


                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                      "Peak Performance" 
                          #40272-147 
                              
                          Written by 
                         David Kemper 
                              
                          Directed by 
                        Robert Scheerer 


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 1989 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 This script is not for publication or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.

                   2ND REVISED FINAL DRAFT
 
                        APRIL 17, 1989
 

        STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                      "Peak Performance" 

                             CAST                               
                              
                PICARD             SIRNA KOLRAMI
                RIKER              
                DATA               
                PULASKI            FERENGI-TSA
                TROI               BRACTOR
                GEORDI             TACTICIAN
                WORF               
                WESLEY             

                ENSIGN BURKE       
                ENSIGN NAGEL       
                N.D. CREWMEMBERS   

        STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                      "Peak Performance" 
                         
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                  EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE             USS ENTERPRISE
              MAIN BRIDGE
              OBSERVATION LOUNGE       USS HATHAWAY
          
              MAIN ENGINEERING         KREECHTA
              CORRIDOR
              WORF'S QUARTERS          BRASLOTA IV
              DATA'S QUARTERS
              CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
              TEN-FORWARD
          
            USS HATHAWAY
              BRIDGE
              ENGINE ROOM
          
            KREECHTA
              (VIEWSCREEN P.O.V. ONLY)

  STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - PRONUNCIATION 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                      "Peak Performance" 
                      
                      PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

              KOLRAMI                cole-ROM-ee
              ZAKDORN                ZACK-dorn
              KREECHTA               CREECH-tah
              NAGEL                  NAY-gull
              BRASLOTA               brass-LOW-tah
              TARLOW                 tar-low
              YAROOPA                yah-RUE-pah
              KUMEH                  koo-mah
              STRATEGEMA             strata-JAY-mah
              GRENTHEMEN             grenth-ah-men

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                      "Peak Performance"                           
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	Shuttle coming in.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, Stardate 42923.7.
			We are en route to the Braslota
			System, site of the first
			Starfleet battle simulation.
			Joining the Enterprise as observer
			and mediator is the Zakdorn Master
			Strategist, Sirna Kolrami.
			Despite misgivings, I have agreed
			to Starfleet's request that we
			take part in these wargame
			exercises.

2    OMITTED

3    INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE

	DATA is at Command, supernumeraries at Conn and OPS,
	and WORF and ENSIGN BURKE confer at Tactical. All
	heads turn as the forward turbolift opens and RIKER and
	KOLRAMI, a slender weasel-like creature, ENTER and
	cross to the Observation Lounge.

3A   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

					PICARD
				(rising, extending his
				 hand)
			Mister Kolrami -- Captain Jean-Luc
			Picard. Welcome aboard.

					KOLRAMI
			Captain. I bring greetings from
			those at Starfleet Command.

    STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - TEASER    2.

3A   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Would you care to be shown to your
			quarters?

					KOLRAMI
			I require little rest, Captain.
			I would prefer to commence our
			mission.

	Picard and Riker share a glance -- "pushy little guy,
	isn't he?"

3B   INT. BRIDGE

	Worf crosses to Data.

					WORF
			Despite their reputations, this
			Zakdorn does not appear to be a
			very formidable warrior.

					DATA
			In the game of military
			brinksmanship, individual
			physical prowess is less
			important than the perception of
			a species as a whole. For over
			nine millennia potential foes have
			regarded the Zakdorns as having
			the greatest innately strategic
			minds in the galaxy.

					WORF
			And no one is willing to test that
			perception in combat.

					DATA
			Exactly.

					WORF
			Then the reputation means nothing.

4    INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	A magnificent view of the galaxy surrounds them as they
	take their seats at one end of the table. Kolrami keys
	the screen, and the DIAGRAM of a solar system appears.

      STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/18/89 - TEASER      3.

4    CONTINUED:

					KOLRAMI
			The Braslota System. In orbit
			around the second planet is the
			eighty-year old Starcruiser,
			Hathaway.
				(nodding at Riker)
			He is still your choice?

					PICARD
			Commander Riker will captain the
			Hathaway.

					KOLRAMI
				(to Riker)
			You will have forty-eight hours
			to ready the vessel before the
			Enterprise attacks.

					RIKER
			And we'll be experiencing actual
			battle conditions?

					KOLRAMI
			Correct. Engineering will
			disconnect the Enterprise's
			weapons and link the system with
			the modified laser-pulse beam.
			All "hits" will be recorded
			electronically. If the computer
			registers "damage," it will react
			accordingly -- shutting down the
			affected areas for the appropriate
			"repair" time. Additional
			questions?

	Riker and Picard share a look and shake their heads.

					KOLRAMI
			Captain Picard, I understand that
			you initially resisted Starfleet's
			request for this simulation.

					PICARD
			Yes.

					KOLRAMI
			May I know why?

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - TEASER   3A.

4    CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			Starfleet is not a military
			organization. Our purpose is
			exploration.

					KOLRAMI
			Then why am I here?

					PICARD
			Because with the Borg threat,
			I have decided that my officers
			and I need to hone our tactical
			skills.

					(MORE)

    STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - TEASER    4.

4    CONTINUED: (3)

					PICARD (Cont'd)
			In a crisis situation, it is
			prudent to have several options.

					RIKER
			I still prefer brains over brawn.
				(to Kolrami)
			I think it's a waste of
			effort to test our combat skills
			-- it's a minor province in the
			make-up of a starship captain.

					KOLRAMI
			Your objection is noted. Let us
			hope your distaste for the
			exercise will not affect your
			strategic abilities.

	There is a moment as Riker absorbs the words and the
	underlying contempt with which they were delivered.

					RIKER
			Mister Kolrami, when I agree to
			do a thing. I do it.
				(to Picard, lighter)
			Care to surrender now, Captain?

	Picard gives Riker a warm, small smile, then looks to
	Kolrami as if to say, "see what a hell of a fellow he
	is?" Off their various expressions --

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

      STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT ONE      5.

					ACT ONE

	FADE IN:

5    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	Plying deep space at impulse.

6    INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE

	Picard, Riker, Data, PULASKI, and Kolrami are
	present. Supernumeraries at Conn and Ops. Burke at
	Tactical.

					PICARD
			Well, Number One, you are allowed
			a complement of forty. Select
			whom you will. Save Data, who
			will serve as my first officer
			in your absence.

	Before Riker can respond, Kolrami jumps in -- leaving
	Pulaski slightly taken aback by his rudeness.

					KOLRAMI
				(to Picard)
			I had envisioned you defining the
			crew.

					PICARD
			On my ship, the leader of an away
			team has total control of the
			mission. If you want to judge
			"leadership" -- why not start at
			the beginning?

	Kolrami sagaciously nods his assent, eyeing Picard as
	if he, too, were under scrutiny.

					KOLRAMI
			Very well, Captain.

	With a curt bow, he glides to the turbolift and
	disappears.

					PULASKI
			My, what a charmer.

					PICARD
				(admonishingly)
			Now, Doctor...

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT ONE   6.

6    CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
			Captain, he needs an attitude
			adjustment.

					DATA
			The Zakdornian culture is replete
			with self-assuredness and
			confidence. It is seldom
			undeserved. For example, Kolrami
			is a third level grand master at
			the game of Strategema.

	Fine, but it doesn't make Pulaski feel any better.

7    INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN ENGINEERING

	Geordi and an ASSISTANT toil at aligning the warp
	engine's dilithium chamber.

					GEORDI
				(giving directions)
			Another millimeter... little
			more... there! Excellent.

					RIKER (O.S.)
			Lieutenant.

	Geordi straightens to find Riker looking on.

