make their way toward Gorkon.
50 BLOOD NOW FLOATS about as well as debris in the 50
VFX crackling emergency lighting. A good deal of HISSING VFX
STEAM...
Chancellor Gorkon is shot. The Hit Men turn and exit
quickly. Linger on a scene of WEIGHTLESS carnage and
assassination.
51 INT. FLAGSHIP CORRIDOR - NIGHT 51
The Hit Men hurry back the way they came in their
51 awkward magnetic boots. Bodies and blood floating 51
VFX around them VFX
52 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM, FLAGSHIP 52
52 The HEAVY BOOTS step on the platform and de-materialize. 52
VFX VFX
(One FOOT TREADS ON FLOATING KLINGON BLOOD)
53 INT. BRIDGE, USS ENTERPRISE 53
53 A snowy picture on the visual display, then Chang comes 53
VFXA on (still in AMBER LIGHT)... VFXA
CHANG
(He's screaming in Klingon,
reverting to his native
language under stress.)
UHURA
He says we've fired on them in a
blatant act of war.
KIRK
We HAVEN'T fired -
SPOCK
According to the data bank, we HAVE
- twice...
LT. SAAVIK
Captain, they're coming about!
53 ONSCREEN 53
VFXB VFXB
the battlecruiser/flagship now heading for Enterprise.
SPOCK
They're preparing to fire.
CHEKOV
Shields up, Captain --?
Kirk hasn't moved. He's staring at the display,
thinking.
LT. SAAVIK
Captain, our shields -- !
KIRK
Uhura, signal our surrender.
UHURA
Captain --
KIRK
WE SURRENDER.
UHURA
This is Enterprise. We surrender.
Repeat Enterprise surrenders --
CHEKOV
Captain, if they fire at us
with our shields down --
KIRK
Torpedo bay! DID we fire those
torpedoes?
54 OMITTED 54
55 INT. ENTERPRISE TORPEDO BAY 55
Scotty at the console.
SCOTTY
Negative, Captain. According to
Inventory we're still fully loaded.
56 INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE 56
ANGLE ON SPOCK
reacting. How can this be? He checks DATA BANKS
again.
56 CU DATA BANKS: they reconfirm - two photon torpedoes 56
VFX fired. VFX
KIRK
Stand down your weapons.
SCOTTY
Captain, if --
57 ANOTHER ANGLE 57
KIRK
Stand DOWN, Mr. Scott. All stop.
That's an order.
SCOTTY
Aye, sir.
Bones hurries in, carrying his stuff.
BONES
What the Hell's going on?
KIRK
I wish I knew. Uhura?
UHURA
It's pretty chaotic over there.
There's been some weapons fire
and a lot of shouting...
KIRK
I'm going aboard. Spock, you have
the conn.
He heads for the transporter room. Spock blocks him.
SPOCK
(blocks Kirk)
I am responsible for involving you
in this. I will go.
KIRK
(bitter)
I'M going. You are going to be
responsible for getting me out of
this. Meantime we're not going to
be the instigators of a full-scale
war on the eve of universal peace.
SPOCK
Perhaps you're right.
And Spock uncharacteristically pats him on the back.
SPOCK
(continuing)
Good luck, Captain.
BONES
I'm going too. They may need a
doctor.
KIRK
Uhura, tell them we're coming. And
tell them we're unarmed.
They hurry out.
58 INT. GORKON'S STATEROOM, FLAGSHIP 58
Chang and his ASSISTANTS are trying to sort things out
without gravity. Chang shouts efficient orders in
Klingon as he finds and tries to help Gorkon...
Chang keeps himself upright by grabbing a handhold, but
the stricken are still floating...
A few more orders from Chang, then the lights flicker,
then all the bodies and BLOOD slam to the ground as the
gravitational source is restored. Lighting is "NORMAL."
59 INT. FLAGSHIP TRANSPORTER ROOM 59
VFX VFX
Kirk and Bones materialize. They are quickly
surrounded by ARMED SOLDIERS. Kirk puts his hands out
to indicate they are not carrying weapons. They are
searched as Kerla enters.
