










                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                         Hide And "Q" 
                          #40271-111 
                              
                           Story by 
                         C. J. Holland 
                              
                          Teleplay by 
                         C. J. Holland 
                              and 
                       Gene Roddenberry 
                              
                          Directed by 
                          Cliff Bole 


Copyright 1987 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This script is not for publication or reproduction.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.


                     REVISED FINAL DRAFT

                     SEPTEMBER 25, 1987

           STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                         Hide And "Q"                              
                                
                             CAST                               

                PICARD             "Q"
                RIKER              WOMAN (SURVIVOR)
                BEVERLY            BEVERLY
                DATA               Non-Speaking Roles
                TROI                 CREWMEMBERS
                TASHA                SICKBAY STAFF
                GEORDI               TWO SENTRIES
                WORF                 ANIMAL-SOLDIERS
                WESLEY               DOZEN SURVIVORS
                                     CHILD (FEMALE SURVIVOR)

           STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                         Hide And "Q"                              
                                
                             SETS                               

              INTERIORS              EXTERIORS
              USS ENTERPRISE         USS ENTERPRISE
              CORRIDOR
                                     PLANET - QUADRA SIGMA III
              MAIN BRIDGE              PLAIN
              CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM     THIRD RIDGE
              TRANSPORTER ROOM         BIVOUAC AREA
              PLANET DISASTER AREA
                                        
          

         STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - TEASER         1.

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                         Hide And "Q"                              

                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. ENTERPRISE IN SPACE (OPTICAL)

	The great ship streaks through space at warp speed.

2    INT. ND CORRIDOR

	Two crewmembers, their arms loaded with supplies, race
	along the corridor. They pass DOCTOR CRUSHER in the
	corridor.

3    NEW ANGLE

	Beverly checks her Staff as they pass with emergency
	medical packets on way to turbolift.

					BEVERLY
			Include a burn unit with each
			kit. On arrival, identify the
			most critically injured and
			beam them up to Cargo Bay Six...

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
				(interrupting)
			Doctor Crusher, this is the
			Captain.

					BEVERLY
				(touching wall panel)
			Doctor Crusher here.

					PICARD'S COM VOICE
			Additional information. The
			number of colonists at the site
			is five hundred-four - including
			thirty-eight children.

4    INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE

	PICARD is in his Command chair, TROI to his left. WORF
	at the Aft Station. GEORDI has the Conn, DATA on Ops.
	TASHA at Tactical.

         STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - TEASER         2.

4    CONTINUED:

	The tension level is very high. The mission is urgent.
	As Picard answers, RIKER ENTERS from the turbolift,
	CROSSES the bridge and takes his position.

					PICARD
			So far nothing more than the
			initial message. Explosion -
			cause unknown - many injured.
			Are you prepared, Doctor?

					BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
			We believe so, sir.

					GEORDI
			Captain, we are now at warp nine
			point one.

					DATA
			Which will bring us into the
			Quadra Sigma System in three
			point two hours.

	Riker takes his position.

					RIKER
			Captain, I have a schematic of
			the explosion site. It suggests
			the cause as a methane-like gas
			seeping in underground...

					TROI
				(with alarm)
			Captain, I am...

5    ANGLE ON TROI

	Her face is full of apprehension.

					TROI
			I am sensing what we encountered
			months ago...

	Interrupted by the SOUND of the BRIDGE ALARM.

6    ANGLE ON PICARD

	He turns. KLAXON HONKING - LIGHTS FLASHING.

         STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - TEASER         3.

7    ANGLE INCLUDING MAIN VIEWER - PICARD'S POV (OPTICAL)

	The Main Viewer SHIMMERS as an unusual SHINING,
	SPARKLING GRID SHAPE APPEARS, seeming to stretch across
	the whole of the galaxy ahead of them.

8    ANGLE ON PICARD (OPTICAL)

	He recognizes the shape - he has seen it before en
	route to Farpoint Station.

					DATA
			The "Q" Entity, sir? It is
			identical to the grid we
			encountered when...

					WORF
			It reads solid, sir. If we hit
			it... !

					PICARD
			Not now, damn it, "Q"...
				(to Helm)
			Emergency full stop!

					GEORDI
			Yes, sir.

					TASHA
			Shields and deflectors, up, sir.

	The familiar SHIMMERING GRID on the viewer is now very
	close to the Enterprise. Forward movement stops.

8A   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE IN FRONT OF GRID (OPTICAL)

8B   INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

					GEORDI
			Now reading full stop, sir.

	The words overlapped by something akin to ROLLING
	THUNDER, accompanied by a BRILLIANT and SUSTAINED FLASH
	which becomes RAPIDLY ROTATING, BLINDINGLY BRILLIANT,
	DIAMOND-BLUE LIGHT. While there is no hard-edged
	Shape, it is of about the same volume of a very large
	man.

         STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - TEASER         4.

8B   CONTINUED:

					"Q" (V.O.)
				(amplified and powerful)
			Humans, I thought by now you
			would have scampered back to your
			own little star system.

					PICARD
				(waits, then)
			If this is "Q" I'm addressing,
			our vessel and crew are on a
			mission of rescue where a group
			of badly injured...

					"Q" (V.O.)
				(interrupting)
			We of the "Q" have studied our
			recent contact with you... and
			are impressed. We have much to
			discuss, including perhaps the
			realization of your most
			impossible dreams.

	The expressions of the bridge crew reveal they are
	intrigued by this statement... and in the potential
	of the "Q" entity to do remarkable things, however
	annoying its actions in the past. Even Picard takes
	a moment to absorb this.

					PICARD
				(sarcastically)
			However intriguing we may find
			that to be, we are now in the
			midst of an urgent journey. Once
			we have completed that...

					"Q" (V.O.)
				(louder; angrier)
			You will abandon that mission,
			Captain. My business with you
			takes precedence!

9    INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE ON BRIDGE CREW

	Reflections of the BRILLIANT DIAMOND-BLUE LIGHT on
	their faces as they look ahead toward this newest Shape
	of "Q". They shield their eyes from it.

         STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - TEASER         5.

9    (CONTINUED:)

					"Q" (V.O.)
			If my magnificence blinds you,
			then perhaps something more
			familiar...

	An explosion of sudden HISSING SOUNDS startles the
	bridge crew into expressions of mixed surprise, fear
	and loathing.

10   OMITTED

11   ANGLE ON "Q" SERPENT

	A WRITHING SNAKE with snapping fangs, continuing mixed
	HISSING, DARTS toward them from whence came the "Q"
	light image.

12   REVERSE ANGLE

	Both Worf and Tasha vaulting down onto the Command
	deck, instinctively drawing phasers as they try to
	position their own bodies between the frightening
	Snake-thing and the bridge Crew, as we:

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

         STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT ONE         6.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

13   INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE ON TASHA AND WORF

	First one, then the other, discover phasers
	inoperative. The snake head seems an instant away from
	fanging them...

					WORF
			Damn, the phasers are useless!

					PICARD (V.O.)
			"Q", STOP THIS!

14   EMPHASIZING PICARD AND RIKER

	on their feet.

					PICARD
			Stop this and we agree to talk
			for a moment!

	At which WE SEE the reflection of a familiar BRILLIANT
	LIGHT FLASH, blinding Picard and Riker again. Then
	as they lower their protecting hands, they REACT at
	the sight of:

15   ANGLE EMPHASIZING "Q"

	in the full-dress uniform of a Starfleet ADMIRAL.

