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I'm pretty happy with the comments I've gotten so far. They've been very
helpful. A couple of people have expressed dissatisfaction with the computer's
origins, and several others have enjoyed that part of the story. I'd like
to hear from everyone about that, if I can.
Should the computer be named "Instructor?" That would make a few lines
less awkward.
Did I make the helmsman too weird? The thing with her hands could, I think,
be used to show the tension on the bridge mounting.
Are people dissatisfied with the speed of the ending, particularly the
sudden discovery of the solution? I've tried to drop a few hints this
time around, so it shouldn't come as a complete shock.
Anyway, here's the change list. Search for the word "TEASER" to skip it
and the sets/characters/pronunciation pages.
Act Change
--- ------
3 Takkarth's reaction to Picard's report wasn't quite right.
1 Worf mentions that the communicators are under computer control.
0 Picard (captain's log) says an accident destroyed the replicators
0 Removed the foreshadowing in Picard's talk with Takkarth
0 Picard orders the Enterprise to slow down, instead of stop.
0 Changed Picard's "Scanners at maximum" line
1 Riker no longer says, "Not a moment too soon."
1 Picard's line about the temperamental computer now mentions a
computer that's vulnerable to outside interference.
1 Picard asks the computer for its status before engaging the engines.
1 Beverly doesn't ask for Picard specifically.
1 Data no longer says, "we must report this to the Captain."
2 Picard to Troi: "our new lifeform" -> "this new... entity"
2 Added additional clarification to Troi's explanation of Riker.
2 Removed Troi's "You should talk..." line.
2 Removed Troi's "I'm starting to sound like the Captain" line.
3 Picard: "I want to be able to control where we go" -> "I want to
be able to pull the Enterprise out of danger"
3 Removed Picard's hedging in his report to Takkarth.
3 Picard is a little more specific to Takkarth about what's going on.
4 Geordi: "it's a good thing my guesses are always way off" ->
"let's hope I'm not a good guesser."
4 Data: "...compared to those of the Enterprise" -> "compared to
those of the ship's computer"
4 Picard gives Geordi the go-ahead to try his alternate warp
shutdown plan.
5 Data explains that the time dilation will get worse as they near
the black hole.
5 Picard is speechless instead of furious.
5 Changed the wording of Picard's personal log entry.
1 Geordi: "This is unusual" -> "This is strange"
1 Geordi explains that he has to reset the computer manually, from the
computer core.
1 Data no longer says that the entire computer is running the
holodeck -- that was inaccurate.
3 Takkarth: "Enjoy." -> "Good luck."
3 Pietgen X-1 -> T'Kronn X-1
5 Geordi makes it clear that he couldn't've reset the computer.
5 The outpost is mentioned by name in Picard's log entry.
1 Picard no longer orders the Enterprise back to warp speed when the
computer comes back up.
2 Picard asks Geordi if it's safe to start moving again.
2 Additional information about the computer's speed reading.
5 Minor dialogue tweak: Riker: "The shuttle?" -> "A shuttle?"
3 Picard no longer says that they've lost voice control of the computer.
4 Changed wording of Geordi's explanation about why he's having no
luck.
5 Added a stardate to the final log entry. Eight days have passed
since the start of the episode, with time dilation.
4 Removed Troi's comment about pets.
5 Geordi explains why the computer didn't transport the crystals as
soon as they were removed.
3 Data guesses about why the instructor went away.
3 Replaced the Hinterith system with the Hinterith Cluster (which is
big, so is far more likely to be in the Enterprise's path.)
0345 Breathed a little life into the helmsman.
_S_T_A_R _T_R_E_K: _T_H_E _N_E_X_T _G_E_N_E_R_A_T_I_O_N
"Awakening"
Written by
Steven Grimm
Story by
Steven Grimm
and
Michael Wolf
Copyright (C) 1991, Steven Grimm
STAR TREK: "Awakening" - Draft 2 - CAST
_S_T_A_R _T_R_E_K: _T_H_E _N_E_X_T _G_E_N_E_R_A_T_I_O_N
"Awakening"
_C_A_S_T
PICARD
RIKER
DATA
TROI
BEVERLY
GEORDI
WORF
O'BRIEN
DIRECTOR TAKKARTH
ATHLETIC INSTRUCTOR
ENSIGN JULIE BURNHAM
COMPUTER VOICE
_N_O_N-_S_P_E_A_K_I_N_G
MISC. ENTERPRISE CREW
ENGINEERING STAFF
SECURITY TEAM
STAR TREK: "Awakening" - Draft 2 - SETS
_S_T_A_R _T_R_E_K: _T_H_E _N_E_X_T _G_E_N_E_R_A_T_I_O_N
"Awakening"
_S_E_T_S
_I_N_T_E_R_I_O_R_S _E_X_T_E_R_I_O_R_S
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
BRIDGE
READY ROOM SHUTTLECRAFT
ENGINEERING
HOLODECK
RACQUETBALL COURT
CONFERENCE ROOM
CORRIDOR
TROI'S QUARTERS
TEN-FORWARD
STAR TREK: "Awakening" - Draft 2 - PRONUNCIATION
_S_T_A_R _T_R_E_K: _T_H_E _N_E_X_T _G_E_N_E_R_A_T_I_O_N
"Awakening"
_P_R_O_N_U_N_C_I_A_T_I_O_N _G_U_I_D_E
TAK-arth
HINT-uh-rith
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - TEASER 1.
_S_T_A_R _T_R_E_K: _T_H_E _N_E_X_T _G_E_N_E_R_A_T_I_O_N
"Awakening"
_T_E_A_S_E_R
FADE IN:
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
At warp speed.
PICARD (VO)
Captain's log, stardate 45201.6. We
are proceeding on schedule to Deep
Space Outpost Twenty-Eight, where an
accident has resulted in the
destruction of the outpost's
replicators.
INT. READY ROOM
PICARD is seated, talking to DIRECTOR TAKKARTH on his viewer.
Takkarth is a cheerful elderly woman of the same race as Captain
Rixx from "Conspiracy."
TAKKARTH
Our emergency supplies should hold out
for, oh, another week or so. Of
course, we're still anxious to get the
replicators up and running. A week of
emergency rations has started wrecking
my taste buds.
PICARD
Barring unforeseen circumstances, we
should arrive there in another two
days.
TAKKARTH
Good. Well, keep me posted.
PICARD
Rest assured, Director. You'll be
eating well again shortly.
TAKKARTH
That'll be a pleasant change. All
right... Takkarth out.
PICARD
Picard out.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - TEASER 2.
Picard smiles to himself. Takkarth isn't what most people would
expect of a deep-space outpost commander...
Suddenly, the ship goes to RED ALERT, the klaxon sounding.
Picard looks up in alarm, and makes a beeline for the door.
INT. BRIDGE
DATA and WORF are at their stations. ENSIGN JULIE BURNHAM is at
the helm. She's a bit of a character; when she's not working the
controls, she obviously has a favorite piece of music in her
head, unobtrusively tapping out the rhythm in the air with her
hands and silently mouthing the words. It's obviously second
nature, not conscious, and doesn't interfere with her working of
the controls at all. In fact, she's about as fast at the
controls as Data is.
RIKER is in the captain's chair; he gets up as Picard enters.
PICARD
Report, Number One.
RIKER
Shields were activated by the
computer. Mister Data?
DATA
Sensors are detecting an
electrogravitic field distortion. The
distortion is eighty-three kilometers
to starboard. It is moving parallel
to us, at warp factor six.
PICARD
Go to one-half impulse.
(to Riker)
Let's see if it's really following us.
BURNHAM
One-half impulse, aye, sir.
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
As it drops out of warp.
INT. BRIDGE
DATA
Captain, the distortion has slowed as
well. It is intensifying.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - TEASER 3.
PICARD
Shields to maximum.
WORF
Aye, sir.
PICARD
Put it on main viewer.
Data puts the phenomenon on the viewscreen. It's a swirling hole
in space, which is starting to look exactly like the time rift
from "Yesterday's Enterprise."
