Screenplay by: GENE RODDENBERRY & HAROLD LIVINGSTONE Story by: ALAN DEAN FOSTER & GENE RODDENBERRY SHOOTING SCRIPT July 19, 1978 FADE IN : 1 EXT SPACE (S) 1 An ever expanding infinity of light and color as CAMERA TRAVELS THROUGH deep space, MOVING DIRECTLY for one pinpoint of light: a STAR GROWING RAPIDLY as we SWEEP TOWARD IT, a normal white star SUDDENLY CHANGING, brightening, flaring unbelievable intensity: supernova. The CAMERA HOLDS just a moment, then MOVES on, SEARCH- ING through space, the jeweled beauty of other star systems, sparkling nebulae, swirling hydrogen clouds. STILL MOVING, then CAMERA FINDS: 2 EXT. AREA OF LUMINESCENCE (S) 2 In the far distance, slowly growing in size as CAMERA APPROACHES: it resembles, vaguely at this distance, an Aurora Borealis: flaring colors from the fringes, beautiful yet ominous. It is so large, this Cloud, it can envelope an entire solar system. CAMERA CONTINUES APPROACHING the Cloud, and then suddenly, crossing our POV, a: 3 KLINGON HEAVY CRUISER (S) 3 In a graceful, turning arc toward the mysterious LUMINESCENCE. CAMERA FOLLOWS this Klingon, then FINDS a second Klingon cruiser, also turning toward the Cloud, which continues to grow in size as the Klingons approach at warp speed, CAMERA CLOSING on the lead ship, until the vessel's detail can be clearly MADE OUT: lights, weaponry, power systems, identification emblazoned on the nacelles and saucer in Klingon language (and symbols). 4 INT. KLINGON CRUISER BRIDGE (O) 4 Clearly alien, an ODD-SOUNDING KLAXON signaling "battle stations." Orders issued in KLINGON LANGUAGE, the KLINGON CAPTAIN and EXEC peering at an unusual bridge viewer at the huge area of LUMINESCENT HAZE directly ahead. In KLINGON DIALOGUE: KLINGON CAPTAIN (Give me tactical.) 5 CLOSE - MAIN VIEWER (O) 5 goes suddenly to a TACTICAL GRID SYSTEM, showing the LUMINESCENT HAZE to be an ENORMOUS BLIP OF LIGHT ON THE SCREEN, with two TINY PINPRICKS OF LIGHT complete- ing their turn on a direct course toward it. 6 EXT. SPACE - THE KLINGON PATROL AND THE HAZE (S) 6 The Patrol is clearly SEEN now on the right of the bottom of the FRAME... THREE tiny ships closing on the steadily growing LUMINESCENT HAZE. 7 INT. THE KLINGON BRIDGE - CAPTAIN AND EXEC (O) 7 All eyes on the viewer that shows the ships sweeping on the Mysterious cloud. KLINGON CAPTAIN (In Klingonese) Visual. The TECHNICIAN makes the switch. 8 CLOSE - VIEW SCREEN - LUMINESCENT HAZE (O) 8 growing ever larger, its flaring colors menacing, mysterious, strangely beckoning. 9 INT. BRIDGE - KLINGON COMMAND CRUISER 9 The crew stands by for battle. KLINGON CAPTAIN (In Klingonese) Tactical again. Stand by on torpedoes. 10 EAT SPACE - LEAD KLINGON VESSEL (TORPEDO HATCH) (S) 10 sliding open, the glowing "Hell Fire" of the Photon Launch tubes, slowly revealed. 11 VERY WIDE ANGLE - THE THREE SHIPS (S) 11 They are tiny, insect-like shapes moving still CLOSER to the Luminescent Cloud, so large now that it begins to dominate all space behind. 12 INT. KLINGON BRIDGE - TACTICAL GRID - CAPTAIN AND 12 EXEC (O) The growing nearness and enormous size of the Cloud also reflected on the Tactical Grid, somehow more awesome by this schematic view. The Captain gestures the order to "FIRE." 13 EXT. SPACE - ANGLE ON KLINGON VESSEL - TORPEDO HATCH (S) 13 The BRILLIANT PHOTON BLOBS of the torpedoes spurt from the tubes. 14 ANGLE ON KLINGON VESSEL (S) 14 A deadly PHOTON TORPEDO pattern racing away from the Klingon and toward the Luminescent glow in the distance. 15 INT. KLINGON BRIDGE - TACTICAL GRID (O) 15 Three torpedoes are heading directly toward the Cloud. Suddenly they glow briefly and disappear long before they reach their intended target. 16 INT. KLINGON BRIDGE - CAPTAIN AND EXEC 16 incredulous that their torpedoes have disappeared without a trace. 17 EXT SPACE - THE CLOUD - THREE KLINGON SHIPS (S) 17 as the second and third ships launch torpedoes toward the color-flaring surface of the cloud. This time we have an outside, real VIEW of the torpedoes glowing brightly and then disappearing with no effect. 18 INT. KLINGON BRIDGE (O) 18 The Klingon crew grim, desperate, watching a BRIGHT STACCATO BLIP OF POWER from within the LUMINESCENCE. KLINGON CAPTAIN (quickly; Klingonese) Full force fields; evasive maneuvers. 19 EAT SPACE - THE CLOUD - THE KLINGON PATROLS (S) 19 Out of the LUMINESCENCE hurtles a FRIGHTENING WHIPLASH OF ENERGY. It bears down on the Klingon Patrol, now in an evasive maneuver. Then the WHIPLASH BOLT hits the third cruiser in a writhing flare of energy which totally engulfs the vessel. The other two ships veer off, warping around again into attack position. The THIRD SHIP has begun to implode in on itself, the matter-energy of its existence drained by the WHIPLASH BOLT that HOLDS IT. 20 ANGLE ON REMAINING KLINGON CRUISERS (S) 20 desperately defending themselves, FORCE FIELDS FULL UP, RAPIDLY FIRING PHOTON TORPEDOES. But now a SECOND WHIPLASH ENERGY BOLT has emerged from the cloud and hits the second vessel, DESTROYING it. The THIRD WHIPLASH BOLT glances off the surviving Cruiser as the ship retreats in a wide, evasive turn, FIRING from stern tubes. 21 INT. KLINGON BRIDGE 21 The bridge shattered; Klingon bodies. The mortally- wounded Captain is transmitting urgently: KLINGON CAPTAIN (In Klingonese) ... severely damaged. Returning fire... 22 EXT. SPACE - STARFLEET MONITOR STATION EPSILON 9 (S) 22 Serenity here. A barren, rocky small plantoid softly lit by the myriad stars. This is a small Starfleet outpost, antennae sprouting everywhere. Tiny figures (WORKERS) servicing one antenna illustrate the size of the installation. 23 INT. EPSILON 9 - MONITOR ROOM - A VIEWER (O) 23 SHOWING the battle scene, and the VOICE OF THE KLINGON CAPTAIN in his last stand against the Object; his VOICE is weary, almost mechanical. On the adjacent viewer, an English printout of the Klingon's words chatters along the bottom of the picture: KLINGON CAPTAIN (In Klingonese) Imperial Klingon Cruiser Amar... severely damaged by unfamiliar weaponry... intruder unidentified.. 24 WIDER ANGLE - EPSILON 9 STARFLEET PERSONNEL AND VIEWER (O) 24 At the viewers are a FEMALE LIEUTENANT and FOUR TECH- NICIANS. COMMANDER BRANCH, a young, alert, enters hur- riedly, scans he console. LIEUTENANT Our sensor drone is intercepting this on Quad L-14. KLINGON CAPTAIN (V.O.) ... believe luminescent cloud to be enormous power field surrounding alien vessel... size and description unknown.. our sensor scans unable to penetrate. Imperial Klingon Cruiser Amar... continuing to attack. BRANCH That's within Klingon boundaries. Who are they fighting? LIEUTENANT Unknown, sir. A violent EXPLOSION inside the Klingon bridge -- Klingon Captain's body is thrown violently against the bulkhead. TECHNICIAN I have an exterior visual! 25 CLOSE ON VIEWER (O) 25 showing EXTERIOR of the Klingon vessel: a final, frightening WHIPLASH ENERGY BOLT strikes it -- then the same awesome IMPLOSION INTO FIREBALL. 26 WIDER ANGLE - PERSONNEL AND VIEWER (O) 26 The Starfleet station onlookers react to the utter annihilation of the huge cruiser. And now, past where the cruiser just disappeared -- the mysterious LUMINES- CENCE approaching in distance. Technician hits a switch, magnifying the strange CLOUD. LIEUTENANT We've plotted a course on that cloud, Commander: it will pass into Federation Space fairly close to us. BRANCH Heading? 27 CLOSE ON THE MAIN MONITOR STATION (O) 27 as its focal point shifts to the huge elliptically- shaped LUMINESCENCE racing across the sky. MUSIC (V'GER THEME) COMMENCES in a low, unresolved CHORD that remains in the background through the remainder of this scene, and the beginning of the next one. LIEUTENANT'S VOICE Sir, it's on a precise heading for Earth. Ominously now the LUMINESCENCE increases in size, and begins to fill the viewer. HOLD A MOMENT, and then: 28 EXT. SURFACE OF PLANET VULCAN - DAY (M) 28 with the CAMERA MOVING THROUGH masses of thick, steamy vaporous clouds, swirling about, rising boilingly up from some unseen, underground source. The CAMERA CONTINUES MOVING through clouds. And then... the Vulcan landscape. Harsh, strange angular peaks and rock formations -- the barren, legend- ary mountain home of Vulcan Masters. 