					"Q" (ADMIRAL)
			Starfleet Admiral "Q" at your
			service!

					PICARD
			You are not a Starfleet admiral,
			"Q"...

					"Q" (ADMIRAL)
			Neither am I an Aldebaran serpent,
			Captain. But you accepted me as
			such.

	Riker nods, a hint of the irony of this on his
	features.

         STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT ONE         7.

15   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			He's got us there, Captain.

					"Q" (ADMIRAL)
				(nods)
			The redoubtable Commander Riker
			whom I noticed before. You seem
			to find this amusing.

					RIKER
			I might, if we weren't trying
			to rescue a group of suffering
			and dying humans who...

					"Q" (ADMIRAL)
			Your species is always suffering
			and dying...

					PICARD
				(interrupting)
			No, Lieutenant Worf... !

16   ANGLE TO INCLUDE WORF

	trying to ease himself into a clear line of fire
	toward "Q". He freezes at Picard's order, eases his
	almost hidden small phaser back into his belt.

					PICARD
			You'll make no move against him
			unless I order it.

	"Q" smiles toward Worf.

					"Q" (ADMIRAL)
			Pity. You might have learned
			an interesting lesson. Tsk, a
			macro head, a micro brain.

	Worf is obviously unrepentant. Picard, thinking
	furiously, tries another direction.

					PICARD
			"Q", you said you had the
			realization of "some impossible
			dreams" to offer us. Once this
			rescue is complete, I'll listen
			seriously to whatever proposal
			you wish to make and then, subject
			to it being acceptable...

         STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT ONE         8.

16   CONTINUED:

	"Q" bursts into what sounds like genuine LAUGHTER.

					"Q" (ADMIRAL)
			"... subject to" your foolish
			human values? Picard, why do
			you people distrust me so?

	Picard starts to open his mouth, shuts it.

					DATA
			Sir, if...

	Picard shakes his head, forcing Data into silence...
	also clearly including the rest of his bridge crew in
	this.

					"Q" (ADMIRAL)
			Yes, Captain, it is best they
			don't answer that. But you... you,
			Picard, I grant the freedom to
			answer me honestly. Why do you
			distrust me so?

					PICARD
			"Q", right now humans may be
			dying because you...

					"Q" (ADMIRAL)
				(angry now)
			SPEAK! Why do you distrust me?

					PICARD
				(beat)
			Why? On our first meeting, "Q",
			you seized my vessel, condemned
			all humans as savages and on that
			charge, you tried us in a
			post-atomic twenty-first century
			court of horrors where you
			attacked my people... then you
			again seized my vessel...

					"Q" (ADMIRAL)
			How that angers you: "Seized my
			vessel, seized my vessel... "

         STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT ONE         9.

16   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
				(without pause, ignoring
				 this)
			... and then proceeded to interfere
			with our Farpoint mission,
			threatening to convict us as
			ignorant savages if, in dealing
			with complex and powerful
			life-forms, we made the slightest
			error... and when you failed even
			there...

					"Q" (ADMIRAL)
				(interrupting)
			At that point, the "Q" became
			interested in you.
				(turns to include bridge
				 crew)
			Cannot some of you understand your
			incredible good fortune?!
				(to Picard, mimicking)
			"Seized my vessel, seized my
			vessel... " The complaint of a
			closed mind too accustomed to
			military privileges.
				(to Riker)
			But you, Riker, and I remember
			you well, what do you make of my
			offer?

					RIKER
			I stand with my Captain.

					"Q" (ADMIRAL)
				(smiles)
			Of course, you do. Commendable
			loyalty.
				(indicating bridge crew;
				 to Riker)
			And what of these others? Since
			humanity now interests us, how
			shall we come to know them better?

					RIKER
			We don't have time for these
			games.

					"Q" (ADMIRAL)
			Ah, yes! A game... for interest's
			sake, a deadly game. To the game!

	And, at a wave of "Q"'s hand, the entire bridge crew
	except for Picard... DISAPPEARS, leaving Picard alone
	on the bridge.

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT ONE        10.

17   EXT. PLANET PLAIN (OPTICAL)

	The bridge crew are standing in approximately their
	previous bridge positions on a treeless planet plain.
	They have just been snatched from their ship, their
	captain and they are understandably confused and
	uncertain except for Tasha and Worf whose security
	orientation have them immediately combat ready. This
	place is bright, hot.

18   EMPHASIZING RIKER

	looking up.

19   RIKER POV - TWIN SUNS (OPTICAL)

	close together (avoiding the necessity of
	twin-shadows), apparently rotating about each other.
	Both suns are brilliant but the smaller sun, about
	one-quarter the size of the larger, is not quite as
	brilliant as the large one.

20   BACK TO EXT. PLAIN (OPTICAL)

	Data and Geordi, looking up too, move in next to Riker.

					DATA
			Obviously a Class-M world, gravity
			and oxygen within our limits...

					GEORDI
			... but a twin sun? Where are
			we?

					DATA
			Considering the power
			demonstrated by "Q" the last
			time... Anywhere! Assuming this
			place even exists.

					RIKER
			But this won't be boring. If
			"Q"'s anything, he's imaginative.
				(to the others)
			Apparently the captain wasn't
			meant to be with us here.

					TASHA
				(overlapping)
			Sir! Over here... !

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT ONE        11.

21   ANGLE INCLUDING "Q"

	who stands where a rock formation has previously hidden
	him. He is now wearing a French MARSHAL'S uniform,
	circa the Napoleonic Wars. As Riker, very curious,
	moves toward "Q", CAMERA MOVES AND PANS TO REVEAL also
	a headquarters-type campaign tent of the same era,
	complete with shade canopy and transportable field
	furniture. "Q" indicates two such chairs with a small
	table which holds a pair of tall, cool drinks.

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			Join me, Riker. A good game
			needs rules and planning...

	Riker hesitates.

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
				(continuing)
			Wasn't it your own Hartley who
			said "Nothing reveals humanity
			so well as the games it plays?"
				(smiles; nods)
			Almost right. Actually, you
			reveal yourselves best in how you
			play.

	Data has moved in next to Riker and speaks quietly.

					DATA
			Sir, what he has in mind could
			provide us with vital information.

	Riker nods, moves toward the campaign tent. "Q" sits,
	waves invitingly toward the empty seat. He also picks
	up one of the tall drinks and WE CAN HEAR ICE CLINKING
	in it.

22   RIKER AND "Q"

	as Riker inspects the remaining drink without sitting
	yet, picks it up and looks a question toward Troi.

					TROI
				(registering surprise)
			What I sense is... pleasure, sir.

	Riker sips the drink, registers surprise too.

					RIKER
			Incredible. I was just thinking
			of an old-fashioned lemonade...

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT ONE        12.

22   CONTINUED:

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			... and so it became that. An
			excellent thirst quencher; it
			becomes quite hot out on this
			plane.

					RIKER
			What about my people?

	"Q" makes a waving gesture.

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			Whatever they want, of course!

23   ANGLE INCLUDING OTHERS

	REACTING to the fact they suddenly have tall drinks
	of various colored liquids in their hands. Hesitantly,
	a couple of them sip. Worf, however, tilts his glass
	pouring the contents out onto the sand. Strangely,
	this pleases "Q"'s sense of humor.

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			The rigid Klingon code! Drink
			not with thine enemy!
				(to Riker)
			Which explains something of why
			you defeated them.