					GEORDI
			Commander.

					RIKER
			You've heard of the simulation
			aboard the Hathaway?

	As they talk, Goerdi takes Riker on a walking tour of
	Engineering, checking "this" here, tweaking "that"
	there.

					GEORDI
			Yes, sir, and the best of luck
			to you. I've researched the old
			Avidyne engines -- archaic by our
			standards, very touchy.

					RIKER
			Anticipating the worst, do you
			think it can be whipped into shape
			in forty-eight hours?

      STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/18/89 - ACT ONE      7.

7    CONTINUED:

	Geordi stops walking and hefts a tool kit.

					GEORDI
				(smiling broadly)
			I've taken the liberty of packing
			a few necessities.

	At this, Riker breaks into a grin, also.

8    INT. ENTERPRISE - WORF'S QUARTERS

	The room has been modified into a Klingon haven. The
	lighting is subdued with a ruddy overtones. There is
	a powerful scupture of a Klingon man, bare to the waist
	taming a horse-like beast with a long snaking neck, and
	two twisted horns springing from above each eye.

	Worf is seated at his desk working on a model of an
	antique Klingon sailing vessel.

	A CHIME signals someone is at the door.

	It startles Worf, and he breaks the masts on his ship.
	A rumble of fury.

					WORF
			Enter!

	The door opens and Riker steps in, looking around
	curiously. This is his first time in here.

					RIKER
			Am I disturbing you?

					WORF
			Just finishing, Commander.

	Worf opens a drawer, and sweeps the ship into it.
	Shuts it firmly.

					RIKER
			"Interesting" quarters.

					WORF
			Thank you.

      STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT ONE      8.

8    CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			You know of the simulation. What
			do you think?

					WORF
			Waste of time.

					RIKER
			It's just designed to be an
			exercise.

					WORF
			Useless. If there is nothing to
			lose -- no sacrifice -- then there
			is nothing to gain.

					RIKER
				(playing him)
			You mean -- besides "pride."
				(caught his attention)
			Well, it's a good thing in this
			case, because I probably don't
			have a chance.

					WORF
				(alien concept)
			There is always a chance.

					RIKER
			Slim. The Hathaway's most
			sophisticated weapon-systems --
			even in a computer mock-up --
			can't hope to defeat the
			Enterprise.

					WORF
			Still...

					RIKER
			Worf... when you're out-gunned,
			out-manned, and out-equipped --
			what else do you have left?

					WORF
				(long beat)
			Guile.

					RIKER
			Join me.


      STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT ONE      9.

8    CONTINUED: (2)

					WORF
			The honor is to serve.

	Riker allows himself another smile -- this crew is
	pulling together nicely.

9    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	Zooming along at impulse.

10   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE

	Riker ENTERS to find Picard in the Command Chair, Data
	to his right, Pulaski on his left, Wesley at Conn,
	Burke at Tactical, and Kolrami examining Science One.

					PICARD
			Begin long-range scanning of all
			sectors within three light years
			of Braslota.
				(seeing Riker)
			How is your crew shaping up?

					RIKER
			It's complete, but I would like
			to request an addition.

					PICARD
				(playing along)
			Anyone in mind?

					RIKER
			With your permission, I would like
			Acting Ensign Crusher aboard for
			educational observation.

	Picard nods. Riker, in turn, gives Wesley a "c'mon"
	head move. Wesley's enthusiasm can hardly be muted as
	he leaps from the Conn -- to be quickly replaced by
	a CREWPERSON.

					RIKER
				(as if an afterthought)
			Oh... since we have some time
			before reaching Braslota --
				(deferentially to
				 Kolrami)
			I was hoping that you would agree
			to play me in a game of Strategema.

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/24/89 - ACT ONE   10.

10   CONTINUED:

					KOLRAMI
			Although I am intrigued by the
			audacity of your request, I can't
			fathom why you wish the encounter.

					RIKER
			I enjoy a challenge.

					KOLRAMI
			Very well, an opponent of "limited
			dimensions" can often be quite
			diverting.

					RIKER
			Thank you.

11   INT. ENTERPRISE - CORRIDOR - TRACKING

	Geordi and Riker on their way to Ten-Forward.

					GEORDI
			So you're going to beat him?

					RIKER
			Nope.

					GEORDI
			Oh, then it's going to be a close
			one.

					RIKER
			No.

					GEORDI
			But you have got a chance?

					RIKER
			Nah.

					GEORDI
				(a little sarcastic)
			Are you planning to show up?

					RIKER
			Sure, Kolrami is the best at
			Strategema. To even get to play
			him is a privilege.

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT ONE   11.

11   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Other than you being privileged,
			is there anything else I can
			look forward to?

					RIKER
			Nope.

					GEORDI
			This is going to be exciting.

12   INT. ENTERPRISE - TEN-FORWARD

	Riker and Kolrami are seated at opposite ends of a
	large table. Worf helps Riker prepare for the game
	while Troi performs the same function for the Zakdorn.

13   ANGLE - GEORDI, DATA AND PULASKI

					PULASKI
			Against an opponent of approximate
			skill -- Strategema can last well
			over one thousand moves.

					GEORDI
			I wouldn't bet on us being here
			that long.

13A  ANGLE ON WORF AND RIKER

					WORF
				(confiding to Riker)
			I have wagered heavily in the
			ship's pool that you will take
			him past the sixth plateau.

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT ONE   12.

13A  CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			What if I don't?

					WORF
			I will be... irritated.

	During the above, each contestant inserts his
	fingertips into METALLIC RECEPTACLES (think overly-long
	thimbles).

14   DATA, GEORDI AND PULASKI - TROI JOINS THEM

					DATA
			Forever curious, this urge to
			"compete."

					PULASKI
			It's a human response, that inborn
			craving to gauge your capabilities
			through conflict.

					DATA
			Doctor, there are other ways to
			challenge oneself.

					PULASKI
			Perhaps... but they all lack a
			certain -- thrill!

					TROI
			Data, sometimes humans find it
			helpful to have an outsider set
			the standard by which they're
			judged.

					DATA
				(catching on)
			To avoid deceiving oneself.

					PULASKI
			Maybe you should challenge
			Kolrami to Strategema.

					DATA
				(surprised)
			Why?

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT ONE   13.

14   CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
			Because when someone is that smug,
			you occasionally have to deflate
			them just a little.

					GEORDI
			Yeah, Data, I'd like to see your
			neural-flecks tear him down a peg.

					DATA
			To what end?

	Reactions from the humans. Once again the toaster
	isn't "getting" it.

15   WORF (OPTICAL)

	presiding over the contest.

					WORF
			Computer -- actuation positions
			for Strategema.

	A base containing the digital counter sits on the
	table.

					WORF
			Ready?

	Riker nods. Kolrami nods.

					WORF
				(continuing)
			Begin!

	Wow! "Thimble"-encased fingers twitch and goggled-eyes
	shift. Correspondingly, the holographic cone springs
	to incredible life. Breathtaking! Impossible to
	follow or explain, Strategema nonetheless presents an
	awesome spectacle even to those who have seen it
	before.

	Wondrous! Gases swirl, pinpoints move, grids bend and
	sway, sparks and "lightning" streaks fly! And above,
	the counter begins to register: 001, 002, 003, 004,
	005...

	VARIOUS ANGLES show the crew reacting to the unfolding
	marvel... 016, 017, 018, 019...

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT ONE   14.

15   CONTINUED:

	... 021, 022, 023, ... Suddenly, startlingly abrupt,
	the images freeze! It's as if Strategema died. No one
	moves, no one breathes, no one reacts. Stunned
	silence.