29 EXT. VULCAN LEDGE - SPOCK ( M & F.P.) 29 Spock's lean features instantly recognizable despite unkempt, longer hair and the fatigue born of a long, harsh discipline he has undergone. His robes, tattered and dust covered, are that of a Vulcan Aspirant in study with the Masters. Under the V'ger THEME MUSIC we HEAR a VOICE in ritual tones: FEMALE MASTER'S VOICE Spock, son of Sarek of Vulcan... and of Amanda of Earth... diligently you have labored for purification of mind... 30 REVERSE ANGLE - SPOCK, VULCAN MASTERS AND RUINS 30 In b.g., gigantic ancient Vulcan statues and ruins. In f.g., the stone platform on which Spock stands facing a semi-circle of three similar platforms. On them in regal robes are three VULCAN MASTERS. The Master in the center is a female, the other two Masters are male. The elderly female is holding a cord and ancient pendant as if ready to place it around Spock's neck at an appropriate moment. Spock is staring up as V'ger THEME MUSIC fades. MALE MASTER (chidingly) Spock . . . ! Spock turns, giving a small contrite nod -- the ritual continues. FEMALE MASTER Here are these sands, our fore- bearers cast out their animal passions. Here our race was saved by the first attainment of Kolinahr. MALE MASTER Kolinahr: the final shedding of all emotion. FEMALE MASTER You have labored long, Spock. Now receive from us this symbol of total logic. Spock starts to kneel... the Female Master moves in, intending to put the ancient pendant around his neck. But Spock now hesitates -- he's troubled as though uncertain he deserves this symbol and waves the pendant away. Then, a faint reprise of the V'ger THEME MUSIC now causes the Female Master to look skyward. She turns from this back to Spock as she exchanges a look with the Male Masters. FEMALE MASTER (gestures Spock forward) Come, give me your thoughts. She kneels with Spock -- lays her hands on his temples in Vulcan mind-meld position. FEMALE MASTER (continuing) Our minds, Spock... One and together.... Their eyes close -- their minds meld -- then her head jerks slightly, her features change as her mind feels Spock's reactions to the V'ger consciousness. A long moment, then she opens her eyes, gets to her feet and looks down on the still kneeling Spock. Then, she casts aside the pendant she carries -- it falls into the dust. FEMALE MASTER (continuing; sadly) This consciousness which calls -- it stirs your human half, Spock? You have not achieved Kolinahr -- Your human emotions are not fully extinguished. (turns to the other Masters) He will not achieve his goal with us. His answer lies elsewhere. The three Masters leave -- Spock watches them go, his disappointment evident even in his stoic features. 31 MED. ANGLE ON SPOCK (M. & F.P.) 31 CAMERA CLOSES IN on his face as we again HEAR a frag- ment of V'ger THEME MUSIC -- Spock again raises his head and peers up into the heavens. HOLD on his face a moment, then... SHOCK CUT TO : 32 EXT. EARTH - AN AIR TRAM - DAY (S) 32 gleaming silver in the sun as it streaks TOWARD THE CAMERA POSITION and hurtles PAST. 33 EXT. SAN FRANCISCO - HILLTOP AIR TRAM STATION - 33 DAY (M) From this vantage, we can SEE all of twenty-third century San Francisco stretched out before us. In the b.g., the familiar forms of the carefully preserved Golden Gate Bridge and Transamerica Pyramid Building serve as our only reminders that this is, indeed, San Francisco. The AIR TRAM (an anti-gravitational train flying several feet above the ground) DECELERATES sharply, settles to the ground with a whisper. 34 EXT. TRAM STATION - CLOSE ON TRAM DOORS - DAY 34 The doors opening, and various TRAVELERS (civilians and Starfleet personnel) leaving the tram, striding onto the platform, continuing on their respective ways. Among the departing throng: 35 KIRK 35 in Admiral's uniform, grim, determined, moving through the throng. Now and then Starfleet officers nod re- spectfully; KIRK responds with detached formality; his mind is clearly set on something he is resolved to ac- complish here in headquarters -- whatever the cost. CAMERA WITH HIM, to: 36 INT. AIR TRAM STATION - DAY ` 36 as Kirk strides into the graceful Starfleet HQ building. Many PEOPLE are about, civilians and uniformed person- nel; most of them with some air of urgency. (NOTE: ALIENS interspersed among them, Vulcans, blue-skinned Andorians, high-domed Vegans, ect.) Kirk continues on when suddenly he reacts, annoyed as he sees: 37 SONAK 37 a Vulcan, Lt Commander; short, white-haired, grizzled, hurrying along. Kirk calls to him: KIRK Commander Sonak... ! SONAK turns with Vulcan imperturbability to face Kirk who steps toward him KIRK (continuing) You've received your appointment as Enterprise Science Officer? SONAK (nods) Based, I am told, on your recommendation, Admiral. Thank you. KIRK Why aren't you on board? SONAK Captain Decker requested I complete final Science briefing here before... KIRK (interrupting) Here at Starfleet...? The Enterprise is in final preparation to leave dock... SONAK Which will require twenty more hours at minimum, Admiral... KIRK Twelve! I'm on my way to a meeting with Admiral Nogura which will not last more than three minutes. Report to me on the Enterprise in one hour. SONAK To you, sir? KIRK I intend to be there following that meeting. Report to me. One hour! And Kirk turns, strides purposefully away. Sonak gazes after him, one eyebrow raised quizzically. 38 EXT. EARTH ORBIT (S) 38 In f.g., Orbital drydock offices, rotating slowly but perceptibly against blue-black of space. Small figures in spacesuits working on construction, with work belts. Beyond and below... Earth. In the far distance we can barely make out an orbital drydock. 39 CLOSER ANGLE - ORBITAL OFFICE CLUSTER (S) 39 The cluster is a fully-equipped dockyard engineering center and computer drafting office. CAMERA MOVES IN AND CENTERS ON an outer "Travel Pod." 40 INT. INNER OFFICE (O) 40 an installation which also includes a double position transporter, in which we SEE the TRANSPORTER EFFECT BEGIN. With the TRANSPORTER CREW IS SCOTT. He's with a Technician, busy with a piece of complex circuitry. Then he turns, sees that it is Kirk BEAMING in here. As Kirk materializes, steps off the transporter plat- form, Scott moves quickly to him. 40A KIRK AND SCOTT 40A The starship Engineering Officer clearly surprised to see Kirk here. Kirk has the same look of grim de- termination we just saw in the headquarters building. SCOTT Admiral, I've been hoping to see you. Maybe you can get through to those thick heads in Starfleet that... KIRK Why aren't the Enterprise transporters in operation, Mister Scott? SCOTT We're hoping it's only a temporary problem, Admiral... KIRK See that it is. (moving toward pod) Take me over, please. Scott is now eying Kirk just a little warily as he fol- lows him into the pod. Kirk's determined expression suggests that some chips are going to fly and Scott does not want to become one of them. SCOTT (carefully) Admiral, the Enterprise has just finished eighteen months redesign- ing and refitting. She needs testing, a shakedown... KIRK Mr. Scott, there's an alien object with unbelievable destructive power less than three days away from this planet... Kirk hits a button on the travel pod panel -- the air- lock doors SLAM closed behind them. Then, stepping im- mediately to the front observation window: KIRK (continuing) ... the only Starship in interception range is the Enterprise! Ready, or not, she launches in twelve hours! Scott throws Kirk an appalled look but is now occupied in sealing the Outer Pod door and manipulating drive controls. CAMERA CONTINUES TO PULL BACK TO REVEAL front of the Pod and arms of the office complex as Pod disconnects and starts to move. 40C EXT. POD 40C CAMERA CONTINUES TO PULL BACK TO REVEAL front of the pod and arms of the office complex as Pod disconnects and starts moving. 41 EXT. EARTH ORBIT - ANGLES ON TRAVEL POD (S) 41 - - 43 43 as it moves way from the office complex. We can SEE the jet flames of its tiny thrusters as it cir- cles around, heads off (toward the distant Orbital dry dock). 44 INT. TRAVEL POD - KIRK AND SCOTT 44 Scott nervously eying Kirk, and finally deciding to make one more effort: SCOTT The crew hasn't had near enough transition time with all the new equipment. And the engines, Admiral: they've yet to be even tested at warp power. Add to that, an untried Captain... KIRK (hint of smile) Two and a half years as Chief of Starfleet Operations may have made me a little stale, Mr. Scott -- but I wouldn't exactly consider myself 'untried.' It takes Scott a moment to comprehend, and Kirk smiles now, nods: KIRK (continuing) They gave her back to me, Scotty. Scott peers at him, genuinely surprised -- and pleased. Then: SCOTT "Gave' her back, sir...? I doubt it was that easy... (returns smile) But any man who could manage such a feat, I wouldna dare disappoint. She'll launch on time, sir... (with confidence) And she'll be ready. And he clasps Kirk's elbow affectionately, then gestures Kirk to look out the pod window. 