					RIKER
			Still arguing the human past?
			Perhaps you're not that original.

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			Au contraire! It is the human
			future that now intrigues us... and
			should concern you most. Of all
			species, yours cannot abide
			stagnation... change is at the
			heart of what you are. But
			change into what? That's the
			question!

					DATA
			That is what humans call a truism.

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
				(annoyed)
			Meaning "hardly original"...

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT ONE        13.

23   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
				(hint of humor)
			You're the one who said it. And
			while we're at it...
				(indicating "Q"'s
				 uniform, tent)
			... this isn't part of any human
			future...

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			True, I borrowed this from your
			stodgy captain's mind. It is
			dressing for the game we will play
			and games require boundaries,
			dangers, rewards, familiar
			settings, that sort of thing.

	Riker looks over "Q"'s uniform, the tent, etc.

					RIKER
			It's not that familiar to me...
				(calls)
			Data?

					DATA
				(stepping in)
			It is from Europe's Napoleonic
			Era, sir, late eighteenth, early
			nineteenth centuries. This is
			a campaign headquarters tent, his
			uniform is that of a French Army
			marshal, the...

					RIKER
				(to "Q")
			And a marshal outranks even an
			admiral...

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			Would I go from a Starfleet
			admiral to anything less?

					RIKER
				(hint of a smile now)
			Of course, you wouldn't.
				(indicates)
			But Napoleonic equipment on an
			alien planet with dual suns... ?

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT ONE        14.

23   CONTINUED: (2)

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			As you've said, I'm nothing if
			not imaginative. And the game
			should reflect that. Shall it
			be a test of strength?
			Meaningless, since you have none.
			A test of intelligence? Equally
			meaningless...
				(eyeing Riker)
			A game needs risk... Something
			to win; something to lose.

					RIKER
			If we must play a game, what would
			we win?

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			The greatest possible future you
			can imagine!
				(beat; thinking)
			Which, of course, requires
			something totally disastrous if
			you lose!
				(thinking again)
			The point of this game will be
			whether any of you can stay
			alive.

24   EMPHASIZING TASHA AND WORF (OPTICAL)

	As the others react, Worf responds:

					WORF
			If your "game" is fair, we will.

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			For shame, Lieutenant Worf.
			Fairness is a human concept.
				(to Riker)
			Think imaginatively! It will,
			in fact, be completely unfair...

					TASHA
			You've gone too far.

	She is drawing her phaser but "Q" is pointing his
	finger at her just as fast.

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			Game penalty!

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT ONE        15.

24   CONTINUED:

	Visible even in this bright desert setting, a FLASH
	OF LIGHT in which Tasha DISAPPEARS. Reacting, Riker
	turns angrily to "Q".

					RIKER
			Where is she, "Q"? You can forget
			your game if...

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			To use a twentieth century term,
			Commander, she's in a... a "penalty
			box." Where she can remain
			unharmed unless one of you merits
			a penalty.
				(smiles)
			Unfortunately, there is only one
			penalty box. If any of you should
			be sent there... dear Tasha must
			give up the box to you.

					GEORDI
			And... where does she go?

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
				(to Geordi)
			Into "nothingness."
				(looking to the Others,
				 individually)
			I entreat you to carefully obey
			the rules of the game. The only
			one who can destroy your Tasha
			now... is you.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT TWO        16.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

25   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	but not in orbit of a planet. Instead, it seems to
	be traveling somewhere at what we know as normal warp
	speed. MUSIC only.

26   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Picard at a turbolift, touches the door, without
	effect. Then he tries to bang it.

					PICARD
			Turbolift Control, do you read?
			This is the captain.

	No response. Picard CROSSES to his bridge position,
	touches his panel controls.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Engineering, this is the bridge.

	No response.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Security -- this is the Captain.

	Again -- nothing.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Computer?
				(waits)
			Computer on!

	The computer still doesn't respond. He's cut off.
	Isolated. Picard touches his insignia.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Captain's log...

	The SOUND is wrong, indicating that:

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT TWO        17.

26   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Damn... I can't even make a log
			entry.

					TASHA (O.S.)
			I wish I could help you, Captain.

27   WIDER ANGLE

	as Picard, startled, whirls toward the VOICE. It is
	Tasha who stands at her familiar position at security.
	Unusually for Tasha, she is showing some strain over what
	has been happening.

					PICARD
			What... what are you doing here?

					TASHA
			I... well, this sounds strange,
			but... I'm in the penalty box.

					PICARD
			You're what?!

					TASHA
				(tightly)
			In "Q"'s penalty box. As I said,
			it sounds strange but it
			definitely isn't. Somehow I know
			that one more penalty... by me or
			anyone... and I'm gone.

	Curious and concerned, Picard moves toward her.

					PICARD
			Gone?

					TASHA
				(distraught)
			Please do not keep reminding
			me...

					PICARD
			I'm sorry...

					TASHA
				(instantly)
			No, I'm sorry. It's so
			frustrating to be controlled like
			this...

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT TWO        18.

27   CONTINUED:

	There's a half-SOB in the ordinarily strong and
	controlled VOICE and Picard REACTS to it.

					PICARD
			Lieutenant...Tasha... it's all
			right...

					TASHA
				(astonished and angry)
			What the hell am I doing? Crying?

					PICARD
			Don't worry. There's a new ship's
			standing order.
				(smiles)
			When in a penalty box, some tears
			are permitted.

	Tasha looks up warmly, comforted by this.

					TASHA
			Captain... if you weren't a
			captain...

					"Q" (MARSHAL) (O.S.)
				(interrupting)
			Consorting with lower rank
			females, Captain?

28   ANGLE TO INCLUDE "Q"

	seated in the Captain's Command position. He smiles,
	enjoys having startled Picard this way.

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			Destructive to discipline, they
			say. But you are, after all, only
			human, eh?

	Picard has made his way down to the Command level where
	he now looks "Q" and the uniform over.

					PICARD
			A marshal of France? Ridiculous!

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			One takes what jobs he can get.
			For example, your log entries.
					(MORE)

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT TWO        19.

28   CONTINUED:

					"Q" (Cont'd)
				(looks up)
			Starship log, stardate today...
			This is "Q", speaking for Captain
			Jean-Luc Picard, who we consider
			too bound by Starfleet custom and
			tradition to be useful in this
			activity.

					PICARD
			But who proved himself a
			resourceful opponent when he
			defeated you at Farpoint.

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
				(with "log" tone again)
			The Enterprise is now helpless,
			stuck like an Earth insect in
			amber while its bridge crew plays
			out a game whose real intent...
				(aiming this at Picard)
			... is to test if their first
			officer is worthy of the greatest
			gift the "Q" can offer.

	Picard takes a long moment to absorb this, then he
	nods.

					PICARD
			So, you're taking on Riker this
			time.
				(smiles)
			Excellent! He'll defeat you just
			as I did!

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			A wager on that, Captain? Your
			command of this starship
			against... ?

					PICARD
			Against your staying out of
			humanity's path... forever! Done?

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			Done!
				(smiles)
			And you've already lost, Picard.
			You see, Riker is to be offered
			something impossible to reject.

	"Q" storms toward the Ready Room.

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT TWO        20.

29   EXT. THE PLANET

	All but Worf are there, studying a point on the distant
	terrain.

					RIKER
			Geordi, can you still see Worf?

					GEORDI
				(nods)
			I'd see the freckles on his nose,
			if he had them, sir. He's at the
			third ridge now...