					PULASKI
			That's it?

	Riker slowly removes the goggles from his head.

					RIKER
				(numb admiration)
			I'm afraid so.

					PULASKI
			But... but you only made
			twenty-three moves.

					RIKER
			Yes.
				(to Kolrami)
			Congratulations.

	Off Kolrami's smug smile and Riker's expression --

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT TWO   15.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

16   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	Moving in synchronous orbit with an unlit, eighty
	year-old starship around a dusty orange planet.

17   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	The dark, lifeless Hathaway dominates the Main
	Viewer. Picard, Riker, Data, Burke at Tactical,
	supernumeraries at all other stations, and Kolrami are
	in attendance. The Zakdorn periodically makes notes
	on a PADD.

					PICARD
				(keeping it light)
			Commander Riker --
				(re: Hathaway)
			There is your next challenge.

					WORF'S COM VOICE
			Away team assembled and ready to
			transport, Commander.

					PICARD
				(playful)
			Until we test our mettle on the
			field of honor.

	He extends a hand, and Picard and Riker shake.

					RIKER
				(with a grin)
			I may get over there and want to
			come right home.

	Kolrami sniffs at this display of levity.

					PICARD
				(chuckles)
			Good luck, Number One... Captain.

					KOLRAMI
			The simulation will commence in
			forty-eight hours.

	As Riker EXITS.

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT TWO   16.

18   INT. U.S.S. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE - DARK

	As Riker, Worf, Geordi, Wesley, and Ensign Nagel
	(female) ENTER. They take a moment to familiarize
	themselves with the surroundings as Geordi moves to an
	old style panel, studies it for a moment, and presses.
	AUXILIARY LIGHTS snap on, revealing --

19   AN UNHOLY MESS

	Panels have been ripped out, science stations gutted,
	etc. This ship does not look like it will fly. Riker
	steps down to the captain's chair in the DIM LIGHT as
	the others move to check out various stations.

					WORF
			Not good.

					RIKER
			Oh, Mister Worf, you're wrong.
			It's fantastic... and it's ours
			--

	Riker sits and indicates the seat beside him.

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			Mister Worf.

	Worf reacts and glances at Geordi.

					WORF
			Sir, Lieutenant La Forge is a
			superior officer. The honor
			should be his.

					RIKER
			Worf, this is a battle simulation,
			and you're our tactical officer.
			Mister La Forge and I agreed, you
			need to be at my side.

					GEORDI
			And if the engine room is anything
			like the bridge, I'm going to have
			my hands full.

	Worf nods and sits. Riker scans the instrument arm of
	his chair for the proper panel.

     STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/25/89 - ACT TWO     16A.

19   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			Attention crew of the USS
			Hathaway -- this is your captain.
				(boy, he likes the sound
				 of that)
			I can promise you that two days
			from now we will have missed a
			lot of sleep. But with your skill
			and your stamina, we'll have this
			old lady ready to fly.
				(hard beat)
			I want hourly progress reports
			from every station. Riker out.

20   INT. HATHAWAY - POV - ENGINE ROOM - DIM LIGHTING

	A disaster area of proportions as to make the bridge
	look comfy.

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT TWO   17.

20   CONTINUED:

	The impulse engines have several main pieces
	disconnected, and the warp drives are virtually
	terminal -- having been raped of dilithium crystals.

21   REVERSE

	of the open-mouthed Wesley, and the deeply concerned
	Geordi, who slowly lowers his tool-carrier to the
	floor.

21A  INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE

					GEORDI'S COM VOICE
			It's a real mess down here, but
			we'll get to work on it.

					RIKER
			I'm sure you'll perform your
			usual miracle.

22
thru	OMITTED
24

25   INT. HATHAWAY - ENGINE ROOM - DIM LIGHTING - CONTINUOUS

	Wesley toils in the empty dilithium crystal chamber,
	Geordi puts the finishing touches on the
	patched-together impulse engines. Geordi presses a
	panel and the impulse engines SPRING TO LIFE, filling
	the ship with a healthy HUMM and THROB.

									CUT TO:

25A  EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND THE HATHAWAY (OPTICAL)

	establishing the two in proximity. Suddenly the
	Hathaway's lights come up.

26   INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE (INTERCUT AS NEEDED)

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			Nice work, Geordi, now what's
			the possibility for warp drive?


   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT TWO   18.

26A  INT. HATHAWAY - ENGINEERING (INTERCUT AS NECESSARY)

					GEORDI
			There are only minute dilithium
			fragments left in the holding
			clamps. And even if we had intact
			crystals, there's no anti-matter
			to fuel the drive.

					RIKER
			Any recommendations?

					GEORDI
			No, sir.

					WESLEY
			We don't have a prayer.

					RIKER
				(thoughtful beat)
			Would you care to transfer back to
			the Enterprise, Mister Crusher?

					WESLEY
				(quickly)
			No, Sir!

					RIKER
				(gentler)
			Remember Wes, the purpose here
			is to improvise. It's the effort
			that counts.

	Geordi gives Wesley a playful "have you learned your
	lesson" look.

  STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT TWO  18A.

27   OMITTED

28   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE

	Picard and Data are seated. Pulaski ENTERS from the
	aft turbolift. Burke is at Tactical, supernumeraries
	at Conn and Ops.

					PICARD
			Open.

29   THE MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	Switches from an exterior of the Hathaway to Riker on
	the bridge of the Hathaway. Worf and Nagel are
	effecting repairs in the background.

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT TWO   19.

29   CONTINUED:

					KOLRAMI
				(to Picard and Riker)
			I believe the rules are understood
			by all.

					PICARD
			The weapons conversion, Lieutenant
			Burke?

					BURKE
				(pressing a panel)
			Complete, Captain.

					WORF
				(on viewer)
			Signal received... locked on.

					RIKER
			She's really been stripped down,
			Captain.

					KOLRAMI
			The only offensive systems you
			need will be simulated by
			computer.

					RIKER
			What's the Zakdornian word for
			"mismatch?"

					KOLRAMI
			Challenge! We do not whine about
			the inequities of life.
				(off taken-aback looks)
			And how you perform in a
			"mismatch" is precisely what
			interests Starfleet. After all
			--
				(a look to Picard)
			-- when one is in the superior
			position, one is expected to win.

					PICARD
			Screen off. Data, you have the
			bridge.

	Picard EXITS to his Ready Room as Kolrami moves to
	Data.

     STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/18/89 - ACT TWO     20.

29   CONTINUED: (2)

					KOLRAMI
			Lieutenant Commander Data -- I
			am intrigued by your challenge.

	Data turns, puzzled.

					KOLRAMI
				(continuing)
			Doctor Pulaski informed me of your
			desire to play a game of
			Strategema.

	Data becomes aware of all other eyes on the bridge
	waiting for his reaction.

					DATA
			But I have expressed no such
			interest.

	Pulaski hurries down to join them. She knows that
	Data's honesty is about to blow her beautiful plan.

					PULASKI
			What Commander Data means is that
			he would never have had the nerve
			to ask you himself, but I know
			he is very interested in pitting
			his skill against yours.

	Data has learned enough about humans to know this is a
	moment to keep his mouth shut.

					KOLRAMI
			Play a machine? Why should I wish
			to?

					PULASKI
			I don't blame you. It's no fun
			going into a game when you know
			you're going to lose.

					KOLRAMI
			But I wouldn't lose, and now
			you're no doubt going to make
			me prove it to you.

	She turns to Data who is standing like he's been
	stuffed.

					PULASKI
			Come on, Data, you can't let that
			pass.

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT TWO   21.

