Screenplay by:
John Logan
SHOOTING SCRIPT
INT. MEDICAL MONTAGE. DAY.
Life. Glorious in its many forms. The biological pulse
finding its way heroically through the cold manipu-
lation of science.
CREDITS as we see a beautiful montage of futuristic
medical technology. Through a microscope we see cells
multiplying and gene strands exponentially increasing
with the vibrancy of exploding flowers. We see laser
splicing and biological manipulation on the molecular
level.
CREDITS continue as we fade to...
INT. ROMULAN SENATE CHAMBER. NIGHT.
Politics... In a cavernous, shadowy chamber. Dark
figures lean together and talk seriously. Their hushed,
urgent tones denote the gravity of their discussion.
We can’t make out the words but there is no doubt what
they are talking about.
The three year old HUMAN BOY who stands before them.
The boy is alone and frightened, lost in the sweeping
grandeur of the massive chamber.
CREDITS continue as we fade to…
EXT. REMAN HOMEWORLD. NIGHT.
Labor...
On a stark, desert planet with monolithic mountains and
harsh crags shooting upward. The only light in this dark
netherworld comes from the flames that accompany the
hellish mining operations everywhere around us.
The human boy gazes over this desolate vista and then
he looks up for a moment... at the stars.
Then a tall figure leads him firmly into one of the
mines. The boy seems to disappear into this flaming
crucible.
CREDITS end as we go to...
EXT. ROMULUS SUNSET.
The sun is setting on the capital city of the great
Romulan Star Empire. The imperial monoliths and martial
towers of this bustling city glow red as the sun dips
below the horizon.
We slowly move down toward the most imposing building
of the city. The Romulan Senate chamber.
INT. ROMULAN SENATE CHAMBER. SUNSET.
SENATOR TAL'AURA watches the proceedings with a studied
look of bored indifference. She glances to the famil-
iar Romulan crest that dominates one wall of the
chamber: a ferocious bird-of-prey holding two planets,
one in either claw.
And then her eyes carefully cross the chamber to...
PRAETOR HIREN -- the head of the Romulan government -
presiding over the Senate from a throne-like chair. He
is a capable politician in his 50s.
SENATOR 1
... but if we hesitate we’ll lose
this important source of
dilithium. A trade agreement is
in the best interests of the Empire.
SENATOR 2
Praetor, I recommend we dispatch a
diplomatic mission to Celes II to
open negotiations.
Senator Tal'Aura grunts slightly at the word "nego-
tiations." Praetor Hiren glances to her.
PRAETOR
Senator Tal'Aura, you disagree
with the motion.
TAL'AURA
No, sir. I would say "negotiation"
is to be advised. I support all
"diplomatic" overtures. But if you
will excuse me, Praetor, I have an
appointment with the Tholian
ambassador.
The Praetor nods. Tal’ Aura stands and leaves the
chamber… but she had left something behind on her desk.
A small, silver box with unusual etchings on the
surface.
The discussion continues as we focus on the silver
box...
PRAETOR
Then I will call for a vote on the
motion to open trade negotiations
with Celes II.
The Senator at the desk next to Tal'Aura’s glances
over. The silver box is moving.
The Senator watches, amazed, as the box begins to
slowly fold open. Then "legs" appear. The box unfolds
like a spider, standing on its legs. Then it is still
for a moment. The Senator looks at it, puzzled.
Suddenly a bright beam of green light shoots up from
the spider. The Senators are stunned -- the beam
shoots to the high domed ceiling of the chamber and
then cascades around the interior of the room,
enveloping everything in a glowing shroud of green
energy. In a way, it is bizarrely beautiful.
And then just as suddenly the light disappears.
A moment of silence. The Praetor and Senators are
baffled.
PRAETOR
Would someone please tell me what
that was?
(He turns to a
guard)
Alert security!
A plant behind the Praetor begins to shrivel...
PRAETOR
(Cont'd)
...and have them run a...
The Praetor stops suddenly -- as the flesh begins to
melt from his face.
Every bit of organic matter in the chamber decays.
Flesh melts from bones while the Senators scream in
agony. Every living thing in the chamber is dead
within ten seconds.
A stunning moment of silence as we take in the carnage.
Then a transporter effect ripples around the spider-
weapon. It disappears.
And the Romulan Senate is no more. We fade to...
EXT. EARTH. ALASKA. PAVILION DAY.
JEAN LUC PICARD, the most beloved and respected
Captain in Starfleet.
His face is resolute and set. Even stern. His white
dress uniform is buttoned tightly to the neck.
He looks at us evenly and then utters the word that
has been the watch cry for his entire life as a
Starfleet officer.
PICARD
Duty...
He lets the word resonate and then continues.
PICARD
(Cont'd)
A starship captain's life is
filled with solemn duty. I have
commanded men in battle. I have
negotiated peace treaties between
implacable enemies. I have
represented the Federation in
first contact with twenty-seven
alien species. But none of this
compares to my solemn duty as...
Best man.
Uproarious laughter. We pull back to reveal the
wedding reception of WILL RIKER and DEANNA TROI.
The Enterprise CREW is gathered with invited GUESTS,
some from other “Star Trek” series. Riker and Deanna
sit at the center of a long table.
PICARD
(Cont'd)
Now, I know that on an occasion
such as this: it is expected that
I be gracious and fulsome with
praise on the wonders of this
blessed union... But have you
two considered what you're doing
to? This is all a damned
inconvenience...
There is laughter from the crowd.
PICARD
(Cont'd)
While you're happily settling in
on the Titan, I'll have to train a
new first officer; no doubt a
stern martinet who'll quote the
rule book at me and never... ever
...allow me to go on away
missions.
(Laughter)
...Then there's the matter of my
new counselor. Undoubtedly some
soft-spoken, willowy thing who'll
be probing into my darkest psyche
as she nods her head and coos
sympathetically. Isn't that right,
Deanna?
Deanna nods her head and coos sympathetically. Hearty,
wonderful LAUGHTER!
PICARD
I notice Dr. Crusher laughing
along with the rest of you. As
most of you know, the doctor will
also soon be leaving the
Enterprise, to assume command of
Starfleet Medical. Again, I'm
forced to ask, Beverly, have you
considered what you're doing to
little ole’ me?! I'll probably
get some old battle-axe of a
doctor who'll tell me to eat my
vegetables and put me on report
if I don’t show up for my
physical on time!
BEVERLY
It'll serve you right.
Laughter, laughter, laughter! He looks to Riker and
Deanna:
PICARD
Really, it's not too late to
reconsider. No? Very well then...
He smiles and raises his glass, looks at them deeply:
PICARD
Will Riker, you have been my
trusted right arm for fourteen
years; you have helped keep my
course true and steady. Deanna
Troi, you have been my conscience
and best guide, the touchstone to
the better parts of myself. You
are my family. And in proper
maritime tradition I wish you
full sails and a clear horizon...
My friends, make it so.
They drink.
EXT. EARTH. ALASKA. PAVILION LATER.
The party guests mingle as a band plays. We are at a
beautiful open-air pavilion high in the Denali
Mountains. The soaring ranges of Riker's native Alaska
can be seen everywhere around us.
DR. BEVERLY CRUSHER goes to Picard.
BEVERLY
(Playfully)
Sort of like losing a son and
gaining an empath, isn't it?
PICARD
Please, Beverly, this is hard
enough.
BEVERLY
If you start tearing up I promise to beam you out.