					TROI
			The third ridge... ?

					GEORDI
			Moving well.
				(distracted)
			Oh, oh!
				(peers)
			Good, he sees them. They look
			like sentries, sir.

30   EXT. THIRD RIDGE

	Worf -- the trained warrior -- approaches with caution.
	It is indeed a bivouac area. Worf can hear the unseen
	men SPEAKING IN FRENCH. He edges closer.

31   ANOTHER ANGLE

	Worf pushes through the rocks, FREEZES.

32   ROCKS - WORF'S POV

	Two sentries are walking a perimeter patrol. They are
	dressed as Bonapartist soldiers, carrying muskets.
	As they approach, WE SEE their uniforms look genuine
	enough... but then we make out their faces! Humanoid
	but with fearsome, fanged, unhuman features.

33   BIVOUAC AREA

	Worf reacts at this. Then he moves as close as he
	dares. Those in the camp appear to be preparing for
	a battle. But where human troops would be yelling,
	these soldiers are GROWLING, SNARLING. Over that, the
	CLATTER of caissons -- equipment being assembled.

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT TWO        21.

34   ANGLE ON WORF

	He hears a squad approaching -- slips back among the
	rocks and DISAPPEARS.

35   INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
	Picard comes to the door. "Q" is sitting in the chair
	with his back to Picard.

					PICARD
			"Q", listen to me. You seem to
			have some need of humans...

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			Or concern regarding them.

					PICARD
			Whichever it is, why try to solve
			it through this confrontation
			with us? Why not a simple direct
			explanation, a statement of what
			you seek? Why these games?

	"Q" turns and WE SEE he is holding Picard's complete
	works of William Shakespeare. He indicates the books.

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
			I'm surprised you have to ask when
			your human Shakespeare has
			already explained it so well.

					PICARD
			Indeed he did, "Q". But careful
			you don't depend too much on any
			single viewpoint he...

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
				(ignoring this;
				 interrupting)
			Why these games I require of you?
			A pity you're not familiar with
			the contents of your own library.
			Hear this, Picard, and reflect.
				(lifts book, quotes from
				 it)
			"All the galaxy's a stage, and... "

					PICARD
				(interrupts)
			"All the galaxy?" "All the
			world's a stage... "

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT TWO        22.

35   CONTINUED:

					"Q". (MARSHAL)
			Oh, you know that one? Then how
			about, "... Life's but a walking
			shadow, a poor player that struts
			and frets his hour upon the stage,
			and then is heard no more. It
			is a tale told by an idiot, full
			of sound and fury, signifying
			nothing."

					PICARD
			And so you say, how we respond
			to a game tells you more about
			us than our real life, a "tale
			told by an idiot."
				(still amused)
			Interesting, "Q".

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
				(lifts book)
			Shall I quote from Hamlet?

					PICARD
			No. I know Hamlet. And what
			he said with irony I prefer to
			say with conviction.
				(quoting)
			"What a piece of work is man!
			How noble in reason! How infinite
			in faculty. In form, in moving,
			how express and admirable. In
			action, how like an angel. In
			apprehension, how like a god... "

					"Q" (MARSHAL)
				(upset; interrupting)
			You don't really see your species
			like that?!

					PICARD
			I see us one day becoming that,
			"Q". Is that what concerns you?

	"Q" comes angrily to his feet, SLAMMING the volume down
	and DISAPPEARING in a FLASH. A startled and puzzled
	Picard watches him go, then turns to ponder the meaning
	of "Q"'s anger.

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT TWO        23.

36   EXT. PLANET

	The same plain. Riker, Troi and Data watch as Geordi
	scans the distant desert ridges.

					RIKER
			Can you still see Worf?

					GEORDI
				(shakes head)
			It's hard to keep him in sight,
			sir. But the soldiers there...
			they've formed a "skirmishing
			line," I think you'd call it... and
			they're headed this way.

					RIKER
			Carrying ancient powder and ball
			muskets?

					GEORDI
			That's what their weapons look
			like, sir.

					DATA
			Muskets are appropriate to the
			1790 - 1800 French army uniform.
				(shakes head)
			But it is hardly a "weapon" by our
			standards, sir. A lead ball
			propelled by gunpowder -- one-hundred
			meters at most with any accuracy...

					GEORDI
			Against phasers? Just one of our
			hand phasers could finish off
			an entire regiment of them.

					RIKER
			Except for one thing...
				(to Troi)
			That hardly sounds like "Q",
			giving us an advantage like that.
				(puzzling; then
				 REACTING)
			Unless...

37   SPECIAL EFFECT ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	Suspecting some kind of trap, Riker draws his own hand
	phaser. He checks its setting, aims it well away from
	everybody else... touches the trigger lightly for just
	an instant.

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT TWO        24.

37   CONTINUED:

	The PHASER SOUND precedes an EXPLOSION OF DUST AND DIRT
	at a point where Riker was aiming the phaser. It
	causes a hole at least the size of one caused by a
	howitzer shell.

38   ANOTHER ANGLE

	It also produces another effect -- the FORM of Worf,
	large phaser in hand, propelling itself INTO SCENE,
	rolling to a stop where the Klingon is aiming his
	phaser, seeking the away team's "assailant" which fired
	the phaser blast.

					WORF
				(growling it)
			DROP YOUR WEAPONS!

	He aims this way, then that, attempting quickly to spot
	who or whatever is menacing his friends.

					RIKER
				(exhibits hand phaser)
			I'm afraid it was me, Worf.
			Making certain our phasers still
			operate.

	Worf returns his own phaser.

					WORF
			A warrior's reaction.

					GEORDI
			Incredible, Worf! You came out
			of nowhere!

					RIKER
				(to Worf)
			Report. What did you find?

					WORF
			Sir... what they're wearing may
			be old Earth uniforms, but what's
			inside those uniforms isn't human
			at all. More like vicious animal
			things.

					GEORDI
			Oh, oh! Good old "Q". But how
			can even the most savage animal
			forms threaten us if they're armed
			with the equivalent of popguns?

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT TWO        25.

39   SPECIAL EFFECTS ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	Geordi, who has been scanning the terrain, now turns
	to Riker.

					GEORDI
			They're moving in fast, sir.

40   ANGLE EMPHASIZING RIKER

	Data's back is to him.

					RIKER
			Data, if you've got a theory on
			what's happening...

	Data's FORM turns, REVEALING IT IS NOT DATA AT ALL,
	BUT "Q" -- and using his own VOICE despite the Data
	clothing.

					"Q" (DATA)
			Think fast, Commander Riker.
				(REACTING; pointing)
			And move fast... !

	"Q" is pointing at two of the fierce-looking Animal
	Things in French uniform that have moved INTO SIGHT,
	aiming their "muskets" at Geordi who jumps behind a
	rock. TWO PHASER BLASTS. The first hits a rock near
	Geordi. The second BLASTS A BROAD FURROW in the
	desert floor.

					RIKER
			That's no "musket!"

41   ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	"Q" is REACTING to the uniformed Animal Things seeing
	them now, swinging its weapon in their direction.
	Riker spins, FIRES HIS PHASER, DEMATERIALIZING both
	his opponents.

					RIKER
				(anxiously)
			Troi, Geordi, Worf... !

	"Q" pulls him down as:

					"Q" (DATA)
			You have only one chance to save
			them, now. Send them to your
			ship!

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT TWO        26.