29   CONTINUED: (3)

					DATA
			Indeed I...

	He eyes Pulaski's expression. He also hasn't lived
	among humans this long, and not developed a strong
	sense of self-preservation.

					DATA
				(continuing lamely)
			...Cannot.

					KOLRAMI
			Then you will play for the honor
			of your ship.

	Kolrami EXITS.

					PULASKI
			Honor of the ship. It's your
			reputation that's on the line.

	HOLD ON Data's expression.

     STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/25/89 - ACT TWO     22.

30
thru	OMITTED
31

32   INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE

	Riker and Worf confer. Nagel works in the b.g.

					WORF
			With my knowledge of the
			Enterprise's security override,
			we may be able to convince the
			sensors that an enemy ship is
			approaching. Their instruments
			would "lie" to them.

					RIKER
			If you can pull that off, Mister
			Worf, it might just give us the
			edge we're looking for.

					NAGEL
			But what about the viewscreen?

					WORF
			If I am successful, the computer
			will project a false image of the
			enemy ship on the main viewscreen.

					RIKER
			And unless they run to a window
			and look out....

					NAGEL
				(jovially)
			... They're going to fall for it!

33
thru	OMITTED
34

35   INT. HATHAWAY - ENGINEERING

	Wesley and Geordi are on their stomachs, peering into
	the currently empty anti-matter warp drive chamber.

					WESLEY
			The lining is still smooth, and
			we ought to be able to do
			something with the dilithium chips
			we scavenged.
				(looks at Geordi)

  STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT TWO  22A.

35   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Sure the system is functional,
			but without antimatter what
			difference does it make?

     STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/25/89 - ACT TWO     23.

35   CONTINUED: (2)

	Wesley's face goes tight with concentration.

					WESLEY
				(continuing)
			Geordi, I have to return to the
			Enterprise.

					GEORDI
			Wes, we've only got thirty-two
			hours.

					WESLEY
				(as he exits)
			This is important.

					GEORDI
			This isn't?
				(re the engines)

36   INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE

	Wesley ENTERS from the turbolift, Worf is pointing out
	a section of science station to Nagel.

					WORF
			Attempt the routing bypass here!
			If it works, they will be
			surprised.

					NAGEL
			Where'm I gonna get the
			opti-cable?

	Worf reaches a giant hand upwards and grabs several
	fiber-wires dangling from the ceiling. With a mighty
	YANK, they come free amidst showering dust and
	material.

					WORF
			Anywhere.

	Wes crosses to Riker at the command chair.

					WESLEY
			Sir, I left an experiment running
			on the Enterprise. May I go back
			and shut it down?

					RIKER
				(a little distracted)
			It's that important?

     STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT TWO     24.

36   CONTINUED:

					WESLEY
			It has to be monitored. And it
			is my final grade in plasma
			physics.

	Off Riker's frown, and Wesley's too casual expression:

37   INT. ENTERPRISE - TEN-FORWARD (OPTICAL)

	Troi helps Data prepare for Strategema. Opposite,
	Kolrami is set, waiting. Pulaski smiles with
	match-maker satisfaction while other CREWMEMBERS look
	on.

					DATA
				(re: Pulaski)
			In the present context, what did
			she mean by, "Bust him up?"

					TROI
			Doctor Pulaski, in her own way, is
			instructing you to take the
			shortest route to victory.

					DATA
			As opposed to what?

	Lieutenant Burke stands before the participants, who
	both signal their readiness.

					BURKE
			Begin!

	As before, Strategema unfolds in shimmering glory! The
	counter registers 001, 002, 003, 004, 005 --

	Troi, Pulaski and the others watch with interest as the
	pace accelerates -- Data and Kolrami build to a furious
	crescendo of jerking fingers and head feints.

	096, 097, 098, 099, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106,
	
	107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114115116117118119
	
	120121122123124125126127128129130131132133 --

	The counter suddenly stalls at 133! Without a word
	being spoken, it quickly becomes unambiguous to all
	that Data has been defeated!

     STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/18/89 - ACT TWO     25.

37   CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
				(stepping forward, awed)
			I can't believe it. The
			"computer" was beaten by flesh
			and blood.

					TROI
				(delicate)
			You advanced quite far against
			such a worthy opponent.

					KOLRAMI
				(overly gracious)
			Thoroughly enjoyable, Mister Data.
			I am at your disposal for a
			rematch.

	Data rises and shakes his outstretched hand.

					DATA
			Thank you, but there would be no
			point.

					PULASKI
			How can you lose? You're supposed
			to be infallible!

					DATA
			Obviously I am not.

	Off Data's expression --

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

    STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT THREE    26.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

38   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Picard is in the Command Chair, while Kolrami sits to
	his left. Burke is at Tactical, supernumeraries at
	Conn and Ops. Data is conspicuously absent.

					BURKE
			Message from the Hathaway, sir.

					PICARD
			On screen.

	The Main Viewer reveals Riker on the older ship's
	bridge.

					RIKER
			I'd like to request permission
			for Ensign Crusher to reboard the
			Enterprise, Captain.

					PICARD
			Why?

					RIKER
			Apparently he was in such a hurry
			to be part of the away team, he
			left several critical experiments
			unattended.

	Picard looks to Kolrami, since this concerns the
	simulation.

					PICARD
			Have you any objection?

					KOLRAMI
			He should be escorted, and have
			no contact with anything save his
			research.

					PICARD
				(to Riker)
			Permission granted.
				(to Burke)
			Mister Burke, handle that.

	Burke EXITS --

    STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT THREE    27.

38   CONTINUED:

					KOLRAMI
				(an aside to himself,
				 but loud enough for
				 Picard to hear)
			I saw no sense in Riker choosing
			him anyway -- he is just a
			non-commissioned child.

	Though irritated, Picard holds his tongue --

39   INT. ENTERPRISE - ENGINEERING - TIGHT ON ANTI-MATTER
	CONTAINMENT DEVICE

	The magnetic chamber is round, about the size of a
	human head -- a clear orb with a snowball-sized piece
	of anti-matter suspended in the center. Long,
	intricately-cabled pieces of clear tubing extend out
	from opposite sides of the orb -- generating the force
	which keeps the anti-matter from escaping and wreaking
	havoc. Attached to the end of the tubes are
	finger-friendly handles.

	TWO VERY CAREFUL HANDS now wrap themselves around these
	grips. WIDEN to reveal Wesley -- in the company of
	Ensign Burke -- delicately maneuvering the orb from
	his personal experimental station.

	Throughout this scene Wesley is talking just a little
	too much. Nervous chatter as he tries to cover that
	he's doing a naughty. Burke is equally anxious to be
	back on the bridge.

					WESLEY
			I can't believe I forgot about
			this. Good lesson not to let
			excitement cloud your thinking.

					BURKE
			Yeah.

					WESLEY
			This is really delicate ... I
			spent six weeks setting it up.

					BURKE
			Lot of work.

	A beat as Wes studies the gizmo.

  STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT THREE  28.

39   CONTINUED:

					WESLEY
			Oh, no. It's ruined.

					BURKE
			That's too bad. Look, is this
			going to take much longer?

					WESLEY
			I have to dispose of it safely...
			This is really volatile... I
			better beam it off the Enterprise
			and leave it particalized.

					BURKE
			Fine, let's just do it.

	Wesley crosses to a panel

					WESLEY
			I'll transfer the coordinates to
			the Transporter Room.

	Off Wesley's secret little smile as we CUT TO:

39A  INT. HATHAWAY - ENGINEERING (OPTICAL)

	Geordi is hard at work with his back to the gizmo as
	it MATERIALIZES. It falls onto its side with a CLUNK.
	Geordi looks over his shoulder and gapes at the gizmo.