45 EXT. OUTSIDE THE POD WINDOW - KIRK'S POV (O) 45 as he looks out: the blue-black of orbital space. 46 INT. TRAVEL POD 46 Scott is well aware of what the Enterprise means to Kirk. As Scott maneuvers the pod to provide the best perspective, Kirk peers through the observation window, craning his head, hungry for his first glimpse of the starship. Scott is watching him, immensely pleased. 47 PAST THEM TO THE POD WINDOW (O) 47 as we SEE the drydock and more of its detail, and a hint of what is inside. 48 EXT. EARTH ORBIT - OTHER ANGLES FROM THE POD (O) 48 - - 50 50 PAST Kirk and Scott the corner of the drydock becomes larger -- we begin SEEING more of it. And then the merest glimpse of what is inside the drydock: The Enterprise slips INTO VIEW. 51 INT. POD - VERY CLOSE ON KIRK AT WINDOW 51 as he watches, his face reflecting all of it: the awe, the wonder, the romance, the obsession. The one comp- lete love of his life. And with that love regained, he is becoming more fully alive again. Kirk looks at Scott; for a moment both hold each other's eye. Scott knows precisely how Kirk feels. Both turn to the window again. 52 WHAT THEY SEE - THE ENTERPRISE (S) 52 Now DOMINATING the SCREEN -- the awesome, symmetrical bulk of the starship comes fully INTO VIEW. And it dominates Kirk's -- and our emotions. 53 EXT. THE ENTERPRISE - AND THE POD (TINY IN THIS SHOT) 53 - - 56 AS IT CIRCLES - THE ANTI-LIKE FIGURES OF WORKERS (S) 56 The great ship dwarfs everything. The drydock becomes a fragile filigree framing the ship's great curved bulk. The tiny pod continues to move along it. Small automated welding devices move along the gird- ers, working with brief, bright orange-white flares. In other areas of metal lace structure, supplies and equipment are being loaded onto the ship. The pod continues moving (Scott is giving Kirk time to see all), watched carefully by the TINY FIGURES OF SUPERVISING TECHNICIANS on the drydock. Now the pod moves toward mating position. It closes in, secures itself to the outer airlock. 57 INT. POD - AT THE AIRLOCK 57 Scott completing the mating procedure, Kirk turning from the observation window. Outside, the metallic.. CLICK of the pod locking onto the airlock. Now the "WHOOSH" of the latch doors securing, the CLANG of security bolts. It's all been a rare and delicious moment for Kirk, and his face shows it. OVER the POD INTERCOM we HEAR, "Pod secured. Pressure equalized." Scott moves the control to open the hatch. 58 INT. ENTERPRISE CARGO DECK (M) 58 A confusion of organized work and VOICES. The cargo deck bustles with activity; supplies and equipment being stored and installed. 59 INT. CARGO DECK - BALCONY AND CATWALK 59 Kirk and Scott are met by a nervous, perspiring ENSIGN. KIRK AND SCOTT Permission to come aboard, sir...? ENSIGN Granted, sir. Welcome aboard, Admiral... Commander Scott, you're needed in Engineering immediately. SCOTT (to Kirk) Sir, you'll excuse me...? Kirk gestures him to leave, and Scott hurries away. Kirk stands a moment, gazing down at the cargo deck. 60 ANGLE DOWN PAST KIRK TO FLOOR (M) 60 The crew maneuvering antigravity devices which move heavy containers -- scrambles of activity at storage holds and maintenance lockers. 61 CLOSE ON KIRK AND ENSIGN 61 Kirk is drinking it all in. He's home. ENSIGN (nervous) Sir, if you'll follow me, I'll... KIRK I think I can find my way, Ensign. And Kirk moves off, leaving the Ensign gazing at him, relieved. 62 EXT. ELEVATOR AND CATWALK 62 Kirk ENTERS ANGLE and the doors snap open. 63 INT. ELEVATOR 63 as Kirk enters. The doors close. Kirk waits a beat, savoring this moment too. Then, firmly to the control panel: KIRK Bridge! The turbo-elevator HUMS WITH POWER as it begins hur- tling up. On the wall back of Kirk we SEE an electronic diagram of the Enterprise tracking the elevator's speedy trip to the Bridge. 64 INT. BRIDGE 64 A confusion of activity and VOICES. Pieces o equip- ment in a state of disarray: consoles open, fiber optic tubes unconnected, viewing screens dismantled. It's a frantic, desperate scene -- a ship and crew to- tally unprepared. In the midst of this: ALIEN ensign is assisting UHURA (Lt. Comdr. stripes)deftly working her communications station, AD LIBBING "... Hailing frequency four, check. Hailing frequency five, will someone please check me?" At the helm, sweat-soaked SULU (Lt. Comdr stripes) has a service plate open, is peering inside to make delicate adjust- ments, AD LIBBING "... Helm, now give me a reading on four point zero zero six of full." And at the Weapons Control, CHEKOV (Full Lt.)argues with TECHNICIANS who insist photon torpedoes read "ready" while Chekov argues the computer is not relaying that information. 65 ANGLE ON THE ELEVATOR DOORS 65 snapping open -- and there is Kirk. For the moment no one notices him, and he stands watching, remembering. And then he moves forward toward the command center. 66 ACROSS UHURA TO KIRK 66 as she is the first to see him. She reacts,pleased. UHURA Captain... Starfleet just signaled your transfer-of- command orders! 67 ANOTHER ANGLE - VARIOUS REACTION 67 as everyone else is suddenly aware of Kirk. All work stops, with various AD LIBBED greetings from the old crew: "Admiral Kirk..." "It's the Captain...!" etc., etc. But most sit or stand, simple gaping at Kirk, all quite awed. The old hands, Uhura, Sulu, and Chekov start converging on Kirk. But he gestures them back, speaking crisply. KIRK I appreciate the welcome; I wish the circumstances were less critical. (to Uhura) Epsilon Nine is monitoring the intruder; keep a channel open to them. (glances around) Where is Captain Decker? SULU He's in Engineering, sir... (uncomfortable, indicates Captain's chair) He doesn't know. Kirk reacts with some exasperation, starts away, addresses Chekov: KIRK Mr Chekov, assemble the crew on the Rec Deck at 0400 hours. I want to show them what we're facing. And Kirk moves to the elevator, enters, is gone. The moment the elevator doors snap closed: SULU I wouldn't have wanted to have been standing in his way. He wanted her back; he got her! ALIEN ENSIGN (perturbed) And Captain Decker? He's been with the ship every minute of her refitting... UHURA (brittle) Ensign -- our chances of coming back from this mission in one piece may have just doubled...! 68 OMITTED 68 - - 69 69 70 INT. ENGINEERING SECTION 70 The entire complex a beehive of pre-departure activity. ENGINEERING PERSONNEL (at least a third of them female) coming and going, the platform-elevators (small, one- man lifts to various levels) busy. A gentle but con- stant HUM and WHIRR flows from the engine core, to indi- cate a pre-idling mode. There will be continual AD LIBBED conversation among the Technicians. Now the Engine Room door opens and Kirk steps into the area. He stands a moment observing the activity. a grizzled ENGINEERING CHIEF pushes a huge condenser on an anti-grav device past irk with a respectful "watch it, sir" admonishment. Kirk moves on to: 71 THE INTERMIX CHAMBER 71 at the middle of the power shaft. Very NOISY here, and a continual CACOPHONY of COMPUTERIZED AND HUMAN VOICES calling off equipment checks. And grouped around a section of burnt-out circuitry are WILLARD DECKER, Captain's stripes, handsome, in his early 30's; Scott, and two Technicians. Decker and Scott are working feverishly uncoupling the device, probing its innards. Decker has discovered the problem, removed several transistor-type parts, taps them with a pencil-sized sonic analyzer. DECKER (quietly elated) I thought so! See... the trans- porter sensor was not activated... SCOTT (impressed) Aye, you were dead right about that... (to Technician) Clearly, put a back-up sensor into the unit. 72 ACROSS THEM TO KIRK 72 as the Technician prepares to install the device, Scott glances up to see Kirk. He looks from Decker to Kirk in acute embarrassment (so that we should realize Scott hasn't mentioned Kirk's taking over to Decker). Decker now notices Kirk, reacts pleased. DECKER Admiral Kirk... (shakes Kirk's hand) We're getting a top brass send off...? (self assured grin) She'll launch on schedule if we have to tow her out with our bare hands. Right, Scotty? SCOTTY (lamely) Aye, sir, that we will... KIRK (to Decker) Will, let's go over here and talk. He indicates corner. Decker glances bemusedly at Kirk, then turns to Scott: DECKER Let me now when the back-up is in place. 