41   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			You'll let me beam them?

					"Q" (DATA)
				(shakes head)
			Send them the same way as I do.
			I've given you that power.

	Geordi comes scrambling INTO VIEW.

					"Q" (DATA)
				(continuing)
			Do you understand? I've given
			you the power of the "Q".
				(demonstrates with
				 sweeping gesture)
			Use it!

	Worf and Troi come INTO VIEW too.

42   ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	Riker becomes aware of someone scrambling toward him.
	It's Data, the real Data using his own body. "Q" has
	gone. CAMERA JIGGLES WITH ANOTHER MAJOR PHASER HIT.

					"Q" (V.O.)
				(echo chamber)
			Use your power!

	With little other choice, Riker makes a hand gesture --
	causing FLASHES OF BLINDING LIGHT in which
	Data, Geordi, Troi and Worf DISAPPEAR. On Riker's
	stunned expression:

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

       STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT THREE       27.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

43   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	The bridge is empty -- the displays and readouts are
	still frozen. The ambient noise is still absent. SLOW
	PUSH IN to Tasha sitting on the bench beside Riker's
	position. Head in hands, she stares at the floor.
	Suddenly the room noise changes and on the SOUND her
	head comes up.

44   WIDER ANGLE ON THE BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	The display screens are alive. All the bridge's
	ambient SOUNDS are back. Tasha looks over to Picard's
	Ready Room.

45   READY ROOM DOOR

	Picard STEPS OUT. He too has heard the change. He
	walks to his Command position.

					PICARD
			Take the Conn, Lieutenant.

	Tasha rises.

46   ANGLE ON PICARD

	He sits and touches his arm-panel.

					PICARD
			Engineering -- this is the bridge.

					ENGINEER'S COM VOICE
			Engineering here, sir.

					PICARD
			Are all systems back on line?

					ENGINEER'S COM VOICE
			Back on line, sir? They were
			never off.

47   ANGLE ON TASHA

	at the Conn position.

       STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT THREE       28.

47   CONTINUED:

					TASHA
			Captain, you had better look at
			this.

	Picard walks over to Tasha.

48   ANGLE ON TASHA AND PICARD

	He looks at the readout.

					TASHA
			There has been no interruption
			in course or speed. Both have
			remained constant. Captain -- it's
			as though we never stopped.

	Picard straightens up.

					PICARD
			We never did. "Q" suspended time.

49   WIDE ANGLE - MAIN BRIDGE

	FLASHES OF LIGHT and the members of the bridge crew
	REAPPEAR except for Riker. Alive and unharmed.

50   INTERCUT ANGLES OF CREW

	All of them are naturally disoriented -- the shock of
	the experience cannot be instantly thrown off.

					TASHA
			Where's Commander Riker?

	They look around.

					WORF
			He was with us.

					GEORDI
			He must still be on the planet.
				(to Picard)
			We were under attack by... by
			animal things...

					PICARD
			Animal things?

       STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT THREE       29.

50   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Animal things in uniform, sir...
				(quails at Picard's
				 expression)
			Which I think Data could probably
			explain better, sir.

	As Picard turns to Data, the android decides he wants
	no part of this.

					DATA
			You may find it aesthetically
			displeasing, sir. I could just
			file a computer report on that...

					TROI
				(interrupting)
			Sir, the important thing right
			now is why is Commander Riker
			missing?

					PICARD
			Understood, Counselor, but Will
			is almost certainly safe...
				(troubled)
			... at least "safe" in a physical
			sense. "Q" has an interest in
			him... in fact, "Q"'s entire visit
			has something to do with our
			first officer.

					DATA
			And the reason for that, sir... ?

					PICARD
			I wish I knew. "Q" became
			interested in him at Farpoint.
				(shakes head)
			I've no idea what it means.
				(to the others)
			Meanwhile, we must proceed with our
			rescue mission...

51
thru	OMITTED
52

53   EXT. DESERT

	Empty -- no Riker. But there are footprints in the sand
	indicating a direction toward which is a jagged rock
	formation on the otherwise unbroken sandscape.

       STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT THREE       30.

54   ANGLE AT ROCK FORMATION

	REVEALING Riker who has managed to find himself a
	little shade. He sits, leans back against a rock.
	Then, starts to laugh. It is a deep, satisfying laugh
	from one who has just been let in on a cosmic joke.

					"Q" (O.S.)
			Something amuses you?

	Riker looks up.

55   ANGLE UP ON "Q" - RIKER'S POV (OPTICAL)

	Standing on a ledge above Riker, heavily back-lit by
	the two suns. (If possible, formed here by two
	brightly illuminated OUT-OF-FOCUS balls as described
	earlier.) We'll see more clearly in a moment also that
	"Q" wears rank and uniform identical to Riker's.

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
			Perhaps you would share the joke
			with me?

56   ANGLE ON RIKER

	as "Q" moves down into TWO SHOT. Riker eyes "Q" for
	a long beat, then:

					RIKER
			The joke is you, you silly son
			of a bitch.

	"Q" glares at Riker who now seems confident and at ease
	about something.

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
			Strange gratitude from one who
			has been granted a gift beyond
			any human dream. How can you not
			appreciate being able to send your
			friends back to their ship...
				(the sweeping gesture)
			... or sending the soldiers back to
			the "nothingness" from which they
			came?

	"Q" takes a beat, sits on a piece of rock next to
	Riker, leans toward him confidentially.

       STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT THREE       31.

56   CONTINUED:

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
				(continuing)
			Certainly, you understand that
			at this moment you can send
			yourself back to your ship... or
			to Earth, or change your shape
			and become anything else you
			want to be...

					RIKER
				(interrupting;
				 strongly)
			What do you need, "Q"?

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
			"Need?"

					RIKER
			You want something from us, "Q".
			Desperately! What is it?

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
			Want something from you foolish,
			fragile, non-entities? Careful,
			Riker, you're beginning to sound
			like your captain.

					RIKER
				(grins)
			Now that's a compliment, "Q".
			But it's not an answer.

	Stung by this, "Q" comes to his feet, raising a hand
	as if to make the gesture we've seen before... finds
	Riker still smiling up at him. He turns, walks angrily
	a few steps away, then a few back as if bringing his
	anger under control.

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
				(clipped; angry)
			Riker... we have tried to offer
			you a gift beyond all other
			gifts... !

					RIKER
			... Out of the "goodness" of your
			heart?

	They exchange looks for a long, long moment. Then "Q"
	seats himself again, and finally:

       STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT THREE       32.

56   CONTINUED: (2)

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
			After Farpoint, I returned to
			where we exist... the "Q
			Continuum."

					RIKER
			Which means exactly what?

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
				(trace of annoyance)
			The limitless dimensions of the
			galaxy in which we exist. We
			could hardly be capable of acting
			in ways that seem so astonishing
			to you... if we were limited to
			the primitive dimensions in which
			you live, dimensions which would
			make us prisoners of time and
			space.

					RIKER
				(beat; absorbing this)
			What do you mean by we?

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
				(more annoyance)
			In our Continuum the terms we
			and I mean much the same.

					RIKER
			I don't understand...

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
			Of course you don't, and you never
			will until you become one of us.

					RIKER
				(reacting)
			Until?... Would you mind going
			over that again?

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
				(nods)
			If you'll stop interrupting me.
			This really isn't the time to
			teach you the true nature of the
			universe.
					(MORE)

       STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT THREE       33.