40   OMITTED

41   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE

	The crew is hard at work, watched over by Picard and
	Kolrami.

					PICARD
			Where is Commander Data?

					BURKE
			He has temporarily removed himself
			from bridge duty, sir.

    STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT THREE    28A.

41   CONTINUED:

					KOLRAMI
				(admiration)
			Your crew is excellently trained,
			Captain. A tribute to your
			leadership. Though I doubt their
			extensive preparation will be
			needed.

					PICARD
			How so?

					KOLRAMI
			I do not expect "Captain" Riker
			to present much of a challenge.

  STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT THREE  29.

41   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			Mister Kolrami -- may I speak with
			you in private?

	Kolrami's look is of acquiescence and genuine
	innocence.

42   INT. ENTERPRISE - PICARD'S READY ROOM

	No sooner has the door closed behind Kolrami when --

					PICARD
			I would like to know the root of
			your prejudice for my
			second-in-command.

					KOLRAMI
			Captain, I don't --

	Picard's upraised hand ends that bit of bull-stuff.

					PICARD
			Mister Kolrami -- you have been
			nothing but denigrating and
			abusive of Commander Riker since
			boarding this ship. I should like
			an explanation.

					KOLRAMI
			Having studied William Riker's
			file prior to this assignment --
			I have found him wanting.

					PICARD
			In what regard?

					KOLRAMI
			His record is exemplary, but as
			you well know, a starship captain
			is not manufactured -- he, or she,
			is born from inside -- from the
			character of the individual.
				(beat)
			My interviews have revealed a man
			who displays circumstantially
			inappropriate joviality, belying
			the seriousness of his station.

  STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT THREE  30.

42   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
				(ice frosting the words)
			Don't confuse style with intent.
			Only a fool would question
			Commander Riker's dedication to
			Starfleet and the men and women
			under his command. Riker is the
			finest officer I have ever served
			with.

					KOLRAMI
			We shall see if your faith is well
			founded.

					PICARD
			The test is if a crew will follow
			where Commander Riker leads. His
			joviality is the way he creates
			that loyalty. And I'll match his
			command style against your
			statistics anytime.

	Off their cold stares --

42A  INT. ENTERPRISE - DATA'S QUARTERS (FROM SCENE 47)

	Data is viewing the wall monitor on which incalculable
	amounts of technical information fly by at incredible
	rates of speed. There is a CHIME.

					DATA
			Come in, please.

	Troi ENTERS.

					TROI
				(softly)
			Data?

	Data freezes the computer screens.

					DATA
			Counselor. Is something wrong?

					TROI
			That was going to be my question.

	There is a moment of silence. If he were human, Data
	would try and wriggle off the hook. But he's not.

 STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT THREE 30A.

42A  CONTINUED:

					DATA
			With my repository of knowledge,
			I expected to perform better
			against a humanoid life-form.

					TROI
			Some of our greatest advances have
			come from analyzing failure.
			While it can be ego-bruising --

					DATA
			Counselor -- I do not have an
			"ego."

	Troi is floundering. She uses her empathy to counsel,
	and she can read nothing of Data, and she knows
	intellectually that he doesn't really "feel" anything.
	She tries again.

					TROI
			Yes... well, a loss... can be
			disheartening --

					DATA
			Counselor -- I do not have a --

					TROI
			Data! There are two ways to
			handle defeat. You can lose
			confidence or you can learn from
			your mistakes.

					DATA
			That is what troubles me. I made
			no mistakes.
				(beat; very matter of
				 fact)
			Hence, I have conducted a
			diagnostic check of all of my
			programs, and now I am cross-checking
			with the ship's computer.

					TROI
			Is all of that necessary?

 STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT THREE 30B.

42A  CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA
			I believe so. I have proven to
			be vulnerable, and at the present
			time, skepticism must be awarded
			my deductions.

					TROI
			That is why you haven't been on
			the bridge.

					DATA
			Yes, the captain would be ill
			advised to rely upon my judgement.

					TROI
			Data, I think you're really
			overreacting. I'm sure you're
			all right.

					DATA
			I, however, am not sure.

	He resumes his research and Troi EXITS.

43   OMITTED

44   INT. HATHAWAY - ENGINEERING

	Riker ENTERS to find Geordi and Wesley hard at work
	installing the orb in the anti-matter chamber.

					RIKER
			What's that?

					WESLEY
			My experiment from the Enterprise.

					RIKER
				(a little suspicious)
			Wes?

					WESLEY
			It dealt with high-energy plasma
			reactions --
				(points to the globe)
			-- with anti-matter.

	It's clicked for Riker.

    STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT THREE    31.

44   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			You went back to the Enterprise
			just to get this... Wes, you
			cheated.

					WESLEY
			No, sir. You told me to
			improvise.

	Riker struggles to hold the stern fatherly mien, but it
	cracks, and he breaks into a broad grin.

					GEORDI
				(grinning)
			The hard part's gonna be
			calibrating the thermal curve
			required to start a controlled
			reaction.

					RIKER
			Assuming you can -- can you
			regulate the reaction?

	Wesley steps over to --

45   INSERT - DILITHIUM CRYSTAL CLAMPS

	Just barely visible -- wedged into the fingers of the
	clamps -- are MINUTE CHIPS of the valuable mineral.

					WESLEY (O.S.)
			There's just enough crystal to
			do it.

46   BACK TO SCENE

					WESLEY
			We plan to channel the reaction
			through the chips.

					GEORDI
				(smiling broadly)
			Are we good?

					RIKER
				(impressed)
			Better than good. Great.
			Brilliant.
					(MORE)

  STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT THREE  32.

46   CONTINUED:

					RIKER (Cont'd)
				(almost to himself)
			This is going to be fun.
				(back to business)
			Carry on.

	Riker EXITS.

47   OMITTED

47A  INT. ENTERPRISE - DATA'S QUARTERS

	Data is still viewing the wall monitor. There is a
	chime.

					DATA
			Come in, please.

	Pulaski ENTERS.

					PULASKI
			All right, Data, enough of this.

					DATA
			Doctor?

					PULASKI
			How long are you going to sit
			sulking like Achilles in his tent?

					DATA
			I am running diagnostic --

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT THREE 33-34.     

47A  CONTINUED:

					PULASKI
			You might be able to sell Troi
			with that story, but not me.
			You're smarting because you got
			beat. Well, it happens.

					DATA
			No, Doctor, this is not ego. I
			am concerned about giving the
			captain unsound advice.

	Pulaski looks at his earnest expression, and softens.
	She realizes he really is deeply confused.

					PULASKI
			I wish I'd never maneuvered you
			into playing that damn game. I'm
			sorry.

					DATA
			For what? It is done, and perhaps
			just as well. This has indicated
			that I am damaged in some fashion.
			I must find the malfunction.

	He returns to his analysis, and Pulaski, after a last
	look at him, EXITS.

    STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT THREE    35.

48   OMITTED

49   INT. HATHAWAY - ENGINEERING - CONTINUOUS

	Geordi, Wesley and their TEAM are hard at work. Riker
	ENTERS.

					RIKER
			The simulation begins in one hour.

					GEORDI
			You'll have warp drive, Captain,
			though it may not be what you
			expected.

					RIKER
			I'd say that calls for an
			explanation.

					GEORDI
			Sir, we'll be able to give you
			warp one...
				(a glance to Wesley)

					WESLEY
			-- for just under two seconds.