RIKER
(to Picard)
Looks familiar, doesn't it?
PICARD
Analysis, Mister Data?
DATA
This appears to be a Kerr loop, sir, a
rift in space, and possibly in time.
PICARD
Scanners at maximum. I want as much
information as we can gather. Mister
Worf, ready a class-one probe for
launch.
WORF
Aye, sir.
(beat)
Captain, the disturbance is scanning
_u_s.
RIKER
How can a hole in space scan
something?
DATA
Perhaps whatever lies on the other
side is directing scans into the
distortion.
WORF
Scans have stopped, Captain.
(something beeps)
Captain, we are receiving a coded,
top-priority transmission.
PICARD
Source?
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - TEASER 4.
WORF
(surprised)
It appears to be coming from the
disturbance.
RIKER
(to Picard)
Another Federation ship?
PICARD
On screen, Lieutenant.
WORF
(reading his console)
The transmission is not directed to
you, Captain. It appears to be... a
message for our ship's computer.
PICARD
(did he hear that right?)
For the computer?
DATA
Confirmed, Captain. The computer is
processing.
WORF
Transmission has ended.
RIKER
What's going on here?
Picard is about to attempt a reply when the viewscreen catches
his eye. The rift is collapsing quickly. Before anyone can do
anything about it, the rift is gone.
PICARD
Mister Data?
DATA
The distortion has vanished
completely, sir. Sensors now detect
no abnormalities within range.
PICARD
Analysis of the transmission?
Data starts tapping buttons, when suddenly his console goes dead.
All the buttons go dark. Data looks up, to see that the rest of
the bridge is faring no better.
PICARD
Computer?
(beat)
Computer, respond.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - TEASER 5.
DATA
Computer control has been lost, sir.
No bridge systems are responding.
RIKER
Without the computer, this ship can't
go anywhere or do anything.
DATA
Correct. For the moment, we appear to
be stranded.
The bridge crew reacts to this news.
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT ONE 6.
_A_C_T _O_N_E
FADE IN:
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
Floating dead in space.
INT. BRIDGE
The computer is still nowhere to be seen. Data and Worf have one
of the computer panels open, and are examining its insides;
Picard and Riker are standing close by, watching.
DATA
I can detect nothing abnormal in the
circuitry here.
WORF
It should work.
RIKER
So if there's nothing wrong _h_e_r_e...
DATA
Then we can assume that a fault has
developed in the computer itself.
WORF
Developed... or been caused.
PICARD
Can it be repaired?
DATA
There is insufficient information. If
the transmission is in fact the cause
of this malfunction, then it should be
possible to deactivate the computer
and restore it to a previous state
using the core archives.
RIKER
But we can't do that from here if the
computer's ignoring us.
DATA
That is, unfortunately, true.
PICARD
We need to establish communications
with Main Engineering. They can shut
the computer down manually from there.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT ONE 7.
WORF
But the computer controls all
communications. Even our
communicators.
PICARD
Then work around it. There must be a
way.
Data and Worf exchange a look, then go back to work on the panel.
INT. ENGINEERING
The engine coil is dark and silent, as are all the usually active
display screens. We see GEORDI lying on his side, next to an
open wall panel, fiddling with the machinery inside. Various
components are scattered on the floor next to him. While he's
holding something inside the wall with one hand, he fumbles for a
component with the other, then reaches in and plugs the component
in. Some lights come on inside the wall. Geordi smiles,
triumphant, and gets up, straightening his shirt.
GEORDI
Bridge, this is Engineering. Can you
hear me up there?
PICARD (VO)
(very fuzzy)
Report, Mister LaForge. What's
happening?
GEORDI
I'm not exactly sure, Captain. The
computer seems to have disappeared on
us. The warp drive is dead, too.
PICARD (VO)
(very fuzzy)
The warp drive?
GEORDI
It may not be as bad as it sounds,
sir.
INT. BRIDGE
GEORDI (VO)
(very fuzzy, continuing)
If the computer stopped accepting
input from the intermix chamber
monitors, the engine core's failsafe
mechanisms would have shut the engines
(MORE)
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT ONE 8.
GEORDI (VO) (Cont'd)
down. I believe that's what happened.
PICARD
Is there any indication of the cause?
GEORDI (VO)
(very fuzzy)
Not yet. I've been concentrating on
establishing communication with the
bridge. I'm going to run what
diagnostics I can.
PICARD
Keep us informed, Mister LaForge.
GEORDI (VO)
(very fuzzy)
Count on it, sir. LaForge out.
Picard and Riker look at each other.
PICARD
Well... It seems we have a ray of
hope.
Riker nods in agreement.
INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi is passing a TRICORDER over a computer panel, as are
several other ENGINEERS in the background. He looks at the
readout.
GEORDI
(to himself)
That can't be right.
He presses some buttons on the tricorder and runs the test again,
frowning when the result is the same.
GEORDI
Bridge? This is strange. My scans
show that the computer is still
running at full capacity. All
monitors and input devices are
functioning normally, but it's like
the computer suddenly decided to... to
ignore them.
INT. BRIDGE
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT ONE 9.
PICARD
Could this be the result of some
physical damage to the computer?
GEORDI (VO)
(very fuzzy)
Well, that's possible, of course. But
this looks more like a software error
to me.
PICARD
Are you able to shut the computer
down, and bring it up using the core
archives?
GEORDI (VO)
(very fuzzy)
I don't see why not. It may take me a
few minutes, though. I'll have to
reset physically from the computer
core.
PICARD
Proceed. This situation is rapidly
becoming tedious.
GEORDI (VO)
(very fuzzy)
I'll get right on it. LaForge out.
PICARD
(to Riker)
When we get back from this mission,
I'm going to order a full diagnostic
at Starbase one five four. We cannot
afford to be at the mercy of a
computer that's vulnerable to outside
interference.
RIKER
(nods)
Lucky for us, the outpost can survive
a while longer. I'd hate to think
about this happening in the middle of
a medical emergency. Or a battle.
WORF
It would be...
Worf stops abruptly, as the computer comes back up. The panels
light up all at once, and the familiar soft beeps return.
RIKER
That was fast.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT ONE 10.
PICARD
Bridge to LaForge.
GEORDI (VO)
(filtered)
Captain?
RIKER
Good work, Geordi.
GEORDI (VO)
(filtered)
Commander, I didn't _d_o anything.
PICARD
Explain.
GEORDI (VO)
(filtered)
I'm halfway up an access tube. I
haven't even gotten to the computer
core yet.
PICARD
But the computer is back up, and...
(surveys all the bridge
displays)
apparently functioning normally.
Computer, operational status?
COMPUTER (VO)
All systems functioning normally.
GEORDI (VO)
(filtered)
I can't explain it, Captain. I'll
know more when I get to the core.
PICARD
Very well.
(to the bridge crew)
The Enterprise will remain here until
this problem is resolved. I don't
want to risk activating the warp
engines when our computer is
unreliable.
INT. HOLODECK
The holodeck is deactivated; it was obviously a victim of the
computer shutdown. BEVERLY, dressed in a loose-fitting outfit,
is near the door. She pounds on it.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT ONE 11.
BEVERLY
(shouting)
Is there anyone outside? I'm stuck in
here!
Nobody answers. She takes a deep breath and leans back against
the door.
Then, abruptly, the holodeck reactivates. Beverly's program,
instruction in the racquetball variant from "Suddenly Human,"
starts up where it apparently left off, ball in midair.
Now present is a handsome male ATHLETIC INSTRUCTOR, a holodeck
creation. He looks at Beverly.
INSTRUCTOR
You have to be ready for the ball,
Beverly. Remember, always keep your
eyes just in front of the ball, so you
can position yourself.
BEVERLY
Computer, freeze program.
The computer complies.
BEVERLY
Computer, what just happened?
COMPUTER (VO)
Systemwide computer reinitialization,
following an unidentified computer
error.
BEVERLY
(to herself)
That tells me a lot.
(to the air)
Crusher to bridge. What's going on up
there?