Level one medical emergency. There’s no crying in
Starfleet.
They head off toward Riker and Deanna.
Meanwhile, GEORDI LA FORGE sits with his girlfriend.
LEAH
I've never seen your Captain so
nostalgic. Maybe he's getting
soft in his old age.
GEORDI
(Laughing)
Not likely. After we installed the
new Series Four replicators, he
tried to order his usual tea and
there was a glitch. Had us remove
the whole bunch of them and put
the old ones back in
LEAH
There! Nostalgic about old
replicators.
GEORDI
He just likes things the way he
likes them...
He looks at her, smiles.
GEORDI
(Cont'd)
Of course, so do I.
He kisses her gently as WORF comes to them. Poor Worf
is still suffering a bit from the bachelor party He
plops down beside them, belches.
WORF
Romulan ale should be illegal.
GEORDI
It is, old chum.
WORF
Then it should be more illegal.
He groans and rests his head on the table, acts like
he’s going to heave.
Meanwhile, Riker and Deanna are talking to Picard and
Beverly.
DEANNA
Really, Captain, it was a lovely
toast.
PICARD
The least I could do for you,
Deanna. Besides, you know me...
I’m a talking head.
DEANNA
And you needn't worry. I'll brief
your new counselor on everything
she needs to know.
PICARD
The hell you will. You know too
much about me as it is ... Now you
promised there are no speeches
during the ceremony on Betazed.
RIKER
No, no speeches. No clothes either.
Riker winks, mischievously.
Picard looks at him. Deanna laughs.
Then the band stops playing. All turn.
DATA stands with the band.
DATA
Ladies and Gentlemen and invited
Tran gendered species... In my
study of Terran and Betazoid
conjugal rites I have discovered
it is traditional to present the
"happy couple" with a gift. Given
Commander Riker's affection for
archaic musical forms I have
elected to present the following
as my gift in honor of their
conjugation.
Riker shoots an amused glance to Deanna. Conjugation?
Data turns to the band leader.
DATA
If you please, Mister Band Leader,
a-one and a-two and..
The band launches into a jaunty, swing version of the
Irving Berlin standard "Blue Skies."
DATA
(Singing)
"Blue skies, smiling at me,
Nothing but blue skies do I see.
Blue birds, singing a song,
Nothing but blue birds all day
long. Never saw the sun shining
so bright, Never saw things going
so right..."
The crowd is appreciative. Loves the song. Except Worf,
he momentarily raises his head from the table.
WORF
(Groaning)
Ugghhh... Irving Berlin.
His heads thumps down again, is about ready to BARF!
Meanwhile, Riker is anxious as a kid to join the band.
DEANNA
(Smiles)
All right, go ahead.
Riker eagerly joins the band. Grabs the trombone and
starts jamming with the orchestra. The song really
swings.
PICARD
(To Deanna)
May I have this dance?
DEANNA
With pleasure, Captain.
Meanwhile, Geordi leads Leah to the dance floor as
well. Beverly goes to Worf.
BEVERLY
Commander Worf... Do Klingons
swing?
WORF
I am not a swinger. I am unwell.
BEVERLY
Don't worry, I'm a doctor.
She pulls him to the dance floor as:
BEVERLY
I'm so glad you made it back to
the Enterprise before I left.
WORF
I was not suited for the life of
a... diplomat.
BEVERLY
(Wry)
Who'd have guessed?
They dance. Picard and Deanna sweep past them.
And we pull up and away as Data continues to sing and
the crew dances. It is a joyous celebration of these
people.
This family. A family we love.
EXT. ENTERPRISE. SPACE.
The Enterprise streaks through space.
INT. ENTERPRISE. CREW LOUNGE. NIGHT.
Data sits in the empty Crew Lounge.
As always, the android's placid, neutral expression
still somehow manages to convey his wonder, curiosity
and idiosyncratic zest for life.
Picard arrives with a very old bottle of wine.
PICARD
I've been saving this. Chateau
Picard 2267. Batten down the
hatches...
He carefully uncorks the treasured bottle as:
PICARD
(Cont'd)
They say a vintner's history is
in every glass. The soil he
came from. His past as well as
his hopes for the future.
He pours two glasses of the wine, then raises his
glass, a toast.
PICARD
So... To happy endings.
DATA
To happy endings.
Picard carefully takes a tiny sip, savors the flavor,
finally swallows. Enjoys it. Ahhh.
Data mimics Picard. Taking a tiny sip, savoring the
flavor and finally swallowing. Ahhh.
DATA
Sir. I noticed an interesting
confluence of emotion at the
wedding. I am familiar with the
human concept of tears through
laughter and its inverse,
laughter through tears, but I
could not help wondering about
the human capacity for
expressing both pleasure and
sadness simultaneously.
PICARD
I understand why it would seem
confusing. Certain human
rituals... like weddings,
birthdays or funerals evoke
strong and very complex
emotions. These rites carry
great weight with us because
they denote the passage of
time.
DATA
And you were particularly
aware of this feeling because
Commander Riker will be
leaving to assume command of
the Titan?
PICARD
Will and Deanna joining the
Titan. Dr. Crusher going to
Starfleet Medical...
DATA
And this makes you "sad"?
PICARD
Well. I suppose it does a bit.
I'm very happy for them, of
course, but I'm going to miss
them. The ship will seem...
incomplete without them.
DATA
That is because you have a
familiarity with them. You can
predict specific reactions and
behavior and are comfortable in
that knowledge.
PICARD
Yes. And, frankly, I envy them
as well. They've made important
choices; they're going to have
great challenges ahead of them.
New worlds to conquer...
He takes another sip of wine. A beat.
PICARD
(Cont'd)
Seeing Will and Deanna today
made me think about some of the
choices I've made in my own
life. Devoting myself to
Starfleet ... Not marrying or
having children ... All the
choices that led me here.
A beat. Data thinks about it.
DATA
The choices I made have led me
here as well. This is the only
home I have ever known. I
cannot foresee a reason for
leaving.
PICARD
You never know what's over the
horizon, Data. Before too long
you'll be offered a command of
your own.
Data looks at him; he has never really considered
this.
DATA
If I were... I believe my
memory engrams would sense the
absence of your specific
reactions and behavior. I would
"miss you."
PICARD
(Smiling)
Now, you make a toast.
DATA
To new worlds...
PICARD
New worlds. Yes Data, brave new
worlds...
They drink.
INT. ROMULAN SENATE. CORRIDOR. NIGHT.
Flickering braziers dimly illuminate the cold, martial
splendor of a Senate corridor.
COMMANDER DONATRA and COMMANDER SURAN stride through
the corridor.
Suran is an elder Romulan officer, respected and
tenacious. Donatra - a key figure in this story so
pay close attention to her - is a maturer, beautiful
woman... not without a dry sense of humor.
SURAN
The fleet commanders are nervous.
They've agreed to remain at
their given coordinates and
await his orders. But they're
anxious to know what's going on
here.
DONATRA
I don’t blame them. We can't
keep them in the dark forever.
A voice, from the shadows:
VICEROY
(V.O.)
But in darkness, there is
strength.
Donatra and Suran stop.
And the VICEROY steps from the shadows...
He is a terrifying sight A powerful, monstrous alien
creature; a tall, ashen-skinned ectomorph who bears a
disturbing resemblance to the original Nosferatu. He
is vampiric and lethal. He is a Reman.
VICEROY
Don't you agree?
He leads them along the corridor.
