





                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                          "The Child" 
                          #40272-127 
                              
                     Based on a Premise by 
                         Jaron Summers 
                              and 
                          Jon Povill 
                              
                          Teleplay by 
                        Maurice Hurley 
                              
                          Directed by 
                          Rob Bowman 


THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.

Copyright 1988 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.


                    3RD REV. FINAL DRAFT
  
                     SEPTEMBER 20, 1988

            STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                          "The Child" 

                             CAST                               
                              
                PICARD             HESTER DEALT
                RIKER              
                DATA               
                PULASKI            Voice-Over
                TROI               REPULSE VOICE
                GEORDI             
                WORF               
                WESLEY             
                GUINAN             
                CREWMEMBER         
                TRANSPORTER CHIEF  
                TEACHER (MISS GLADSTONE)
                IAN (BABY)         
                IAN (AGE THREE)    
                IAN (AGE EIGHT) 
   
                Non-Speaking       
                CREWMEMBERS        
                MEDICAL ASSISTANTS 
                SECURITY TEAM      
                GROUP OF KIDS    
  
                Voice-Over         
                SICKBAY VOICE      
                COMPUTER VOICE     

            STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                          "The Child" 
                              
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                    EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE               USS ENTERPRISE
              SHUTTLE BAY
              MAIN BRIDGE
              CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM DOOR  USS REPULSE
              CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
              CHIEF ENGINEER'S OFFICE    'AUCDET NINE
              MAIN ENGINEERING
              CORRIDOR
              ANOTHER CORRIDOR
              CREWMEMBERS' QUARTERS
              TROI'S QUARTERS
              CARGO DECK FIVE
              TEN-FORWARD
              OBSERVATION LOUNGE
              CARGO HOLD FIVE
              DOCTOR PULASKI'S OFFICE
              SICKBAY - MATERNITY
              CORRIDOR -
              ENTRANCE TO SICKBAY
              CORRIDOR -
              ENTRANCE TO TROI'S QUARTERS
              CHILDREN'S PLAY AREA
              TRANSPORTER ROOM THREE

    STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                          "The Child" 
                        
                      PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

               'AUCDET NINE          O-det Nine
               GUINAN                GUY-nun
               RACHELIS              Ra-CHEL-is
               DELOVIAN SOUFFLE      Del-O-ve-an
               MAREUVIAN TEA         Ma-RU-ve-an
               THEASIAN TEA          Thee-A-see-an
               PROMETHEUS            Pro-ME-thee-us
               ALGORITHMS            AL-gor-i-thums
               HEURISTICS            Hur-ISS-tics
               VOILA                 Vwa-LA
               CYANOACRYLATES        Si-a-no-AK-re-lates

          STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER          1.

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                         "The Child"   
                            
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE AND THE USS REPULSE (OPTICAL)

	The Enterprise has rendezvoused with the other
	Federation ship near the spectacularly beautiful binary
	system -- Alvacorn Major.

1A   INT. ENTERPRISE - SHUTTLE BAY (OPTICAL)

	The shuttlecraft leaves the Enterprise for the USS
	Repulse.

2    INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Picard is not on the bridge. RIKER has the command
	chair - DATA is at Science Station, WESLEY is at Conn
	-WORF is at Tactical. The other positions are filled
	by n.d. crewmembers. Riker watches the Main Viewer as
	the shuttlecraft closes with the Repulse.

					RIKER
				(to Worf)
			Open hailing frequencies.

					WORF
			Hailing frequencies opened.

					RIKER
			Repulse, this is the Enterprise.
			We are getting underway.

					REPULSE VOICE
			Acknowledged, Enterprise.
			Transfer complete -- good luck on
			your mission.

					RIKER
			And to you.

					REPULSE VOICE
			Give my regards to your captain.
			Repulse out.

          STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER          2.

2    CONTINUED:

					WESLEY
			The Shuttle Bay is secure.

					RIKER
			Thank you Mister Crusher. Make
			all preparations to get underway.

3    OMITTED

4    INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM (OPTICAL)

	Picard is there with GEORDI. Geordi is showing Picard
	the plans for a device he is proposing to build.

					GEORDI
			We will construct this large
			enclosure on Cargo Deck Five.

	The door CHIME SOUNDS.

					PICARD
			Come.

	Riker enters and makes his report.

					RIKER
			The transfer is complete. Doctor
			Pulaski is being shown to her
			quarters. We are ready to get
			underway.

					PICARD
			Very good. Take a look at the
			containment module our new chief
			engineer has designed.

	Riker steps over.

					RIKER
			"Chief engineer," that has a nice
			ring to it.

					GEORDI
			It does to me.
				(then to business)
			Each will have total atmospheric
			control... temperature, radiation,
			light, humidity, plus electrical
			spectrums.

					RIKER
			And these are put into the large
			containment area?

          STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER          3.

4    CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Yes, these modules will keep the
			specimens alive -- the large
			containment area will keep us
			alive. Now, I have to go and
			replicate this five hundred and
			twelve times. This will mean
			it will be necessary to divert
			power from the warp engines to
			the replicator.

					PICARD
			How long will we be on impulse
			power?

					GEORDI
			For a few hours, but it can't be
			helped.

	Picard nods.

					RIKER
			When we leave 'aucdet Nine - I'm
			going to want all the power you
			can slam into those warp engines.

					GEORDI
			You'll have it.

	Geordi exits.

					PICARD
			I will relieve you at zero three
			zero zero.

	Riker acknowledges and leaves.

5    INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	as Riker walks back onto the bridge.

					RIKER
			Take us out of orbit, Mister
			Crusher -- set course for 'aucdet
			Nine.

					WESLEY
			Aye, sir. Course for 'aucdet Nine
			has been input.

          STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER          4.

5    CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Maximum impulse velocity.

					WESLEY
			Aye, sir.

					RIKER
			Engage.

6    EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it makes a slow graceful turn.

7    EXT. SPACE - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	The Enterprise starts as a dot in the distance -- quickly
	approaches at impulse speed and makes a close passby.
	After a beat, a heretofore unseen speck begins to glow,
	then moves -- chasing after the starship.

8    EXT. SPACE - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	as the glowing ENERGY closes on the Enterprise. It
	catches the ship and approaches from the rear -- going
	between the warp engines.

9    INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Minimal crew. Data is at the Science Station studying
	the display screen.

					DATA
			Engineering -- this is Science One.
			I just observed what appeared to
			be a random energy transference.

10   INT. CHIEF ENGINEER'S OFFICE

	Geordi is working at the panel on the far wall.

					GEORDI
			Where?

					DATA'S COM VOICE
			Aft. Outboard of the port
			nacelle.

          STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER          5.

10   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Hold on -- I'll check.

10A  INT. MAIN ENGINEERING

	Geordi moves to the center console.

					GEORDI
			No -- I show nothing here, Data.

11   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Data is not satisfied and continues running checks.

					RIKER
			Problem, Commander?

					DATA
			Possibly. An unexplained power
			fluctuation.

					RIKER
			Let me know if it reoccurs.

12   EXT. SPACE - CLOSE ON THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ball of light moves closer to the Enterprise. It
	slides along the skin of the ship; then, without damage
	to the hull, the ball goes inside.

13   INT. CORRIDOR (OPTICAL)

	The corridor is empty. If there were nighttime in
	space, this would be it. The ship is quiet. The
	little glow of energy emerges. It pauses as though
	getting its bearings, then cautiously moves off.