73 ACROSS SCOTT TO KIRK AND DECKER 73 as Scott AD LIBS a glum "Aye, sir," and watches them walk across the Chamber. 74 A CORNER OF THE INTERMIX CHAMBER 74 just a little quieter here, with Kirk and Decker arriv- ing, and Decker saying blithely: DECKER All due respect, sir, I hope this isn't a Starfleet pep talk; I'm just too busy. Kirk eyes Decker -- then decides the best way to say it is plainly, directly. KIRK I'm taking over the Center seat. I'm sorry, Will. DECKER You are what...? KIRK I'm replacing you as Captain of the Enterprise. Decker seems shocked into silence; he can only peer at Kirk who reaches tentatively as though to clasp a paternal hand on Decker's shoulder, then withdraws it and continues quickly. KIRK (continuing) You'll stay aboard as Executive Officer... a temporary grade reduction to Commander. DECKER (finding his voice) -- You, personally, are assuming command? KIRK Yes. DECKER May I ask Why? KIRK (nods) My experience -- five years out there dealing with unknowns like this -- my familiarity with the Enterprise, this crew... DECKER Admiral, this is an almost totally new enterprise. You don't know her a tenth as well as I do. 75 ANOTHER ANGLE - TO SHOW SCOTT IN B.G. (ACROSS THE 75 ROOM) Scott, working on the relay, but continually glancing at Kirk and Decker with worried concern, as Kirk replies: KIRK That's why you're staying aboard. I'm sorry, Will. DECKER No, Admiral. I don't think you are; not one damned bit. I remember when you recommended me for this command. You told me how envious you were, and if only you could find a way to get a starship command again. Well, sir, it looks like you found a way. Kirk is silent a moment, peering levelly at Decker, who returns the gaze with equal intensity. Then: KIRK Report to the bridge, Commander. Immediately. Decker EXITS. Kirk waits, collecting his composure as he watches him go. Then Kirk turns to glare at Scott. Interrupted by a flare as something shorts out at the mechanism where Scott and Decker had been working. Technician (Clearly) reacts, hits an inter- com button fast: TECHNICIAN (CLEARY) Transporter room, come in! Urgent! (to Scott) Redline on the transporters, Mister Scott! Scott whirls to a console fast, speaks urgently! SCOTT Transporter room, do not engage! Do not.... TECHNICIAN (CLEARY) (reacting to the reading; interruption) Too late; they're beaming now! Kirk is exiting on a run, followed by Scott. 76 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM - INCLUDING TRANSPORTER CHAMBER 76 (O) An unusually defective looking TRANSPORTER EFFECT in progress, alternately flashing and glowing -- even the Transporter SOUND seems wrong, as if struggling to overcome some problem. At the console, CHIEF RAND and ASSISTANT are reacting in surprised, near-horror as they attempt vainly to save the situation. RAND (into intercom) Starfleet, override us! OVERRIDE...! Yank them back! Suddenly, from Rand's console,a VIOLENT GLARE -- a PROTESTING SOUND from the circuitry. And on the con- sole a red-warning light now begins flashing. STARFLEET VOICE Unable to retrieve their pattern, Enterprise....! Rand reacts in real horror now as human forms begin to FAINTLY MATERIALIZE, then FADE AWAY, then REAPPEAR IN FAINTLY MISSHAPEN FORM as she frantically works con- trols. Kirk ENTERS fast, steps to the console to assist Rand; Scott has also come in and moves to the console, brushes aside the Asst. Chief, and begins manipulating the additional controls himself. SCOTT We're losing the pattern...! KIRK (into intercom) Starfleet, boost your matter gain; we need more signal! RAND Oh, no! They're forming! 77 CLOSER ON THE TRANSPORTER CHAMBER (O) 77 with the human forms FLUTTERING INTO FULLER AND FULLER MATERIALIZATION, FRIGHTENINGLY, HORRIBLY MISSHAPEN. We RECOGNIZE one form as the Vulcan, Sonak -- the other a human WOMAN. They MATERIALIZE; we HEAR A MOAN form from the Vulcan -- the Woman's SCREAM OF PAIN. Then, all at once, the half-materialized bodies are gone; the transporter chamber is empty. KIRK Oh, my God...! 78 KIRK, SCOTT AND RAND 78 gazing, horrified, at the empty chamber. KIRK (into intercom) Starfleet, do you have them? A mutter of utter, vacant silence -- and Kirk and Scott look at each other again, their pained faces presaging the answer they already know: STARFLEET VOICE (shaken) Enterprise... what we got back didn't live long. Fortunately. Another moment of stunned silence, and then Kirk hits the transmission button -- fighting to control his voice as: KIRK Starfleet... Kirk. Please... express my condolences to their families. Commander Sonak's can be reached through the Vulcan Embassy. (see Rand's stricken expression) There was nothing you could have done, Rand. It wasn't your fault. And before Rand can answer, Kirk leaves the room. 79 INT. CORRIDOR - TRAVELING WITH KIRK 79 as Kirk steps out, and the doors snap closed behind him. In the corridor the furor of the hurried depar- ture is, as everywhere, quite evident: CREW MEMBERS move back and forth. But Kirk does not see them; his mind is tormented by the transporter accident -- was there something he should have done, could have done, to prevent it? Should he launch on schedule with the starship this unready? Has he done right in yielding to this terrible needs for starship command again, forcing Starfleet to give her to him? Would Decker's knowledge of the new design have prevented the acci- dent? Kirk reaches a corridor intersection, looks around, realizes he's lost track of where he is. A passing YEOMAN stops in response to his puzzled expression. KIRK Turboshaft eight...? YEOMAN Back that way, sir. She's indicating back the direction from which Kirk came. He nods his thanks, turns and moves back down the corridor. 80 DECKER 80 hurrying down the corridor. The two face each other a silent moment, Decker studying Kirk curiously. KIRK We'll have to replace Commander Sonak. I'd still like a Vulcan there, if possible... DECKER None available, Captain. There's no one in fact, who's fully rated on this design. KIRK You are, Mister Decker. I'm afraid you'll have to double as Science Officer. And Kirk moves on, Decker stands gazing reflectively after him. 81 OMITTED 81 - - 84 84 85 CLOSE - FULL SHOT OF THE KLINGON SHIP BEING DESTROYED 85 (AS SEEN ON VIEWER) (O) (in the last part of the scene which showed the Klingon Captain speaking in Klingonese and an English print- out interpretation appearing at the screen bottom. The Klingon ship nearly totaled; one engine nacelle gone, smoke and flame spewing from the other, etc. And then that final WHIPLASH ENERGY BOLT STRIKING AND SPECTACULARLY DESTROYING THE SHIP, etc.) But this time, O.S., we HEAR GASPS of incredulity from many throats (an audience), and various AD LIBBED com- ments: "My God...!" "I don't believe it...!" "What could it be...?" Etc., etc. And then, immediately following this, on the viewer: 86 THE LUMINESCENT CLOUD (AS SEEN ON A VIEWER) (O) 86 (as in earlier Epsilon 9 viewer -- but with no music, only more AD LIBBED exclamations from an audience.) The viewer goes blank. 