INT. SENATE CHAMBER. NIGHT.
We observe the Romulan crest, an imposing bird-of-prey
clutching a planet in either claw, not unlike the
KAOS emblem from “Get Smart,” that dominates a wall.
As we hear:
SHINZON
(V.O.)
Consider it. The great symbol of
the Empire... But the bird-of-
prey holds planets. Romulus,
Remus. Their destinies conjoined…
And then we see him... SHINZON!
He is a dynamic young human in his twenties. Very
handsome with pale, almost white skin and shining,
golden hair. He wears a striking Reman military uniform.
He stands in the center of the eerily deserted
chamber. The entire floor lis a large star chart.
SHINZON
Yet for generations one of those
planets has been Bwithout a
voice. We will be silent no
longer.
Senator Tal'Aura (the female Senator who planted the
weapon in the Senate chamber earlier} and two other
ROMULAN COMMANDERS sit .
Cadres of Shinzon’s fearsome REMAN WARRIORS stand
around the chamber. They are his sinister children of
the night. Even more chilling now in the flickering
torch light. It’s like something out of Tim Burton.
Donatra and Suran enter the chamber with Shinzon's
Viceroy.
SHINZON
Join us, Commanders. Now what's
the disposition of the fleet?
SURAN
They're holding position.
SHINZON
And?
SURAN
(Bows his head)
They will obey, Praetor.
SHINZON
It's imperative we retain their
allegiance or our great mission
will be strangled before it can
truly draw breath.
DONATRA
They support your intentions,
sir. But they require evidence
of your... sincerity.
Shinzon looks at her. A quick beat. Shinzon decides
to respond with benevolence. He smiles.
SHINZON
And they'll have it.
He begins to pace over the star chart.
SHINZON
(Cont'd)
Tell the fleet that the days of
negotiation and diplomacy are
over. The Almighty Federation
will fall before us. As I
promised you.
He stands on the area of the map that denotes the
Neutral Zone between the Romulan Empire and the
Federation.
SHINZON
The time we have dreamed of is
at hand. The time... of
conquest.
(Sinister laugh)
He carefully steps into the area of the map marked
with the Federation symbol. He looks down at the
star chart.
SHINZON
Cut off the dragon's head and it
cannot strike back.
A beat. Donatra watches him carefully. Something in
his quiet words disturbs her.
SURAN
How many Warbirds will you need?
SHINZON
None.
They look at him, stunned.
SURAN
Praetor. You have the whole
fleet at your disposal. They
supported the coup, they'll
follow you.
SHINZON
The Scimitar will serve my
needs.
SURAN
But surely...
SHINZON
I came this far alone ...
He looks at his Reman warriors.
SHINZON
(Cont'd)
We came this far alone. We
require no assistance from the
fleet. Now leave me to my
thoughts.
The Commanders and Senator Tal'Aura rise and leave.
Shinzon looks to his Viceroy.
SHINZON
Are we prepared?
VICEROY
Yes, Praetor.
A beat.
SHINZON
So many years for this moment.
He looks up at his Viceroy, smiles.
SHINZON
(Cont'd)
Bring him to me.
INT. ENTERPRISE. BRIDGE. DAY.
The bridge crew are at their stations. Picard is
not on the bridge.
WORF
(Grumbles)
I won't do it.
DEANNA
It's tradition,Worf. You of
all people should appreciate
that!
(Whispers)
Besides, I’ve already seen it.
WORF
A warrior does not appear
without his clothing. It
leaves him... vulnerable.
RIKER
I don't think we're going to
see much combat on Betazed.
DEANNA
Don't be too sure. Mother will
be there.
Worf groans. Picard emerges from his Ready Room as:
WORF
I won't do it.
PICARD
Won’t do what, Mister Worf?
WORF
Captain. I think it is
inappropriate for a Starfleet
officer to appear...
(Hates the word)
Naked.
PICARD
Come now, a big, strapping
fellow like you? What are you
afraid of?
Deanna laughs. Then a readout on Worf's console
attracts his attention:
WORF
I'm picking up an unusual
electromagnetic signature from
the Kolarin system.
PICARD
What sort of signature?
Worf looks up. Glances at Data.
WORF
Positronic.
INT. ENTERPRISE. BRIDGE. LATER.
Geordi is at the Engineering station with Picard,
Riker and Data.
GEORDI
It's very faint but I've
isolated it to the third
planet in the Kolarin system.
PICARD
What do we know about the
planet?
GEORDI
Uncharted. We'll have to get
closer for a more detailed
scan.
PICARD
(To Data)
Theories?
DATA
Since positronic signatures
have only been known to
emanate from androids such as
myself, it is logical to
theorize that there is an
android such as myself on
Kolarus III.
GEORDI
How many of you did Dr. Soong
make?
DATA
I thought only me, myself and
Lore.
RIKER
(Looking at star
chart)
Diverting to the Kolarin
system takes us awfully close
to the Romulan Neutral Zone.
PICARD
(Looking at star
chart)
Still well on our side...
Picard glances at Data, recognizes the android's
deep desire to explore this possible connection to
others like himself.
PICARD
I think it's worth a look.
Don't worry, Number One, we'll
get you to Betazed with time
to spare.
RIKER
Thank you, sir...
PICARD
(To all, especially
Worf)
Where we will all honor the
Betazoid traditions. No cold
feet, or any other parts of
our anatomy. Now, if you’ll
excuse me. I’ll be in the
gym.
He goes.
RIKER
(To Helm Officer)
Mister Branson, set course for
the Kolarin system. Warp Five.
Deanna shoots him a glance.
RIKER
(Cont'd)
Warp Seven.
HELM OFFICER (MISTER BRANSON)
Plotted and laid in, sir.
RIKER
Engage.
DEANNA
You better believe you’re
engaged!
Meanwhile, Geordi and Data remain at the Engineer-
ing Station, studying the displays.
GEORDI
What do you think, Data, a
long-lost relative?
Data doesn't respond, but the curiosity on his
face is apparent.
EXT. ENTERPRISE. OVER KOLARUS III. SPACE.
The Enterprise is in orbit around the uncharted
planet. In the distance we can see the distorting
violence of an ion storm.
INT. ENTERPRISE. BRIDGE.
Kolarus III is on the viewscreen, the ion storm
raging beyond it.
GEORDI
I read six distinct positronic
signatures, spread out over a
few kilometers on the surface.
PICARD
What do we know about the
population?
DATA
Isolated pockets of humanoids.
It appears to be a pre-warp
civilization at an early stage
of industrial development.
GEORDI
Captain, I don't recommend
transporting, that ion storm
doesn't look very neighborly.
-It could head this way with-
out much warning .
PICARD
Understood. Data, Worf, you're
with me.
Picard, Data and Worf start heading toward the
turbolift.
RIKER
(stands, protesting)
Captain, I hope I don't have to
remind you --
PICARD
I appreciate your concern,
Number One, but I've been
itching to try out the Argo.
RIKER
Sir --
PICARD
Captain's prerogative, Will.
There's no foreseeable
danger... and your wife would
never forgive me if anything
happened to you.
He steps into the turbolift with the Data and Worf.
PICARD
You have the bridge, Mister
Troi!
The turbolift doors slide shut.
The bridge crew heartily enjoys Riker's momentary
demotion to house husband.
EXT. ENTERPRISE. OVER KOLARUS III. DAY.
The shuttlebay doors slide open and the transport
vehicle Argo emerges.