14   INT. CORRIDOR - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	We FOLLOW the glow as it continues along. The
	turbolift doors open and TWO CREWMEMBERS exit. The
	glow blends into the corridor wall and neither
	crewmember sees it. The glow falls in behind them as
	they pass.

          STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - TEASER          6.

15   INT. CORRIDOR - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	At an intersection the crewmembers turn left. The
	energy again pauses, then continues straight ahead
	resuming its journey - or is it a search? The energy
	exits up through the overhead.

15A  OMITTED

16   INT. CREWMEMBERS' QUARTERS (OPTICAL)

	The energy enters. It pauses over the sleeping form of
	one of the male crewmembers... then moves away.

17   INT. TROI'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)

	The energy enters the room, passing effortlessly
	through the closed door. It pauses -- again getting its
	bearings. It has a definite sense of purpose as it
	moves slowly toward the sleeping form on the far side
	of the room.

18   ANOTHER ANGLE - THE BED (OPTICAL)

	We recognize COUNSELOR DEANNA TROI. The energy pauses
	by her head, then LEAVES THE FRAME as it moves down her
	body. We HOLD on Troi's face. After a beat she turns
	-- the restless movements of a tortured dream... sweat
	beads up on her forehead, SUDDENLY she wakes. For a
	moment she does not move -- then she looks around the
	room for the "person" (lover) she knows must be there.
	There is no one. The room is empty. But she knows
	that someone or something has been there and that she
	will never be the same again.

	Off her look of concern... and fear... we:

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE         7.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

19   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it continues along at impulse speed.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, Stardate 42073.1.
			There has been an outbreak of a
			yet unclassified Plasma Plague
			in the densely populated Rachelis
			system. We are on an emergency
			run to a Federation Research
			station on 'aucdet Nine, where
			specimens of Plasma Plague are
			kept. We will then transport that
			deadly cargo to Science Station
			Tango Sierra, where hopefully an
			antidote can be manufactured.
			Every hour we delay, thousands
			die.

20   OMITTED

20A  INT. CARGO DECK FIVE

	In the center of the huge cargo bay, a crewmember is
	assembling a very large containment area which will
	hold the five hundred and twelve modules.

					GEORDI
			How's it going?

					CREWMEMBER
			Finished, just waiting to insert
			the modules.

21   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Picard comes out of his Ready Room:

					PICARD
			Number One.

					RIKER
			Lieutenant La Forge says we will
			be able to engage the warp drive
			within the hour.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE         8.

21   CONTINUED:

	Picard nods an acknowledgement as he takes his seat.

					PICARD
			Mister Data, when we receive a
			complete list of all the specimens
			we will be carrying, I want you
			and Doctor Pulaski to go through
			it... by the way. Where is our
			new doctor? Has she reported in?

					RIKER
			Not yet.

	Picard is obviously irritated by the breach in
	procedure.

					PICARD
			Sickbay, this is the captain.

					SICKBAY VOICE
			Sickbay, aye.

					PICARD
			Is Doctor Pulaski there?

					SICKBAY VOICE
				(slight hesitation)
			Ah... no, Sir. The doctor is in
			Ten-Forward.

					PICARD
			What?!
				(surprised, then
				 annoyed)
			A few hours on board and she's
			already found Ten-Forward.

	Riker starts to rise.

					RIKER
			I'll go and get her.

					PICARD
			No, Number One. I'll go.

	Picard rises and strides toward the turbolift.

					WORF
			Not the best way to meet your new
			captain.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE         9.

22   INT. CORRIDOR

	As Picard exits the turbolift, he encounters Wesley.

					WESLEY
			Hello, Captain.

					PICARD
				(a greeting)
			Ensign Crusher.

	Picard continues to stride purposefully down the
	corridor with Wesley a few steps behind trying to keep
	up.

					PICARD
			I'm sorry this mission will delay
			your reunion with your mother.

					WESLEY
			It's all right. I can use the
			time to finish some projects.

					PICARD
				(dismissive)
			We shouldn't be more than a week
			or so.

	Wesley wants to continue the conversation.

					WESLEY
			It is going to be hard to leave
			the Enterprise...

					PICARD
			Mixed feelings for all of us.

	Picard glances back and sees the look of sadness in the
	young man's eyes.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			It's always difficult leaving any
			ship, as it was for your mother
			when she left to become head of
			Starfleet Medical. But going
			from one assignment to another
			is part of the life which you are
			choosing.

					WESLEY
			Yes, but this isn't "any" ship.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE         10.

22   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Truly.

	Wesley stops and watches Picard continue to
	Ten-Forward. The sadness remains in the young man's
	eyes.

23   INT. TEN-FORWARD

	As Picard enters he crosses with a CREWMEMBER. The
	crewmember's reaction tells us very clearly that Picard
	is not a frequent visitor to Ten-Forward. We FOLLOW
	Picard as he walks over to the BARTENDER. This is the
	first time we get to see this wonderful room.

24   ANOTHER ANGLE - PICARD AT BAR

	GUINAN is behind the bar.

					PICARD
				(greets her)
			Guinan.

	She nods a greeting.

					GUINAN
			Captain.

					PICARD
			Where's Doctor Pulaski?

	With a hand motion, Guinan indicates a table.

25   ANOTHER ANGLE

	as Picard approaches one of the tables. We can see
	that DOCTOR KATHERINE PULASKI is talking with someone,
	but we cannot see with whom. Picard strides
	purposefully up. Clearly his ire is up.

					PICARD
			Doctor Katherine Pulaski?

	Pulaski looks up.

					PULASKI
			Ah... you must be Captain
			Picard...

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE         11.

25   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Doctor -- protocol on your last
			assignment might have been lax,
			but here on the Enterprise...

					PULASKI
				(she abruptly cuts him
				 off)
			Sit down, Captain. You better
			listen to this.

26   ANOTHER ANGLE - TABLE

	We now see that the doctor is with Troi. Picard and
	Troi exchange looks. Picard senses trouble and moves
	a step closer.

27   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE (OPTICAL)

	Riker, Data, and Worf have assembled. Picard enters
	with Doctor Pulaski and Troi. As he walks briskly
	toward his seat.

					PICARD
				(he touches his
				 communicator)
			Lieutenant La Forge, status
			report.

					GEORDI'S COM VOICE
			The containment area is completed,
			the last of the modules are being
			inserted.

					PICARD
			Take us to warp six as soon as
			possible.

					GEORDI'S COM VOICE
			Acknowledged.

	Picard takes his seat and moves on to other -- equally
	urgent business.

					PICARD
			This is Doctor Katherine Pulaski.
			We will handle the formal
			introduction later.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE         12.

27   CONTINUED:

	The SUBTLE APPRAISALS, the doctor of the crew and the
	crew of the new doctor, are cut short as Picard takes
	his seat and announces.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Counselor Deanna Troi is
			pregnant.

	The reactions of the crew. During what follows we
	will INTERCUT the reactions of everyone. These will
	change as each new piece of information is revealed.
	Data, almost in awe. Life, any life, is amazing to
	him. Riker glances over at Troi and thinks however
	briefly of what might have been. Worf -- suspicious,
	distrustful.

					RIKER
			A baby!

	Worf is noncommittal, Data curious. Riker surprised,
	and the question is clearly on his mind (whose baby?).

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			This is a surprise.

					TROI
			More so for me.

	Before Riker can react to that statement, Pulaski takes
	control of the meeting.

					PULASKI
			This pregnancy is unlike anything
			I have ever encountered. Since
			she came to me a few hours ago,
			I have made two complete
			examinations of Counselor Troi.

	She activates the wall viewer on which appears the
	sonic representation of a healthy, humanoid fetus.