87 INT. RECREATION DECK (M) 87 We SEE that all this was being viewed by the CREW MEMBERS (Aliens included) assembled on the Rec Deck. The Recreation Deck is one of the largest areas on the ship, several deck levels high, a part of one wall consisting of picture windows, through which can be seen sections of the drydock structure outside. On another wall is a large viewer, on which was just shown the Klingon transmission. Leading off and away from this deck area are what are obviously other specific recreation areas -- gymnasiums, food centers, game rooms, lounges, etc. 88 ANOTHER ANGLE OF THE RED DECK - HIGHER LEVEL 88 as the Crew Members chat in low, grim tones -- Kirk (now with Captain's stripes) appears. As he comes into view, the two hundred or so crew below go silent. Kirk grimly indicates the now blank viewer: KIRK That's all we know about it; except that it's now 2.2 days from Earth. Enterprise is the only Federation starship that stands in its way. 89 ANOTHER ANGLE - CREW REACTIONS 89 as the CAMERA FINDS various faces: human, alien; most young, all intelligent, forthright -- anxious. Kirk has paused a moment, now continues. KIRK (O.S.) We assume there is a vessel of some type at the heart of the cloud. Our orders are to intercept, investigate; and take whatever action is necessary... and possible. (beat) ...We can only hope that the life form aboard that vessel reasons as we do. 90 ANGLE ON UHURA 90 standing near an intercom, which just then has emitted a bosun's WHISTLE intercom signal. BRIDGE VOICE (from intercom) Bridge to Captain. Priority signal from Epsilon Nine -- Kirk leans over to the intercom, speaks into it: KIRK Put it on the viewer here...! 91 ON THE REC DECK VIEWER (O) 91 as all eyes turn to the viewer which fades into a view of Commander Branch, in the Epsilon 9 monitor room. Branch is tense, reflecting extreme urgency. Near Branch, working intently at the console are the Female Lieutenant and a Technician. BRANCH (from the viewer; checking console readings) Enterprise... the Cloud is definitely a powerfield of some kind... Measures... My God! Over 82 A.U.'s in diameter... Must be something incredible inside there generating it. (looks up from console) We're transmitting linguacode friendship messages on all frequencies. No response. TECHNICIAN I have a null reading at the center of the 'cloud,' sir. LIEUTENANT Definitely something inside.. there but all scans are being reflected back. (studies readings) Receiving an odd pattern now.. (toward Branch) They seem to be reacting to our scans, sir. BRANCH (inspecting another console) Some kind of energy surge... (looking up) Enterprise... they could be mistaking our scans as a hostile act... (reacts at readings) Deflectors, emergency full! Branch hits an alarm button; we HEAR ALARM KLAXON SOUNDING. The viewer IMAGE DISTORTS, clears again while Branch -- facing his viewer, continues urgently: BRANCH (continuing) We are under attack...! KIRK (to Uhura) External view...! 92 ON THE VIEWER - EXT. THE DESTRUCTION OF EPSILON 9 (O) 92 as the image of Branch is immediately replaced by an external view of the plantoid, and the LUMINESCENT CLOUD (at about the same distance from which the Klingon cruisers were attacked). Then it STRIKES the plantoid WITH FULL, CATACLYSMIC FORCE. The viewer IMAGE BREAKS UP -- and immediately the entire Starfleet base becomes a maelstrom of FLAR- ING ENERGY, shattered structure, flying debris. And then, all at once, there is nothing -- empty space, Epsilon 9 is gone. We SEE only the stars; and the mysterious LUMINESCENT CLOUD moving across the distant sky. (NOTE: The above is entirely SILENT, and when it is finished, not a word is spoken.) KIRK (O.S.) Viewer off. 93 ANOTHER ANGLE - KIRK 93 as the viewer goes blank, all still facing the screen. Then Kirk turns to the room as if to comment. Then he stops -- nothing he can say will add at all to what they've just seen. Instead: KIRK Pre-launch countdown will commence in forty minutes. 94 ANOTHER ANGLE - CREW 94 The scene they have just witnessed still vivid in their minds as they gaze somberly up toward Kirk who is exit- ing. The bridge crew follows him out. Not a word is said as the remainder of the crew waits another moment, then begins to disperse toward their duty stations too. 95 EXT. THE ENTERPRISE IN DRYDOCK (S) 95 Spectacular ORBIT VIEW of the giant starship in the process of release. BEYOND US, in half light, EARTH LOOMS HUGE. The dock welders are gone; the supply pods float away from the ship. Little tongues of blue flame spurt from the ship's maneuvering jets. 96 CLOSER - ON ENTERPRISE (S) 96 as the large dock umbilical is released, floats free of its starship attachment. Dock departure is imminent. 97 INT. BRIDGE 97 Kirk in the center seat, intently studying the Naviga- tion console in front of him (at the Navigator's station, which is unoccupied.) Other bridge personnel are busy with their pre-launch duties. UHURA Transporters Room and Chief Engineer Scott report trans- porter system fully repaired and now functioning normally, sir. SULU Dock signals clear, Captain. KIRK Rely we are holding position awaiting final crew replacements. UHURA Captain, Transporter Personnel reports the Navigator... (consults console) ... Lieutenant Junior Grade Ilia (Eye-lee-ah) is already aboard, and en route to the bridge. 98 ANGLE ON DECKER - AT THE SCIENCE STATION 98 as Decker (now wearing Commander stripes) reacts, almost startled, and Uhura continues: UHURA She's a Deltan. Uhura's tone and expression convey "Deltan" in a certain, special manner. KIRK (reprovingly) And there are no finer navigators in Starfleet, Commander. The last is interrupted by: 98A ANGLE ON THE ELEVATOR DOORS 98A as they snap open, and there emerges a breathtakingly beautiful young woman (uniformed as a Navigator Lieu- tenant) who strides purposefully onto the bridge. A stunning figure, but hairless, entirely bald but or delicate eyebrows and eyelashes. Her bald head is not at all unattractive, in fact exudes an aura of sensual nudity. Indeed, her whole being exudes sensuality. (This is a racial characteristic, not a deliberate presence.) She approaches Kirk (NOTE: Throughout this sequence, Sulu eyes ILIA with unrestrained admiration.) ILIA Lieutenant Ilia reporting for duty, sir. KIRK (formally; rising) Welcome aboard, Lieutenant. 99 ACROSS ILIA TO DECKER 99 as Ilia starts to speak, suddenly stops: she has just then noticed Decker, who has stepped from his station to face her. For an electronic moment their eyes meet, hold in unquestioned recognition. DECKER Hello, Ilia. ILIA (surprised) Decker....! Kirk has observed this with surprise and some concern (it presages possible complications). Decker turns to Kirk, slightly uncomfortable at this. DECKER I was stationed on the Lieutenant's home planet some years ago... Ilia looks from Kirk back to Decker, puzzled at his sleeve stripes. ILIA (eyes his rank stripes) 'Commander' Decker? KIRK Our Exec and Science Officer... DECKER (bitingly) Captain Kirk has the utmost confidence in me. Kirk flashes a hard glance at Decker, then toward Ilia too. KIRK (pointedly) And in you, too, Lieutenant. ILIA My oath of celibacy is on record Captain. May I assume my duties? While respectful, her tone of voice has been just as firm as Kirk's. KIRK By all means. 100 ACROSS KIRK TO UHURA 100 receiving a message, now relaying it. UHURA Captain, Starfleet reports our last six crew members ready to beam up... (puzzled) ... but one of them is refusing to step into the transporter. Just as Kirk a moment before was tense, now suddenly he's relaxed again; he rises. KIRK (pleased) Oh? I'll see that he beams up...! And he hurries from the bridge, onto the elevator, is gone. A moment of puzzled silence, then: DECKER Mr. Sulu, take Lieutenant Ilia in hand. SULU (startled) Sir...? (then understands) Yes, of course... (to Ilia) Your pre-programming is already set in, Lieutenant. Sulu has almost tripped getting out of his chair. He starts offering Ilia his hand, then thinks better of it, withdraws it abruptly, immediately busies himself punching out equations on her console... AD LIBS, "It's all on the computer. You'll have no problem..." Sulu is nervous, fluttery around this lovely creature -- now hits a wrong switch. Produces a BEEPING SOUND which he fumbles to shut off. She smiles; speaks quietly, repeats: ILIA I'm sworn to celibacy, Mister Sulu. That makes me as safe as any human female. Sulu catches her eye but before he can reply, Decker has moved in beside Ilia. DECKER I now the Captain meant no person- al insult. ILIA (eyes on console) I would never take advantage of a sexually immature species. (looks at him) You can assure him that's true, can't you? Clearly, the remark carries special, personal significance. 101 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM 101 - - 102 102 Kirk entering as Rand and her assistant electronically list the last of the five arrivals who are leaving the Transporter Chamber. Kirk calls through intercom to the last arrival, a young female Yeoman. KIRK Yeoman, what was the problem down there? YEOMAN (through intercom) He insisted we go first, sir. Said something about first seeing how it scrambled our molecules. KIRK Thank you, Yeoman (hits transmit control) Starfleet , this is Captain Kirk. The officer is to be beamed up immediately! 