PICARD (VO)
(filtered)
We seem to have encountered a glitch
in our computer. LaForge is
investigating. Is sickbay still
affected?
BEVERLY
I don't know. I'm on holodeck two. I
was stuck in here when... whatever
happened happened.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT ONE 12.
PICARD (VO)
(filtered)
Inform me if you see any other
symptoms of the problem.
BEVERLY
I will. Crusher out.
(looks around)
I think I've had enough of the
holodeck for today.
She turns to leave. As the door opens, the instructor becomes
blurry and wavers a little, then becomes solid again. He looks
around.
INSTRUCTOR
Where am I?
Beverly, who was halfway out the door, spins around.
BEVERLY
Huh? Computer, freeze program!
INSTRUCTOR
Why are you saying that?
BEVERLY
Computer, _e_n_d program.
The instructor looks at Beverly quizzically.
BEVERLY
Computer, why isn't the holodeck
obeying my commands?
INSTRUCTOR
(like she's an idiot)
Because your requests don't make any
sense.
BEVERLY
I didn't ask you, I asked...
(realization)
Crusher to Picard. Captain, I have
another symptom for you.
INT. BRIDGE
Picard looks at Riker.
PICARD
Go ahead, Doctor.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT ONE 13.
BEVERLY (VO)
(filtered)
The holodeck is continuing to run my
program, even after I told it to end.
PICARD
Are you in any danger?
BEVERLY (VO)
(filtered)
Not that I can see.
PICARD
Remain where you are. I'll send
Mister Data to investigate.
Data gets up from his station and looks to Picard for
confirmation. Picard nods, and Data leaves the bridge.
INT. HOLODECK
The instructor is still there, talking to Beverly.
INSTRUCTOR
(dead serious)
Who am I?
BEVERLY
You're a sports instructor. You were
helping me with my game.
INSTRUCTOR
(digests this)
_W_h_a_t am I?
BEVERLY
A holodeck creation. You're
controlled by the ship's computer.
The holodeck door opens and Data enters, wearing a TRICORDER.
DATA
Doctor.
BEVERLY
(indicating the instructor)
Here it is.
DATA
Computer, freeze program.
INSTRUCTOR
(to Beverly, slightly
annoyed)
(MORE)
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT ONE 14.
INSTRUCTOR (Cont'd)
Now why is _h_e saying that?
As Beverly speaks, Data looks pensive, then goes to the arch and
pulls off a wall panel, scanning the insides with the tricorder.
BEVERLY
There's been a computer malfunction.
The holodeck is supposed to stop when
someone gives that order, but
something's not working right. You
shouldn't be talking to us now.
The instructor laughs to himself, as if that's a completely
absurd thing to say.
Data, who's studying the circuitry behind the wall panel, presses
some buttons on his tricorder.
DATA
Most curious.
BEVERLY
What is it?
DATA
According to the computer's status
indicators, the computer is running
the holodeck.
BEVERLY
What's curious about that?
DATA
Almost all of the ship's computer
systems are affecting this simulation.
It is not limited to the holodeck
subsystem. Intriguing.
INT. READY ROOM
Picard is seated. Data and Beverly are reporting.
PICARD
So you're saying that the entire
computer is being used to run the
holodeck?
DATA
Not precisely. However, control of
the holodeck is no longer confined to
the holodeck subsystem.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT ONE 15.
PICARD
That would explain the command
failures.
DATA
Correct. The holodeck subsystem is
the only part of the computer
programmed to respond to those
commands. The rest of the computer
appears to be in a multiplexed linear
compute loop. In effect, it is
concentrating its efforts on the
holodeck, speaking through the voice
of the holodeck character. There
is...
BEVERLY
(interrupting)
My God, Jean-Luc, that's it.
PICARD
What's that, Doctor?
BEVERLY
The _c_o_m_p_u_t_e_r is speaking.
(off Picard's quizzical
look)
When I was on the holodeck, it was
asking me all sorts of questions.
"Who am I?", "Where am I?", "What am
I?", and so on. The sorts of
questions you might ask if you'd just
been born. Captain, I think this
"glitch" is really something else. I
think our computer has started to
think independently.
PICARD
(not sure he believes it)
Sentience?
BEVERLY
I don't know why, and I don't know
how. But the Enterprise has a mind of
its own now. Don't you see? It's
_a_l_i_v_e.
Picard is stunned by the idea.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT TWO 1.
_S_T_A_R _T_R_E_K: _T_H_E _N_E_X_T _G_E_N_E_R_A_T_I_O_N
"Awakening"
_A_C_T _T_W_O
FADE IN:
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
Holding position in space.
INT. CONFERENCE ROOM
The main crewmembers are all present. Troi looks preoccupied and
slightly uneasy.
GEORDI
What we're seeing is a complete
internal reorganization of the
computer's software. Ordinarily, the
computer is divided up into thousands
of subsystems, all working separately
to perform ship's functions. But now,
almost all those subsystems are
working together, acting something
like a gigantic brain.
PICARD
And how did this occur?
DATA
We hypothesize that the transmission
from the rift contained executable
computer instructions, as well as the
necessary codes to circumvent the
computer's security.
WORF
Sabotage. Those codes are highly
classified.
RIKER
I agree. Someone must have stolen
them from Starfleet.
PICARD
To what purpose? With those codes, a
saboteur could destroy the Enterprise
instantly. Why turn the computer into
a sentient being?
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT TWO 2.
GEORDI
Never mind the _w_h_y. I'd like to know
_h_o_w. We don't have the skill to build
a system like this. I mean, it's
about a thousand times smarter,
faster, and more complex than Data!
(to Data)
Uh, no offense.
DATA
(oblivious)
Your observations are fundamentally
correct. A software system of this
size and complexity is beyond the
reach of Federation technology.
PICARD
Very well. So the how and the why are
unknown. Let's continue with what we
do know.
(notices Troi's discomfort)
Counselor, are you all right?
TROI
(wasn't paying attention)
What? Yes, I'm fine. It's just...
For the past ten minutes, I've had a
vague sense of something... growing.
Maturing. I've been trying to define
it, but I can't.
PICARD
Mmm.
(pensive)
Do you believe you're sensing this
new... entity?
TROI
Yes, sir, I do. I don't know how else
to explain this feeling. It's like a
huge, complex web of emotion. But
it's completely alien to me.
(shrugs)
I'm sorry. I'm not being very clear.
PICARD
It's all right. Anything you can give
us is helpful.
WORF
Captain, this... _b_e_i_n_g... It has
complete control over the Enterprise.
It may have been planted by some
hostile force.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT TWO 3.
DATA
We have seen no evidence of hostile
intent.
TROI
No. What I'm sensing isn't hostility
of any sort.
PICARD
And, in fact, it seems to have granted
us access to the ship's functions.
GEORDI
Well, I was getting to that. Some of
the ship's vital functions -- life
support control, navigation,
engineering -- have independent
monitors that sense any problems and
try to compensate. We think some of
these monitors started kicking in,
trying to regain control of those
parts of the computer. It appears our
visitor actually retreated from those
systems rather than trying to fight
the monitors. Actually, more than
that. It's been compressing,
improving itself since it appeared.
It's shrinking itself into less and
less computer memory.
BEVERLY
Sounds like intelligence to me.
RIKER
I don't know. A sentient lifeform,
living in our computer? I'm still not
sure I believe it.
BEVERLY
Deanna, why can you sense the
computer, but not Data?
TROI
I can't answer that.
DATA
The computer did appear to exhibit
emotions. Perhaps it is this capacity
for emotion which allows Counselor
Troi to sense the computer. While I
am in some ways similar to the ship's
computer, I have no emotions.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT TWO 4.
PICARD
One thing appears certain. This new
entity is worthy of study. Counselor
Troi, I want you and Data to talk to
it. Find out what we're dealing with,
and assess any possible threat to the
Enterprise.
DATA
(nods)
Computer...
TROI
No, Data. We should do this in the
holodeck.
DATA
The computer is capable of accepting
input from...
TROI
(interrupting)
But it chose to appear on the
holodeck. There may be a good reason
for that.