The Argo is larger than a regular shuttle with a
particularly large cargo area at the back.
EXT. KOLARUS III. DAY.
The Argo lands on the planet. It is primarily a
desert environment with some canyons and mountains.
Like Death Valley, blazing heat waves shimmer in
the distance. The shuttle sits silently for a
moment. We wonder at the delay, then…
The rear cargo doors slide open and Picard, Data
and Worf roar out on a 24th Century equivalent of
a military jeep!
Picard drives, Data beside him. Worf stands in the
back at a mounted phaser canon. It is a muscular,
exciting vehicle; a Starfleet version of the jeep
from old television series "The Rat Patrol."
Picard screeches to a stop. Data and Worf lurch. A
cloud of dust momentarily obscures them. Data
quickly monitors the positronic signatures with a
tricorder:
DATA
The closest signature is two
kilometers to the west... that
direction, sir.
PICARD
Thank you, Data.
(He smiles)
Let's see what she can do.
He roars off in a cloud of dust!
Picard clearly enjoys driving. He roars over the
desert terrain at breakneck speed, having a hell
of a good time. His comrades don't exactly
appreciate his free-spirited driving panache.
Worf clings on to the mounted phaser canon for dear
life. Data steadies himself by grasping onto the
rollbar
DATA
I will always be baffled by
the human predilection for
piloting vehicles at unsafe
velocities.
Picard smiles and drives a little faster.
DATA
(Monitoring with
tricorder)
Over that rise, sir... half a
kilometer.
They continue on. Before long they can see some-
thing on the level desert floor before them. They
approach and stop to discover...
An android arm. The fingers patiently drumming the
ground.
DATA
It appears to be...
(He scans with
his tricorder)
... an arm.
WORF
(Suspicious)
Why is it moving?
DATA
Like me, it has been designed
with modular power sources.
PICARD
Mister Worf, if you please.
Worf climbs from the jeep and carefully approaches
the arm. Gingerly picks it up. The arm responds to
being picked up, the hand starts feeling around in
the air like something from a horror movie. Worf
shudders.
He returns to the jeep. Quickly sets the arm down
in the rear cargo area.
DATA
The next signature is one
kilometer to the south.
Picard starts the jeep in motion.
Time passes as they continue on... coming across
another arm... a leg... a torso... another leg...
various disassembled components of a Data-like
android!
EXT. JEEP. KOLARUS III. CANYON. DAY.
Worf stands uneasily amidst the moving body parts.
There is only one component missing: the head.
Picard steers the jeep into a canyon. Stops. Data
scans with his tricorder, pointing it up into the
gently sloping hills that form the sides of the
canyon.
DATA
The final signature is approx-
imately 300 meters up that
incline.
PICARD
Mister Worf, accompany Data
please.
WORF
(Uneasy)
To find the head, sir?
PICARD
(Amused)
If you don't mind.
Worf and Data climb up into the hills in pursuit of
the final piece as Picard opens the jeep's hood and
checks the engine.
EXT. KOLARUS III. HILLS. DAY.
Worf and Data climb as Data scans and indicates the
direction:
DATA
Ten meters...
Worf pulls his phaser, ready.
DATA
I think it unlikely you will
need your phaser to recover the
cranial unit. Of course, it
could bite you.
Then they see it.
Data's head. Or the spitting image anyway. Lying
inert in the dust before them.
WORF
It's you.
DATA
The resemblance is... striking.
Then the head's eyes suddenly pop open. It looks up
at them with a sort of blank, childlike wonder.
HEAD
Why am I looking at me?
DATA
You are not looking at your-
self. You are looking at me.
HEAD
(Looking at Worf)
You do not look like me.
WORF
No.
DATA
(To the head)
I would like to pick you up
now. May I do that?
HEAD
(To Worf)
You have a pretty shirt.
WORF
Thank you.
Data gently picks up the head. Looks at it. The two
identical faces gaze at each other.
DATA
Fascinating...
Then BLAM! -- a boulder near them explodes. Worf
and Data spin to see...
A nomadic tribe of desert ALIENS swarming toward
them firing primitive plasma weapons.
Data and Worf race back down the canyon, toward the
jeep -- some open-field running and a bit of phaser
action -- Worf firing to distract and slow the
aliens, not kill them -- through all of this the
head is chattering away blandly:
HEAD
I have two arms and ten
fingers. Do you know where my
arms are? I cannot see where
we are going. Where are we
going?
(Etc... like Threepio
in “Empire” when
he’s strapped to
Chewbacca’s back.)
The action continues. Then Data finds himself
almost surrounded -
DATA
Commander!
Worf turns -- Data throws the head to Worf like a
football, a perfect spiral -- the head is still
chattering away -- Worf catches it--
WORF
STOP TALKING!
The head abruptly stops talking.
Data, hands free now, quickly incapacitates the
aliens around him with a dazzling demonstration of
his superior strength and agility,
Meanwhile, Worf tucks the head under his arm and
sprints like a master running back -- evading
aliens and occasionally firing his phaser--
They are closer to the jeep now --but they are in
trouble -- the swarm of aliens almost overtaking
them --!
When a thundering BLAST sends up a shower of
debris, stopping the aliens -- Picard is standing
in the rear of the jeep, firing the phaser canon.
Data and Worf climb into the jeep as Picard leaps
into the front seat and roars off --
INT. EXT. JEEP. KOLARUS III. FOLLOWING.
Worf, standing at the phaser canon, quickly hands
the head to Data in the front seat:
WORF
If you wouldn't mind.
DATA
Thank you.
The head looks up at Picard.
HEAD
You have a shiny head.
Picard glances at the head.
DATA
He is very observant.
PICARD
I can see that.
WORF
Captain!
Picard turns to see that they are being pursued!
The aliens are racing after them in crude desert-
terrain vehicles --
PICARD
(To Data)
Shall we try some "unsafe
velocities?"
He floors it -- racing across the desert landscape.
Worf fires the mounted phaser canon -- blasting
away at the aliens, not killing them, just stopping
them -- a few dramatic crashes as the alien
vehicles overturn --
Meanwhile:
HEAD
(To Picard)
You have a red shirt.
DATA
(To the head)
This is not an appropriate time
for a conversation.
HEAD
Why?
DATA
Because the captain has to
concentrate on piloting the
vehicle.
HEAD
Why?
PICARD
Data!
DATA
Sorry, sir.
They continue to speed over the landscape --
bouncing and flying over natural rises in the
terrain -- trying to evading their pursuers --
Picard puts the pedal to the metal and races
through the alien vehicles -- weaving in and out,
avoiding their fire - Worf blasts away with the
phaser cannon -- an exhilarating adventure --
Finally they are within sight of the Argo -- but
they see it is surrounded by more of the aliens!
PICARD
Mister Data. Let’s make like
the wind.
Data punches some buttons on a dashboard console --
and the Argo LIFTS OFF by remote control --
Data uses the console to swing the Argo around and
lower the rear cargo doors -- it hovers over the
surface --
Picard floors the jeep -- using a natural rise in
the terrain as a ramp -- the jeep FLIES THROUGH THE
AIR -- over the aliens -- and into the cargo bay --
INT. ARGO. CARGO BAY. FOLLOWING.
Picard slams on the brakes -- the jeep screeches to
a stop as the doors shut and the Argo shoots into
the air.
Picard climbs from the jeep. He nonchalantly rubs a
bit of dirt from the hood and then disappears into
the main cabin.