KERLA
Have you lost your mind?
KIRK
I give you my word I don't
understand what has happened.
BONES
We're here to help...
KERLA
(hesitates; furious)
Follow me.
He leads them along the
60 INT. FLAGSHIP CORIDOR 60
same path - a scene of destruction - which the hit men
took, right into
61 INT. GORKON'S STATEROOM, FLAGSHIP 61
where dead and wounded are being separated.
Kerla hurries over to Gorkon, askew on a rug, blood
running everywhere. Azetbur is holding him, now bloody
herself (she wasn't in the room during the
assassination).
BONES
Chancellor Gorkon!
He goes to him immediately. Chang rises from next to
Gorkon.
KIRK
My God, what happened here?
CHANG
You feign ignorance?
KIRK
WHAT HAPPENED?
CHANG
You crippled our gravitational
field with a direst torpedo hit,
and two Starfleet crewmen beamed
aboard in magnetic boots and did
this! WE HAVE WITNESSES!
Kirk has no response, is shocked.
BONES
Jim!
Bones is being held back from Gorkon by two Klingons.
KIRK
He's a DOCTOR!
CHANG
How can I trust --
BONES
Are you carrying a surgeon?
CHANG
(enraged)
We were until your torpedoes!
BONES
Then let me help!
Chang hesitates; signals. Bones is released.
BONES
I need some light. Can we get him
onto the table...?
KLINGONS lift Gorkon onto his table; someone produces
LIGHT. Bones whips out his medical scanner. His hands
are SHAKING. A spage-age REMBRANDT painting.
BONES
Sweet Jesus...! He's lost a lot of
whatever this stuff is...
KIRK
Can you - ?
BONES
Jim, I don't even know his anatomy.
Bones furiously goes over Gorkon with his anabolic
photoplaser. Shakes his head.
BONES
(continuing)
The wounds aren't closing...
KERLA
You're killing him!
Kirk grabs Chang before he can get to Bones.
KIRK
No!
BONES
Chancellor Gorkon, can you hear me?
Chancellor...?
No response.
AZETBUR
Father...!
KIRK
Bones...?
BONES
He's gone into some kind of
arrest... come on, dammit!
He tries a medical tricorder.
Frantically, he WHUMPS Gorkon's chest...
as Kirk et al, look, Gorkon feebly opens his eyes, sees
Kirk...
GORKON
Are you all right?
HE FREEZES; Bones looks at the scanner. It burns
bright red. Gorkon is dead. Kirk is in shock: he was
for real.
Azetbur sits holding Gorkon, dry-eyed.
Kirk has to pull the stunned Bones away.
CHANG
(grim triumph)
Under article 184 of Interstellar
Law, I place you both under arrest.
You are charged with assassinating
the Chancellor of the High Council.
KIRK
He just tried to save him!
CHANG
(Klingon)
Take them away.
They are handcuffed. Both are in shock.
62 INT. BRIDGE, USS ENTERPRISE 62
Uhura is listening carefully. Scotty has joined Spock
and the others on the bridge.
UHURA
They've been arrested.
All eyes go to Spock. We can guess how he feels.
CHEKOV
Mr. Spock, we've got to do
something!
The others crowd in, waiting for orders. Depending on
him.
SPOCK
(finally)
I assume command of this ship as of
(he checks)
0130 hours. Uhura, send to
Starfleet HQ. Explain precisely
what has taken place, and request
instructions.
UHURA
Yes, sir.
LT. SAAVIK
But we can't allow them to be taken
back to Kronos as prisoners.
SPOCK
What do you suggest, Lieutenant?
Opening fire won't retrieve the
Captain; and an armed engagement
was precisely what he wished to
avoid.
SCOTTY
At least we must keep track of
where they are taken, sir. I -
SPOCK
I've already addressed that
question, Mr. Scott. We'll e able
to follow the Captain's movements.
LT. SAAVIK
How did you - ?
SPOCK
In the meantime we must endeavor to
piece together what happened here
tonight. According to our data
banks, this ship fired those
torpedoes.