					PULASKI
				(continuing)
			This is from the first
			examination. The fetus is about
			halfway through the first
			trimester -- about six weeks old.
			Understand, we...
					(MORE)

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE         13.

27   CONTINUED: (2)

					PULASKI (Cont'd)
				(indicating herself and
				 Troi)
			... believe conception occurred
			about eleven hours ago.

					RIKER
			What?

					PULASKI
			It gets better.

	The screen changes.

					PULASKI
				(continuing)
			The second exam, an hour later
			was consistent, except for the
			fact that the fetus "appeared"
			to be several weeks older.

	She steps away from the screen.

					PULASKI
				(continuing)
			At this growth rate, Counselor
			Troi will have her baby within
			the next thirty-six hours. The
			normal gestation for a Betazoid
			is ten months.

	For a beat, the group is in stunned silence.

					RIKER
			I do not mean to be indelicate,
			but...
				(pause)
			... who's the father?

					TROI
			Last night, while I slept...
			something... which I can only
			describe it as a presence, entered
			my body.

	Troi turns and looks at the image of the fetus.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE         14.

27   CONTINUED: (3)

					PICARD
			A life-form of unknown origin
			and intent is breeding right now
			inside Counselor Troi. Our
			purpose here is to determine what
			is to be done about this very
			"unusual" situation. Discussion.

					RIKER
			Let me get this straight -- Deanna
			was impregnated by... by what?
				(to Pulaski)
			Doctor, what do your tests show?
			Is it a humanoid? An alien?

	She stands, goes to the display screen and activates
	it.

					PULASKI
			It's a male human... or in this
			case half-human -- half-Betazoid.

					RIKER
			Exactly the same as Deanna!

					PULASKI
			In every way. There is no
			indication from any of my tests
			of any other genetic patterns
			except hers.

28   TROI

	We HOLD on Troi as she continues to watch the child
	moving inside her. The discussion fades from her
	consciousness.

					RIKER
			I don't think this is a random
			occurrence. There is a purpose
			here -- a reason. What, I don't
			know.

					WORF
			Captain, obviously the pregnancy
			must be terminated.

					RIKER
			Why?

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE         15.

28   CONTINUED:

					WORF
			For the safety of the ship and
			crew.

	Troi stares at the moving fetus on the viewscreen.
	Seeing it, alive, helpless, touches other emotions.
	However it was conceived, it is hers. She does not
	completely lose her uncertainty and apprehension, but
	other, stronger instincts begin to emerge.

					RIKER
			Worf, you can't assume its intent
			is belligerent.

					WORF
			That is my safest assumption.

					DATA
			Captain, this is a life-form.
			Not to allow it to develop
			naturally would deny us the
			opportunity to study it.

					WORF
			If the fetus is aborted,
			laboratory analysis is still
			possible.

					RIKER
			Is there any health risk to
			Counselor Troi if the fetus is
			aborted?

					PULASKI
			Medically, no.

					PICARD
			Doctor, is that your
			recommendation?

	As the words swirl around her, she knows in her
	Betazoid heart that the child must be born, and she
	makes her decision. Troi gets everyone's attention.

					TROI
			Captain, do whatever you feel is
			necessary to protect the ship and
			the crew... but know this. I am
			going to have this baby.

	Everyone reacts, then:

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT ONE         16.

28   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			I believe that ends the
			discussion.

29   OMITTED

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         17.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

30   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	coming out of warp.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, supplemental. We
			have finally arrived at 'aucdet
			Nine. We will pick up the
			specimens of Plasma Plague and
			transport them to Rachelis.

30A  EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	approaching 'aucdet Nine.

					PICARD (V.O.)
				(continuing)
			It is only because so many lives
			are at stake that I am willing
			to put this ship and crew at such
			great risk.

31   INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Picard is in his command seat, Riker beside him. Data
	is at Ops and Wesley has the Conn. Troi enters from
	the aft turbolift. She is FIVE months pregnant. The
	crew can't help watching as she crosses and takes her
	place next to Picard.

					PICARD
			How are you feeling?

					TROI
			I should be feeling uncomfortable
			with all the changes in my
			body... but, I'm not. I feel
			fine -- better than fine.
			Wonderful.

	There is a look of concern in his eyes - not only for
	his counselor, but because he still isn't sure what is
	going to be born onto his ship.

					RIKER
			Standard orbit.


         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         18.

31   CONTINUED:

					WESLEY
			Standard orbit, aye.

					PICARD
			Open hailing frequencies.

					WORF
			Hailing frequencies open.

					PICARD
			'Aucdet Nine, this is Captain
			Jean-Luc Picard of the USS
			Enterprise.

	There is a pause, then the viewscreen comes alive.
	A MAN APPEARS. He's dressed in a disposable lab coat
	and wearing a twenty-fourth century medical mask pushed up on
	the top of his head. His name is LIEUTENANT COMMANDER
	HESTER DEALT. INTERCUT VIEWSCREEN WHERE NECESSARY.

					HESTER
			Ah... yes... Enterprise you're
			here at last. Good.

					PICARD
			Excuse me, to whom am I speaking?

					HESTER
			Oh... I'm Lieutenant Commander
			Hester Dealt. The medical trustee
			of the Federation Medical
			Collection Station.

					PICARD
			Are the specimens ready for
			transfer?

					HESTER
			Yes, but with your permission I
			would like to inspect the
			containment area before we
			proceed. It is not that I doubt
			the ability of your crew; we just
			cannot afford a mistake.

					PICARD
			I appreciate your caution -- in
			the same vein, I need a complete,
			detailed manifest of everything
			which you intend to bring on board
			my ship.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         19.

31   CONTINUED: (2)

					HESTER
			I will allow access to the
			computer banks.

	The screen returns to a view of 'aucdet Nine.

					PICARD
				(to Data)
			Download the inventory and go
			through it with Doctor Pulaski.
				(to Riker)
			Number One, arrange to have Hester
			Dealt transported up.

					TROI
			Captain, I'm suddenly feeling a
			little tired. I'll be in my
			quarters if you need me.

	Picard nods. Troi gets slowly up and walks to the
	turbolift. Picard watches her leave. In the b.g. Worf
	also watches. He is still very uneasy.

32   INT. TROI'S QUARTERS

	She steps up to her sink. She touches her face with a
	wet cloth as she studies her image in the mirror. The
	emotional strain of this event is etched on her
	features. She looks down at her swollen body....

					TROI
			It won't be long now. Soon
			you'll arrive and so many
			questions will be answered.

	The thought makes her smile.

33   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	in orbit around 'aucdet Nine.

34   INT. CARGO HOLD FIVE

	Hester Dealt continues his inspection on the
	containment area, which is a very large rectangular
	object suspended off the floor of the Cargo Deck. It
	has a very sophisticated monitoring system for the
	hundreds of compartments within.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         20.

34   CONTINUED:

					HESTER
			This is very good. Exactly what's
			needed.

					GEORDI
			I just followed your instructions.

					HESTER
			Good. Exactly what I wanted.

	Hester moves around the containment area -- over -- under
	-- up -- down -- inspecting it from every possible angle.

					HESTER
				(continuing)
			Five hundred and twelve
			compartments. Individually
			controlled. Very good.
			Independent of one another.
			Perfect. Ah, they can be
			monitored from here. And,
			isolation is assured. Very, very
			good.

					GEORDI
			I wanted to be sure they wouldn't
			get out.

					HESTER
			Good, Lieutenant. Very good
			indeed.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			How's it coming, Mister La Forge?

					HESTER
			It will be just a little while
			longer. I want to go over it
			again in more detail.

