













                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                            "Qpid" 
                       (f.k.a. "Q Love") 
                          #40274-194 
                              
                          Teleplay by 
                        Ira Steven Behr 
                              
                          Directed by 
                          Cliff Bole 


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 1991 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 This script is not for publication or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.

                         FINAL DRAFT

                      JANUARY 31, 1991


              STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 2/5/91 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                           "Q Love" 

                             CAST                               
                              
                PICARD             Q
                RIKER              VASH
                DATA               SIR GUY GISBOURNE
                BEVERLY            ELDERLY SERVANT
                TROI               
                GEORDI             
                WORF               
                                   Non-Speaking
                                     VARIOUS ARCHEOLOGY
                                       COUNCIL MEMBERS
                COMPUTER VOICE     
                                     A VULCAN COUNCIL MEMBER
                                     TROOP OF MEN-AT-ARMS
                Non-Speaking         EXECUTIONER
                  SUPERNUMERARIES    CASTLE GUARDS
                                     SERVANTS
                                     MEMBERS OF THE COURT

              STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 2/5/91 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                           "Q Love" 
                           
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                  EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE             USS ENTERPRISE
              MAIN BRIDGE
              CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM     SHERWOOD FOREST
              TEN FORWARD
              CORRIDOR                 NOTTINGHAM CASTLE
              PICARD'S QUARTERS
              VASH'S QUARTERS
              MEETING ROOM
          
            SHERWOOD FOREST
              A GLADE
          
            NOTTINGHAM CASTLE
              MAID MARIAN'S CHAMBERS

         STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - PRONUNCIATION 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                           "Q Love" 
                       
                      PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

                clavicular       klaw-VICK-you-lahr

          STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/7/91 - TEASER          1.

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                           "Q Love"                                
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship orbits a small, orange hued planet.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's Log, stardate 44741.9.
			We have arrived at Tagus Three
			where the Enterprise is to serve
			as host of the Federation
			Archeology Council's annual
			symposium.

2    INT. READY ROOM

	PICARD, intensely studying his monitor screen.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			I look forward to giving
			tomorrow's keynote address with
			great anticipation.

	The DOOR CHIME SOUNDS.

					PICARD
			Come.

	TROI ENTERS. Picard barely glances up from the
	monitor. Troi smiles at Picard's preoccupation.

					TROI
			I thought you'd want to know,
			Captain, the Council members have
			all been beamed aboard and
			assigned quarters.

					PICARD
			Excellent.

         STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/1/91 - TEASER         2.

2    CONTINUED:

					TROI
				(a hint)
			It really is quite late, Captain.

	Picard motions her over to the monitor.

					PICARD
			Tell me, Counselor, in regard
			to my lecture, which do you
			suppose would provide greater
			clarity? A chronological
			structure, or a division of each
			excavation's findings into various
			sociological, religious, and
			environmental sub-groupings?

					TROI
			I thought you had already decided
			on a chronological structure.

					PICARD
				(nodding; but not quite
				 convinced)
			Still, there is something to be
			said for a more scientific
			approach.

					TROI
			Captain, may I make a suggestion?

					PICARD
			By all means.

	Troi finally has the Captain's complete attention.

					TROI
			Relax! You've written a brilliant
			speech.

					PICARD
			It needs to be. Tomorrow I'll
			be addressing some of the greatest
			scientific minds in the
			Federation. Switzer,
			Klarc-Tarn-Droth, McFarland.
			Giants in the field of Archeology.
			Next to them I'm nothing but an
			enthusiastic amateur.

         STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - TEASER         3.

2    CONTINUED: (2)

					TROI
			I doubt they think of you as an
			amateur... not when it comes to
			the ruins of Tagus Three.

					PICARD
				(modestly)
			Well, I have done my homework...
			I've examined the findings of
			every archaeological expedition
			conducted on the planet's
			surface...

					TROI
			It's unfortunate the Taguans no
			longer allow outsiders to visit
			the ruins.

					PICARD
				(wistful)
			Indeed. Especially since we still
			know so little about their
			origin...

	He gestures toward the monitor.

					PICARD
			Hopefully, I've been able to
			construct some intriguing theories
			of my own.