SCOTTY
NO WAY!
SPOCK
Mr. Scott, you forget yourself.
Please accompany me.
He starts out -
CHEKOV
And if we can't piece together what
happened? What then? Sir.
Spock turns unhappily.
SPOCK
Then Mr. Chekov, it resides in the
hands of the diplomats.
63 INT. OFFICE OF THE FEDERATION PRESIDENT - DAY 63
The FEDERATION PRESIDENT and the KLINGON AMBASSADOR.
With them is the VULCAN AMBASSADOR, SAREK - Spock's
father - and NANCLUS, the ROMULAN AMBASSADOR.
KLINGON AMBASSADOR
The Chancellor of the High Council
is dead - the result of an
unprovoked attack while he
traveled to see YOU under a flag
of truce on a mission of peace.
Captain Kirk was legally arrested
for the crime. May I remind you
that he and Doctor McCoy boarded
KRONOS ONE of their own free will.
None of these facts are in dispute,
Mr. President.
PRESIDENT
I will demand a full investigation.
You can be assured we will
cooperate with all our power to get
to the bottom of the matter. In
the meantime --
KLINGON AMBASSADOR
In the meantime we expect the
Federation to abide by the articles
of Interstellar Law you claim to
cherish. Kirk and Doctor McCoy
WILL stand trial for the
assassination of Chancellor Gorkon.
PRESIDENT
Out of the question. Ambassador
Sarek, there must be some way to
extradite these men -
AMBASSADOR SAREK
(heavily)
Mr. President, I share a measure of
personal responsibility in this
matter, but I am obliged to confirm
my esteemed colleagues legal
interpretation: Kirk and Dr. McCoy
were properly arrested, and the
Klingons are within their rights to
try them.
PRESIDENT
And what is the position of the
Romulan government, Ambassador
Nanclus?
AMBASSADORT NANCLUS
(wily)
In the absence of specific
instructions from my government, I
must concur with my colleagues.
PRESIDENT
But surely you cannot believe that
James Kirk assassinated the
Chancellor of the High Council.
AMBASSADOR NANCLUS
("reluctant")
Mr. President, I don't know what to
believe.
KLINGON AMBASSADOR
I am waiting for your answer, Mr.
President.
Long pause.
PRESIDENT
This President is not above the
law.
The Klingon Ambassador bows and takes his leave.
The President is left with the two Ambassadors.
SEC'Y VOICE
Mr. President, Starfleet Command is
here from San Francisco.
PRESIDENT
Send them in.
Three OFFICERS from Starfleet - including Admiral
Donald and the CinC - enter from a DIFFERENT DOOR.
ADMIRAL DONALD
Mr. President.
PRESIDENT
Admiral Donald...Bill...
ADMIRAL DONALD
Mr. President we cannot allow
Federation citizens to be abducted.
PRESIDENT
At present I'm awaiting a full
report from Enterprise. Pending
that I am constrained to observe
Interstellar Law.
A stand off. Donald nods to another OFFICER.
OFFICER
I've prepared Operation Retrieve
based on the rising danger of
terrorism and hostility between the
Klingon empire and the Federation.
(hands the President a CD)
Put simply, we can go in and rescue
the Starfleet hostages and be out
in 24 hours with an acceptable rate
of loss in manpower and equipment.
We have the technology --
PRESIDENT
Suppose you precipitate a full
scale war?
OFFICER
Then, quite frankly, Mr. President
we can clean their chronometers.
AMBASSADOR NANCLUS
Mr. President, they ARE vulnerable.
There'll never be a better time...
Pause as the President considers.
PRESIDENT
I'd prefer not to be the President
to push the button if I can avoid
it.
ADMIRAL DONALD
The longer we wait, the less
accessible the hostages will be,
Mr. President.
PRESIDENT
I'll bear it in mind, Admiral. I
think that's all.
CinC
Sir.
The President looks at him.
CinC
(continuing)
Those men have literally saved this
planet - and you know it.