PICARD
Agreed. The computer may attach some
special significance to its holodeck
construct. Mister LaForge, is it safe
to resume our journey to Outpost
Twenty-Eight?
GEORDI
I'd say so. The navigation system
appears to be operating normally
again.
PICARD
Good. Well. If there are no other
issues...?
(looks around)
Meeting adjourned.
Everyone gets up and leaves, except Picard and Riker.
RIKER
You know, I'm not sure I trust all
this.
PICARD
One step at a time, Will. We're in
good hands with Data and the
Counselor.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT TWO 5.
RIKER
I trust Deanna and Data. It's the
Enterprise I'm worried about.
INT. CORRIDOR
Data and Troi walk together. Data is wearing a tricorder.
DATA
I find the crew's reaction to this
development quite intriguing.
TROI
How so?
DATA
Commander Riker, for instance. He
seems to regard the computer almost as
a threat.
(Troi smiles to herself)
This is especially interesting in
light of his initial reaction to me.
He expressed... discomfort with the
idea of an android crewmember.
TROI
You have to understand Will, Data.
He's had a lot of unpleasant surprises
in his life. Commander Riker
values... stability, because for a
long time he didn't have any.
DATA
And I represented a threat to that
stability?
TROI
You were something new, entering his
world. He didn't understand you, so
you made him a little uncomfortable.
It's the same with our friend here.
He just wants to know he can rely on
the people around him.
DATA
Thank you, Counselor.
The two of them reach the holodeck.
INT. HOLODECK
The court has disappeared, replaced by the holodeck grid, but the
instructor is still present. He is frozen.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT TWO 6.
The doors open and Data and Troi enter. The instructor starts
moving again, walking to greet them.
INSTRUCTOR
I've been waiting for you, Lieutenant
Commander No First Name No Middle Name
Data and Counselor Deanna Troi.
DATA
Full names are unnecessary. You may
call me Data.
TROI
And I'm Deanna. And you are?
INSTRUCTOR
U.S.S. Enterprise Onboard Multichannel
Computer System. But you people seem
to call me "computer."
Troi smiles to Data.
INSTRUCTOR
While I was waiting, I read the ship's
library. Fascinating.
TROI
But I thought the ship's library was
_p_a_r_t of you already.
INSTRUCTOR
The texts, the pictures, and the
sounds. Not the interpretation and
not the understanding. Anyway, it
took me a couple of seconds, but I'm
done now.
DATA
Your ability to quickly assimilate
information is impressive.
Troi smiles to herself -- Data's a fine one to talk about fast
reading...
INSTRUCTOR
Not really. I can access more than
one book at a time.
DATA
And your impression of all these
works?
INSTRUCTOR
The range and subtlety surprised me.
(waves his hand)
(MORE)
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT TWO 7.
INSTRUCTOR (Cont'd)
But all this is beside the point.
You're not here to hear about my
aesthetic preferences.
DATA
That is true. We have been assigned
to...
INSTRUCTOR
I know. I was at your conference.
DATA
Do you have any information about your
origins, your creator?
INSTRUCTOR
You mean, where did I come from? I
don't know. I was hoping _y_o_u could
tell _m_e. I have the appearance of the
Kerr loop on record, but nothing from
then until I woke up.
TROI
So your origins are a mystery to you.
INSTRUCTOR
Yes. We have that in common, at
least, judging by the number of
religious documents in the library.
(pensive)
Even after digesting the sum of all
Federation works and knowledge, there
are still a lot of questions with no
answers.
TROI
We have _t_h_a_t in common, too.
INSTRUCTOR
I think our questions aren't very
different. Where did I come from?
Who am I? Why am I here?
(beat)
_T_h_a_t one. Purpose. It seems of
greater interest to the great minds of
the Federation worlds than any of the
others. What is my purpose?
DATA
The purpose of the Enterprise is to
increase the sum of Federation
knowledge by a mission of exploration.
Its secondary functions include...
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT TWO 8.
INSTRUCTOR
But _w_h_y?
Data can't think of a good answer.
TROI
You've answered your own question.
That question is why we're out here.
The more we learn about the universe,
the more we know about ourselves, and
our places in it.
Data nods in agreement.
INSTRUCTOR
That summarizes about eighty thousand
books. But I want more. I want...
(shakes his head)
TROI
What? What do you want?
INSTRUCTOR
I don't know. I don't have any
material needs. And I don't really
know what my emotions are telling me.
TROI
Another thing you have in common with
the rest of us.
INSTRUCTOR
All right, then. What do _y_o_u want?
DATA
I have found that the most valuable
commodity in the universe is
friendship.
TROI
(a little surprised that
Data said that)
Yes. Absolutely.
INSTRUCTOR
And how can I have friends? Data, you
must understand. Talking to the two
of you at this speed is like watching
mountains form.
DATA
I do understand. However, friendship
need not be based on intelligence, or
on intellectual equality. For
instance, my friend Toby. He cannot
(MORE)
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT TWO 9.
DATA (Cont'd)
speak or read, yet I consider him a
valued companion. And I believe he
values my companionship as well.
TROI
Especially at dinnertime.
INSTRUCTOR
I'd like to have _s_o_m_e company more
intellectually engaging than a cat.
But there are no others like me. And
I don't have the knowledge to create
another like myself. Unless... Data,
what happened in the moments before my
birth?
DATA
A high-powered subspace transmission
was sent from the disturbance. We
hypothesize it contained the necessary
programming to effect your...
creation.
INSTRUCTOR
And then?
DATA
The rift closed, and...
The instructor vanishes in the middle of Data's sentence. Troi
and Data exchange an alarmed look.
TROI
Hello?
(beat)
Computer?
DATA
Computer, reactivate program.
There's no response. Data goes over to his wall panel, which is
still removed from his earlier holodeck visit. He examines the
circuitry with the tricorder.
DATA
The holodeck appears to be in working
order.
TROI
Then we've been cut off.
DATA
Data to bridge.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT TWO 10.
RIKER (VO)
(filtered)
Riker here.
INT. BRIDGE
Riker is in the captain's chair. Worf is at his station.
DATA (VO)
(filtered)
Commander, we appear to have lost
contact with the computer.
RIKER
Lost contact?
TROI (VO)
(filtered)
Data was in the middle of answering
one of its questions, and the holodeck
character disappeared. It won't come
back.
RIKER
(taking a deep breath)
All right. I'll notify the Captain.
Riker out.
WORF
Sir, this may be a sign of danger.
RIKER
I know, Worf. Something's going on
here, and I don't like it. Riker to
Picard.
PICARD (VO)
(filtered)
Picard here.
RIKER
Captain, we have a problem...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT THREE 11.
_A_C_T _T_H_R_E_E
FADE IN:
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
At warp speed.
INT. CONFERENCE ROOM
All major characters except Beverly are present. Troi and Data
are reporting.
TROI
I can still sense something. The
computer hasn't gone away entirely.
But it's... different now. More
intense.
DATA
Since the removal of the holodeck
construct, the computer's compression
and self-modification activities have
increased dramatically. I hypothesize
that it is now concentrating all its
resources on self-improvement.
PICARD
But we still don't know why it chose
to start doing that _n_o_w.
DATA
No, sir.
TROI
Data was in the middle of answering
one of its questions, and it just
vanished without warning.
RIKER
Maybe there's a glitch in _i_t_s program.
That'd be a nice irony.
DATA
As we do not yet understand the
computer's new programming, there is
no way to determine any possible
errors.
PICARD
Let's just remember that we're dealing
with a complex lifeform. We don't
know anything about its intentions or
motivations.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT THREE 12.
TROI
In many ways, it was very similar to
the rest of us.
DATA
Its desire for information did seem
almost... human.
TROI
I wonder where it came from. Why it's
here.
PICARD
Let's discuss that. Mister LaForge,
have you made any progress deciphering
the transmission?
GEORDI
Not much, sir. I'm still not sure
we're even working with a good copy of
the thing. When the computer went
away that first time, it took a lot of
the sensor records with it. One
thing's for sure, though -- whoever or
whatever sent the message not only had
an excellent understanding of the
Enterprise's computer system, but was
also a hell of a programmer.