Data and Worf remain in the jeep for a beat. They
are stunned.
WORF
(Smiles)
He must have Klingon blood.
INT. ENTERPRISE. ENGINEERING LAB. DAY.
Beverly gazes at the android head. It gazes back
at her.
BEVERLY
I think you have nicer eyes.
We pull back to reveal she is speaking to Data.
Data stands with Picard, Riker and Geordi.
DATA
Our eyes are identical, Doctor.
The android is in a framework rig that holds the
various body parts in place. The parts are not yet
assembled
RIKER
Geordi?
GEORDI is at work analyzing the torso section.
GEORDI
Well, he seems to have the same
internal mechanics as Data but
not as much positronic develop-
ment. The neural pathways
aren't nearly as sophisticated.
I’d say he's a prototype.
Something Dr. Soong created
before Data .
DATA
(To head)
Do you have a name, sir?
HEAD
I am the B-9.
PICARD
Be-nign. Dr. Soong's penchant
for whimsical names seems to
have no end.
HEAD
(To Riker)
You have a fuzzy face.
PICARD is trying to ignore the head.
PICARD
Keep me informed, Number One,
and, please, put him back
together.
He goes. Geordi and Data begin to reassemble the
B-9 piece by piece like the Tin Man as:
DATA
Can you tell me how you came to
be on the planet where we found
you?
B-9
(Blandly)
I was taken from my homeworld
by people called the "PakJeds."
They are fat. They traded me
to a ship belonging to the
"Bolians." The "Bolians" are
blue. They put me in a seat and
asked me questions. Then they
were attacked by another
ship...
Time passes ...
And still the B-9 is yammering blandly away. He is
more fully assembled. By this time Beverly is
thoroughly bored .
B-9
Then people called the
Delviciansans picked me up.
They have long teeth. They
asked if I do anything to help
them. I told them I could do
whatever they wanted. They
asked me to clean out the
matrix manifolds. I told them
I did not know what an Matrix
manifold looks like.
BEVERLY
Excuse me. I have some
diagnostics to run on some
medical scanner things.
She quickly exits.
B-9
And after they showed me the
"engine manifolds." Then they
showed me something called a
"plasma mop"
Time passes...
And still the B-9 is yammering away. He is almost
completely assembled by now. Riker is bored out
of his mind.
B-9
...then the "Cardassians" put
me into something called a
"garbage chute" and I went out
into space again --
WORF
(V.O. on comm)
Worf to Commander Riker. I
have the tactical manifests
ready, sir.
RIKER
(Quickly tapping
his comm badge)
Worf! Wonderful! I'll be right
there! ...
(He stands)
Duty calls, gentlemen. Carry
on.
He escapes.
B-9
Fuzzy face is gone.
DATA
Yes, please continue.
B-9
I was in space for a long time.
Then a ship belonging to the
“Talosians” picked me up. They
asked me where I came from. I
told them people called the
“Pakleds” took me from my
homeworld. They are fat…
Geordi groans. Time passes. And still the B-9 is
yammering away. By this time Geordi is slumped in
a chair and only Data is listening. The B-9 is
fully assembled.
B-9
Then I opened my eyes and saw
you.
A beat. The B- 9 is finally done with his tale.
DATA
Do you know who I am?
B-9
You are me.
DATA
No. My name is Data... I am
your brother.
INT. ENTERPRISE. CREW LOUNGE. NIGHT.
Riker and Deanna are having dinner with Worf.
DEANNA
(To Worf)
... and after the ceremony on
Betazed, three entire weeks
for our honeymoon.
RIKER
We're going sailing on the
Opal Sea. We've booked an
old-fashioned solar catamaran.
Just us and the sun and the
waves.
WORF
It seems a very... soft honey-
moon.
DEANNA
(Amused)
It's meant to be relaxing.
WORF
A Klingon honeymoon begins
with the Kholamar desert
march where the couple bonds
in endurance trials. If they
survive the challenge they
move on to the Fire Caves of
Fek'lhr to face the demons of
Gre'thor.
RIKER
Well, that sounds relaxing too.
WORF
It is... invigorating.
They see Data enter the lounge, carefully leading
the B-9.
RIKER
So they’ve got him up and
running.
WORF
He's a very unusual android.
RIKER
(Smiles)
Runs in the family.
They watch as Data leads the B-9 to a table. Data
instructs him to sit. The B-9 sits and stares
forward placidly. Data shows him how use a napkin.
A note of concern passes over Deanna's face as she
watches Data and the B-9.
There is something strangely poignant in the twin
androids. One a bundle of curiosity and
intelligence; the other somewhat like a slow,
simple child.
INT. ENTERPRISE. READY ROOM. NIGHT.
Picard is at his replicator unit.
PICARD
Earl Grey, hot.
A cup of tea appears. He takes it as the door
chime sounds.
PICARD
Come.
Deanna enters.
PICARD
(Cont'd)
Counselor.
DEANNA
Do you have a moment, sir?
PICARD
Of course, sit down.
He sits at his desk She sits across from him.
DEANNA
It's about Data I've watched
him with the B-9 and I'm
troubled. Data's desire for a
"family" is very strong. I'm
afraid he may be investing
too much in the B-9.
PICARD
You're speaking of emotional
investment?
DEANNA
The B-9 is like a slow child,
sir. And Data, in his own way,
has assumed the position of a
parent or guardian. I'm afraid
he has expectations based on
his own experiences. He'll be
disappointed when the BI-9
cannot meet those expectations.
PICARD
As much as we care for him,
Deanna... we have to remember
that Data isn't capable of
disappointment.
DEANNA
I don't believe that, sir.
We’ve shared many disappointing
journeys.
A quiet beat.
PICARD
I'm going to miss you.
DEANNA
And I you.
They are interrupted by a comm signal:
RIKER
(V.O. on comm)
Captain, you have an Alpha
Priority communication from
Starfleet Command.
PICARD
Acknowledged ...
(Deanna stands)
...I'll talk to Data.
DEANNA
Thank you, sir.
She goes. Picard activates his desktop viewscreen.
ADMIRAL KATHRYN JANEWAY appears on Picard's monitor.
Janeway is the former captain of Voyager. Her
new rank fits her well, she has lost none of her
dry humor and down-to-earth charm which made her a
household name and beloved cult figure.
PICARD
Admiral Janeway. Good to see
you.
JANEWAY
(On viewscreen}
Jean Luc... How'd you like a
trip to Romulus? All expenses
paid?
PICARD
(Smiles)
With or without the rest of
the fleet?
JANEWAY
(On viewscreen)
A diplomatic mission. We've
been invited, believe it or
not. Seems there's been some
kind of internal political
shakeup. The new Praetor,
someone called Shinzon, has
requested a Federation envoy.
PICARD
New Praetor?
JANEWAY
(On viewscreen)
There's more... as always.
He's Reman.
Picard is surprised.
JANEWAY
(On viewscreen)
(Cont'd)
Believe me, we don't under-
stand it either. You're the
closest ship so I want you to
high tail it over there and
hear what he has to say. Get
the lay of the land, If the
Empire becomes unstable, it
could mean trouble for the
entire quadrant.
PICARD
Understood.
JANEWAY
(On viewscreen}
We're sending you all the
intelligence we have, but it's
not much. I don't need to tell
you to watch your back, Jean
Luc.
PICARD
Not with the Romulans.