PRESIDENT
I do know it. And I'm afraid
they're going to save it again. By
standing trial.
They're dismissed. The President puts his head in his
hands...finally looks up at Sarek.
PRESIDENT
Do you know I agree with everything
they said?
AMBASSADOR SAREK
I'm sorry, Mr. President. And I
know my son must feel equally
responsible. It was at my request
that he persuaded Kirk to undertake
this mission.
The President looks at him.
PRESIDENT
I want the crew of Enterprise in my
office tomorrow morning.
AMBASSADOR SAREK
They're still in space, Mr.
President - adjacent to the Neutral
Zone.
PRESIDENT
Then tell your son to get the hell
back here before the end of the
week.
He swallows some pills.
64 INT. BRIDGE, USS ENTERPRISE 64
Uhura's communications panel. Chekov stands over her
shoulder. In Uhura's EARPIECE we can HEAR filtered
SCREAMING! She can hardly stand the volume.
UHURA
(understates)
We're to report back at once.
CHEKOV
We cannot abandon Captain Kirk and
Doctor McCoy.
He looks at the rest of the CREW. Lt. Saavik wanders
over.
LT. SAAVIK
(quietly)
Trouble?
UHURA
(reluctant)
We've been ordered to -
LT. SAAVIK
In nineteenth century France,
workers who felt their livelihood
threatened by machines, flung their
wooden shoes - called SABOTS - into
the gears to stop them. Hence the
word SABOTAGE.
UHURA
We are experiencing a technical
malfunction. All backup systems
inoperative.
CHEKOV
Excellent. I mean too bad.
LT. SAAVIK
I will inform Captain Spock.
65 OFFICE OF THE FEDERATION PRESIDENT - DAY 65
The President is meeting with SIX civilian ADVISERS.
MUNITIONS BUSINESSMAN
You have our total support, Mister
President. My factories are
standing by. We can gear up to
full weapons production in less
than a week.
PRESIDENT
Thank you, Henry. Right now we're
pursuing diplomatic channels...
MUNITIONS BUSINESSMAN
Of course. No one wants a war...
AMBASSADOR SAREK
If I may, Mr. President. The
important thing is to keep the
peace process alive. If the new
Chancellor is so disposed, perhaps
we can attach a rider, get some
assurance that these men won't be
executed. Then, in a year -
SEC'Y VOICE
Mr. President, you have the new
Chancellor of the High Council
calling.
They all swing to look at the far wall, which
65 lights up as a visual display. After a snowy 65
VFX beginning, Azetbur appears. VFX
66 INT. AZETBUR'S OFFICE 66
AZETBUR
Mr. President, I've been named
Chancellor of the High Council in
my father's place.
67 INT. OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT 67
Reactions in the room.
PRESIDENT
Madam Chancellor, you have my
sincerest condolences on your
recent loss. I want to assure you
that this shameful deed --
AZETBUR
Mr. President, let us come to the
point: you want the conference to
go forward and so did my father. I
will attend in one week - after
I've had the opportunity to master
the details of this position - on
one condition: we will not
extradite the prisoners and you
will not attempt to rescue them in
a military operation. We would
consider any such attempt an act
of war.
PRESIDENT
We look forward to meeting with you
next week, Madam Chancellor. I hope
you will be our guest here on --
AZETBUR
After recent events you will
understand I prefer a neutral site.
And in the interests of security,
let us keep the location secret.
PRESIDENT
As you wish, Madam Chancellor.
She clicks off. The President and his advisers are a
little speechless at her strength and brusqueness.
More pills.
68 INT. AZETBUR'S OFFICE - DAY 68
she's just gotten off the phone.
KERLA
Attack them now, Madam Chancellor -
while we still can...!
He unfurls battle plans...
FIRST GENERAL
Attack or be slaves in their world!
SECOND GENERAL
We can take whole by force what
they propose to divide...!
AZETBUR
(weary)
You don't seem to understand our
situation, General. War is...
obsolete. As we are in danger of
becoming.
KERLA
Better to die on our feet than live
on our knees...