56   CONTINUED: (3)

					"Q" (Cont'd)
				(leans in again)
			At Farpoint, we saw you as savages
			only, and thought to frighten you
			into scurrying back to your
			system. We discovered instead,
			that you are an unusual creature
			in your own limited ways... ways
			which in time may not be so
			limited.

					RIKER
				(nods)
			We're growing. Something about
			us compels us to learn,
			explore...

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
				(nods)
			The human compulsion. And,
			unfortunately, for us, a force
			that will grow stronger century
			after century, eon after eon...

					RIKER
			Eons! Have you any idea how far
			we'll advance?

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
			Perhaps in a future you cannot
			yet conceive... even beyond us.
			And so, we must know more about
			the human condition. We have
			selected you, Riker, to become
			part of the "Q"... to bring that
			human need and hunger to us so
			that we may understand it.

					RIKER
				(ponders, then)
			I... suppose you mean that as a
			compliment, "Q"... or maybe it's
			my limited mind...
				(stands)
			... but... to become part of you?!
			I don't even like you!

	"Q" looks at Riker, seeming amused.

       STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT THREE       34.

56   CONTINUED: (4)

					"Q" (COMMANDER)
			You're going to miss me!

	"Q" makes the sweeping gesture and it produces the
	familiar BLINDING LIGHT FLASH in which "Q" DISAPPEARS.
	And almost immediately, the startled VOICES of the
	bridge crew, with Riker whirling in that direction:

					TROI
			Oh, no!

					GEORDI
			Come on, not again!

57   OMITTED

58   GROUP SHOT

	where the entire bridge crew, including Picard and
	WESLEY, find themselves facing a line of the French
	uniformed "animal soldiers," who menace the Enterprise
	people, ATTACHING LONG AND DEADLY-LOOKING BAYONETS ONTO
	THEIR MUSKETS, clearly intending to use them.

					WESLEY
				(totally confused)
			What's happening, Commander Riker?
			I was sitting in school...

					TASHA
				(interrupting)
			My phaser's gone. Worf, are you
			armed?

	Worf checks, shakes his head, but nevertheless he and
	Tasha move to place themselves between the bridge crew
	and the danger. Picard has moved quickly to Riker.

					PICARD
			Where is "Q"? If you have any
			answer to this, Number One...

	Interrupted by an animal soldier lifting a bugle,
	blowing the OLD FRENCH ATTACK CALL. A SNARL AND ROAR
	from an animal soldier with sergeant's stripes and the
	line of soldiers advance, bayonets leveled at the
	bridge crew.

       STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT THREE       35.

59   SPECIAL EFFECTS ANGLE ON WORF

	moving forward to take on the entire attack line. He
	moves fast, dodges a bayonet, trips, then a second
	animal soldier slashes him in the back with a bayonet,
	and Worf goes down in a SPURT OF RED BLOOD.

60   SPECIAL EFFECT ANGLE ON WESLEY

	as he FREEZES, shocked.

					WESLEY
			Worf!

	Then, the animal soldier who got Worf, pivots fast,
	leaps at Wesley... and skewers the boy through the
	middle.

61   ANGLE ON RIKER

	Shocked, wildly angered!

					RIKER
			NO! DAMN IT, DAMN IT TO HELL... !

	He makes the sweeping gesture he's learned.

62   WIDE ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	as Riker's gesture creates a smaller version of the
	METALLIC GRID. IT APPEARS between where the bridge
	Crew has instinctively retreated and the advancing line
	of animal soldiers, blocking them completely. Picard
	REACTS strongly to what Riker just did.

					PICARD
			Riker, you... you did that?!

					RIKER
			And that's not all!!

	Grimly, angrily, Riker makes the sweeping gesture even
	more strongly, and the ENTIRE SCENE IS FILLED WITH
	BLINDING LIGHT.

63   INT. MAIN BRIDGE - TIGHT ANGLE ON WESLEY (OPTICAL)

	Wesley APPEARS, suddenly feeling at his torso where
	he was just stabbed. He's no longer hurt. Worf ENTERS
	SHOT, also whole in body.

       STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT THREE       36.

64   ANOTHER ANGLE - INCLUDING PICARD AND OTHERS

	Picard looking at Riker almost disbelievingly.

					PICARD
			That grid, their wounds... only
			the "Q" could do that...

	He cuts off his words, becoming aware of the formidable
	expression Riker's face.

									FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FOUR        37.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

65   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	with the Disaster Planet in far distance ahead of the
	starship -- a small ball seen from here.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, stardate 41591.4.
			Twelve minutes out from Quadra
			Sigma III where the survivors of
			an underground disaster
			desperately need our help. Aboard
			the Enterprise...

66   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Riker, Troi, Data, Geordi, Tasha and Worf at their
	positions. Riker's features showing the strain of
	what has happened, he makes little eye-contact with
	the bridge crew and they appear equally uncertain of
	how to handle him.

					PICARD (V.O.)
				(continuing)
			... First Officer William T. Riker
			needs help nearly as badly. But
			this is a subject so far out of
			my experience... out of any human's
			experience.

	Riker has made for the captain's Ready Room, EXITS into
	it.

67   INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM

	Riker CROSSING IN and coming to a halt in front of
	Picard's desk. Picard waves him to a seat, almost
	angrily.

					PICARD
			Will, how the hell do I advise
			you what to do?!

	Riker looks up sharply at the angry tone... then
	understands it, nods.

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FOUR        38.

67   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			No one has ever offered to
			turn you into "God?"

					PICARD
				(snaps)
			Don't joke with me! What the
			"Q" has offered you has got to
			be close to "immortality," Will.
			They're not lying about
			controlling space and time; we've
			seen it in what they can do.
			But...

					RIKER
			You've also seen it in what I can
			do.

	Picard leans across his desk toward Riker, intent.

					PICARD
			Of all things, that troubles me
			most, Will. Are you strong enough
			to refuse to use that power?

					RIKER
			Certainly!

					PICARD
			No matter how tempted? No matter
			how difficult "Q" makes it?

					RIKER
				(beat; then firmly)
			You have my word.

					DATA'S COM VOICE
			In orbit of Quadra Sigma III, sir.
			Ready to beam down rescue team
			to underground emergency area.

	Picard and Riker get quickly to their feet, EXIT.

68
thru	OMITTED
69

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FOUR        39.

70   INT. PLANET DISASTER AREA

	The Away Reserve Team MATERIALIZES. They are in a
	passageway which has been severely damaged by
	explosions. Water SPRAYS from the ceiling and is
	already ankle deep on the floor. Data scans the area
	with his tricorder.

					DATA
			This way.

	They push ahead.

71   ANOTHER ANGLE - CORRIDOR

	as they ARRIVE at a doorway. The door has been jammed
	by the explosion. Data steps over and with his great
	strength - rips the door off his hinges and clears the
	opening.

	The survivors are here. ABOUT A DOZEN of them, huddled
	together on the far side. Beverly and her teams wade
	through the water to them.

72   ANGLE ON BEVERLY AND SURVIVORS

	As she kneels beside an injured WOMAN.

					BEVERLY
			You are going to be all right,
			now.

					RIKER
			Where are the others?

	The Woman shakes her head.

					WOMAN
			Gone. It's just us.

					GEORDI
				(urgent)
			Commander!

	Riker turns.

73   ANGLE ON GEORDI

	CAMERA MOVES IN TO E.C.U. Geordi is staring at a pile
	of rubble.