					TROI
			I'm sure the council members will
			agree that you have.

					PICARD
				(smiling)
			Your support is appreciated,
			Deanna.

	Picard stands.

					PICARD
			Screen off.

	CU screen as it goes blank.

         STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - TEASER         4.

3    INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS

	The door OPENS. Picard ENTERS looking somewhat
	fatigued.

	The first thing he notices -- is a Horga'hn sitting
	on his desk. Picard looks at it, curious... where the
	hell did this thing come from? Then...

					VASH (O.S.)
			Bring back any memories?

	Picard turns to see VASH stepping out of the shadows
	near the door. For a moment he's taken completely
	off-guard.

					PICARD
			Vash? How did you get in here?

	She smiles... and moves closer.

					VASH
			I came in through the window.

	Picard barely has the chance to regain his aplomb when
	she snakes an arm around him and they kiss. It's going
	to last awhile.

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

         STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT ONE         5.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

4    INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS - MORNING

	Vash, wearing the same outfit from the night before,
	and Picard, in his dress uniform, sit at a table eating
	a brekfast of rolls and jam. Though there is still a
	warm afterglow from the evening's activities, Picard is
	slightly ill at ease about playing host to Vash aboard
	the Enterprise.

					PICARD
			I had no idea you were a member
			of the Archaeology Council.

	Vash only smiles.

					PICARD
			You are a member?
				(a beat)
			Aren't you.

         STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/1/91 - ACT ONE         6.

4    CONTINUED:

					VASH
				(smiling)
			More or less.

					PICARD
			Why have you come to Tagus Three?

					VASH
			To see you, of course.

					PICARD
			Is that the only reason?

					VASH
			Isn't it enough?

	She's moves closer to him. It's an intimate moment.

					PICARD
				(smiling)
			I wish I could believe you?

					VASH
				(smiling right back)
			I'd be disappointed if you did.
				(a beat)
			I really have missed you,
			Jean-Luc.

	But before they can act on a mutual impulse the DOOR
	CHIMES. Picard waits until Vash steps away before
	answering.

					PICARD
			Come.

	BEVERLY strides in.

					BEVERLY
			I'm sorry I'm late...
				(noticing Vash)
			Oh, excuse me. I didn't know you
			had company.

					PICARD
			That's quite all right, Doctor.
			Beverly Crusher allow me to
			introduce Vash. A friend of mine
			with the Archeology Council.

	The two women exchange greetings.

           STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT ONE           7.

4    CONTINUED: (2)

					BEVERLY
				(to Vash)
			I didn't mean to interrupt. The
			Captain and I often share morning
			tea.

					VASH
			Yes, Jean-Luc has told me all
			about you.

					BEVERLY
			Really? When was that?

					VASH
			On Risa. Where we met.

	Beverly is finding this all very interesting.

					BEVERLY
			I see.
				(to Picard)
			That must have been during your
			vacation last year.

					PICARD
				(giving nothing away)
			So it was.

					BEVERLY
				(to Vash)
			I'm surprised he never mentioned
			you.

					VASH
			So am I.

	She shoots Picard a look, but no explanation is
	forthcoming.

					VASH
			Are you busy, Doctor?

					BEVERLY
			Not at the moment.

					VASH
			I was wondering, I would love to
			see some more of this marvelous
			ship...

           STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT ONE           8.

4    CONTINUED: (3)

					BEVERLY
			I'd be delighted to show it to
			you. If that's alright with you,
			Jean-Luc.

					PICARD
			Of course.

	But he doesn't seem thrilled at the prospect. As Vash
	passes him on the way out...

					VASH
				(sotto voce)
			Don't worry, I promise to behave
			myself.

	Picard does not look reassured.

5    INT. TEN FORWARD

	The lounge is only lightly populated at the moment.

	Riker is seated alone having a drink.

	Beverly and Vash ENTER.

					BEVERLY
			And this is Ten Forward, where
			the Council's welcoming reception
			is to be held this afternoon.

					VASH
				(liking what she sees)
			I couldn't think of a better
			location.
				(a beat)
			Tell me, does Jean-Luc come here
			often?

					BEVERLY
			No, not often.

					VASH
			I didn't think so.

					BEVERLY
			The Captain is a very private man.

           STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT ONE           9.

5    CONTINUED:

					VASH
			He certainly acted that way when
			we first met.
				(smiling)
			But I managed to loosen him up.

	Beverly would definitely like to learn more about this
	woman.

					BEVERLY
			Would you like something to drink?

					VASH
			Please.

	Beverly walks over to the bar. Vash checks out the
	view from the window as Riker APPROACHES.

					RIKER
			Eternity never looked so lovely.

					VASH
			Excuse me?

					RIKER
			I was referring to the view.
			Eternity never looked so lovely.

	Vash gives him a shrewd appraisal.

					VASH
			You must be Commander Riker.

					RIKER
				(surprised)
			I'm afraid you have me at a
			disadvantage.

					VASH
			I didn't mean to interrupt. I
			believe you were about to tell
			me that my eyes are as mysterious
			as the stars.

	Riker is intrigued. How the hell did she know?

					RIKER
				(thinks he's figured
				 it out)
			You're a Betazoid.

          STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT ONE          10.

5    CONTINUED: (2)

					VASH
			Not at all. It's just that
			Jean-Luc does quite a good
			imitation of you.

					RIKER
			He does?

	Beverly comes back with the drinks.

					BEVERLY
			I see you two have met.

					RIKER
			Not exactly.

					BEVERLY
			Vash is a member of the Archeology
			Council. And a friend of the
			Captain.

					RIKER
			So I've gathered.

					BEVERLY
			They met during his visit to Risa.

					RIKER
			On Risa?
				(amused)
			That must have been a better
			vacation than he let on.

					VASH
			You mean he never mentioned me
			to you either?

					RIKER
			Believe me, if he had, I would
			have remembered.

					VASH
				(a bit frustrated)
			You'd think he'd have told someone
			about me.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Doctor Crusher, please report to
			Sickbay.

          STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT ONE          11.

5    CONTINUED: (3)

					BEVERLY
			On my way.
				(to Vash)
			I'm afraid I won't be able to
			finish up our tour.
				(a beat)
			Perhaps Commander Riker could fill
			in for me.

					RIKER
			It would be my pleasure.

	Beverly leaves. Riker and Vash head for the door.

					VASH
			So you're the one who asked
			Jean-Luc to buy the Horga'han.

					RIKER
			That was me.

					VASH
			Tell me Commander, do you collect
			sexual fertility symbols?

					RIKER
			I wouldn't call it a very large
			collection.

	And they're out the door.

6    INT. BRIDGE

	DATA and GEORDI at Science Station, WORF at Tactical.
	N.D.'s elsewhere.

	Riker and Vash EXIT the aft turbolift.

					RIKER
			And that brings us to the Main
			Bridge, the Command center of the
			Enterprise, and the end of our
			tour.

	He brings her over to the Science Station.

					RIKER
			Vash, I'd like you to meet
			Commander La Forge and Commander
			Data...

          STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT ONE          12.

6    CONTINUED:

	An exchange of greetings. Riker gestures over to Worf
	who looks on with disapproval.

					RIKER
			And this is Lieutenant Worf.
				(noticing Worf's scowl)
			Something wrong, Lieutenant?

					WORF
			Sir, I was not informed that
			Council Members had been granted
			bridge clearance.

					RIKER
			I think we can make an exception
			in this case, Mister Worf. Vash
			is the Captain's guest.

	Interested glances all around. Worf is somewhat at
	a loss for what to say.

					WORF
				(finally)
			Welcome aboard.

	Riker leads Vash over to the Command area.

					VASH
			Is this where Jean-Luc sits?

					RIKER
				(pointing it out)
			That's the big chair.

	To everyone's surprise she sits down in it. It
	provides a definite sense of power.

					VASH
			I can see where being a starship
			Captain does have its rewards.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			I'm glad you approve.

	All eyes turn to Picard who has just exited the Ready
	Room. Vash stands.

          STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT ONE          13.

6    CONTINUED: (2)

					VASH
			Jean-Luc. Commander Riker was
			just showing me the bridge.

	Picard looks at Riker.

					RIKER
			Doctor Crusher was called to
			Sickbay.

	Picard nods. An awkward beat of silence.