JANEWAY
(Smiles wryly, on
viewscreen}
The Son'a, the Borg, the
Romulans, the evil Soran and
that pesky Nexus. You seem to
get all the easy assignments!
PICARD
Just lucky, Admiral.
JANEWAY
(On viewscreen)
Let's hope that luck holds.
Janeway out.
The transmission ends.
Picard sits for a moment, intrigued. Then he goes
to the bridge
INT. ENTERPRISE. BRIDGE. FOLLOWING.
Picard goes to his command chair:
PICARD
(To Helm)
Lay in a new course... Take
us to Romulus. Warp eight.
The crew is shocked.
HELM OFFICER
Aye aye, sir. Course plotted
and laid in...
RIKER
Romulus?
PICARD
I'm afraid the Opal Sea will
have to wait, Number One...
Engage.
EXT. ENTERPRISE. SPACE.
And the Enterprise jumps to high warp -- disappear-
ing in a flash of dazzling light.
INT. ENTERPRISE. OBSERVATION LOUNGE. DAY.
Data conducts a briefing for the senior officers.
Monitors currently show an image of Romulus and
Remus in orbit around their sun.
DATA
As you can see the habitable
half of Remus is always in
darkness because, like
Mercury, one side always
faces the sun. Due to the
extreme temperatures on that
half of their world, the
Remans live on the dark side
of the planet.
Various grainy and unclear new images appear to
illustrate Data’s words:
DATA
Almost nothing is known about
the Reman homeworld, although
intelligence scans have
proven the existence of
dilithium mining and heavy
weapons construction.
Very obscure images of Remans appear, the crew can
barely make out the monstrous figures:
DATA
The Remans themselves are
considered an undesirable
caste in the hierarchy of the
Empire.
RIKER
But they also have the
reputation of being formidable
warriors. In the Dominion War,
Reman forces were used as
assault troops in the most
violent encounters.
PICARD
(Grim)
Cannon fodder.
GEORDI
Then how did a Reman get to
be Praetor? I don't get it.
RIKER
We have to assume he had
Romulan collaborators.
PICARD
A coup d'etat?
RIKER
The Praetor's power has always
been the Romulan fleet. They
must be behind him.
Picard considers this.
PICARD
(To Data)
What have you learned about
Shinzon?
The images end. There are no images of Shinzon.
DATA
Starfleet intelligence was
only able to provide a partial
account of his military
record. We can infer he is
relatively young and a
capablecommander. He fought
seventeen major engagements
in the war. All successful.
Beyond that, we know nothing.
PICARD
Well... it seems we're truly
sailing into the unknown.
Keep at it. Anything you can
give me would be appreciated.
Dismissed.
The meeting breaks up.
INT. ENTERPRISE. ENGINEERING LAB. DAY.
The B-9 stares placidly forward.
We pull back and discover that computer conduits
connect the B-9's head to Data's head. Geordi
monitors the connection.
DATA
At present he serves no useful
function. Dr. Soong created us
to become active and useful
members of society. I do not
believe he would have wanted
the B-9 to live out his life
in his present state.
GEORDI
I can't believe the Captain
went along with a memory
download.
DATA
Captain Picard agrees that the
B-9 was probably designed with
the same self-actualization
parameters as myself. If my
memory engrams are successfully
integrated into his positronic
matrix, he should have all my
abilities.
GEORDI
He'd have all your memories
too. You feel comfortable with
that?
DATA
I feel nothing, Geordi. It is
my belief that with my memory
engrams he will be able to
function as a more complete
individual.
GEORDI
An individual more like you,
you mean.
DATA
Yes.
GEORDI
Maybe he's not supposed to be
like you. Maybe he's supposed
to be just like he is.
Geordi completes his work.
GEORDI
Okay ...we're done.
Geordi removes the computer connections from
between their heads. He carefully closes the panel
in Data's head as:
DATA
(To B-9)
Do you know where you are?
B-9
I am in a room with lights.
He looks blankly at the console lights.
DATA
Can you remember our father?
B-9
No.
Data glances to Geordi.
DATA
Do you know the name of the
Captain of this vessel?
B-9
No.
DATA
Is that your final answer?
GEORDI
(To B-9)
Do you know my name?
B-9
You have a soft voice.
GEORDI
(Gently)
Data, he's assimilating a lot
of programming. e member, he's
a prototype, a lot less
sophisticated than you are. We
just don't know if his matrix
will be able to adapt. Or if
he'll be able to retain any-
thing. We should give him
some time.
Data has been studying some circuitry in the B-9's
neck.
DATA
What purpose does this serve?
GEORDI
(Also examining
circuitry)
It seems to be a redundant
memory port. Maybe it's for
provisional memory storage in
case his neural pathways
overload?
DATA
Dr. Soong must have found it
unnecessary in later versions.
GEORDI
It's possible the extra memory
port is interfering with the
engram processing. Mind if I
keep him here and run some
diagnostics?
DATA
No, I do not mind.
Data looks at the B-9 with a sort of sadness.
DATA
But I believe he will prove
incapable of performing higher
functions.
GEORDI
Don't give up hope, Data. I
know, I know, you're not
capable of hope.
DATA
(Looking at B-9)
I am not.
Data stands. The B-9 stands to follow.
DATA
No, remain with Commander La
Forge. He is going to try to
make you well.
The B-9 sits. Data goes. Geordi watches him go.
EXT. ENTERPRISE. OVER ROMULUS. SPACE.
The Enterprise is in orbit around Romulus. Remus
can be seen in the distance.
PICARD
(V.O.)
Captain's Log. Stardate
47844.9. The Enterprise has
arrived at Romulus and is
waiting at the designated
coordinates. All our hails
have gone unanswered. We've
been waiting for seventeen
hours.
INT. ENTERPRISE. BRIDGE. FOLLOWING.
The crew is tense. Silence.
Worf, at tactical, slowly stretches his neck.
Trying to release the tension. It cracks. Deanna
jumps a bit.
RIKER
Why don't they answer our
hails?
PICARD
It's an old psychological
strategy, Number One. To put
him in a position of dominance
and make us uneasy.
RIKER
It's working.
PICARD
(To Deanna)
Counselor?
DEANNA
They're out there, sir.
Picard stands and walks to the view screen. He
gazes at Romulus below and the black infinity of
space beyond. They're out there, Waiting.
WORF
Sir, I recommend we raise
shields.
PICARD
Not yet, Mister Worf.
RIKER
Captain, with all due respect
to diplomatic protocols --
the Federation Council's not
sitting out here, we are.
PICARD
Patience. Diplomacy is a very
exacting occupation. We can
wait.
DATA
Captain...
And on the viewscreen.
Shinzon's magnificent Reman Warbird, the SCIMITAR,
decloaks directly before the Enterprise.
EXT. OVER ROMULUS. SPACE.
Our first sight of this incredible ship is
absolutely breathtaking.
Shinzon's vessel combines the clean lines of the
traditional Romulan Warbird with unique weaponry
and styling. It is huge, easily twice as large as
the Enterprise. And it is aggressive. Awesome in
its power.
INT. ENTERPRISE. BRIDGE. FOLLOWING.
The crew gapes at the huge ship on the viewscreen.
RIKER
(Slowly rising from
his chair)
My God...
WORF
(Tense)
Should I raise shields?
PICARD
No!
WORF
Captain!
PICARD
(Firm)
Tactical analysis, Mister
Worf.
WORF
(Quickly analyzing
tactical display)
Fifty-two disruptor banks,
twenty-seven photon torpedo
bays, primary and secondary
phased shields.