					GEORDI
			It will be another couple of
			hours, Commander.

					HESTER
			You do understand, it's critical
			that we have zero growth.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         21.

34   CONTINUED: (2)

					GEORDI
				(then to Hester Dealt)
			Oh, yes. I understand. So, you
			go over it as many times as you
			want.

34A  EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	in orbit around 'aucdet Nine.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			It's been fourteen hours since
			we arrived at 'aucdet Nine.
			Hester Dealt is making final
			selections of the specimens we
			will carry. Meanwhile, we
			continue to receive desperate
			pleas from the Rachelis System.

35   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Data is finishing up something at Science One.

					DATA
			Captain, the final manifest has
			been received.

					PICARD
			At last. Review it with Doctor
			Pulaski. I want both of you to
			be completely familiar with it.

					DATA
			Aye sir.

	Data leaves Science One and crosses to the turbolift.

36   INT. CORRIDOR

	The turbolift doors open and Data steps into the
	corridor. As he turns toward Sickbay he sees Troi,
	walking with some difficulty. He quickly goes to her
	aid.

					TROI
			Data -- help me get to Sickbay.

	He offers his arm for support and together they
	continue along.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         22.

37   INT. DOCTOR PULASKI'S OFFICE

	The Doctor looks up as someone enters.

38   ANOTHER ANGLE

	It's Troi and Data.

					TROI
			It's time.

					PULASKI
			Oh, you bet it is. Let's get you
			into Sickbay.

	As she helps Troi through Sickbay, Data touches his
	communicator.

					DATA
			Worf -- assemble your security team
			in Sickbay.

					PULASKI
			Is that necessary?

					DATA
			Yes -- captain's orders.

	He then follows them into Sickbay.

					PULASKI
				(to Troi)
			Strange to need armed guards in
			the delivery room.

					TROI
			Yes, and strange to think my child
			is the cause.

					PULASKI
			Before you referred to it as "the
			child," now it's become your
			child.

					TROI
			Yes, whatever his beginnings,
			that's what he's become.

	They exit Sickbay.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         23.

39   INT. SICKBAY - MATERNITY

	They enter and Pulaski leads Troi to the bed. Her
	MEDICAL ASSISTANTS move to prepare for the delivery.
	Data comes up behind them.

					PULASKI
			How frequent are your
			contractions?

					TROI
			Very close together.

					PULASKI
			In all my other deliveries -- with
			a couple of exceptions -- the
			father was present.

					TROI
			Difficult under the circumstances.

					PULASKI
			It's unfortunate you have to go
			through this alone. It helps to
			have someone with you.

					DATA
			Perhaps I could serve in that
			capacity. I can quickly review
			the procedures I will be required
			to execute.

					PULASKI
			Troi is going to need the comfort
			of a "human" touch... Not the cold
			hand of technology.

	Data reaction.

					TROI
			Doctor. I think Commander Data
			will do nicely.

	A look from the doctor to Troi and back to Data.

					PULASKI
			Your choice.

40   ANOTHER ANGLE

	as the doctor and her assistants prepare Sickbay and
	Troi for the delivery.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         24.

40   CONTINUED:

					TROI
			There is nothing specific you have
			to do, Data, you just have to be
			with me.

					PULASKI
			There is nothing to be nervous
			about.

					DATA
			This is very interesting to me.
			Although I understand in technical
			terms how life is formed, there
			is still a part of the process
			which eludes my understanding.
			I began my existence as an adult.
			I have no memory -- no cognizance
			of conception, birth, childhood,
			so to be allowed to witness this
			event is...

	Troi grabs his hand.

					TROI
			It's happening.

					DATA
				(alarmed)
			Doctor!

	Pulaski steps over.

					PULASKI
			This is an impatient baby. He's
			eager to make his appearance.

	She picks up her hypospray.

					PULASKI
				(continuing)
			I'll give you something for the
			pain. It won't in any way
			diminish the experience.

					TROI
			I have felt no pain.

					PULASKI
			None?

					TROI
			No... none at all.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         25.

40A  INT. CORRIDOR - ENTRANCE TO SICKBAY

	Worf and SECURITY TEAM arrive.

41   ANOTHER ANGLE - SICKBAY

	They now have Troi in position in the birthing chair.
	Worf and the security team enter and take up their
	positions as Pulaski and her Assistant prepare for the
	delivery.

					PULASKI
			Have your security team stand over
			there. I understand the need to
			have you here, but keep out from
			under foot.

42   AND NOW THE BIRTH (INTERCUT THE PIECES OF THE
	EVENT)

	This is more than just the wondrous act of life. It
	has as well the added tension of Worf and his security
	team. Data, and his first close encounter with
	creation of the thing he understands least -- life. As
	this sequence begins, Riker appears in the background.
	He stands to the side -- out of the way, but there in
	case his friend, Deanna Troi, needs him.

	WE WILL LAY THIS OUT, BASED ON HOW A CHILD IS
	BORN ON THE TWENTY-FOURTH CENTURY ENTERPRISE.

	And the CHILD comes out -- Worf edges closer -- the
	doctor takes it to one side. Ties the cord, cleans
	it, and brings it back to Troi. This is an effortless
	birth -- no pain -- no strain.

					PULASKI
			Are easy births the norm for
			Betazoids?

					TROI
			Not according to my mother.

					PULASKI
				(as she hands it to
				 Troi)
			It's a boy. A normal, healthy,
			six pound, three ounce baby boy.

	Then to Worf.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         26.

42   CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
				(continuing; without
				 any edge)
			You can come the rest of the way
			in now.

	Worf enters and approaches the baby as he would a
	deadly snake.

43   ANOTHER ANGLE

	as Worf and the newborn exchange looks.

					PULASKI
			No threat here, Lieutenant, you
			and your men can relax... it's
			just a baby.

	Worf reacts.

44   TROI

	as she holds the baby. Data leans in to see the child.

					DATA
			It was remarkable. Thank you for
			allowing me to participate.

					PULASKI
			Do you have a name?

					TROI
			Ian Andrew, after my father.

					PULASKI
				(she touches her
				 communicator)
			Captain.

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			Picard here.

					PULASKI
			Counselor Troi is the mother of
			a very healthy baby boy. Mother
			and child are both doing well.

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			Counselor, my best wishes to you
			and your son.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         27.

44   CONTINUED:

					TROI
			Thank you, sir.

	Riker now steps forward to pay his respects. He leans
	down and kisses her on the forehead.

					TROI
				(continuing)
			Have you been here all along?

					RIKER
			Yes.
				(then just for her)
			He's beautiful, Deanna... just
			like his mother.
				(to Worf)
			I don't think you are going to
			be needed here, Lieutenant.

	Worf nods an acknowledgement and leads his security
	team off. Riker and Troi exchange looks and he too
	exits.

					PULASKI
			How do you feel?

					TROI
			Fine. Absolutely wonderful and
			thank you, Doctor... for
			everything.

					PULASKI
				(as she does a scan of
				 Troi and the baby, her
				 face registers
				 surprise)
			Amazing.

45   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	in orbit around 'aucdet Nine.

46   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	The turbolift opens and for the first time Pulaski
	steps onto the bridge.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         28.

46   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Welcome to the bridge, Doctor.
			How's Counselor Troi? Did she
			have a good night?

					PULASKI
			I have delivered dozens of babies.
			But none like this. There was
			no pain, no trauma. It was
			effortless for both of them.

					PICARD
			I'm not sure of your point.

					PULASKI
			She had the baby yesterday. If
			I were to examine her now, I would
			not be able to tell that she just
			had a baby, or ever had a baby.
			It's as though the incident never
			happened.