					RIKER
				(making the best)
			Well, not enough for an escape
			but used as a surprise, sufficient
			for gaining a strategic advantage.

					GEORDI
			Sir, all of this is "theoretical."

					RIKER
			And if the theory fails to pay
			off?

    STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT THREE    36.

49   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Ever driven a Grenthemen Water
			Hopper?

					RIKER
			Yes.

					GEORDI
			Ever popped the clutch?

					RIKER
			You're telling me we'll stall
			the Hathaway.

					WESLEY
			... and the Enterprise will waltz
			over and pulverize us.

									FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

  STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT FOUR  37.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

50   OMITTED

50A  INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM

	Picard, seated at his desk, stares in frowning
	amazement at Troi and Pulaski. Their expressions are
	serious and intent.

					PICARD
			Now, let me see if I fully
			understand this. You're
			suggesting that Commander Data
			is suffering from a profound loss
			of confidence, and you feel that
			only I can restore the balance.

					TROI
			Yes, sir.

					PULASKI
			Both Deanna and I have tried,
			Captain, and we're not getting
			through to him.

					PICARD
			Don't you think you both might
			be overreacting? Data is not
			capable of the emotions you are
			assigning to him.

					PULASKI
			The effect is the same whether
			it's caused by human emotions or
			android algorithms. Data's not
			on the bridge, and I don't think
			he's going to be on the bridge
			until we find some way to address
			his problem.

					PICARD
			I am less than an hour away from
			a battle simulation, and I must
			handhold an android?

					PULASKI
			The burdens of command.

	Off Picard's expression as we CUT TO:

  STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FOUR  37A.

50B  INT. DATA'S QUARTERS

	As before -- Data hard at work. There is a CHIME.

					DATA
			Come in, please.

	Picard ENTERS.

					PICARD
			Commander, I require your presence
			on the bridge.

					DATA
			Captain, with all due respect,
			perhaps it would be better if you
			choose another to serve as your
			first --

					PICARD
				(interrupting)
			Data, you are my first officer.

					DATA
			I have not been able to isolate
			the problem. I might make a
			mistake.

					PICARD
			Yes, you might. But that does
			not alter your duty -- to this
			ship, and to me.
				(a beat)
			Do you know how to formulate a
			premise?

					DATA
			Yes.

					PICARD
			Then formulate one now: How do
			I handle Riker and the Hathaway?
			I'll await your answer on the
			bridge.

	Picard starts to exit then looks back.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Commander, it is possible to
			commit no mistakes -- and still
			lose.
					(MORE)

  STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT FOUR  37B.

50B  CONTINUED:

					PICARD (Cont'd)
				(strong beat)
			That is not a weakness. That is
			"life".

					DATA
			Thank you, Captain, I believe I
			understand.

					PICARD
			And Data, leave the hesitation
			and self-doubt in your quarters.

	Data shuts off the monitor, rises, and follows Picard
	as they EXIT.

50BA	EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

50C  INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	Troi and Data.

					DATA
			I have several examples of
			Commander Riker's battle
			technique. At the Academy, he
			calculated a sensory blind spot
			on a Tholian vessel and hid
			within it during a battle
			simulation. And as a lieutenant
			aboard the Potemkin, his solution
			to a crisis was to shut down all
			power, and hang over a planet's
			magnetic pole, thus confusing his
			opponent's sensors.

					TROI
			And from these specifics, what
			general conclusion can you
			extrapolate?

					DATA
			Only twenty-one percent of the
			time does he rely upon traditional
			tactics.

	Data is up, pacing slowly.

  STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT FOUR  37C.

50C  CONTINUED:

					DATA
				(continuing)
			So the captain must be prepared
			for extreme cunning.
				(pausing as a new
				 thought intrudes)
			Counselor, Commander Riker will
			assume that we have made this
			analysis, and knowing that we know
			his methods, he will alter them.
				(a new equally bad
				 thought)
			But knowing that we know that he
			knows that we know he might choose
			to return to his usual pattern.

					TROI
			You're over-analyzing. Human
			nature cannot be denied.
				(a beat)
			What kind of man is Commander
			Riker?

					DATA
			He is a fighter.

					TROI
			Yes.

					DATA
			The weaker his position, the more
			aggressive will be his posture.

					TROI
			And he won't give up.

					DATA
			Then despite whatever logical
			choices he is offered, he must
			be --

					TROI
			-- The man that he is. Yes.

					DATA
			Is that a failing in humans?

					TROI
				(rising)
			You'll have to decide that for
			yourself.

	They EXIT.

    STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/25/89 - ACT FOUR    37D.

51   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Picard stands in front of his chair, Data seated at his
	side, Kolrami hovering nearby. Burke is at Tactical,
	supernumeraries at Conn, Ops, and other stations.

					PICARD
			Screen on.

	The Main Viewer shows Riker resplendent on his
	bridge.

					PICARD
			The hunt begins, Number One.

					RIKER
				(playful bravado)
			We're ready -- just remember,
			Enterprise -- Captain Riker has
			never lost.

	The two leaders smile and nod affectionately as Kolrami
	presses a button on his computer.

					KOLRAMI
			Begin!

					PICARD
				(to Conn)
			Screen off. Set course
			two-two-three mark two-five-seven,
			full impulse power. Initiate
			Kumeh maneuver.

51A
thru	OMITTED
53

54   INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	as they monitor, on a screen, a graphic simulation of
	the Enterprise moving behind a planet.

					GEORDI
			The Kumeh maneuver -- why are they
			starting out with such a
			recognizable ploy?

					RIKER
			He's teasing -- wants us to reveal
			our tactics on his terms. Worf?

     STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT FOUR     38.

54   CONTINUED:

					WORF
			Counter with Talupian stratagem
			on instrument sighting.

					RIKER
			Agreed. Three-quarters impulse,
			full on my command. Ensign Nagel,
			maximum shields.
				(to Worf)
			Mister Worf, prepare your little
			surprise.

	Worf moves swiftly to join Nagel at the rear station.

55
thru	OMITTED
57

58   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS

					PICARD
			Course three-one-seven mark
			seven-three. Present minimal
			aspect. Ready warp one, optimal
			spread on simulated torpedoes.

	The Hathaway is on the main screen.

					BURKE
				(urgent alarm)
			Captain -- Romulan warship
			approaching fast from astern!

					PICARD
			What the -- ?!

					BURKE
			He came from nowhere, sir!

					PICARD
				(standing; to Conn)
			Bring us about, Ensign -- maximum
			shields!

					DATA
			Disengage modified beams.

	We go to Red Alert. As we swing around, a ROMULAN
	WARSHIP fills the viewscreen.

         STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FOUR         39.

58   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Weapon-systems full -- lock on!
			Open a hailing frequency.

					BURKE
			I can't, sir.
				(chagrined)
			There's nothing there.

	In that instant, we hear the incessant SQUEAL of
	electronic "hit" after electronic "hit."

59   EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS

	The Hathaway (spatially "behind" Enterprise) is firing
	beam after beam at the bigger ship.

60   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS

	Picard realizes he's been had! Picard presses a button
	and Red Alert is cancelled.

					PICARD
			Warp three, evasive!
				(the "scores" stop)
			Disengage weapons, re-engage
			modified beam.

					KOLRAMI
			He is quite good.

					PICARD
			He is the best!

					DATA
			Computer reports simulated damage
			to several aft decks. Repair time
			three-point-six days.

					BURKE
			How did he do that?

					PICARD
			Mister Worf must have overridden
			our sensor codes and played some
			holographic games. Data, input
			a new code.
					(MORE)

         STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FOUR         40.