103 ANGLE ON THE CHAMBER (O) 103 A moment, then again the GENERATING HUMMING, and then the familiar BEAMING EFFECT. And then you SEE McCOY! He fully MATERIALIZES. He looks himself over as if in pleased surprise he is still in one piece. CAMERA PANS McCoy from the Transporter Chamber to Kirk who is hav- ing a hard time containing his amusement and delight. KIRK Well, for a man who swore he'd never return to Starfleet... McCOY (flat, tight) What happened, Captain, sir, was that your revered Admiral Nogura invoked a little known -- and seldom used -- reserve activation clause... (snaps) ... in simpler language, Captain, sir, they drafted me! KIRK (straight-faced) They didn't...! Kirk has offered his hand, but McCoy is already flaring: McCOY This was your idea! It was your idea, wasn't it! KIRK Bones, there's a 'thing' out there -- McCOY -- Why is any object we don't understand called a 'thing'? KIRK (continues) -- headed this way. I need you... McCOY Were you behind this? KIRK (nods) Bones, I need you badly. Kirk extends his hand again; McCoy delays some moments -- then finally responds. And once done, it is the long hand clasp of two old friends reunited despite their differences. Now McCoy turns to Rand. McCOY Permission to come aboard, sir? RAND (elated) Permission granted, sir! And McCoy moves toward the door, grumbling: McCOY I hear Chapel's an MD now; I need a top nurse, not a doctor who'll argue every diagnosis... And -- Even when he's in the corridor his grumbling trails after him. McCOY (continuing) ... they've probably redesigned sickbay, too. Engineers love to change things. 104 FULL ON KIRK 104 as he gazes fondly after the grumbling McCoy, and now turns to the intercom, flips it on: KIRK All decks, this is the Captain. Prepare or immediate departure. 105 INT. ENTERPRISE - MONTAGE DEPARTURE SCENES 105 - - 108 108 Bulkheads closing, feed lines disengaging, main ENGINES HUM into life, crew personnel hurrying to launch stations. SHOTS of cargo deck, down to Engineering Section slamming shut. Drydock area clearing, work lights go out, warning lights go on. 109 INT. BRIDGE 109 All flight positions manned, ready. UHURA Dock control reports ready, sir. SULU Helm ready, sir. ILIA Orbital departure on plot, sir. UHURA Yard command signaling clear, sir. KIRK Maneuvering thrusters, Mister Sulu. SULU Maneuvering thrusters, sir. KIRK Hold station. SULU (working controls) Thrusters at station-keeping, sir. 110 EXT. EARTH ORBIT - ENTERPRISE AND DRYDOCK (S) 110 The starship within the drydock, but now the maneuver- ing -- thrusters spurt pinpoints of BLUE-LAME. The drydock is ready for the starship's departure -- not a single pod or shuttlecraft in sight. The starship looms majestically within the lacework girders. 111 OMITTED 111 112 INT. BRIDGE 112 as Kirk hesitates just an instant, seems to hold his breath. Then: KIRK Thrusters ahead, Mister Sulu. Take us out. 113 EXT. EARTH ORBIT 113 The maneuvering -- thrusters spurt more BLUE FLAME. The Enterprise begins moving, DOMINATING SCREEN as it moves majestically from the drydock. THEME MUSIC IN AND UP. 114 CLOSER ANGLES - ENTERPRISE (S) 114 - - 117 117 emphasizing fine detail reality of both drydock and starship as saucer section emerges. Tiny space- suited human figures watch the departing ship. CAMERA HOLDS ON STARSHIP until completely clear of the orbital dock. 117A INT. ENGINEERING SECTION 117A Here in Engineering Section, the ENGINE THROBBING SLOWLY BUILDS to a THUNDERING SOUND. A glow from the central unit indicates anti-matter intermix underway. The Engineering Section shudders as the great engines draw more and more power. SCOTT Intermix set, Bridge, impulse power at your discretion. 118 INT. BRIDGE - FAVORING KIRK 118 as he hesitates just an instant. This is the moment he's awaited, and to him it is equally as sensuous and gratifying as making love -- which, perhaps, he is -- to his mistress: The Enterprise. KIRK (after a moment) Impulse power, Mr Sulu. Ahead Warp point-five. 119 EXT. THE ENTERPRISE (S) 119 The maneuvering jets turn off, the impulse drive glows. The Enterprise begins moving perceptibly faster -- behind her, the drydock diminishing rapidly in size. KIRK Departure angle on viewer. CHEKOV Departure angle. We SEE viewer IMAGE SWITCH to a departing view of lovely bluish, cloud-laced image of Earth as it grows smaller, smaller, dwindling quickly as the starship gathers speed. KIRK Viewer ahead. And viewer IMAGE SWITCHED to show the star patterned space ahead. 120 EXT. SPACE - SATURN 120 with its colorful rings and multiple moons FILLING a major portion of the FRAME. KIRK (V.O.) Captain's Log, stardate 7412.6. 2.7 hours from launch... 121 INT. BRIDGE - FAVORING THE VIEWER 121 All hands tense with the excitement of the journey, on the viewer Saturn -- and its rings -- are falling away (BEHIND US). OVER this: KIRK (V.O.) (concerned) ... in order to intercept the Intruder at the earliest possible time, we must now risk engaging Warp drive while still within the solar system... End of log. 122 ANGLE ON DECKER - SCIENCE STATION 122 punching in equations on his console, reaching a reading: DECKER Captain, assuming we have full Warp capability, accelerating to Warp Seven on leaving solar system will bring us to IP with the Intruder in twenty point one hours. 122A INCLUDE ILIA 122A Checking her console. ILIA Science Officer's computations confirmed, sir. And Decker and Ilia glance at each other -- and again, you know there is something more than casual in this. 123 ANGLE ON THE ELEVATOR DOORS 123 as they open, and McCoy appears, walks over to Kirk who swings his chair around to face him. McCoy is his usual dour self. KIRK Well, Bones, do the new medical facilities meet with your approval? McCOY They do not. It's like working in a damned computer center. KIRK (turning to Decker) Programming ready? DECKER Program set for standard Warp entry, Captain... Kirk starts to swing his chair to normal position -- Decker calls: DECKER (continuing) ... but I still recommend further simulation study. KIRK Mister Decker; every minute brings that object nearer Earth! (using intercom) Engineering! Stand by for Warp Drive. McCoy is watching Kirk, a bit surprised at his abrupt- ness to Decker. SCOTT'S INTERCOM VOICE (worried) Captain, we need further Warp simulation on the flow sensors... KIRK Engineer, we need Warp speed now! McCOY (very gently) You're pushing Jim. Your people know their jobs. Kirk flashes McCoy a glance of annoyance -- then back to using intercom: 124 INT. ENGINEERING 124 The main intermix chambers GLOWING with power; the LOW RUMBLE of the main engines coming to life. The CAMERA FINDS Scott in the chamber: SCOTT (into intercom) Hold one minute, please, Captain -- He steps to his console where an ASST. ENGINEER is working a computer, studying the readouts, punching buttons, etc. Scott stands over him, grimly observ- ing. Finally, the Asst. simply shrugs with frustration. ASST. That's it, sir; I can't do any better. SCOTT (grim) Aye, lad... (into intercom) It's borderline on the simulator, Captain: I canna guarantee that she'll... 125 INT. BRIDGE 125 as Kirk, annoyed, interrupts Scott on the intercom. KIRK Warp Drive, Mr Scott. McCoy still watches curiously as Kirk turns to the helm: KIRK (continuing) Ahead Warp One, Mr Sulu. SULU Accelerating to Warp One, sir. Sulu moves his controls forward -- everyone waits tensely -- and then we HEAR THE INCREASING THROB OF THE ACCELERATING ENGINES. SULU (continuing) Warp point seven... point eight ... nine... 126 EXT. SPACE THE ENTERPRISE - AFT AND AHEAD (S) 126 We SEE the WARP POWER EFFECT build up between the en- gine "nacelles" -- then the starship makes the QUANTUM LEAP into warp drive. The stars ahead shift, streak, colors pulsating and changing as the shift exceeds the wave lengths of the light spectrum -- and the stars congeal into a MASS ahead. 127 INT. BRIDGE - PAST KIRK TO THE VIEWER (O) 127 as the viewer shows the same WARP DRIVE EFFECT. or another moment all remain tense, and then all at once relax, release their breaths. Smiles. SULU Warp One, sir. Kirk smiles, pleased, starts swinging his chair around, at the same time calling: KIRK Mr. Decker -- Kirk never finishes the word. At that instant, on the viewer, a WORMHOLE DISTORTION: a sudden SPIRALING OF STARS AND FLUID LIGHT narrowing into a VORTEX into which the Enterprise hurtles. A space trap, a deadly pandemonium of ALARM KLAXONS, BELLS, VOICES: KIRK (continuing) Wormhole!... Get us back on impulse power! Full reverse! 