					PICARD
				(to Data)
			How long before we are ready to
			begin the transfer?

					DATA
			Two hours, nineteen minutes.

					PICARD
				(he stands)
			You have the Conn, Number One.

					RIKER
			Aye, sir.

					PICARD
			Doctor, you would accompany me,
			please. I think it's time I paid
			my respects.

47   INT. CORRIDOR - ENTRANCE TO TROI'S QUARTERS

	Picard and Pulaski approach the doorway. The CHIME
	SOUNDS. From inside Troi says:

					TROI
			Come in.

	The doors open and they enter.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         29.

48   INT. TROI'S QUARTERS

	Troi's back is to him. She is doing something with her
	child.

					PICARD
			I wanted to come by and see how
			you were and have a look at
			your...

	At this moment the CHILD looks out from around Troi.
	It is already THREE YEARS OLD!

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			... baby! My goodness.

	The Doctor takes out her medical recorder and does a
	quick body scan of the child.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			How old is he?

					PULASKI
			In actuality a day.

					PICARD
			Yes, but...

					PULASKI
			... In appearance, almost four
			earth years old.

					TROI
			Ian, say hello to Captain Picard.

					PICARD
			You mean he can talk?

	The boy answers.

					IAN
			Hello.

	Picard is stunned.

					PICARD
			Hello, Ian.

	Picard moves closer.

					IAN
			Don't worry. Everything is fine.

         STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT TWO         30.

48   CONTINUED:

	Off their reactions we:

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        31.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

49   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	in a parking orbit near 'aucdet Nine.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, supplemental. We
			are faced with two major problems:
			Troi's child and the deadly cargo
			we are about to load, which is
			so desperately needed in the
			Rachelis system. In the hours
			since his birth, Troi's baby has
			continued to age and now appears,
			physically and mentally, to be
			a child of eight. And still there
			is no indication as to who he is,
			or why he is here.

50   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Picard and everyone else in place.

					RIKER
			Sickbay, this is the bridge. We
			are ready to begin loading.

					PULASKI'S COM VOICE
			We need a little more time. It's
			taking longer than we anticipated.

51   INT. DOCTOR PULASKI'S OFFICE (OPTICAL)

	She is at her desk-top computer terminal as Data
	enters.

					PULASKI
			Data,
				(she says "Data" with
				 a short A)
			look at this.

					DATA
				(he corrects her)
			Data.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        32.

51   CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
			What?

					DATA
			My name. It is pronounced Data.

					PULASKI
				(with a wry smile)
			Oh?

					DATA
			You called me Data.

					PULASKI
			What's the difference?

					DATA
			One is my name and the other is
			not.

					PULASKI
			Is this possible?

	Data is puzzled by the apparent non sequitur. Pulaski
	stands, picks up her medical recorder, steps over to
	Data and begins a body scan.

					PULASKI
				(continuing)
			In all of your neural nets,
			algorithms, and heuristics, is
			there some combination which makes
			up a circuit for bruised feelings?

	Data looks confused.

					PULASKI
				(continuing)
			Apparently so, because I think
			I just offended your tender
			sensibilities.

	She looks at the puzzled Data.

					PULASKI
				(continuing)
			Possible?

	Then with an amused look, gets back to business.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        33.

51   CONTINUED: (2)

					PULASKI
				(continuing; indicating
				 the CRT)
			I am unfamiliar with these
			symbols.

	Data steps around and examines the screen.

					DATA
			It indicates a genetically
			engineered biological life-form.

					PULASKI
			About twenty percent of the
			specimens fall into that category.
				(to herself)
			Some eager beaver at play.

					DATA
			Query... "eager beaver?"

					PULASKI
			In this case, 'eager beaver'
			refers to some overachieving
			genetic engineer, who probably
			for lack of something better to
			do forced this strain of virus
			to mutate, just to see how bad,
			bad can get.
				(touches her
				 communicator)
			Captain Picard.

	INTERCUT WITH MAIN BRIDGE AS NEEDED.

					PICARD
			Picard here.

					PULASKI
			Just so you fully appreciate the
			risks we are about to take...

					PICARD
			Enlighten me.

					PULASKI
			If the most innocuous specimen
			on the manifest list gets loose,
			it will destroy all life on the
			Enterprise in a matter of hours.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        34.

51   CONTINUED: (3)

					PICARD
			I understand, Doctor. Do you have
			a recommendation?

					PULASKI
			Considering how desperately this
			is needed, no I don't. Just want
			you to know what we're carrying.

					PICARD
			Thank you, Doctor. Commander
			Data, if you have completed your
			review, you are needed in
			Transporter Room Three.

					DATA
			Yes, sir.
				(to Pulaski)
			Excuse me, Doctor.

					PULASKI
			That's okay...
				(with long A, then short
				 A)
			Data, Data... whatever.

	He gives the doctor a look. Doctor Pulaski returns to
	her viewscreen.

52   INT. CHILDREN'S PLAY AREA (OPTICAL)

	Troi is standing by the door with the TEACHER (MISS
	GLADSTONE). They are watching a GROUP OF KIDS playing
	with a half a dozen puppies. Sitting right in the
	middle of everything and playing with abandon is IAN,
	WHO IS NOW ALMOST EIGHT. Troi is enthralled by the
	actions of her "son."

					TROI
			Ian!

	The boy looks up and smiles when he sees his mother.
	Then he notices a LITTLE GIRL next to him. Ian takes
	his hands off the puppy, and puts them (without any
	sense of threat, just curiosity) on the girl's hair.

					MISS GLADSTONE
			He's a very tactile child. He
			wants to touch and feel
			everything.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        35.

52   CONTINUED:

					TROI
			Come on, sweetheart, time to go.

	Ian scrambles to his feet and trots over to his mother
	and gives her a big hug.

					MISS GLADSTONE
			Unbelievable -- I think he's
			actually grown since you dropped
			him off.

					IAN
			I like it here, Mommy.

					TROI
			I thought you would. Thank Miss
			Gladstone for having you, and
			let's go get you something to eat.

					IAN
				(to the teacher)
			Thank you.

	Ian then turns and waves to the other kids who are
	still involved with the puppies.

					IAN
				(continuing)
			Bye...

	Some of the other children wave -- most are too involved
	in what they are doing to notice.

					TROI
				(also to the teacher)
			Thank you.

	Miss Gladstone nods an acknowledgement, then watches
	them leave. Her eyes reflect the amazement she feels
	about Troi's unusual child.

53   INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM THREE

	Data arrives.

					TRANSPORTER CHIEF
			The transporter is not making a
			positive lock.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        36.

53   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			The built-in inhibitor is
			restricting onloading of
			life-forms known to be hazardous
			to the occupants of this ship.
			Have you attempted override?

					TRANSPORTER CHIEF
			I don't have the authority.

	Data steps in behind the console.

					DATA
			Computer, recognize -- Lieutenant
			Commander N-F-N, N-M-I, Data.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Authorization accepted.

					DATA
			Initiate override protocol.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Override protocol is not
			recommended in this situation.

					DATA
			Acknowledged. On my authority
			-- begin override.

	There is a pause.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Sequence complete.

	The TRANSPORTER CHIEF inputs the coordinates.

					TRANSPORTER CHIEF
			Cargo Deck Five. We will commence
			transport on your command.

54   INT. CARGO DECK FIVE

	Riker, Geordi and a couple of crewmembers are by the
	containment grid. Geordi does a final visual survey of
	the area.

					GEORDI
			Transporter Three -- we are ready
			to receive.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        37.