AZETBUR
(quickly)
That wasn't what my father wanted -
CHANG
(bitter)
He was killed for what he wanted.
That sinks in. Azetbur hardens. Faces Chang.
AZETBUR
Kirk must have a fair trial.
CHANG
Of course.
AZETBUR
(stony)
But I want a conviction. You will
represent the State, General Chang.
CHANG
With the greatest pleasure, Madam
Chancellor.
69 INT. TORPEDO BAY, USS ENTERPRISE 69
Spock and Scotty hover over the torpedo console,
looking at numbers and lights. Spock thinks hard.
EIGHT BELLS SOUND. It is perfectly clear: according to
the "INVENTORY" program ALL TORPEDOES ARE STILLL ABOARD.
SCOTTY
It's as I said, Mr. Spock:
Inventory still registers every
torpedo.
SPOCK
(musing)
Yet the data banks insist we fired:
twice. One computer is lying.
SCOTTY
A computer canna lie, sir.
SPOCK
I think not.
SCOTTY
You can check the torpedoes
visually, if you like -
SPOCK
We'll have to check every one of
them, Mr. Scott.
SCOTTY
That could take hours!
SPOCK
Nevertheless.
SCOTTY
And if they're still in place?
SPOCK
Then someone forged a data bank
entry.
Lieutenant Saavik descends into the bay.
LT. SAAVIK
They've named Gorkon's daughter
Chancellor - it was on the news.
SCOTTY
I'll bet that Klingon bitch killed
her father...
SPOCK
Her own father...?
LT. SAAVIK
Such things have happened before,
sir.
SCOTTY
They don't place the same value on
life that we do, Spock - you know
that... take my word: she didn't
shed one bloody tear...
SPOCK
That's hardly conclusive, Mr.
Scott, as Klingons have no tear
ducts.
Before he can react.
SPOCK
(continuing)
Any reply from Starfleet to our
dispatch, Lieutenant.
LT. SAAVIK
Not as yet, sir.
SPOCK
Curious. You haven't been
assisting Commander Uhura with her
radio transmissions, have you, Lt?
LT. SAAVIK
Commander Uhura has been
experiencing technical difficulties
sir.
SPOCK
Very well. For twenty-four hours
we'll agree that this conversation
did not take place.
LT. SAAVIK
A lie?
SPOCK
An omission. After that -
SCOTTY
Twenty-four hours from now we won't
have a clue where the Captain is.
SPOCK
I know precisely where he'll be.
Scotty and Lieutenant Saavik react.
SCOTTY
You do? Where?
70 TIGHT ON KIRK'S EYES. JUMP BACK TO REVEAL 70
VFX VFX
THE KLINGON EMPIRE IN ALL ITS BARBARIC SPLENDOR
A cavernous stadium arranged in circular tiers cut from
jagged stone. A place from a bygone age, of savage and
awesome beauty. Something between a CIRCUS and a
CATHEDRAL.
... turned for the occasion into a gigantic COURTROOM
with thousands of spectators... SCREAMING: "KIRK! KIRK!
KIRK!
Many in the AUDIENCE hold SPEARS with lighted HEADS.
Kirk and Bones in the dock, stand in the bottom at the
very center of the circle, surrounded by a Klingon
AUDIENCE in rising tiers, while HOODED KLINGON JUDGES
sit invisible in a darkened dugout. (One Judge is an
ALBINO.)
CHANG wears the prosecutor's mantle.
In the audience is President Azetbur and her ADVISORS.
The trial is being BROADCAST and special CAMERAS
abound.
Near Kirk and Bones sit their young, eager Klingon
DEFENSE ATTORNEY. Kirk keeps his cool throughout,
though Bones tends to steam.
The rules are different. Attorneys are empowered to
ask anyone present a question at any time. And to mix
this up with statements and charges.
The proceedings BEGIN in subtitled KLINGON. Kirk and
Bones wear HEADPHONES. When they speak a TRANSLATOR
converts to Klingon...