					GEORDI
			There's someone there!

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FOUR        40.

74
thru	OMITTED
75

76   ANGLE ON DATA

	With great strength he moves huge rocks with
	remarkable rapidity.

77   ANGLE ON GEORDI AND RIKER

	They stand and look for a beat, then:

78   ANGLE ON DATA

	as he lifts and carries the limp body of a child.

79   ANOTHER ANGLE

	Beverly rushes over and while Data holds the child,
	she quickly examines him.

80   ANGLE ON BEVERLY AND CHILD

	From her expression it is clear the child is dead.
	All of her skill will not help.

					BEVERLY
			She's dead. If we'd only gotten
			here a little sooner... !

81   ANGLE ON RIKER

	He steps closer. A dead child. A moment of truth.

					DATA
			Sir, if you indeed have "Q"'s
			power...

82   OMITTED

83   ANGLE ON RIKER

	He is fighting his emotions.

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FOUR        41.

84   ANGLE INCLUDING BEVERLY

	Puzzled.

					BEVERLY
			I don't understand. Can you
			bring her back to life?

					RIKER
				(long beat)
			No!

84A  EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	in orbit.

85
thru	OMITTED
87

88   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Riker, followed by Data and Geordi, EXIT the turbolift.
	Riker CROSSES to Picard. Troi is watching Riker with
	such intensity she doesn't seem to be breathing.

					RIKER
			As soon as it's convenient
			Captain, I insist on a meeting
			with you and your staff.

	There is about Riker now a little of the force, the
	power, the arrogance of "Q". Modified by the man
	himself -- but he is definitely carrying himself with
	more presence.

89   ANGLE ON PICARD

	It's as though he's been expecting this since the
	incident with "Q".

90   ANOTHER ANGLE RIKER AND PICARD

	The others are watching this exchange, curious about
	how Picard will respond.

					PICARD
			As soon as we are secure from the
			rescue operation, we'll meet in
			the Conference Room.

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FOUR        42.

90   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Thank you.

	Riker turns, stalks to the turbolift. Troi gives him
	a look of apprehension.

					PICARD
			Counselor?

					TROI
			Power -- immense. Frightening.
			I can't read the intent -- but
			there is terrible anger in him.

	Off Picard's reaction:

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FIVE        43.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

91   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Riker is already there, sits brooding. Picard ENTERS
	with Data, Troi, Geordi, Tasha and Worf. As Picard
	seats himself:

					PICARD
			We'll confer on the bridge here
			if no one...

	Without looking in that direction, Riker gestures
	Picard to be silent and, surprised, Picard hesitates
	during which Riker turns toward the others.

					RIKER
			The bridge is fine since I've
			called the entire staff...

					PICARD
				(interrupting)
			Correction, Number One; knowing
			the decision you face, I've
			permitted you this gathering.

	Riker seems genuinely amused by Picard's correction,
	as if yielding to a bright but headstrong child. Riker
	nods, uses a gentle tone.

					RIKER
			Of course, Jean-Luc.

	Riker looks up startled to see Beverly and Wesley ENTER
	bridge from the turbolift.

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			This meeting isn't for you,
			Wesley!

					WESLEY
			Why not, sir? You helped make
			me a bridge officer...
				(corrects self)
			... an acting ensign.

	Looking from one to the other.

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FOUR        44.

91   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			All right, he stays. The first
			thing he'll hear is... because I've
			been given unusual powers, I'm
			not suddenly a monster. Except
			for those abilities, and I don't
			yet know how far they go... I'm
			the same William T. Riker you've
			always known.

	There's a long silence, no one speaking up.

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			Well? Everyone still looks
			uncomfortable.

					PICARD
			Perhaps we're all remembering the
			old saying... "power corrupts... "

					RIKER
			... "and absolute power corrupts
			absolutely." Do you believe I
			haven't thought of that, Jean-Luc?

					PICARD
			And have you noticed that you and
			I are now on a first-name basis?

	A flicker of surprise on Riker's features indicates
	he really hasn't.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Will, something has happened to
			you already...

					RIKER
			In what way? Haven't you seen
			how much I've regretted not saving
			that child? Captain, using the
			"Q" power to save her might not
			have been wrong!
				(to bridge crew)
			No more than it was wrong to save
			the rest of you from those soldier
			things.

					PICARD
			Let's keep in mind that particular
			danger was invented by "Q".

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FIVE        45.

91   CONTINUED: (2)

					TROI
			What we represent to the "Q",
			Will, are lowly animals, tormented
			into performing for their
			amusement...

					RIKER
			Actually, they think highly of
			us, Troi. We have a quality
			of... of growth which they
			admire...

					GEORDI
			Or fear?

					PICARD
			Number One, we've learned that
			the "Q" power does not admire
			us... "Q" has muddled your mind
			somehow.

					RIKER
			It's your mind that troubles me,
			Captain. Don't you understand
			his incredible gift to me?

					"Q" (BROTHER) (O.S.)
			Are these truly your "friends,"
			Brother?

92   ANOTHER ANGLE

	All whirl toward the VOICE. It comes from a far corner
	of the bridge where a Figure stands with its back to
	us. "Q" turns now, revealing himself draped in what
	is recognizable even in this century as the somber
	robes of something like the Franciscan Holy Order --
	and "Q" is playing it to the hilt with gentle voice,
	kindliness shining from his face, fingers pointed
	together as in prayer. He CROSSES IN to stand with
	Riker, head bowed in humility.

					"Q" (BROTHER)
			Let us pray for understanding,
			for compassion, for...

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FIVE        46.

92   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
				(moving to "Q")
			Let us do no such damned thing!
				(pulls at "Q"'s robes)
			What is this need of yours for
			costumes? Have you no identity
			of your own?

					"Q" (BROTHER)
				(softly; gently)
			I come in search of truth.

	The expression on Riker's face reveals that he is
	growing somewhat uncomfortable with this continuation
	of masquerade.

					PICARD
			You come in search of what
			humanity is!

	"Q" has withdrawn a large cross symbol from his robes
	as if warding off Picard's words.

					"Q" (BROTHER)
			I forgive your blasphemy...

					PICARD
				(indicates "Q" to Riker)
			Can't you see it, Number One?
			He's nothing but a flim-flam man!
			That's what he's been since his
			first appearance at Farpoint!

					WORF
				(to Data)
			Flim-flam?

					"Q" (BROTHER)
				(to Picard)
			You offer Riker jealousy! What
			I offer him is clearly beyond your
			comprehension!
				(turning to the others
				 one by one)
			How can you claim friendship for
			Riker while obstructing his way
			to the greatest adventure ever
			offered a human?!

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FIVE        47.

92   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
				(alerted)
			"Obstruct him?" Then it's not
			yet certain? He's not yet
			committed?

					"Q" (BROTHER)
				(quickly, loudly;
				overlapping last line)
			The truly evil part of this is
			your jealousy, Captain.
				(to Riker)
			You love each one of your people!
			Demonstrate it! You have the
			power to leave each of them with
			a gift proving your affection.

	Riker isn't sure of this. He looks to Picard
	inquiringly, but speaks a bit thickly at times.

					RIKER
			There'd be no... harm, would there,
			if I, if I gave them something
			I know they'd like?

	Picard's next few expressions are a study in a change
	of decision. His first instinct is to recommend
	against it... and he almost voices it. But then, Picard
	begins to suspect that this may, in fact, give Riker
	a chance to understand the human effect of near-godlike
	power.