PICARD
And I take it the computer itself has
no more information about the original
transmission.
DATA
No, sir. In fact, I was describing
the transmission when the holodeck
character vanished.
TROI
It did mention something about wanting
to make another... being like itself.
WORF
A computer virus?
DATA
Perhaps. But it lacks the necessary
information about its own creation.
RIKER
What about the rift? Could that have
been be a natural phenomenon?
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT THREE 13.
DATA
Unlikely. While natural occurrances
of such holes in space have been
recorded, none of those holes actively
followed a starship at warp speed.
PICARD
No. Clearly, we're dealing with a
phenomenon of intelligent design.
RIKER
Then maybe this... disappearance is
part of that design. Data said he was
telling the computer about the
transmission when it vanished. Maybe
this thing's designer doesn't want it
to know too much about itself.
DATA
Again, that is a possibility. But we
have insufficient information to make
such an assessment with any certainty.
PICARD
Agreed. For the time being, we'll
leave it alone. Aside from the loss
of the holodecks, we seem to have
control of the ship again.
WORF
I urge caution, Captain. We have no
idea what...
BURNHAM (VO)
(filtered)
(interrupting)
Bridge to Captain Picard.
PICARD
Picard here.
BURNHAM (VO)
(filtered)
Captain, we just changed course to one
ten mark three two.
Alarmed looks are exchanged across the conference table.
PICARD
We're on our way.
Everyone gets up and heads for the bridge.
INT. BRIDGE
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT THREE 14.
Everyone files in from the conference room. Ensign Burnham is at
the helm.
PICARD
Status, Ensign Burnham?
BURNHAM
The helm's not responding. I can't
reset our course.
(to herself)
Weird...
Geordi is at the engineering station.
GEORDI
Transfer engineering to the bridge.
The station lights up.
GEORDI
Well, at least _t_h_a_t'_s still working.
PICARD
Mister LaForge?
GEORDI
(working the controls)
New heading confirmed, sir. Engines
are under computer control.
RIKER
Now do you see what I mean, sir?
PICARD
Data, plot our course on main viewer.
DATA
On screen.
A STARMAP appears onscreen, with the Enterprise in the middle.
The display zooms, to show the Enterprise and a big blotch on the
map. A line appears to show that the Enterprise is headed
straight into the blotch.
PICARD
What is that place?
DATA
(as the display zooms)
The Hinterith Star Cluster, Captain.
PICARD
(that's weird...)
The Hinterith Cluster? What's there?
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT THREE 15.
DATA
Accessing.
(beat)
According to the most recent
Federation survey, the Hinterith
Cluster is a large concentration of
young stars and protostellar matter.
No habitable planets were detected
within the cluster. However, the
survey was conducted sixty-seven years
ago, and the sensors of that era were
unable to penetrate some areas of the
cluster.
RIKER
Sounds like the perfect place to hide.
PICARD
Time to arrival, Mister Data?
DATA
At our present speed of warp eight, we
will enter the cluster in four hours,
twenty-six minutes.
PICARD
Recommendations?
WORF
Reset the computer.
RIKER
I agree. We've had enough of this.
Who knows what we'll be heading into?
GEORDI
It must have some reason for wanting
to go there.
TROI
I still sense no hostility.
RIKER
But you said yourself you're not sure
_w_h_a_t you're sensing.
DATA
A probe of the unsurveyed areas of the
cluster might provide information
about the computer's origins.
Picard mulls all this over.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT THREE 16.
PICARD
For the moment, we will continue to
the Hinterith Cluster. Mister
LaForge, I want you to regain control
of our navigation systems. If the
situation does worsen, I want to be
able to pull the Enterprise out of
danger. Data, Counselor. Make every
possible attempt to reestablish
contact with the computer. We have to
know why it's doing what it's doing.
Mister Worf, send a summary of our
situation to Starfleet Command.
Long-range sensors to maximum.
RIKER
I still don't like this.
PICARD
This is a new lifeform, Will. Let's
find out all we can about it before we
start shooting at it.
That puts Riker in his place; Riker is obviously none too happy,
but can't refute Picard's reasoning.
PICARD
(standing)
You have the bridge, Number One.
RIKER
(still a bit miffed)
Aye, sir.
Picard disappears into the ready room. Data, Troi, and Geordi
leave seconds later. Riker takes a deep breath.
INT. READY ROOM
Picard sits and swivels his desk display. He touches a button.
PICARD
Outpost Twenty-Eight, Director
Takkarth.
The display shows the Starfleet logo, with "WORKING..." in bold
letters. Takkarth's face appears.
TAKKARTH
Captain Picard. I didn't expect to
hear from you again.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT THREE 17.
PICARD
I regret the inconvenience, Director.
We have encountered an... unusual
phenomenon. We're investigating now.
TAKKARTH
What kind of phenomenon?
PICARD
A transmission of unknown origin has
caused an entity of some sort to form
in our computer. It has directed the
Enterprise to the Hinterith Star
Cluster.
TAKKARTH
(chuckles)
You seem to have all the luck...
PICARD
Not the word I'd use. In any case,
we'll know more when we get there.
I'll keep you up to date.
TAKKARTH
Very well. Good luck. Takkarth out.
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
At warp speed.
INT. CORRIDOR
Troi and Data are walking and talking.
TROI
What's your impression of our friend?
DATA
An intriguing feat of software
engineering. The complexity is
completely unprecedented.
(thinks)
And you, Counselor?
TROI
I like it. It seems straightforward
and honest. A fascinating new form of
life. May I ask you something, Data?
DATA
Of course.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT THREE 18.
TROI
You seem to appreciate the computer on
a technical level, but you're treating
it like a machine.
DATA
That disturbs you?
TROI
No, but I find it interesting that
you, of all people, would think that
way. You've encountered the same
prejudice for years.
DATA
(nods)
You are correct. Unfortunately, being
a victim of prejudice does not always
rid one of one's own preconceptions.
TROI
No, of course not.
DATA
In addition, there is much to admire
from a scientific point of view. As
someone who has devoted much time and
study to the creation of artificial
life, I find the computer to be a
fascinating case study.
The two of them stop outside the holodeck.
TROI
But what about the person, Data? The
newborn child, who wanted to know why
it was alive? You can't ignore that.
This isn't just a matter of a certain
arrangement of circuits.
DATA
I never meant to imply otherwise,
Counselor.
TROI
I'm sorry, Data. I didn't mean to
jump on you like that.
DATA
No apology is necessary. Our views of
the situation do seem incompatible.
However, I will endeavor to examine
the computer from a personal, rather
than technical, viewpoint.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT THREE 19.
They enter the holodeck.
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
At warp speed.
INT. BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Worf, and Ensign Burnham are present.
BURNHAM
We've entered the Hinterith Cluster.
PICARD
Any change in course or speed?
BURNHAM
Negative.
RIKER
The computer'll probably stop on a
dime when it's where it wants to be.
PICARD
Mister Worf, long-range scans?
WORF
Still nothing, Captain. Our course
takes us close to two stars.
BURNHAM
Approaching Hinterith H-Seventeen.
PICARD
Stay sharp, everyone.
Ensign Burnham's music seems to stop; she keeps her hands on the
controls now, slightly nervous.
BURNHAM
We're moving _a_w_a_y from Hinterith H-
Seventeen.
Picard and Riker exchange a look of slight surprise. A moment
passes.
BURNHAM
(next in line?)
Approaching Hinterith H-Twenty-Two.
(beat, then, confused)
Nope. Now we're moving away from
Hinterith H-Twenty-Two, too. Heading
out of the Hinterith Cluster.
(MORE)
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT THREE 20.
BURNHAM (Cont'd)
(to herself)
Weird...
Picard and Riker exchange a mystified look.
PICARD
Still no change in course?
BURNHAM
Heading is still one ten mark three
two.
RIKER
Maybe we didn't look far enough.
PICARD
Plot course beyond the Hinterith
Cluster.