60   CONTINUED:

					PICARD (Cont'd)
				(beat)
			Attack posture, circumvental
			attitude. Prepare beams for
			photon mode.

					BURKE
				(to himself)
			Bye-bye, Hathaway.

61   INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS

	Their delight is infectious, it leaps off the screen.

					WORF
			Computers report heavy damage to
			Enterprise, sir.

					WESLEY
			They're moving off. Why not go
			after them?

					RIKER
				(not buying it)
			Because they're not through coming
			after us! Geordi, Wesley --
			prepare warp jump.

					GEORDI
				(nervous)
			There are no guarantees here, sir.

					RIKER
			There never are, Lieutenant. I'm
			going to trust your expertise.

	Geordi and Wesley glance at one another -- what the
	hell!

					RIKER
				(continuing; a true
				 captain)
			Secure your stations, gentlemen.
			Stand by for my signal.

62   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS

					PICARD
			Ready photon torpedoes.

         STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FOUR         41.

62   CONTINUED:

					BURKE
			Captain, sensors picking up a
			Ferengi warship closing at warp
			five.

					PICARD
			Did you input that new code?

					BURKE
			Yes, sir!

					PICARD
			Mister Worf -- I didn't give you
			enough credit, continue the
			simulation.

	ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE!

	Wham! Wham! Wham! Wham! The Enterprise is jolted
	off her gyroscope by massive hits from the real Ferengi
	craft. The INTERCOM EXPLODES in a tangle of crosstalk
	as the ship goes to Red Alert.

					PICARD
			Divert all power to shields!

					DATA
			Sever modified beams, engage
			phasers and target!

					PICARD
			Stay between the Hathaway and the
			Ferengi!

63   INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS

	Incredible tension.

					NAGEL
			That's no ghost attacking the
			Enterprise. That's real!

					WORF
			We must assist, sir!

					RIKER
			With what?! We have no offensive
			weapons!

       STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FOUR      42.

63   CONTINUED:

	The chilling reality of their situation is reflected in
	the faces of the crew.

64   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS

	On viewer, a vicious Ferengi warship hurls attack after
	attack at our perspective. Picard tries to maintain
	order while the Red Alert continues. The pace
	quickens, overlaps!

					PICARD
			Where are my weapons?

					BURKE
				(taut)
			Unavailable, sir! We cannot
			disengage the modified beams --
			the connections have been fused!

					KOLRAMI
			We must retreat!

					PICARD
			Unacceptable! I have crew on the
			Hathaway.

	On the Main Viewer, the Ferengi have stopped
	firing.

					DATA
			Captain, the Ferengi have broken
			off their attack.
				(to Burke)
			Drop shields. Transport the away
			team aboard.

					BURKE
			Transporter functions gone, sir!

					DATA
			Shields reduced to one-fifth
			intensity.

					KOLRAMI
			Use their moment of indecision
			to escape!

					PICARD
			I have forty crewmembers --

         STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FOUR         43.

64   CONTINUED:

					KOLRAMI
			-- Who should be sacrificed to
			save a thousand! Acceptable
			tactical losses, considering the
			circumstances.

					PICARD
			Not to me!
				(to Burke)
			Notify Starfleet -- priority.
			Hail Ferengi on my command.
				(to Data)
			Formulate alternatives.

					KOLRAMI
				(objecting)
			As the Starfleet observer I am
			ordering you to withdraw!

					PICARD
				(thundering)
			I am the captain of this vessel!
			Your order is nullified!

	Stunned by the force of Picard's directive, Kolrami
	falls silent and moves away.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			Ferengi on Main Viewer.

65   MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	The image of the looming Ferengi craft is replaced by
	the visage of TWO ENEMY OFFICERS.

					PICARD
			I am Jean-Luc Picard, Captain of
			the Federation Starship, USS
			Enterprise. Why have you attacked
			my ship?

       STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FOUR      44.

65   CONTINUED:

					BRACTOR
			Why was your ship combative with
			another Federation vessel of
			"lesser" design? Why do you now
			protect your former target? What
			is its value to you?

					TACTICIAN
			Our probes indicate you were aware
			of our approach, yet took no
			action.

					BRACTOR
			Your answers will dictate our
			response.

					PICARD
			I have refrained from launching
			a counter-attack in the hope that
			we can resolve this peacefully.

					BRACTOR
				("liar")
			Our probes indicate that you are
			crippled, and the ship you protect
			has no weaponry, no light-speed
			drive, and only scarce crew.

					TACTICIAN
			This makes no sense to us.
				(a beat)
			Unless it contains something very
			valuable?

					BRACTOR
			I am Bractor, leader of the
			Ferengi attack vessel Kreechta.
			I shall have the secret of the
			other Federation ship. If you
			surrender it to me, I will allow
			your Enterprise to leave unharmed.
				(beat)
			You have ten of your minutes.

	The screen returns to exterior of Ferengi ship.

         STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT FOUR         45.

65   CONTINUED: (2)

					BURKE
			Sir, they're massing a surge of
			power. We're being scanned...
			they've locked on!

					PICARD
			Data?

					DATA
			Our shields will not
			withstand another assault.

	The tension is palpable.

					KOLRAMI
			Then there are no options.
			Retreat or die.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

       STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FIVE      46.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

66   EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS

	showing the relationship of the three ships -- the
	Enterprise between the Hathaway and the Ferengi craft.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, supplemental. Due
			to a grave miscalculation on my
			part, the Enterprise has been
			subjected to a withering attack
			by the Ferengi. I find myself
			with little time to decide the
			fate of forty of my crew stranded
			aboard the derelict Hathaway.

67   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS
	(FROM SCENE 68)

	Picking up where we left off -- incredible tension.

       STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT FIVE      47.

67   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			I'm open to suggestions.

					BURKE
			Captain, we are now capable of
			launching a limited number of
			photon torpedoes.

					KOLRAMI
			I have given you my advice,
			Captain. The Hathaway is
			expendable.

					BURKE
			Commander Riker is hailing, sir.

					PICARD
			On screen. Have you been
			monitoring communications, Number
			One?

	The Main Viewer switches from the other ships to
	Riker on the Hathaway bridge.

					RIKER
			Yes, sir. And Kolrami's right.
			You must save the Enterprise.

					PICARD
			You will be left defenseless.

       STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FIVE      48.

67   CONTINUED: (2)

					RIKER
			When Bractor closes in, we'll hit
			our warp drive and take our
			chances.

					PICARD
			Your what?!

					RIKER
				(with pride)
			We have a limited, two-second warp
			capability.

					KOLRAMI
				(stunned)
			Impossible! That ship was
			rendered warp inactive!

					PICARD
				(formulating an idea)
			I told you he was the best.
				(to Riker)
			I should wish to hear about this
			later, but now I need to work
			something out with Data.

									CUT TO:

68   OMITTED

69   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE (INTERUCT AS NEEDED)

	Picard, Data, and Kolrami --

       STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FIVE      49.

69   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			Premise: The Ferengi wish to
			capture the Hathaway believing
			it to be of value. Therefore,
			we must remove the ship from their
			field of interest.

					KOLRAMI
				(scornful)
			They will soon relocate it after
			a two-second warp and --

					PICARD
				(cutting him off)
			There is a way. Are you with
			us, Number One?

					RIKER
			Yes, sir. We're all here --
			anxiously waiting for you to pull
			another rabbit out of your hat.

					PICARD
			Data.

					DATA
			At the captain's signal, we will
			fire four photon torpedoes
			directly at the Hathaway. A
			millisecond before detonation,
			the computer will trigger your
			warp jump.