55   INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM THREE

	as Data watches the Transporter Chief manipulate the
	controls.

56   INT. CARGO DECK FIVE (OPTICAL)

	Riker and Geordi watch as the deadly little ampules are
	BEAMED into position. Next to Geordi is a CRT which
	reads out the contents of the little containers.

					GEORDI
				(to Data)
			Data, the first batch is in place.
			Ready for the next.

					RIKER
			Inform me when loading is complete
			and the cargo secure.

					GEORDI
			Aye, sir.

	Riker exits the Cargo Deck as the second batch of
	specimens appears within the containment grid.

57   INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM THREE

	The Transporter Chief sets in the coordinates and beams
	up the next load.

58   INT. TROI'S QUARTERS

	Troi and eight-year-old Ian are there. The doors open.
	Picard and Pulaski enter.

					PULASKI
			I wanted to stop by and see how
			Ian was doing.

					TROI
			We're doing fine. I was just
			going to give Ian his supper.

					IAN
				(to Picard)
			Do you want your supper now, too?

					PICARD
			No, Ian, but thank you for the
			invitation.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        38.

58   CONTINUED:

					IAN
			You're welcome.

	A spoon which Ian is playing with more than using,
	slips out of his hand and falls on the floor. Picard
	retrieves it.

					IAN
				(continuing)
			Have you ever played with puppies?

	Picard looks to Troi for an explanation. Troi smiles.

					TROI
			They had a litter today in the
			nursery.

					PICARD
			No, I have never played with
			puppies.

					IAN
			You'd like it. You should go
			to the nursery while the puppies
			are still there.

					PICARD.
			Perhaps later.

	Troi puts the boy's supper down in front of him. It
	includes some hot steaming soup. Picard and Pulaski
	watch as Ian examines his food. He tries to touch the
	steam coming off the soup, then feels the wetness on
	his little fingers. Everything connected with his
	physical senses fascinates the child. He sticks his
	hand into the hot soup and holds it there for a beat:

					IAN
				(pulling it out)
			Ouch...

	He looks at his scalded fingers. Tears well up in his
	eyes and like any other child his age; he runs to his
	mother.

					IAN
				(continuing)
			Ow... Mommy... ow...

	Troi gathers the boy into her arms as the doctor steps
	over.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        39.

58   CONTINUED: (2)

					PULASKI
			Let me look at that.

	Ian holds out the fingers and watches with great
	interest as Pulaski uses one of the instruments from
	the pocket of her smock to medicate the fingers.

					PULASKI
				(continuing)
			It's not serious.

	Ian studies his fingers as he realizes the pain is
	gone. Then he touches his cheek and feels the tears.

					IAN
			My face is wet.

	Troi gently dries his tears with the tips of her
	fingers, then lovingly strokes his hair.

					TROI
			Is it better now, sweetheart?

	The boy nods and cuddles in against his mother.

					PULASKI
			He allowed himself to be burned.

					PICARD
			Yes, for the experience.

					PULASKI
			Who is he? Why is he here? What
			does he want?

59   PICARD

	He watches the child intently.

					PICARD
			Ian, could you tell us why you
			are here?

					IAN
			Because Mommy said it was time
			to eat.

	Reactions from Troi and the doctor.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        40.

59   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			No, I mean... why you are here
			on this ship?

					IAN
			I live here.

					TROI
			Ian, the captain wants to know
			if you are ready to tell us why
			you came here.

					IAN
			No. Not yet.

	Ian picks up the glass, which unlike the soup, this is
	cold.

					TROI
			The answer is within him. When
			his cognitive powers develop
			sufficiently, he will be able to
			articulate it.

					PICARD
			I hope he will tell us soon.

	He takes some of the liquid into his mouth... rolls
	it around, swallows some, and lets the rest run down
	his chin. Picard watches as Ian pours some of the
	liquid onto his leg just to know how it feels, then
	he turns and walks toward the exit.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Captain to the bridge.

					PICARD
			I'm on my way, Number One.
				(to Troi)
			Keep me apprised of his progress,
			Counselor.

	Pulaski stays behind with Troi and her baby.

					IAN
				(too late for Picard
				 to respond)
			Bye...

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        41.

60   OMITTED

61   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Picard steps off the turbolift to the bridge. Riker is
	beside him. Data is at Ops -- Worf at the Tactical
	Station. The other positions are filled with n.d.
	crewmembers.

					RIKER
			The cargo has been loaded and is
			secure.

					PICARD
			Take us out of orbit, Number One
			-- then set a course for Rachelis
			-- warp nine.

62
thru	OMITTED
63

64   EXT. TEN-FORWARD (OPTICAL)

	Wesley steps up to the window, still carrying the
	weight of his decision. Guinan watches him cross the
	room and stand in front of the large center window.

65   GUINAN AND WESLEY (OPTICAL)

	She comes up beside him.

					GUINAN
			Can I get you something?

					WESLEY
			No. I just wanted to stand here.

					GUINAN
			I don't blame you -- it's
			beautiful.

					WESLEY
			Yes.

					GUINAN
			How about some nice Mareuvian Tea?

					WESLEY
			No. Nothing thank you.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        42.

65   CONTINUED:

					GUINAN
			You're going to be leaving soon.

					WESLEY
			Yes.

	They both watch as the Enterprise leaves orbit. The
	planet 'aucdet Nine slips away. As Wesley watches the
	ship maneuver into position, Guinan watches him.

					GUINAN
			What do you see when you look out
			there?

					WESLEY
			Over there is the Lorenze cluster,
			and there Arneb and there Epsilon
			Indi.

					GUINAN
			No, I don't mean that. I mean
			when you look there don't you see
			your future?

	Wesley gives her a little sideways look.

					WESLEY
			It will still be there.

					GUINAN
			How about a cup of nectar direct
			from Prometheus?

					WESLEY
			No -- nothing. That's the third
			time you've asked me.

					GUINAN
			It's what I'm expected to do.
			Don't you always do what's
			expected?

					WESLEY
			I try to.

					GUINAN
			Even if it's not what you really
			want?

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        43.

65   CONTINUED: (2)

					WESLEY
			Sometimes. Sometimes you have
			to consider others more than
			yourself.

					GUINAN
			That's true. But sometimes the
			game is to know when to consider
			yourself more than others and to
			give yourself permission to be...
			selfish.

	He looks at her. Then -- before he can answer, the
	Enterprise leaps to warp speed. The star field becomes
	a spectacular display. We PLAY THE REACTIONS of Guinan
	and Wesley.

66   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	moves along at warp speed.

67   INT. CARGO DECK FIVE (OPTICAL)

	A concerned Hester Dealt is scanning the containment
	grid with his very sophisticated monitoring equipment.

					HESTER
				(real concern)
			Something's wrong.

	Geordi approaches Hester Dealt.

					GEORDI
			What is it?

					HESTER
			Growth.

					GEORDI
			Where?

					HESTER
			L-seven-three.

	Geordi steps over to the side of the containment area,
	and activates a CRT screen. The screen has a display
	of the 512 modules inside. Each has a series of
	indicators, ONE ON THE FAR SIDE IS FLASHING. Geordi
	manipulates the panel so the display turns, giving him
	a better look at the flashing light.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT THREE        44.

67   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
				(touches his
				 communicator)
			Bridge, this is Cargo Deck Five.

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			Yes, Lieutenant La Forge.

					GEORDI
			There is a malfunction in the
			containment area.

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			How serious?

					HESTER
			Very.

									FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR        45.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

68   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	traveling at warp speed.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, supplemental. For
			reasons as yet unknown, one of
			the specimens of Plasma Plague
			is growing.