					"Q" (BROTHER)
			How touching. A plea to his
			former captain.
				(watching Picard)
			"May I please give some happiness
			to my friends, sir? Please sir?"

					PICARD
				(beat)
			In fact... I authorize and support
			that idea, Riker.
				(to the crew)
			And please cooperate with him,
			if you wish.

					TROI
				(troubled; cautioning)
			Are you certain, sir? If...

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FIVE        48.

92   CONTINUED: (3)

					PICARD
			I'm quite certain, Counselor.
				(to Riker)
			By all means, demonstrate your
			gifts of affection.

	Troi is clearly still nervous about this. Data too.

					"Q" (BROTHER)
				(eyeing Picard)
			Remarkable! He rises now above
			jealousy.

93   ANGLE EMPHASIZING RIKER

	turning to his friends.

					RIKER
			Don't be frightened. There is
			no way I could harm any one of
			you. Shall I guess your dreams?

					BEVERLY
				(quickly)
			Leave now, Wesley!

					RIKER
			No! Wesley, I may know best of
			all.
				(smiles at Wesley)
			Our friendship, our long talks...

					BEVERLY
			No, please... !

94   EMPHASIZING WESLEY AND RIKER (OPTICAL)

					RIKER
				(to Wesley)
			Have your favorite wish, my young
			friend!

	With a LIGHT FLASH, "WESLEY" becomes a handsome young
	Starfleet officer of about 25 years.

        STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FIVE        49.

95   INTERCUT OTHERS

	Their REACTIONS. Their surprise is complete. On a
	very intimate level that concerns themselves, this
	seems godlike power they are witnessing. Picard, on
	the other hand, seems to be analyzing, measuring, what
	is happening.

					GEORDI
			Hey Wes, you've grown into a very
			good looking guy!

	Tasha gives a "definitely" to that sentiment. Troi
	is concerned about Beverly who seems stunned as she
	walks nearer her son, scrutinizing him closely. Data
	gives Picard a puzzled "what are you up to" look.
	Picard appears to be holding his breath as he
	anticipates further developments.

96   ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	Riker is eyeing Data now.

					RIKER
			Data...

					DATA
				(forcefully shaking
				 head)
			No!

					RIKER
			It's what you've always wanted,
			Data to become human!

	Data almost says "yes," but then:

					DATA
			Yes, sir, that is true. But I
			never wanted to compound one
			illusion with another. It might
			seem real to "Q" -- even you,
			sir... but it would not be so to
			me. Was it not one of the
			Captain's favorite authors who
			wrote, "This above all, to thine
			own self be true?"
				(beat)
			Sorry, Commander, I must decline.

	Riker turns to Geordi. As he moves to him and removes
	the VISOR, unobtrusively handing it to Geordi:

            STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FIVE            50.

96   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Well, my friend, I know what you
			want. Welcome to the wonderful
			world of vision.

	Geordi looks around in awe. His eyes come to rest on
	Tasha.

					GEORDI
			You're as beautiful as I imagined,
			and more.

					RIKER
			Then we can throw the VISOR away?

	Geordi slowly replaces the VISOR over his eyes.

					GEORDI
			I think not, sir. The price is
			a little high for me. I don't
			like who I would have to thank.
			I can still steer the ship with
			this.

97   ANGLE EMPHASIZING WESLEY AND BEVERLY

	as Beverly appraises the new form of her son.

					BEVERLY
			If you accept this new you,
			Wesley, you'll lose wonderful
			times, so many important
			experiences...

98   EMPHASIZING WORF (OPTICAL)

	as Riker moves to inspect him in turn.

					RIKER
			And Worf, who wants nothing...

					WORF
			Except honor and my duty
			fulfilled.

					RIKER
				(interrupting)
			Proud warrior Worf, without a
			single tie to his own kind...

            STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FIVE            51.

98   CONTINUED:

	In a LIGHT FLASH, it's not Worf who changes but someone
	else who APPEARS at his feet -- a Klingon warrioress.
	Her eyes flash as she looks up at her man Worf, an arm
	encircles him at the knees -- her other arm holds a
	Klingon weapon -- a kligat -- as she looks around, sees
	nothing but sliens. Then moving with surprising speed,
	she comes to her feet and lashes out with her weapon
	at Troi, who is the person nearest. Worf moves quickly
	too, takes the blow intended for Troi, SLAMS the
	warrioress down. In Klingon tradition, she flattens
	herself to the floor and crawls, SNARLING to embrace
	Worf's feet.

					WORF
				(whirling to Riker)
			No! She is from a world now alien
			to me. I have no place in my life
			for this now!

99   ANGLE ON WESLEY

	moving to Riker. His voice is that of an adult male.

					WESLEY
			Mister Riker...
				(shakes head)
			... it's too soon for this...

					RIKER
			If it's because your mother
			objects...

					WESLEY
			No, I'd just like to get there
			on my own. Honest!

	Picard is now looking very pleased... both with himself
	for estimating this correctly, and with his people for
	their common sense. Riker sees and understands.

					RIKER
			How did you know, sir? I feel
			like such... such an idiot!

					PICARD
			Quite right, you should!

					RIKER
			But it was... such a pleasure to
			have been able to do those things.

            STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FIVE            52.

99   CONTINUED:

	As "Q" PASSES, Picard blocks his path.

					PICARD
			It's all over "Q". You have no
			further business here.

					"Q" (BROTHER)
			Human, you have just destroyed
			yourself... !

					PICARD
			But only after you've paid off
			your wager, "Q".

					"Q" (BROTHER)
			I recall no wager!

					PICARD
			I'm sure your fellow "Q" remember
			you agreed to never trouble our
			species again. Just as they're
			aware you've failed to tempt a
			human to join you. So, "Q", I
			strongly suspect you have some
			explaining of your own to do...

	A sudden MAJOR FLASH OF BRILLIANT LIGHT... wiping out
	the entire SCENE for a moment. Then WE SEE REVEALED
	the bridge crew exactly as we saw them when this ACT
	began. "Q" is no longer there -- Wesley is fifteen
	again -- Worf is without his warrioress -- Tasha is
	the familiar security chief. And all are at their duty
	positions, with Wesley assisting Data at Ops, Beverly
	standing near Picard.

100  ANOTHER ANGLE EMPHASIZING PICARD

	Everyone is speechless. Then, Picard breaks the
	silence.

					PICARD
			Extraordinary! "Q" sought to
			discover the distinguishing
			characteristic of humanity and
			never learned what Coleridge
			said: "It must be the possession
			of a soul within us that makes
			the difference."

					GEORDI
			Sir... we show the same "hole" in
			time again. Our instruments say
			we've just now beamed up from our
			rescue mission.

            STAR TREK: Hide And "Q" - 9/25/87 - ACT FIVE            53.

100  CONTINUED:

					DATA
			How can the "Q" handle time and
			space so well, and us so badly?

					PICARD
			Perhaps we'll discover some day
			that time and space are simpler
			than the human equation.
				(toward Riker)
			No coordinates laid in, Number
			One?

					RIKER
			Uh... yes, sir.
				(toward Helm)
			You have my coordinates, Mister
			La Forge.

	Geordi gives Wesley a look, and a nod. Wesley calls
	it out eagerly.

					WESLEY
			Zero-zero-eight, Mark,
			three-three-nine, sir.

					PICARD
				(nods)
			Engage!

101  EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it MOVES AWAY from us.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END                             