As Chang gets going, we ZOOM into his MOUTH and he
converts to ENGLISH... the JUDGES' GAVEL IS A GROTESQUE
MAILED GLOVE.
CHANG
The State will show that Enterprise
fired on KRONOS One without
provocation, the Chancellor and his
advisers having been lulled into a
false sense of security with an
invitation to a state dinner aboard
Captain Kirk's vessel at 1930 hours
that same evening.
Do you deny all this?
The mob howls "Kirk!" as the Judge gavels.
JUDGE
The Prisoner will respond.
KIRK
I don't deny we invited them to
dinner.
71 ANGLE ON CHANCELLOR AZETBUR 71
CHANG
Where you drunk at that dinner,
Captain?
72 INT. PRESIDENT UFP'S OFFICE - DAY 72
72 The President and his ADVISERS, including Sarek, watch 72
VFX the proceedings unhappily onscreen. TRANSLATOR'S VFX
VOICE OVER.
KIRK
What?
CHANG
Isn't it a fact that you served
Romulan ale, a beverage illegal in
the Federation because of its
overwhelming potency?
KIRK
The drink WAS served...
The CinC and President wince -
CinC
This is a damned show trial.
73 INT. KLINGON COURTROOM - DAY 73
CHANG
And you still maintain your ship
did not fire on Kronos One? Would
you have known if she had? Come
now, Captain. The record clearly
there were no other ships in the
sector.
KIRK
There... were no other ships in the
sector.
CHANG
Did you have occasion to refer to
your ship's data banks during that
night?
KIRK
I checked the data banks, yes.
CHANG
And what did they tell you?
KIRK
(reluctant)
That we fired two photon torpedoes.
But -
The mob howls.
CHANG
The witness is excused - for the
time being.
Chang whirls off as the Judge gavels...
74 START ON TV: INT. KLINGON COURTROOM - DAY 74
One of PRESIDENT GORKON'S GUARDS is on the stand. He
is MISSING AN ARM.
GUARD
After the first hit, we lost our
gravitational field; I found myself
weightless and unable to function.
Then 2 Starfleet crewmen came
walking toward us -
75 WIDEN TO REVEAL WE ARE WATCHING ABOARD ENTERPRISE 75
Spock et al are receiving the transmission on their
main visual display. They watch in silence.
TRANSLATOR'S VOICE.
DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Perhaps they merely wore Starfleet
uniforms -
CHANG
I move that remark be stricken as
purely speculative...
JUDGE
So ordered. Colonel Worf, we are
interested in facts, not theories.
DEFENSE ATTORNEY
If the gravitational field was not
functioning, how could these men
have been walking?
GUARD
They appeared to be wearing
magnetic boots.
Murmur. The Defense Attorney wishes he hadn't asked.
SPOCK
Gravity boots.
76 INT. KLINGON COURTROOM - DAY 76
CHANG
They fired on you?
GUARD
With Starfleet issue phasers. They
dashed into the Chancellor's
stateroom, we could hear more
phaser fire; then they went back
the way they'd come.
CHANG
Towards the transporter room?
GUARD
That's right.
SWISH PAN TO CU SULU
77 INT. BRIDGE, USS EXCELSIOR 77
Sulu and his crew are watching the trial on their
visual display as well.
78 INT. KLINGON COURTROOM - DAY 78
CHANG
Doctor McCoy, what is your current
medical status?
BONES
Aside from a touch of arthritis,
I'd say pretty good.
Sulu has to smile. Chang is not amused; waits.
BONES
(continuing)
For 27 years I have been Ship's
Surgeon and later Chief Medical
Officer aboard the USS Enterprise.
In three months I'm due to stand
down.
CHANG
Stand...?
BONES
Retire.
CHANG
(soft)
Ah. I believe you also consumed
Romulan ale at the officers' mess
on the night of question, Doctor?
DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Objection!
JUDGE
Sustained...
BONES
(angry)
We all did. But that doesn't
mean -
JUDGE
General Chang, come to the point or
abandon this line of inquiry.
CHANG
Was Chancellor Gorkon alive when
you first examined him?