RIKER
She's not out for a pleasure
cruise.
PICARD
(Grim)
She's a predator.
WORF
We're being hailed.
PICARD
On screen.
And the image on the viewscreen transforms to:
Shinzon's Viceroy.
He stands on the Scimitar's bridge. The bridge is
as unique as the rest of Shinzon's ship. Instead of
the usual mechanical clutter, this bridge is
designed with an almost Asian simplicity. Like the
rest of Reman design, it is spare and elegant.
Since the Remans are more comfortable in the dark-
ness, most of the light comes from the three
steadily pulsing warp core relays which
dramatically soar up through the floor of the
bridge.
The crew gazes at the bridge and the monstrous
features of the viceroy.
VICEROY
(On viewscreen)
Enterprise. We are the Reman
Warbird Scimitar.
PICARD
Praetor Shinzon, I'm pleased
to...
VICEROY
(On viewscreen)
I am not Shinzon. I am his
Viceroy. We are sending
transport coordinates.
The transmission ends abruptly. The Scimitar
reappears on the viewscreen.
RIKER
Not very chatty.
PICARD
Away team. Transporter room
four.
Picard, Riker, Deanna, Worf and Data head toward
the turbolift, energized now that the endless
waiting is over.
INT. SCIMITAR. OBSERVATION LOUNGE. NIGHT.
The away team materializes in the most striking
location on Shinzon's ship: a large observation
lounge.
It is a huge, empty chamber. No furniture. A
simple Reman mat on the floor is the only
decoration. At the very top of the room there is
a large, etched glass dome.
It is very dark.
They turn when Shinzon speaks from the shadows:
SHINZON
(V.O)
I hope you'll forgive the
darkness... we're not
comfortable in the light.
PICARD
Praetor Shinzon?
Shinzon moves toward them a bit, becoming slightly
more illuminated, the low light shining off his
golden hair.
The crew cannot see him clearly in the dim light
but it is evident he is human. Assuming that he
was Reman, they’re surprised by this realization.
Shinzon just stares at Picard through the darkness
for a moment.
SHINZON
Captain Picard... Jean Luc
Picard... I don't mean to
stare, it's just -- well, you
can't imagine how long I've
been waiting for this moment.
I always imagined you taller,
isn't that odd?
(To Data)
You may scan me without
subterfuge, Commander Data.
Data scans him with a tricorder as:
PICARD
And you're not as we imagined
you.
SHINZON
No?
WORF
You are human.
SHINZON
Commander Worf.
(Speaking in Klingon)
I greet you as a valiant
warrior... and as my brother.
WORF
(Terse, in Klingon)
I'll save my greetings for a
better brother.
Shinzon laughs, maniacally.
PICARD
Why have you asked for our
presence here?
Shinzon does not answer. He is staring deeply at
Deanna, moans softly.
PICARD
Praetor?
SHINZON
(Quietly)
I've never met a human woman.
He slowly moves toward her, still hidden in the
shadows.
DEANNA
I'm only half human.
SHINZON
Deanna Troi of Betazed.
Empathic and telepathic
abilities, ship's counselor.
All of this I knew... But I
didn't know you were so
beautiful.
RIKER
You seem very familiar with
our personnel.
Shinzon moves even closer to Deanna, not taking his
eyes from her.
SHINZON
I am, Commander Riker...
(To Deanna)
May I touch your hair?
PICARD
(Firm)
Praetor, we've come to Romulus
on a matter we were -- assured
was of great importance. If
you have anything to say to
us as representatives of the
Federation, I suggest you do
so now.
Shinzon continues to stare at Deanna. It is
strangely seductive. Almost disquieting in its
intensity. Deanna handles it with grace, her level
gaze never leaving his.
SHINZON
(Softly)
On the world I come from
there's no light. No sun.
Beauty isn't important. I see
now there's a world elsewhere.
PICARD
Praetor Shinzon. We’re not
here to discuss your lack of
a social life.
SHINZON
(Turning back to
Picard)
Yes, I'm sorry, Captain.
(Smiling)
There's so much we have to
talk about.
PICARD
I would be interested to know
what we are talking about.
SHINZON
Unity, Captain! Tearing down
the walls between us to
recognize we are one people.
Federation and Romulan. Human
and Vulcan and Klingon and
Reman. I'm speaking of the
thing that makes us the same.
We want peace.
Picard and the others are stunned.
SHINZON
I want to end the centuries
of mistrust. I want to be your
ally, not your enemy. As a
first step I propose we
eliminate the Neutral Zone
and begin a free and open
exchange of goods and ideas.
PICARD
And the Senate supports you?
SHINZON
(Dry)
I have dissolved the Senate.
A beat.
SHINZON
Right now, you’re thinking
this all sounds too good to
be true?
PICARD
Yes.
SHINZON
And you're wondering why the
Scimitar is so well armed. Is
this the ship of a peacemaker?
Or a predator?.
Picard is startled at Shinzon's choice of words.
SHINZON
(Cont'd)
But you're also thinking the
chance for peace is too
promising to ignore. Above
allyou're trying to decide if
you can trust me.
PICARD
Yes.
SHINZON
Then perhaps the time has
come to add some illumination
to our discussion. Computer,
raise lighting four levels.
Lights shoot up around the room.
For the first time the crew can see Shinzon
clearly. Picard actually gasps when he sees
Shinzon's face. The rest of the crew doesn't
understand his reaction.
SHINZON
Allow me to tell you a story
that I hope will clarify my
position. When I was very
young I was stricken with an
odd disease. I developed a
hyper-sensitivity to sound.
The slightest whisper caused
me agony...
Picard watches him carefully. Wary and strangely
intense.
SHINZON
No one knew what to do.
Finally I was taken to a
doctor who had some experience
with Terran illnesses and I
was finally diagnosed with
Shalaft's syndrome. Do you
know of it, Captain?
PICARD
You know I do.
The crew is dumbfounded at Picard's unusual
reaction.
SHINZON
Then you know it's a very
rare syndrome. Genetic. All
the male members of my family
had it. Eventually I was
treated. Now I can hear as
well as you can, Captain.
He steps toward Picard who holds his ground.
SHINZON
I can see as well as you can.
I can feel everything you
feel.
He stops right before Picard.
SHINZON
(Cont'd)
In fact, I feel exactly what
you feel. Don't I, Jean Luc?
Picard stares at him with a mixture of realization
and curiosity. It is as if Picard is looking into
a strange, remembered mirror: Shinzon's face is
nearly identical to his at that age.
SHINZON
Do you trust me now?
A beat.
PICARD
We need to talk, just you and
I.
SHINZON
Come to dinner on Romulus
tomorrow. Just the two of us.
Or just the one of us.
PICARD
You know I need to verify
this.
SHINZON
I know.
The crew is utterly confused. Their confusion turns
to outright shock when Shinzon calmly pulls out a
Reman knife and cuts his arm, drawing a little
blood. He hands the knife to Data.
SHINZON
Tomorrow then, Captain. We
have so much to discuss.
Picard touches his communicator pin:
PICARD
Picard to Enterprise. Five to
beam out.
They dematerialize, the shimmering glow illuminat-
ing Shinzon's features. Picard's eyes never leave
Shinzon as the transporter effect ripples around
him.
INT. ENTERPRISE. SICKBAY. DAY.
Beverly stands with Picard, Riker and Deanna. The
Reman knife is under a protonmicroscope and other
medical readouts and analysis are visible.