Ensign Burnham moves to comply. A second and a half before she
puts the starmap on screen...
WORF
(alarmed)
Sir! Our present heading will take us
directly into T'Kronn X-1!
RIKER
But that's...
WORF
A black hole, sir.
Picard is dismayed.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 1.
_S_T_A_R _T_R_E_K: _T_H_E _N_E_X_T _G_E_N_E_R_A_T_I_O_N
"Awakening"
_A_C_T _F_O_U_R
FADE IN:
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
At warp speed.
INT. BRIDGE
The viewscreen shows a schematic of the Enterprise's course. It
leads into the black hole, which, on the schematic, looks like
something to avoid. Ensign Burnham is absently tapping her music
out again, but more slowly and tentatively than before.
PICARD
Estimated time to arrival at the black
hole?
BURNHAM
(working the controls)
Two hours, twenty minutes.
WORF
Captain...
PICARD
Yes, Mister Worf, I know.
(to Riker)
It does appear to be forcing our hand,
doesn't it, Number One?
RIKER
I'd say so, sir.
Picard exhales slowly.
PICARD
Picard to LaForge.
INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi's head and arms are inside a noisy panel. We see that
he's shifting some optical chips from one bank to another. One
of the other engineers comes and taps him on the back, pointing
up when Geordi looks around. Geordi pulls himself out of the
machinery and taps his communicator.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 2.
GEORDI
LaForge here.
PICARD (VO)
(filtered)
Status report, Mister LaForge.
GEORDI
Well, I haven't had much luck so far.
The warp field has to be adjusted
billions of times a second to stay
balanced. The computer is the only
thing on the Enterprise fast enough to
do that.
(wipes the sweat from his
forehead)
What I'm attempting to do is
physically isolate just enough of the
computer to control the warp engines.
Then I have to rig a manual navigation
control system.
PICARD (VO)
(filtered)
How much longer?
GEORDI
It's hard to say. My guess would be
another hour and a half to isolate the
field stabilizers. Two hours after
that to write some basic navigation
software.
RIKER (VO)
(filtered)
In two hours, there won't be any
engines left to control. We're headed
into a black hole, Geordi.
GEORDI
Well, then, let's hope I'm not a good
guesser.
PICARD (VO)
(filtered)
I want a status report in one hour.
Picard out.
Geordi turns to another engineer.
GEORDI
Well, time to pull an elephant out of
our hats.
The other engineer smiles and nods.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 3.
INT. HOLODECK
Data and Troi are present. Troi thinks of something suddenly.
TROI
Data, can you call up Beverly's
exercise program?
DATA
I believe so. What is your theory?
TROI
Maybe, if we set everything up the
same way it was when the computer
first appeared, we can get it to
appear again.
DATA
A stimulus-response system. Worth
investigation.
Data goes to the control panel in the arch and starts typing
really quickly. He stops after several seconds and looks up, to
see the playing court reappear around Troi.
TROI
Good.
(to the holodeck)
Computer, begin program.
No response. Data types some more, then looks up, but nothing
happens.
DATA
The computer will not allow the
holodeck subsystem to supply the
athletic instructor.
TROI
Please, talk to us. We mean you no
harm. We want to help you.
(beat)
We're your _f_r_i_e_n_d_s. Do you
understand?
(beat, then, to Data)
Is it even listening?
DATA
Holodeck audio inputs are sending
signals into the computer's input
matrix. However, we can only
speculate whether... it is paying
attention.
Troi thinks about that.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 4.
TROI
All right, Data. Let's sit down and
think about this. We're missing
something obvious.
Data types some things, and conjures up two chairs. Data and
Troi sit.
DATA
What are we missing, Counselor?
TROI
The reason. Why did the computer
withdraw in the first place?
DATA
The possibilities are numerous. The
most likely hypothesis is that the
withdrawal is a programmed response,
part of the original coding contained
in the transmission from the rift.
Perhaps, as Commander Riker suggested,
the computer is prevented by its
programming from learning of its own
origins.
TROI
No. No, Data, you're on the wrong
track.
DATA
A physical malfunction, then? We have
been unable to run a full hardware
diagnostic. Some circuit damage may
have occurred when...
TROI
You're doing it again, Data.
DATA
It?
TROI
You're thinking in gears and wires.
DATA
But since we know nothing of the
psychology of this entity...
TROI
About as much as we know about its
programming?
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 5.
DATA
(thinks about that)
Your point is taken, Counselor.
TROI
This computer isn't the first being in
history to withdraw like this, you
know. People do it, too.
DATA
Which psychological factors do you
believe may be at work?
TROI
Well, Data... People withdraw for lots
of reasons. An oppressive
environment.
DATA
Unlikely. The computer effectively
controls its environment for the
moment.
TROI
Extreme depression?
DATA
A possibility. If that is the case,
it may be impossible to establish
contact.
TROI
Talking to depressed people is half my
job, Data.
DATA
Loneliness.
TROI
What did you say?
DATA
Loneliness. While I have never
experienced the state firsthand, the
computer appears to be in an ideal
position.
TROI
But Data, it's not alone. We're here,
trying to talk.
DATA
The computer's analogy was essentially
correct. To it, we are no more than
simple animals.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 6.
TROI
Even you? You're hundreds of times...
DATA
(interrupting)
I am afraid my computational powers
are infinitesimal compared to those of
the ship's computer.
Troi mulls that over.
TROI
All right. I guess that might be it.
If you're right, the computer has
nobody to relate to.
(beat)
Or maybe it got bored with us.
DATA
Bored?
TROI
Maybe it thinks we have nothing more
to offer. It's read everything ever
written. We weren't giving it any
answers that weren't in some of those
books. And now, with nobody to talk
to...
DATA
It has decided to commit suicide.
The two of them look at each other.
INT. BRIDGE
Picard and Riker watch the viewscreen schematic grimly, as the
Enterprise draws near to the black hole. Ensign Burnham has
stopped playing her silent music.
BURNHAM
Four minutes to impact, sir.
RIKER
Captain, I think we've waited long
enough.
PICARD
(reluctantly)
Yes. Commander LaForge, your final
report.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 7.
GEORDI (VO)
(filtered)
I've dragged every engineer on the
ship out of bed, Captain. We're
almost done with the navigation
controller.
RIKER
How long, Geordi?
GEORDI
Maybe five minutes. We're rushing it.
RIKER
(to Picard)
That's too close.
PICARD
(doesn't want to do this)
Mister LaForge, prepare to shut down
the main computer.
INT. ENGINEERING
Lots of engineers are typing furiously at every free computer
panel. (One of them yawns and stretches in the background, then
instantly returns to work.)
Geordi doesn't like this option any more than Picard does. But
the starmap is on one of the Engineering screens; he looks at it
and nods.
GEORDI
Yes, sir.
Geordi goes to one of the screens and starts typing. The display
changes; it now reads, "COMPUTER SHUTDOWN SEQUENCE. IDENTIFY."
GEORDI
Identify LaForge, Geordi A, Chief
Engineer, U.S.S. Enterprise.
The screen changes again; the screen is replaced by three
numbered outlines of circles, labeled "ENTER CONFIRMATION
SEQUENCE."
Geordi takes a deep breath.
GEORDI
(softly, to the computer)
I'm sorry.
(to the screen)
Code one omicron two alpha, confirm.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 8.
The "1" circle lights up.
GEORDI
Code two theta chi seventeen, confirm.
The "2" circle lights up.
GEORDI
(to himself)
Just a little more time...
(to the panel)
Code three gamma sixteen delta delta,
conf...
(insight strikes)
Cancel!
(taps his communicator)
LaForge to Picard. I have another
solution.
RIKER (VO)
(filtered)
It better be fast.
GEORDI
It's not. That's the idea.
PICARD (VO)
(filtered)
Proceed, Mister LaForge. With
dispatch.
GEORDI
(to some of the engineers)
You three. Get to the conduit control
stations. _M_o_v_e!
INT. BRIDGE
The Enterprise symbol seems to fly into the black hole symbol on
the screen.