128 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (S) 128 Enterprise has been caught in a matter-time distortion, sucked into a cylindrical "hole in space" (the Worm- hole distortion), stars and planets become strange, elongated shapes, with the Enterprise drawn deeper and deeper into the vortex. 129 INT. BRIDGE 129 The KLAXONS and BELLS CONTINUE, and the crew responding: SULU Negative helm control, Captain! Going reverse on impulse power...! UHURA Subspace frequencies are jammed by Wormhole effect! COMPUTER VOICE (terse, flat) Collision alert...! Collision alert...! (Note: Computer alert continues through entire scene.) DECKER (consulting his viewer) Negative control from inertial lag will continue 22 point five seconds before forward velocity slows to sub-light speed. ILIA Unidentified small object has been pulled into the wormhole with us, Captain! Directly ahead...! KIRK Forcefields up full! Put object on viewer...! 130 ANGLE ON THE MAIN VIEWER (O) 130 showing (a magnification view) of a tiny point of light directly ahead. Meanwhile, Kirk shouts an AD LIBBED order to Sulu: "Go to Manual override!" Sulu AD LIBS, "No manual response...!" (Through all this, McCoy stands frozen, waiting -- and expecting -- the worse.) Meanwhile, Ilia has reached over to Sulu's console, hits a button, AD LIBBING, "Navigational deflectors coming up...!" And then with alarmed dismay: ILIA Navigational deflectors inoperative...! (consulting her console, alarmed) Directional control also inoperative, Captain...! DECKER Wormhole distortion has over- loaded main power systems...! 131 CLOSE ON MAIN VIEWER (O) 131 The picture is switched through two further levels of magnification, enlarging the object: an elongated, distorted, pitted asteroid, tumbling toward the Enter- prise on a collision course. KIRK (toward Ilia) Time to impact...? ILIA Twelve seconds...! KIRK Mr. Chekov, stand by on the phasers...! DECKER (racing to Chekov's station) Delay that phaser order! Arm photon torpedoes...! 133 ANOTHER ANGLE - McCOY NOTICING KIRK 133 who has just glanced, surprised at Decker (for counter- manding the phaser order) -- and for a split instant, Kirk seems confused. McCoy reacts with enlightenment as, meanwhile: 134 ANOTHER ANGLE - THE VIEWER (O) 134 The object even larger. CHEKOV Photon torpedoes armed...! ILIA Object is an asteroid, reading mass point seven... (consulting instruments) Impact in eight seconds... seven... six... five... DECKER Fire torpedoes...! CHEKOV (punching button) Torpedoes away...! 135 EXT. SPACE - PAST THE ENTERPRISE AND THE ASTEROID (S) 135 as the starship's photon torpedo tubes EJECT GLOWING BALLS OF LIGHT ENERGY, which seems to float toward the oncoming asteroid, almost too slowly. And in these brief seconds, the asteroid hurtles at the Enterprise, the huge pitted rock growing even larger than the ship itself. It FILLS THE SCREEN, as the photon torpedoes hit, disintegrating the asteroid into thousands of fragments. Instantly, these fragments pulverize them- selves on the ship's forward forcefield and deflector screens. The smaller pieces burn up on impact, clearly outlining the ship's forcefield barriers. 136 INT. BRIDGE - INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (O) 136 The asteroid fragments still smashing into the force field screen; the smaller bits like SPARKLERS as im- pact heat consumes them. The larger sections bouncing away, the bridge QUIVERING as they hit. Then one final gigantic fragment strikes, the bridge SHUDDERS. And then the viewer shows only the normal SUB-WARP EFFECT: The stars ahead, relatively station- ary; a feeling of motion, but smooth, visually normal. CHEKOV (relieved) We're out of it...! DECKER We are at warp point eight. Position report, Navigator..? SULU Helm control restored, sir. ILIA Computing new interception course. UHURA Communications are normal, Captain. CHEKOV (to Kirk) Negative damage report, sir. (to McCoy) No casualties reported, sir. McCOY (tight) Wrong, Mr. Chekov, there are casualties. My wits! (to Kirk, indignant) As in 'frightened-out-of'...! DECKER (into intercom) Engineer... report status there. 137 INT. ENGINEERING 137 with Scott and his crew pouring over the instruments -- all seem very grim. Scott, quite preoccupied, now speaks into the intercom. SCOTT In just a second, Exec; we're picking up the pieces down here. 138 INT. BRIDGE 138 Kirk seeming to collect his thoughts now -- he gives Decker a look, uses the intercom himself: KIRK Warp Drive as soon as possible, Mr. Scott. SCOTT'S INTERCOM VOICE (protesting) Captain, it was our anti-matter imbalance that created the wormhole in the first place. It will happen again if we don't correct it. KIRK That object out there is less than two days from Earth, Mister Scott. We've got to intercept while it still is out there! SCOTT'S INTERCOM VOICE (near annoyed) Aye, we understand that sir! We're doing our best. as Kirk flips off the intercom, rises determinedly, faces Decker: KIRK Mr. Decker, I'd like to see you in my quarters. (toward helm) You have the conn, Mr. Sulu. McCOY (to Kirk) Mind if I tag along? Kirk gives McCoy an annoyed look, then strides to the elevator. Decker, grim, follows -- McCoy brings up the rear as they EXIT. 139 ANGLE FAVORING ILIA 139 gazing worriedly at the just-closed elevator doors, as Sulu is punching figures into his console. SULU Maintaining warp point eight; I show our new heading as 287 point three Mark 105. Ilia's attention is directed toward Decker. SULU (continuing; gently reminding) Lieutenant Ilia...? ILIA (a beat; then quickly) Confirmed, Mr. Sulu. Confirmed. And she punches in some equations, then again peers up at the doors where she last saw Decker. She is very concerned. 140 INT. KIRK'S QUARTERS 140 The doors opening, Kirk entering, McCoy moves to b.g. while Decker stands attentively, waiting as Kirk turns to him. KIRK Explanation, Mr. Decker: Why was my phaser order countermanded? DECKER (cool, polite) Sir, the Enterprise redesign increases phaser power by channeling it through the main engines. When they went into anti-matter imbalance, the phasers were automatically cut off. Kirk is surprised by this information, perhaps slight- ly chagrined. After a beat: KIRK Then you acted properly, of course. DECKER Thank you, sir. I'm sorry I embar- rassed you. KIRK You saved the ship. DECKER (coolly) I'm aware of that, sir. KIRK (flaring) Stop competing with me, Decker! DECKER Permission to speak freely, sir? KIRK (tight) Granted. DECKER Sir, you haven't logged a single star hour in two and a half years. That, plus your unfamiliarity with the ship's design -- in my opinion, sir, seriously jeopardizes our mission. Kirk reacts with anger. Struggles for and regains control. KIRK I trust you will... nursemaid me through these difficulties, Mister? DECKER Yes, sir, I'll do that. Kirk peers at Decker, who stands facing him determinedly. KIRK Then I won't keep you from your duties any longer, Commander. (whirling at McCoy) Yes, Doctor? Kirk's last line has drowned out Decker's "Aye, sir." McCoy says nothing, waits until Decker is gone and the door closes behind him. Then: McCOY He may not be wrong, Jim. 141 OMITTED 141 - - 142 142 143 INT. CORRIDOR 143 Decker moving toward an elevator -- the elevator doors open, and there is Ilia. She steps out, faces him. ILIA Was he difficult? DECKER No more than I expected (hesitates) Not as difficult as this. I'm sorry... ILIA That you left? or that you didn't say 'goodbye'? DECKER If I'd seen you again, would you have been able to say it? ILIA (long hesitation; then shakes head) No. Ilia whirls, moves toward her stateroom door, which snaps open, then closes behind her. Decker stands gazing at the door, remembering, regretful. 144 OMITTED 144 144A INT. KIRK'S CABIN - KIRK AND McCOY 144A KIRK Get out of here, Bones. McCOY (shakes head) As ship's doctor, I am now discussing the subject of command fitness. Kirk's expression hardens. KIRK Make your point, Doctor. McCOY The point, Captain, is that it's you who's competing... (a beat, as Kirk reacts) You pulled every string in the book short of blackmail to get the Enterprise -- maybe even that. And when this mission is over, you have no intention of giving her back. KIRK (tight) I intend to keep her, is that what you're saying, Doctor? McCOY It's an obsession -- that can blind you so far more immediate -- and critical responsibilities. Your reaction to Decker is an example. Kirk studies him a beat; has McCoy touched a nerve? Something Kirk himself might have been unaware of? Kirk starts speaking, but is interrupted by: UHURA'S INTERCOM VOICE Bridge to Captain. 