BEVERLY
There's no doubt, Captain.
Right down to your regressive
strain of Shalaft's Syndrome.
He's a clone.
A beat as the confirmation sinks in.
PICARD
When was he... created?
BEVERLY
About twenty-five years ago.
They probably used a hair
follicle or skin cell.
PICARD
(Touching head)
I think a skin cell’s the
more likely of the two.
RiKER
Why?
PICARD
Believe me, Number One; I'm
going to find out. Contact
Starfleet Command and inform
them of the situation. I
need to know where the hell
he came from. Deanna.
He goes, Deanna following.
INT. ENTERPRISE. CORRIDOR. FOLLOWING.
DEANNA
I would say he's been trained
to resist telepathy. What I
could sense of his emotions
were erratic, very hard to
follow.
PICARD
Is he sincere about wanting
peace?
DEANNA
I don't know.
Deanna stops him.
DEANNA
(Cont'd)
Sir, the strongest sense I
had was that he's more than
urious about you. He very
much wants to know you.
(She looks at
him deeply)
The same way you want to
know him.
PICARD
How could I not?
DEANNA
Captain, don't assume he's
anything like you are. You
should resist the urge to
think you know him.
PICARD
I not only know him, Deanna,
I am him.. and he is me!
He goes.
INT. ENTERPRISE. RIKER AND DEANNA'S CABIN. NIGHT.
Riker is hard at work over a series of padds. He
has been working for hours.
DEANNA
Will, you need to rest.
Riker continues to work.
DEANNA
(Cont'd)
As ship's counselor, I'm
recommending you get me sleep.
Riker tosses a padd on the desk. Rubs his eyes.
Looks up her.
RIKER
Some honeymoon.
She smiles and goes to him.
DEANNA
We have time.
(She kisses him)
Come to bed.
She pulls him up.
RIKER
Imzadi, what am I going to do
with you?
They kiss deeply. She pulls him across the room
and they fall into the bed.
It is passionate, erotic. Her arms undulate around
him sensually. Her fingers snake through his hair,
but something is wrong. Riker's hair is now blond.
She starts back, her eyes growing wide.
Riker is gone. She is now embracing Shinzon!
SHINZON
Imzadi. This is so good.
DEANNA
No!
He caresses her face...
SHINZON
He can never know you as I
know you... He can never touch
you as I touch you.
DEANNA
This isn't real.
SHINZON
Can you feel my hands... are
they real? Can you feel my
lips, my loins?
He kisses her neck. But when he raises his head
again. It is the monstrous Viceroy! Holding her.
Caressing her. She is frozen in horror. But is it
the Viceroy at all?
Shinzon's voice seems to come from the Viceroy's
lips:
SHINZON
(V.O.)
I'm with you, Imzadi.
And then it is Shinzon again, kissing her:
SHINZON
I'll always be with you now.
Now and forever.
DEANNA
You sick bastard!
She pushes him away.
RIKER
Deanna?! What’s with the
name calling?
It is Riker. She stares at him, then clings to him
desperately.
EXT. ROMULAN SENATE. DAY.
The Byzantine splendors of the Senate loom before
us.
INT. ROMULAN SENATE CHAMBER. DAY.
Heavy drapes are drawn against any hint of the
sun. Shinzon is in conference with the Romulan
Commanders and Senator Tal'Aura. Commander
Donatra watches him closely.
Commander Suran is angry, pacing. Shinzon stands.
His Viceroy lurks in a corner.
SURAN
Then I don't understand the
reason for the delay!
SHINZON
You don't have to understand.
SURAN
And bringing the Enterprise
here?! What possible purpose
could that serve?
SHINZON
I have a purpose.
SURAN
Then perhaps you will enlight-
en us?
SHINZON
(Snaps)
Silence, Romulan!
A tense beat. Shinzon regains his composure.
SHINZON
You must learn patience,
Commander. Do you know where
I learned it? In the dilithium
mines of Remus. Spend eighteen
hours every day under the
ash of a Romulan guard’s whip
and you'll soon understand
patience.
SURAN
(Carefully bows his
head)
Praetor.
SHINZON
Now go. I have some personal
business.
Suran and the others go.
Donatra turns just as she is leaving the chamber,
she sees the Viceroy going to Shinzon. And then do
something odd. The Viceroy puts his hand on
Shinzon's chest, leans very close and talks to him
quietly. This is an ancient form of Reman tele-
pathic medical diagnosis.
This strange sight perplexes Donatra. The doors
close, blocking her view.
INT. SENATE CORRIDOR. FOLLOWING.
We go with Donatra and the other Romulans. Donatra
speaks quietly to Suran:
DONATRA
How long before he has us in
the dilithium mines?
INT. ENTERPRISE. DATA'S CABIN. DAY.
The B-9 sits placidly in a chair, staring forward.
Then, as if a switch was thrown, he moves. He
quickly rises and goes to a computer console. He
efficiently starts punching in commands at an
amazing velocity.
INT. ROMULAN SENATE CHAMBER. NIGHT.
Picard and Shinzon sit alone in a corner of the
sweeping Senate chamber. The remains of dinner
before them.
SHINZON
And when I was ready they
were going to replace you
with me, an exact biological
duplicate. Put a Romulan
agent at the heart of
Starfleet to.influence your
command structure. It was a
bold plan.
PICARD
What happened?
SHINZON
As happens so frequently here
on Romulus, a new government
came to power. They decided
to abandon the plan --
frankly, I think they were
afraid I'd be discovered and
it would lead to war. They
weren't ready for that.
Picard pours a glass of Romulan ale.
SHINZON
Romulan ale -- I'm surprised.
I can't stand it.
PICARD
(Smiles)
You'll acquire a taste for it.
A beat. They look at each other.
SHINZON
It's not quite the face you
remember.
PICARD
Not quite. I envy the hair-
line.
SHINZON
A lifetime of violence will
do that. My nose was broken
four times. And my jaw... But
so much is the same. The
eyes, you recognize the eyes.
PICARD
Yes. The eyes have it.
SHINZON
Our eyes reflect our lives,
don't they? Yours are so
confident.
PICARD
How did you end up on Remus?
SHINZON
They sent me there to die.
How could a mere human
survive the dilithium mines?
It was...
(He can't find
the words)
I was a slave. And a monster.
The only thing the Romulan
guards hated more than the
Remans was me. But one man
took pity on me: the man who
became my Viceroy. He taught
me how to survive. And in
that dark place, where there
was nothing of myself, I
found my Reman brothers.
They showed me the only
kindness I ever knew.
A beat. He glances to the Romulan crest on the
wall.
SHINZON
For thousands of years the Romulan Senate has met
in this chamber and dictated the fate of its
sister-planet... But the time has come for us to
live as equals.
PICARD
You're doing this to liberate
the Remans?
SHINZON
No race should be a slave to
another.
Picard is impressed with Shinzon's quiet words.
SHINZON
You don't trust me.
PICARD
I have no reason to.
SHINZON
Of course you do. If you had
lived my life and experienced
the suffering of my people...
you’d be sitting where I am
now. At least I hope you
would.
PICARD
And if you had lived my life
you would understand that
there is a great respons-
ibility in representing the
Federation. I can't let my
personal feelings unduly
influence my decisions.
SHINZON
All I have is my personal
feelings. I wasn't raised
with the ideals of the
Federation. But I'm trying to
understand them now. To live
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