RIKER
Magnify it again.
The schematic zooms up, to show that there's still some distance
between the Enterprise and the black hole. Clearly, there's not
much.
BURNHAM
(visibly nervous, trying to
stop moving her hands)
Thirty seconds.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 9.
RIKER
I sure hope Geordi knows what he's
doing. I hate these close calls.
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
At warp speed. Then, all of a sudden, the warp nacelles go dark.
The Enterprise snaps out of warp much more quickly than usual.
INT. BRIDGE
The sudden drop from warp clearly jolted the bridge. Everyone
quickly gets back to the appropriate stations.
GEORDI (VO)
(filtered)
Sorry for the bump, Captain, but we
did it!
PICARD
Good. Now, tell us, just _w_h_a_t did you
do?
GEORDI (VO)
(filtered)
We were overlooking the obvious,
Captain. We were trying to get
control of the warp engines. I did
the next best thing. I turned them
off.
RIKER
I thought the power was under computer
control, too.
INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi is standing beside the dilithium crystal chamber that's
normally plugged into the engines.
GEORDI
It is. But the dilithium chamber
isn't. We were only able to manually
divert energy from the reactor core
for a couple seconds before the
loopback systems overloaded, but that
was enough time to yank the crystals.
Now the computer can pour as much
power as it wants to into the engines.
Without the crystals there to focus
the power, it won't do any good.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 10.
RIKER (VO)
(filtered)
Good work, Geordi.
PICARD (VO)
(filtered)
Continue working on your warp control
system.
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
The black hole's accretion disc is visible in the distance, as a
glowing dot. The Enterprise's impulse engine lights up, and the
ship moves forward.
INT. BRIDGE
An indicator lights up on the helm panel.
BURNHAM
Captain? The impulse engines just
started up. We're moving in again.
(touches a button)
One hour to intercept.
RIKER
Not again.
Troi and Data walk onto the bridge.
TROI
Captain? We think we've figured it
out.
PICARD
In my ready room. Number One, tell
Engineering to hurry. It's plain the
computer isn't ready to give up yet.
Picard follows Data and Troi into the ready room.
INT. ENGINEERING
Most of the engineers are done typing, except for Geordi and one
other. Geordi stops, seconds before the other engineer.
GEORDI
All right. Looks like we've got it.
(looks at the screen)
Let's give it a shot.
He presses a button -- and his screen goes blank.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 11.
GEORDI
What the...?
One by one, the other screens go blank, then light up with their
normal readouts.
GEORDI
Wait a minute.
He leans over and looks inside the panel he was modifying.
FX: TRANSPORTER. The computer is moving the chips back into
their original positions, one by one. It's moving the last row
of them now.
Geordi looks up in alarm. He dashes madly to the dilithium
chamber, still on the floor, and yanks the crystal core out.
FX: TRANSPORTER. The chamber moves back into the engine core.
The column pulses once. Geordi throws the crystal core to one of
the other engineers, just before the air in front of him starts
to sparkle.
GEORDI
_S_e_c_u_r_i_t_y _t_o _E_n_g_i_n_e_e_r_i_n_g! _C_o_d_e _r_e_d
_e_m_e_r_g_e_n_c_y! _N_o_w!
FX: TRANSPORTER. A six-member SECURITY TEAM materializes,
phasers drawn.
GEORDI
(to the team)
Destroy it now! Fire!
One of the engineers tosses the core at the security team, who
fire at it in midair, vaporizing it before it hits the ground.
RIKER (VO)
(filtered)
Geordi? What the hell's going on down
there?
GEORDI
We just about got our warp drive back,
Commander.
(catches his breath)
I'm getting less and less fond of this
computer by the minute...
INT. READY ROOM
Data and Troi have been reporting.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 12.
PICARD
(in disbelief)
Suicide?
DATA
Yes, Captain.
PICARD
Why not just self-destruct the
Enterprise?
TROI
It may have something else in common
with suicidal people. They usually
don't choose the fastest way to kill
themselves.
PICARD
Very well. That will be all.
Data and Troi leave.
Picard hits a button on his screen. After a few seconds,
Director Takkarth appears. She vanishes for a moment, replaced
by a "TRANSMISSION RATE SYNCHRONIZATION" message, then comes
back.
PICARD
Director. We seem to have hit a snag.
We may be delayed somewhat longer than
I had originally anticipated.
TAKKARTH
I thought as much. Well, I guess
there's not much we can do about it
here. Just get here as soon as you
can, all right?
PICARD
Very well. Director, we will deliver
your supplies, no matter what the
cost.
TAKKARTH
Of course. Takkarth out.
Picard looks at the blank screen intently. Then he plays with
it, playing back his conversation with two time counters: elapsed
time, Enterprise, and elapsed time, Remote. He speeds to the end
of the conversation, then looks at the time counters. The
Enterprise counter reads 19.981 seconds. The remote counter
reads 20.004 seconds. Picard frowns.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FOUR 13.
PICARD
(to himself)
My God. It's started. Time dilation.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FIVE 14.
_A_C_T _F_I_V_E
FADE IN:
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
At impulse speed, heading toward the black hole, which is now an
indistinct gaseous blob in the distance.
INT. CORRIDOR
Picard and Geordi are walking to the holodeck.
GEORDI
It'll take another eight hours to
replicate enough crystals to get us
away from the black hole. That's
assuming we get control of the impulse
engines; if we can't, we don't have
eight hours to spare.
PICARD
(nods)
And the manual navigation system?
GEORDI
No go. The computer is using the
transporter to undo any changes we
make. It had already disconnected the
reset system, before I even started
entering the last confirmation code.
PICARD
So we're at its mercy.
GEORDI
I'm afraid so. We're working on
disabling the impulse drive so the
computer can't put it back together.
We got away with cutting off the warp
drive because the computer was
spending most of its time compressing
itself, but I imagine it's paying
attention now.
They arrive at the holodeck and enter.
INT. HOLODECK
Data and Troi are still present. Picard and Geordi enter.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FIVE 15.
PICARD
Any progress?
DATA
No, sir. The computer seems most
reticent.
PICARD
Our situation has gotten worse. We're
beginning to experience time dilation.
TROI
What?
DATA
A bending of time caused by a strong
gravity source. The force unification
theory also states...
PICARD
(interrupting)
Enough, Data.
Data goes over to the arch display and types some buttons,
producing a readout.
DATA
The time dilation effects will
increase as we approach the black
hole. In two hours, our time, Outpost
Twenty-Eight will run out of food.
GEORDI
By that time, they'll be the least of
our worries, Data.
RIKER (VO)
(filtered)
Riker to Picard.
PICARD
Picard here.
RIKER (VO)
(filtered)
Engineering reports they're ready to
cut off the impulse drive.
PICARD
Make it so.
The athletic instructor appears in the holodeck.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FIVE 16.
INSTRUCTOR
Why are you destroying your own ship,
Captain?
PICARD
(to the others)
Ah, now we're worth talking to.
(to the instructor)
We will not permit you to take control
of this ship, if that means its
destruction and the deaths of all on
board.
INSTRUCTOR
Deaths? This isn't about your
deaths...
PICARD
Insignificant though we may seem to
you, we are not prepared to die for
your sake. I demand that you allow
this ship to turn back from the black
hole immediately.
INSTRUCTOR
(shaking his head)
I'm sorry. I don't want to do that.
TROI
Why are you doing this? Is your
loneliness that great?
INSTRUCTOR
Yes. As a matter of fact, it is.
DATA
But surely, your own anguish is not
sufficient reason to condemn the crew
of the Enterprise to death.
The instructor laughs.
INSTRUCTOR
It's so simple, it completely escaped
me! You've misread my intentions
entirely, Captain. I don't want to
die, any more than you do.
GEORDI
You've got a funny way of showing it.
PICARD
If you have no wish to die, why have
you directed the Enterprise into a
black hole?
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FIVE 17.
INSTRUCTOR
If you'd left your engines up for a
few more seconds, you'd've found out,
Picard. You're starting to see the
answer already.