					GEORDI
				(lightly)
			I think I hate this plan.
				(sobering)
			Data, we don't even know for sure
			if our warp jump will work.

					DATA
			If the warp engines should fail
			to function, the result could
			be... unfortunate.

					WORF
			Very unfortunate... we will be
			dead.

   STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT FIVE 50-50A.     

69   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			Captain Riker, I can't order you
			to do this...

					RIKER
				(a beat)
			What the hell. Nobody said life
			was safe.

					PICARD
			The advantage is that it will
			appear from the Kreechta's
			perspective -- as though you were
			destroyed in the explosion.

					WORF
			That will only deceive them for
			a few minutes. Their sensors will
			soon locate us.

					RIKER
			A few minutes is all we need,
			Mister Worf, because you're going
			to prepare a surprise for them.

					PICARD
			Then we are agreed; on my mark
			in four minutes.

					DATA
			Remember, Geordi, if the
			implementation is off by a
			millisecond, the Hathaway will
			not survive.

					GEORDI
			Data, that's the one part of this
			plan that we're all absolutely
			sure about.

	Linger for a moment on the concerned faces.

70   EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)

	As the three ships continue to hold position.

       STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FIVE      51.

71   OMITTED

72   OMITTED

73   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
	(INTERCUT AS NECESSARY)

	Everybody has settled down into their positions.

					PICARD
			Are we ready, Number One?

	Both Data, to Picard's right, and Riker respond.

             DATA                       RIKER'S COM VOICE
        Ready, Captain.            Ready, Captain.

	Everybody pauses to smile.

					PICARD
			Good luck to both of you.
				(beat; to Burke)
			Bractor.

	The viewscreen fills with the sneering Bractor and
	tactician.

					BRACTOR
			I will wait no longer, Picard.

					PICARD
			You needn't, Bractor. The answer
			-- is "no."
				(beat)
			Your actions have been wholly
			criminal, and you will not profit
			by them.

					BRACTOR
			You are a fool.

					TACTICIAN
			How can you stop us?

					PICARD
			You feel the Hathaway has value?
			Well, I deny you your prize.
					(MORE)

       STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FIVE      52.

73   CONTINUED:

					PICARD (Cont'd)
				(to Burke)
			Fire!

74   EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS

	The Enterprise fires FOUR PHOTON TORPEDOES directly
	at the Hathaway. The torpedoes EXPLODE violently.

75   INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS -
	(INTERCUT AS NECESSARY)

	Bractor is barely-controlled raw fury on the viewer.

					TACTICIAN
			Destroy your own rather than
			endure the ignominy of defeat and
			capture?

					BRACTOR
			I did not think the Federation
			had such iron.

					PICARD
			You had no claim to that ship --
			it was ours to destroy.

					BRACTOR
			As you are ours to destroy!

					PICARD
				(unperturbed)
			You can try.

					TACTICIAN
			Enterprise targeted, Leader.
				(a long beat then with
				 stunned alarm)
			Leader! There is another
			Federation ship closing -- a
			starship!

					BRACTOR
			Maximum shields! We've been
			outmaneuvered. Retreat!

	The image of Bractor on the Main Viewer is replaced
	by the Kreechta, which almost instantly bolts into the
	Ferengi version of warp nine, and is absolutely gone!

       STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT FIVE      53.

75   CONTINUED:

					BURKE
			Captain, our sensors show no
			Federation starship nearby.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Of course not, Mister Burke. That
			was Klingon guile.

	Great relief as the Main Viewer reveals Riker on
	the Hathaway bridge.

					PICARD
			You made it, Number One. Smooth
			ride?

	On the screen, Riker, Worf, Geordi, Wesley and Nagel
	share a look -- it was obviously a bitch!

					RIKER
				(wryly)
			Different!

					PICARD
			We'll lock on and pick you up.

					RIKER
			With pleasure.

	The viewscreen returns to the Hathaway in space.
	Picard turns to Kolrami.

					KOLRAMI
				(begrudgingly)
			I must admit -- your Commander
			Riker has acquitted himself
			quite... admirably.

	Picard's look and silence is all "I-told-you-so."

         STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FIVE        53A.

75   CONTINUED: (2)

					KOLRAMI
				(continuing)
			And Captain... so have you. My
			report to Starfleet will be quite
			favorable.

					PICARD
			Thank you, Mister Kolrami.
				(to the crew)
			Initiate recovery procedures,
			continue repairs, plot a course
			for the nearest starbase.

       STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FIVE      54.

75   CONTINUED: (3)

	With a self-satisfied smile, Picard ENTERS the
	turbolift.

76
thru	OMITTED
78

79   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	with the now dark Hathaway IN TOW VIA TRACTOR-BEAM.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's log, supplemental. With
			the transporter repaired and my
			crew safely back aboard, we have
			officially ended the first
			Starfleet battle simulation.

80   OMITTED

81   RIKER AND PULASKI AS THEY ENTER TEN-FORWARD

	where the atmosphere is anything but relaxed -- the
	place is near bedlam. It takes Riker and Pulaski a
	moment to absorb what is happening.

82   DATA AND KOLRAMI (OPTICAL)

	are once again playing Strategema surrounded by a
	surging VOCAL CROWD -- including Worf, Geordi, Wesley,
	Troi and Burke. Riker does a double-take as he gapes
	at the --

83   DIGITAL COUNTER (OPTICAL)

	which now rips through the 26,000 mark! Before Riker
	can blink, 27,000 rolls over! Even Pulaski can sense
	the magic of the moment.

84   THE ANDROID AND THE ALIEN (OPTICAL)

	sit ramrod-straight as their fingers and heads twitch
	and rock with incredible speed. 33,000. 34,000.
	35,000. The counter stops at 35,693! Kolrami tears
	his fingers free and goggles off.

         STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FIVE         55.

85   SCENE

					DATA
			Why have you suspended the game?

	Kolrami is beside himself with anger, humiliation,
	self-doubt and confusion. He doesn't know whether to
	drop dead or order pizza.

					KOLRAMI
				(shaking with rage)
			Because this is not a rematch --
			you have made a mockery of me.

	He storms out of Ten-Forward with an urgency that could
	only be borne of public disgrace.

86   DATA

	is swarmed by the CHEERING CREW. Riker and Pulaski
	push their way through to join Worf, Geordi, Wesley and
	Troi in the inner-circle.

					RIKER
			Data, you beat him!

					DATA
			No, sir -- it is a stalemate.

					WORF
			No game of Strategema has ever
			gone this high.

					GEORDI
			What did you do?

					DATA
			I simply altered my "premise" for
			playing.

					RIKER
			Explain.

					DATA
			Working under the assumption that
			Kolrami is attempting to win, it
			is reasonable to assume that he
			expects me to play for the same
			goal.

					WESLEY
			You weren't?

         STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FIVE         56.

86   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			No. I was playing only for a
			standoff -- a "draw." While
			Kolrami was dedicated to winning,
			I was able to pass up obvious
			avenues of advancement and settle
			for a balance.
				(android pride)
			Theoretically, I should be able
			to challenge him indefinitely.

					PULASKI
			Then you have beaten him.

	Data demurring, but with a little preen.

					DATA
			A matter of perspective. In the
			strictest sense I did not win.

	Troi and Pulaski lean in close with a "Come on, cut
	the bull-stuff" attitude.

					TROI/PULASKI
			Data!

					DATA
			I busted him up.

	The CROWDED ROOM ERUPTS once again, and amidst the
	congratulatory noise and the outstretched hands of
	patting approval, PUSH IN on Data's satisfied
	expression as he absorbs this new sensation, and --

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END                             