144B ANGLE TO INCLUDE CABIN VIEWER 144B as Kirk turns to it. KIRK Viewer on. At his VOICE COMMAND, the viewer comes on with AN IMAGE of Uhura at her console. UHURA FROM VIEWER Signal from a Federation-registered long-range shuttle, sir. She wishes to come alongside, and lock on. KIRK For what purpose? On the viewer, Chekov's IMAGE replaces Uhura. CHEKOV It is a courier, Captain. Grade One priority. Non-belligerency confirmed. KIRK Very well, Mr. Chekov, see to it. Viewer off. Viewer IMAGE FADES. Kirk turns back to McCoy whose question of Kirk's fitness still hangs there between them. Eye to eye - then, finally: KIRK (continuing) Your... opinion has been noted, Doctor. (beat) Is there anything further? McCOY I hope not. Kirk nods, exits. McCoy watches him go, hoping his point has gotten through. 145 OMITTED 145 146 EXT. SPACE - THE SHUTTLE (S) 146 traveling at a rapid speed; it carries warp-capacity nacelles which dwarf the smaller to 10 position shuttle fuselage. The CAMERA HOLD ON THE SHUTTLE as it overtakes the Enterprise, the ENTERPRISE COM- ING INTO VIEW, and the shuttle slowing and beginning to move between the starship's giant nacelles. 147 EXT. SPACE - THROUGH WINDOW IN OFFICERS' LOUNGE - 147 THE ENTERPRISE AND THE SHUTTLE (S) About the size of a fighter airplane floating in over the vastness of an aircraft carrier. The shuttle slows further, hovering now. Then its fuselage pod detaches from the warp drive nacelles -- the pod moving slowly but precisely toward the starship's command airlock. 148 INT. POD HATCH ENTRY AREA 148 as we HEAR the CLANK and WHOOSH of the AIRLOCK MECHAN- ISM. Chekov is standing by with a security man. A moment later the hatch slips open - TO REVEAL Spock. A proud Spock, impassively Vulcan, almost contemptuously aloof. His hair is now trimmed in neat Vulcan style; he wears Vulcan attire simple, civilian, utilitarian.) SPOCK Permission to come aboard, sir? CHEKOV Granted, sir! Granted! Spock is already moving out of the pod entry area, im- passive, no greeting on his lips; no friendship in his expression. 149 EXT. SPACE - THE SHUTTLE LEAVING 149 pulling away from Enterprise. 150 INT. BRIDGE 150 The elevator doors open, and there is Spock. It takes everyone a moment to believe their eyes. Then, the Bridge crew AD LIB their surprise and pleasure. KIRK Spock...! Spock, where...how...? Kirk, smiling, is moving toward Spock with hand out- stretched. But Spock has already turned and moved toward the science console where Decker sits. SPOCK Commander, if I may...? 150A AT SCIENCE CONSOLE 150A It takes Decker a moment to realize that Spock wants to take over the console. He begins getting to his feet, throwing Kirk a look. But Kirk's attention is totally on SPOCK. And Spock is already intent on com- putations he is beginning to punch into the science console computer. SPOCK I have been monitoring your Starfleet transmissions, Captain, your engine design difficulties. Spock continues to punch information into the science computer -- a monitor screen IMAGE begins to show com- plex equations which Spock inspects -- he makes a further computer punch out and inspects a second monitor IMAGE of other equations. Only then does Spock seem to become aware of Kirk and Decker standing there with questioning expressions. SPOCK (continuing) I offer my services as Science Officer. Kirk starts to grin -- then remembers to wipe it off his face as he turns to Decker. KIRK If our Executive Officer has no objections...? DECKER (interrupting) Of course not. I'm aware of Mister Spock's qualifications. KIRK (grinning openly now; turns, calls) Mister Chekov, log Mister Spock's Starfleet commission reactivated; list him as Science Officer; both effective immediately. 151 ANGLE TO INCLUDE ELEVATOR DOORS 151 as they SNAP open -- McCoy and Chapel appear. Chapel sees Spock at the science console -- she moves in quickly, overjoyed. Even McCoy seems pleased. CHAPEL Mr. Spock...!!! McCOY So help me, I'm actually pleased to see you. But as Chapel crosses to Spock, her pleased smile brightening her whole face, Spock turns, dismisses her presence with a cold disinterested glance -- Chapel stops, stands dumbfounded. Spock gives McCoy a similar glance - turns back to his console readings as: UHURA That's how we all feel, Mister... The same cold glance causes Uhura to stop in mid- sentence. Several grins directed toward Spock are now fading from bridge crew faces. Spock has turned back again for a last quick reading at the console and now stands -- totally ignoring everyone else as he speaks coolly, unemotionally to Kirk: SPOCK With your permission, I will now discuss these fuel equations with the Engineer. Kirk manages a nod, a bit dumbfounded himself at Spock's strange manner. Spock heads for the elevator -- puz- zled expressions from the entire bridge crew. Then Kirk calls after him, very sincerely: KIRK Mister Spock, welcome aboard! Spock continues onto the elevator without any acknow- ledgment, leaves. Kirk glances, perplexed, at McCoy. McCoy, equally perplexed, shrugs. McCOY Never look a gift Vulcan in the ears, Jim. 152 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (S) 152 traveling past the stars, sub-warp. OVER this: KIRK (V.O.) (buoyant) Captain's Log. Stardate 7413.4. Thanks to Mr. Spock's timely arrival - and assistance... 153 INT. ENGINEERING - SPOCK AND SCOTT 153 Scott making an intermix chamber reading with a hand- held timer-temperature device which emits SIGNALS while Spock now in regulation uniform and hair trim, makes adjustments in the circuitry of a panel complex. Dur- ing the following, they will react as if they've solved the engine problem. KIRK (V.O.) (continues) ... we have the engines rebalanced into full warp capacity. Repair time less than three hours... 154 INT. BRIDGE - ALL BRIDGE CREW EXCEPT SPOCK 154 Sulu at the helm, accelerating; just a touch of tense- ness in crew as they move toward the speed which earlier threw them into the "wormhole" effect. KIRK (V.O.) (continues) ... which means we will now be able to intercept Intruder while still more than a day from Earth. 155 ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER (O) 155 Stars accelerating as Sulu calls off: SULU Warp point eight... point nine... The viewer shows the QUANTUM LEAP into warp drive. The stars ahead shift, streak and congeal into WARP EFFECT MASS. SULU (continuing) Warp one, sir. The others wait, then show relief as: SULU (continuing) Warp two, sir... warp three... He continues to seven. SCOTT'S INTERCOM VOICE Engineering to Bridge... New intermix balance holding steady. She's not even straining! 156 INT. OFFICER'S LOUNGE (O) 156 Where, first, CAMERA SHOOTS THROUGH THE WINDOW, the myriad of stars, space, the whole magnificent vista. In the lounge, empty but for them, are Kirk and McCoy -- obviously awaiting Spock, who ENTERS and presents himself cold and aloof as before: SPOCK Reporting as ordered, Captain. KIRK Sit down, please. Spock remains standing, addresses Kirk: SPOCK Sir, I would appreciate Dr. McCoy absenting himself from this interview. KIRK I want him here. (indicating) Sit down! For an instant, it looks like Spock will refuse. Then, he complies but sits formally, rigidly. He ignores McCoy totally. KIRK You've reported that you felt strong thought emotions. A group of minds from a space vessel? Could you make out any plan, anything to do with Earth? SPOCK (still formally) Negative, Captain. I could sense only what seemed an almost omniscient pattern of perfect logic. I can explain nothing more; I understand nothing more. Kirk is clearly disappointed -- and a bit uncomfortable about what he must ask next. He exchanges a glance with McCoy, then: KIRK Also -- there was nothing in your report about why you're here. SPOCK That inquiry invades my personal life, Captain. McCOY Spock, we've already guessed why you're here... KIRK I inquired about you -- learned you were studying with the Masters... Although Spock has been almost infuriatingly emotionless, his expression shifts slightly. McCoy indicates this: McCOY That flicker of emotion confirms our guess. You failed. SPOCK (facing McCoy for the first time) Your deductions do you credit, Doctor... if your puerile curiosity does not. McCOY (not in amusement) And now, anger, Spock? Spock looks straight ahead -- his face instantly com- posed to almost total blankness.