69   INT. CARGO DECK FIVE

	Geordi and Hester Dealt continue checking. With a
	handheld monitoring device, Hester Dealt makes a sweep
	of the Cargo Deck.

					GEORDI
				(touches his
				 communicator)
			Captain, the power to the
			containment grid must have somehow
			been affected when we increased
			to warp velocity.

	INTERCUT THE MAIN BRIDGE AS NEEDED

					PICARD
			I don't see how that would be
			possible.

					GEORDI
			I don't either, but if we could
			return to impulse, we would know
			for sure.

					PICARD
			Impulse velocity.

70   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it comes out of warp.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR        46.

71   OMITTED

72   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	The tension level is growing.

					PICARD
			Report, Mister La Forge.

73   INT. CARGO DECK FIVE

	Geordi waits as Hester Dealt checks his monitoring
	equipment, then shakes his head.

					GEORDI
			There's no change. It wasn't the
			warp drive.

74   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Picard did not expect any. Riker is on his feet and
	heading for the turbolift.

					RIKER
			Permission to leave the bridge.

					PICARD
			Granted.

					RIKER
			Commander Data, you're with me.

	Data leaves his position and follows Riker.

					PICARD
			Doctor Pulaski.

75   INT. DOCTOR PULASKI'S OFFICE

	Pulaski is running through some medical records.

					PULASKI
			Yes, Captain.

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			We are having some difficulties
			on Cargo Deck Five -- your presence
			is requested.

	She is thoughtful for a beat.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR        47.

75   CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
			I'm on my way.

75A  INT. TEN-FORWARD (FORMERLY SCENE 71)

	Wesley and Guinan are at the bar. Wesley is eating
	a twenty-fourth century Enterprise version of an ice cream
	sundae. His mood is much lighter, indicating he has
	come to some decision regarding his future.

					WESLEY
			You never talk about yourself.

					GUINAN
			Sure I do... all the time.

					WESLEY
			People say you are very old...

					GUINAN
			Oh?

					WESLEY
			... and that you knew Captain
			Picard when he was on the
			Stargazer.

					GUINAN
			No. I never met the captain until
			I came onboard.

					WESLEY
			Everyone is very curious about
			you.

					GUINAN
			I'll bet they are.

					WESLEY
			About where you come from.

					GUINAN
			Where do they say?

					WESLEY
			I heard that you're from Nova Kron
			and that...

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			Mister Crusher, report to the
			bridge.

        STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR        48.

75A  CONTINUED:

	He's on his feet and heading for the door.

					WESLEY
			I've got to go.

	Wesley stops and turns back.

					WESLEY
				(continuing)
			Thank you.

					GUINAN
			There's nothing like a dish of
			Delovian souffle.

					WESLEY
			I didn't mean the souffle, I meant
			for... well... the rest. Thanks.

					GUINAN
			That's why I'm here.

76   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	The turbolift opens and Wesley Crusher comes onto the
	bridge.

					PICARD
			Take the Conn, Mister Crusher.

	Wesley replaces the crewmember at that position.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			On this course -- increase velocity
			to warp nine.

					WESLEY
			Aye, sir. Warp nine.

77   OMITTED

78   INT. CARGO DECK FIVE

	Hester, Data, Riker are gathered around the monitoring
	equipment. Geordi is off to one side peering at a
	distant sector of the containment field. THE INDICATOR
	LIGHT OF L-SEVEN-THREE CONTINUES TO FLASH.

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR            49.

78   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Why that module and not the
			others?

					DATA
			Computer, run diagnostic on module
			L-seven-three.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			All circuits functional.

					GEORDI
				(reading it off)
			Temperature -- as set -- minus
			ninety-seven degrees. Humidity
			-- twelve percent. Lumins -- zero.
			Electromagnetic containment
			integrity... Everything right down
			the line... exactly as it should
			be.

					DATA
			Perhaps it is a sensor malfunction.
			Computer -- query. Is growth
			actually occurring?

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Confirmed.

79   ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	as the door opens and Doctor Pulaski enters. She nods
	a greeting to Riker and the others, then steps over
	beside Geordi who continues studying the distant
	section of the containment grid.

					RIKER
			One of the specimens is growing.

					PULASKI
				(to Hester Dealt)
			Destroy it, now.

					HESTER
			I can't.

					RIKER
			Data, prepare to jettison that
			module.

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR            50.

79   CONTINUED:

					HESTER
			We can't do that either. It will
			go into a spore and remain until
			it comes in contact with a planet
			or another ship. The results
			would be disastrous.

					RIKER
			Commander, your attitude tells
			me that however bad I think this
			is... it's worse.

					HESTER
				(he indicates the
				 containment area)
			This is not going to hold it.

					RIKER
			Go on.

					HESTER
			The rate of growth is increasing.
			Within thirty minutes it will push
			out of the module. Within two
			hours, it will breach the
			containment area.

					GEORDI
			It can't break through this.

					HESTER
			Yes it can.

					RIKER
				(touches his
				 communicator)
			Captain. We may not be able to
			get control of this situation.
			I recommend making arrangements
			to transfer all non-essential
			personnel to the saucer section.
			If we lose containment we should
			be prepared to separate.

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			Make it so.

					PULASKI
			Why this one specimen and none
			of the others? Something is
			stimulating it. Do you have its
			etiology? How it was developed?

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR            51.

79   CONTINUED: (2)

	Hester inputs the freestanding viewscreen, and the
	HISTORY OF "L-SEVEN-THREE" APPEARS. Pulaski looks
	at it.

					PULASKI
			It's a mutated strain developed
			by Doctor Susan Nuress during an
			outbreak of Plasma Plague seventy
			years ago in the Oby System.
				(she pauses as she
				 continues to read)
			It was number nine in a series
			of tests. This particular one
			bombarded by low levels of Eichner
			radiation.
				(then she turns to
				 Hester)
			Could exposure to Eichner
			radiation stimulate growth?

	As a reflex act, Hester Dealt makes a sweep of the area
	with his handheld monitor.

					HESTER
			Yes, it could, but...

	He stops... his expression says...

					HESTER
				(continuing)
			Uh, oh...

					PULASKI
			Don't tell me.

					HESTER
			I'm detecting low levels of
			Eichner radiation.

					RIKER
			Why didn't you catch it before?

					HESTER
			Because it wasn't here before..

					PULASKI
			Well, it is now. What emits that
			type radiation?

					DATA
			A subspace phase inverter.

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR            52.

79   CONTINUED: (3)

					GEORDI
			We don't have one.

					DATA
			Certain cyanoacrylates.

					PULASKI
			Also, not on this ship... What
			else? Because it's here and we
			better find it.

	Data has no answer.

80   INT. TROI'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)

	Troi is putting the child to bed. She touches a
	control panel near the windows which turns them to
	their opaque configuration.

					IAN
			I can feel that some of the people
			are very... worried.

					TROI
			Yes. I feel it as well, but don't
			you worry.

					IAN
			It's me Mommy -- I'm the reason.

					TROI
			What?

					IAN
			It's me.

					TROI
			You?

					IAN
			Yes. I have to leave you now,
			or it will be very bad for
			everyone.

					TROI
			What are you saying?

	He smiles up at her.

					IAN
			I have to leave now.

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FOUR            53.

80   CONTINUED:

					TROI
			Leave?
				(senses what he is about
				 to do)
			You are going to die. No. No,
			you can't.

	He smiles up and closes his eyes.