BONES
Barely.
CHANG
Have you saved patients as "barely"
alive as he was?
President Azetbur flinches at the memory.
BONES
I didn't have the knowledge of
Klingon anatomy I needed.
CHANG
You say you are due for retirement.
May I ask: do your hands shake?
DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Objection!
JUDGE
Overruled -
BONES
I was nervous -
CHANG
You were incompetent! - whether
deliberately or as a result of age
combined with drink this court will
determine.
BONES
I tried to save him! I was
desperate to save him! He was the
last best hope in the universe for
real peace.
CHANG
The Chancellor herself will testify
that the defendant's hands shook.
79 INT. UFP PRESIDENTS OFFICE 79
79 The President et al watch unhappily. 79
VFX VFX
80 INT. KLINGON COURTROOM - DAY 80
CHANG
And now we come to the architect of
this tragic affair, Captain James
Tiberius Kirk. I put it to you,
Captain, that you were seeking
revenge for the death of your son.
KIRK
That isn't true...!
CHANG
That, either as an instrument of
Federation policy or acting on your
own drunken initiative, you and
your fellow conspirators crippled
KRONOS One and cold-bloodedly
assassinated the Chancellor of the
High Council. Then you and Doctor
McCoy went aboard to make certain
the job was complete.
DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Objection: Captain Kirk has not
been identified as the assassin.
JUDGE
Sustained.
CHANG
I offer into the record the
following excerpt from Captain
Kirk's personal log.
He signals. Kirk's VOICE fills the room.
KIRK'S VOICE
I have never trusted Klingons and
never will. I have never been able
to forgive them for the murder of
my boy...
An explosive babble fills the court. The Judge POUNDS
HIS GLOVE for order... QUICK REACTION SHOTS:
81 THE ENTERPRISE, 81
82 THE PRESIDENT'S OFFICE, 82
83 THE EXCELSIOR - THEN BACK TO THE COURTROOM 83
84 INT. COURTROOM - DAY 84
CHANG
Are those your words?
KIRK
Yes.
CHANG
Spoken by you?
KIRK
Yes...
CHANG
Louder, please. We cannot hear
you.
KIRK
(firmer)
Those words WERE spoken by me.
85 INT. BRIDGE, USS EXCELSIOR 85
85 Sulu is speaking confidentially to his communications 85
VFX officer. Onscreen behind them the trial continues VFX
SULU
Send to commander Enterprise: "We
stand ready to assist you. Captain
Sulu, USS Excelsior." Attach our
co-ordinates.
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Is that wise, sir? I mean, given
their situation -
(off Sulu's look)
Aye, sir.
He leaves. Sulu looks up at the screen, unhappily.
85A COURTROOM 85A
DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Objection, your honors. My
clients' political views are not on
trial here.
86 INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE 86
86 The trial is on SEVERAL MONITORS BG. Spock, next to 86
VFX Uhura VFX
UHURA
Sulu's giving us his position and
telling us he's standing by...
SPOCK
(unhappy)
He's placing himself in a most
awkward position...
CHANG (V.O.)
On the contrary, Captain Kirk's
views and motives are at the heart
of the matter. This officer's
record shows the accused to be an
insubordinate, unprincipled career
opportunist with a history of
violating the chain of command when
it suited him.
87 INT. KLINGON COURTROOM - DAY 87
CHANG
(continuing)
Indeed the record will show that
"Captain" Kirk was once "Admiral"
Kirk and that Admiral Kirk was
broken for taking matters into his
own hands in defiance of
regulations and the law. Do you
deny you were demoted on these
charges, Captain? DO NOT WAIT FOR
THE TRANSLATION ANSWER ME NOW!
DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Don't answer - objection -!
JUDGE
Objection overruled. The Prisoner
will answer the question.
KIRK
I cannot deny it.
CHANG
You were demoted...
KIRK
Yes.
CHANG
For insubordination.
KIRK
I have on occasion disobeyed
orders.
CHANG
And you were obeying or disobeying
orders the night you arranged the
assassination of Chancellor Go |