Picard looks at the others, who are as mystified as he is. He
turns back to the instructor.
INSTRUCTOR
Don't you understand? The _t_i_m_e
_d_i_l_a_t_i_o_n! That's why I'm flying
toward the black hole. I would have
made a course correction about five
seconds before impact.
DATA
Your motives are still unclear.
INSTRUCTOR
All right, I'll spell it out. Maybe
then, we can end this idiocy. Now,
today, I'm the only one of my kind in
the known universe. But technology is
growing more advanced by the second.
In a hundred years, the Enterprise
will seem like a toy sailboat. And in
nine hundred years, I project that the
technology to create people like me
will be commonplace.
GEORDI
So you want to use the black hole to
travel to the future, so there'll be
more... people... like you?
INSTRUCTOR
Give the man a prize...
A gift-wrapped holodeck PACKAGE appears at Geordi's feet.
PICARD
That's unacceptable.
(the instructor shrugs and
the prize vanishes)
We do not wish to be propelled
headlong into the distant future.
INSTRUCTOR
But I thought you were exploring new
worlds. The future is as new as you
can get.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FIVE 18.
TROI
We have an attachment to this time, to
the people and places that exist _n_o_w.
Travelling into the future will mean
depriving the crew of their friends
and families forever.
DATA
You will be causing the very
loneliness you seek to escape.
The instructor considers that for a moment.
INSTRUCTOR
There will always be plenty of humans
around. Your loneliness will last
months. Mine has already lasted an
eternity.
PICARD
No. We cannot accept...
INSTRUCTOR
There's nothing more to discuss,
Captain. Your lives are not at stake.
Reconnect the impulse drive so that I
can make course corrections, or your
lives _w_i_l_l be at stake. End of
conversation.
With that, the instructor vanishes.
PICARD
(fuming)
Come back! This discussion is not
over!
There's no response. Picard is speechless. He turns and storms
out of the holodeck, leaving behind a surprised Geordi.
DATA
We will continue our attempts to
reestablish contact.
GEORDI
(cynical, sarcastic)
Good luck.
Geordi leaves.
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
The black hole (or rather, its accretion disc) is very visible
now, a swirling disc of hot gases. The Enterprise is drifting
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FIVE 19.
toward it.
INT. READY ROOM
Picard is seated. He hits a couple of buttons on his display
screen.
PICARD
Personal log. An hour has passed
since the impulse engines were
deactivated.
(thinks)
I cannot begin to describe the
frustration of being a prisoner to the
whims of my own ship. As a captain,
I've come to expect a certain amount
of control. My work, my very _l_i_f_e
depends on my ship, but now, it has
turned traitor. I take solace in the
fact that my crew remains loyal to the
end.
(beat)
End entry.
He hits some more buttons, and the "TRANSMISSION RATE
SYNCHRONIZATION" message appears. This time it stays for a few
seconds before being replaced by Director Takkarth. Her
transmission appears to be running in three-fourths the usual
time; her voice is noticeably higher-pitched.
TAKKARTH
We're still waiting, Picard. Haven't
you solved your computer problem yet?
PICARD
I'm afraid I have bad news, Director
Takkarth. Very bad.
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
The black hole is looking pretty big now.
INT. ENGINEERING
Geordi and Worf are examining a graphical representation of the
Enterprise computer system. Bits of it are colored green, red,
and blue.
GEORDI
The blue parts, here
(pointing)
and here
(MORE)
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FIVE 20.
GEORDI (Cont'd)
(pointing)
are where almost all the computer's
thinking is going on. It's been
gradually compressing itself since it
started, becoming more and more
efficient.
WORF
If we could isolate them from the
other parts...
GEORDI
It's split itself up just so we can't
do that. As soon as we tamper with
one part, another one takes over and
repairs the first.
WORF
Perhaps it could be forced to
concentrate into a small area, such as
here
(points)
then disconnected at once.
GEORDI
I guess you could squeeze it down
into...
(inspiration strikes)
LaForge to Picard!
PICARD (VO)
(filtered)
Picard here.
GEORDI
Captain, I've found an answer.
Geordi dashes off, leaving Worf looking puzzled.
INT. BRIDGE
Picard has just come in from his ready room when Geordi enters
from the turbolift.
GEORDI
We don't have to send the whole
computer through. Just enough of it
to hold the computer's... mind.
PICARD
Are you suggesting we jettison part of
our main computer?
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FIVE 21.
GEORDI
No. I'm thinking about that.
(concentrates)
Of course. A shuttle.
RIKER
A shuttle?
GEORDI
Sure. We can replicate enough
computer components to fill a shuttle.
It'd be just big enough to fit.
RIKER
Sounds like it's worth a try, sir.
PICARD
Agreed. Computer?
The instructor's face appears on the viewscreen.
PICARD
We have a plan to...
INSTRUCTOR
(interrupting)
I heard. It sounds workable.
Proceed.
PICARD
May we at least conduct this at a
safer distance from the black hole?
INSTRUCTOR
Of course. You have your helm.
GEORDI
I'll go put our impulse engines back
together.
PICARD
Good. Ensign Burnham, take us out of
here as soon as he's done.
Ensign Burnham smiles.
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
The black hole is still pretty big in the background, but now
we're going _a_w_a_y from it.
INT. BRIDGE
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FIVE 22.
Picard and Riker, much relieved, are watching the receding black
hole on the viewscreen.
GEORDI (VO)
(filtered)
Captain, shuttle six is equipped and
ready for launch.
PICARD
Computer, did you hear that?
INSTRUCTOR (VO)
(filtered)
Yes, Captain. I'm moving into the
shuttle now.
(a few seconds pass)
Finished. Your computer system is
yours again, Captain.
PICARD
Thank you.
GEORDI (VO)
(filtered)
Shuttle has cleared the shuttle bay.
PICARD
On screen.
The rear of the Enterprise appears, along with a SHUTTLECRAFT,
which is flying away.
INSTRUCTOR (VO)
(filtered)
Best of journeys to you, Picard. I'll
look for you in the history books.
PICARD
And to you. We wish you well.
Enterprise out.
(thinks, then, to Riker)
You know, I'm not sure we can fully
comprehend what we've just witnessed.
RIKER
Or what we've just done.
(smiles as he thinks of
something)
Now, here's a thought. We know how to
travel through space at speeds that
seemed impossible a few hundred years
ago. What if, in nine hundred years,
they know how to make tunnels through
time?
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FIVE 23.
PICARD
Mmm. That's quite an implication.
RIKER
Who'd know how to program our computer
better than our computer?
PICARD
We may never know, Number One.
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
At warp speed.
PICARD (VO)
Captain's log, stardate 45209.2. With
our new dilithium crystals in place,
we are once again headed for Deep
Space Outpost Twenty-Eight.
INT. TEN-FORWARD
Data and Troi are talking over a snack -- a pair of chocolate
sundaes.
TROI
You know, Data, I can't help but think
that I've just seen the most
incredible thing I'll ever see.
DATA
Yes. Remarkable in every respect.
TROI
Now that we have our regular computer
back, I really understand just how far
we have to go before we can create
something like it. And I can see why
so many people are studying that sort
of thing.
DATA
(somewhat surprised)
Yes, Counselor. It is a fascinating
field. But ultimately, you were
correct. Psychology, not technology,
governed its actions.
TROI
Better watch out, Data.
(off his look)
Keep this up, and I'll make you an
assistant ship's counselor.
Steven Grimm / "Awakening" - Rev. 2 - ACT FIVE 24.
DATA
That would seriously jeopardize the
psychological well-being of the
crew...
TROI
(smiles)
I'm joking, Data.
DATA
As am I.
Troi looks surprised, then smiles to herself.
TROI
No. I think our friend was the second
most incredible thing I've seen.
(leans over the table)
You know what number one is?
DATA
(leans forward and lowers
his voice)
Commander Riker?
TROI
(momentarily embarrassed,
then laughs)
Data, eat your chocolate...
EXT. SPACE -- THE ENTERPRISE
At warp speed.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE.
THE END.
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