					TROI
				(continuing; she touches
				 her communicator)
			Sickbay, this is Counselor Troi,
			I need the doctor in my
			quarters... right now.
				(then she lifts Ian to
				 her)
			No... Ian... No.

	Off Troi's reaction.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE            54.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

81   INT. TROI'S QUARTERS

	as Pulaski leads the others to Troi's quarters.

					TROI
			It's Ian. Please... please hurry.

	Pulaski moves quickly to the unconscious child; pulls
	back the covers. She removes an instrument from her
	smock and makes a scan of the child's body. In the
	b.g., Picard enters with Riker and Data.

					TROI
				(continuing)
			Save him, you must save him.

					PULASKI
			What happened? Did he eat
			anything? Did he fall?

					TROI
			No.

	Data, using his tricorder, confirms with a nod to
	Riker.

					DATA
			The child is the source of the
			unusual radiation.

					TROI
			He said he's the reason the ship
			is in danger.

					DATA
			That analysis is correct.

	Pulaski injects the child with hypospray.

					PULASKI
			I'm losing life signs.

	Troi stands by helplessly. Like any mother in this
	situation, she is beyond grief. Tears streak her face.

					TROI
			Oh, please. Please save him.

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE            55.

82   PULASKI

	resets the injector and again she administers a dose
	of hypospray. She waits for a reaction. There is
	none.

83   ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	The room is very quiet. Pulaski stands.

					PULASKI
			I'm sorry.

	Troi moves next to the cot on which the child is lying.
	She is beyond despair. Her heart has completely
	broken. The others allow her a moment alone, then as
	Riker is about to move to Troi's side, a LIGHT -- the
	glowing energy which we saw at the beginning -- gathers
	from within the child and slowly rises. As it does,
	the body that was Ian fades away until there is only
	the LIGHT.

84   INTERCUT REACTIONS (OPTICAL)

	Troi reaches out and with cupped hands she collects
	the LIGHT, cradles it gently and brings it to her.
	As she holds it close, it makes her face all aglow.
	Slowly the pain and despair drain away, and through
	the tears she smiles. The joy she now feels shines
	from her eyes. The Betazoid within her, embraces the
	essence of the entity before her and she knows now why
	he came and what he wanted. Then, in an act of pure
	love, she releases the glowing energy as she would a
	dove. For a beat the LIGHT seems reluctant to leave.
	Then it does. It passes effortlessly through the wall
	of the ship and away. Troi stares after it for a beat.

					GEORDI'S COM VOICE
				(excited -- relieved)
			Captain. The containment field
			has stabilized.

					PICARD
			Thank you, Lieutenant.

	Troi turns and looks at her captain and shipmates.

					TROI
			Then Ian was right. He was the
			cause.

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE            56.

84   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Apparently so.

	Troi pauses, gathering her feelings and picking her
	words carefully. She settles her emotions.

					TROI
			He is a life-force entity... as
			we passed each other in space he
			was curious and wanted to know
			about us, and he thought the best
			way to learn was to go through
			the process. To be born, to live
			as one of us and in that way to
			understand us.

	She pauses, then:

					TROI
				(continuing)
			Captain, he never meant any harm.

	Picard nods -- he knows that is true.

					RIKER
			There was a moment when you
			smiled.

					TROI
				(she smiles again)
			He said thank you.
				(she pauses)
			I told him we will miss him -- and
			I will.

	The others will also miss him.

85   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it enters orbit near Science Station Tango Sierra.

86   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Picard is in his command chair, Riker beside him,
	Wesley at Conn.

					PICARD
			Standard station approach, Mister
			Crusher.

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE            57.

86   CONTINUED:

					WESLEY
			Standard approach, aye.

					PICARD
			Transporter Room Three, this is
			the captain. We have arrived.
			Let's make this transfer with all
			deliberate speed, and get on about
			our business.

					DATA'S COM VOICE
			Yes, sir.

					RIKER
			I will be glad to be relieved of
			this cargo.

	Picard rises.

					PICARD
			You have the bridge, Number One.

					RIKER
			Yes sir.

	As Picard crosses the bridge, Ensign Wesley Crusher
	buttonholes him.

					WESLEY
			Captain.

					PICARD
			Yes Ensign?

					WESLEY
			Could I see you when you have a
			moment?

					PICARD
			In my Ready Room when your duties
			permit.

					WESLEY
			Thank you, sir.

	Picard continues on and leaves the bridge.

87   INT. CARGO DECK FIVE (OPTICAL)

	Geordi and Hester Dealt are standing next to the
	containment area.

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE            58.

87   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Good luck.

	The TRANSPORTER BEAM takes over and removes Hester
	Dealt from the Enterprise.

					GEORDI
				(touches his
				 communicator)
			Data, you can lock on to the first
			group and begin transporting on
			my mark.

88   INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

	The CHIME RINGS.

					PICARD
			Come.

	The doors open. It's Ensign Crusher. He enters and
	stands in front of Picard's desk.

					PICARD
			Yes, Ensign.

					WESLEY
				(hesitant)
			Captain... I have thought about
			this a lot. I want to remain on
			the Enterprise.

					PICARD
			Oh. Have you discussed this with
			your mother?

					WESLEY
			No, before I do that, I wanted
			your permission to stay.

					PICARD
			Wes, it's a little more
			complicated than that.

					WESLEY
			Captain, for right now... this
			is where I want to be. This is
			where I feel I belong.

	Picard studies the young man for a beat.

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE            59.

88   CONTINUED:

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Captain -- transfer complete. We
			are ready to leave orbit.

					PICARD
			Make it so, Number One.
				(then to Wesley)
			Return to your position.

	Wesley hesitates a beat because he still hasn't
	received an answer.

89   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Picard -- followed by Wesley -- comes on to the bridge.
	Troi steps off the turbolift and takes her place.

					RIKER
			All stations secure.

					PICARD
			Take us out of orbit, Mister
			Crusher and lay in a course for
			the Morgana Quadrant.

					WESLEY
			Yes, sir.

	Picard takes his seat.

					PICARD
				(loud enough for
				 everyone to hear)
			Mister Crusher has requested to
			remain on the Enterprise.

					RIKER
			I'm not surprised. How did you
			respond?

					PICARD
			I haven't as yet, Number One.
			I don't think it's my decision
			alone. His remaining will cause
			difficulties for us all.

					RIKER
			Yes, indeed. With his mother not
			around, who will see to his
			studies?

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE            60.

89   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Exactly. That duty would fall
			to Commander Data.

					RIKER
			And, who'll tuck him in at night?

					WESLEY
			Come on, Commander.

					WORF
			I will accept that responsibility.

					TROI
			Well, we know he'll get his sleep.

					PICARD
			Then, Number One, that leaves you
			the task of guiding young Mister
			Crusher through his most hazardous
			journey -- from youth to man. Are
			you willing to serve?

					RIKER
			Difficult question...

	Wesley turns and looks at Riker with a plea in his
	eyes. INTERCUT look between them.

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			... Yes, I think I can do that.

					PICARD
			All right then. Mister Crusher,
			communicate with your mother at
			Starfleet Medical headquarters.
			Give her my regards and tell her
			you have my permission to remain
			on board the Enterprise.

	There is a big smile on Wesley's face.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			But, that I will abide by her
			wishes.

					WESLEY
			Yes, sir... thank you sir... I
			just know she'll agree.

             STAR TREK: "The Child" - 9/20/88 - ACT FIVE            61.

89   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			Now -- if you have course and speed
			laid in.

					WESLEY
				(back to duty)
			Yes sir, they are.

					PICARD
			Then, Mister Crusher -- engage.

90   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	moves off to its next assignment.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END                             