					PICARD
			So, did you enjoy your tour?

					VASH
			Very much.

					PICARD
			Good.

	Another awkward moment.

					VASH
			I guess I'll head back to my room
			now and get ready for the
			reception.

					PICARD
			By all means.
				(a beat)
			Well, I suppose I'll see you then.

					VASH
			I look forward to it.

	She turns and makes the long walk back up the ramp to
	the turbolift.

					RIKER
				(watching her go)
			Fascinating woman.

	No comment, from Picard.

7    ANGLE ON

	Data and Geordi. Geordi has also watched Vash EXIT
	the bridge.

	As the turbolift doors close he breaks into a grin.

          STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT ONE          14.

7    CONTINUED:

					DATA
			You find something humorous,
			Geordi?

					GEORDI
			Didn't you notice how ill-at-ease
			the Captain seemed around Vash?

					DATA
			Yes. However I see nothing
			amusing in his hostility toward
			her.

					GEORDI
			That wasn't hostility, Data.
				(off Data's look)
			He likes her.
				(a beat)
			A lot.

	Still smiling, Geordi turns back to the science
	monitor. A puzzled Data is left pondering the
	intricacies of human relationships.

8    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship maintains standard orbit.

9    INT. TEN FORWARD

	The reception. COUNCIL MEMBERS mingle with the crew.
	A rather informal time is being had by all.

10   NEW ANGLE

	Vash has cornered TROI over by a buffet table.

         STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT ONE 15-15A.           

10   CONTINUED:

					VASH
			I don't understand, I thought
			being ship's counselor meant the
			Captain confided in you.

					TROI
			He does. When he feels it's
			necessary.

					VASH
			And he never spoke to you about
			me?

					TROI
			Not that I can recall.

					VASH
			Not even a hint?

					TROI
			You must understand, the Captain
			is a very...

					TROI & VASH
				(together)
			Private man.

					VASH
			I know...

	She spots Picard who is deep in discussion with a
	Vulcan Council Member.

					VASH
			Will you excuse me?

					TROI
			Certainly.

	Vash walks off.

11   NEW ANGLE

	Vash passes by Worf, Geordi, Beverly and Data.

					WORF
				(still watching Vash)
			Nice legs.
				(off Geordi's look)
			For a human.

          STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT ONE          16.

12   NEW ANGLE

	Picard and the Vulcan.

					PICARD
			I agree, the Vulcan excavations
			on Tagus Three were extensive.
			Unfortunately, they were confined
			to the northeastern part of the
			city.

	Vash appears at his elbow.

					VASH
			Jean-Luc, we need to talk.

	One look and Picard knows she means it.

					PICARD
				(to the Vulcan)
			Pardon me.

	He and Vash move to a private spot.

					PICARD
			The reception seems to be a
			success.

					VASH
			Forget the reception for a moment.
			How come you've never mentioned
			me to your friends?

					PICARD
			What would you have me tell them?

					VASH
			Maybe that we met, for one thing.
			That we had an adventure together.
			Some fun...

					PICARD
			I'm afraid that wasn't possible.

					VASH
			Why not?

					PICARD
			It would have
			been... inappropriate.

					VASH
			I wasn't expecting you to go into
			any intimate details.

        STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT ONE        17.

12   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			A Captain does not share his
			personal feelings with his crew.

					VASH
			Is that a Starfleet regulation?
			Or did you make that one up
			yourself?

					PICARD
			I'm sorry if you're upset.

					VASH
			And I'm sorry if my being here
			embarrasses you.

	And with that she turns and walks away.

	HOLD ON a perplexed Captain Picard.

13   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Riker at command. N.D.'s at Conn and Ops.

	Picard ENTERS from the forward turbolift.

					RIKER
			How was the reception?

					PICARD
				(brusque)
			Splendid.

	He EXITS into the Ready Room.

14   INT. READY ROOM

	Picard ENTERS and stops as he SEES --

15   Q

	seated at his desk dressed in a Starfleet uniform.

					Q
			Jean-Luc! How wonderful to see
			you again.

          STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT ONE          18.

15   CONTINUED:

	ON PICARD'S REACTION...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

        STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT TWO        19.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

16   INT. READY ROOM - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)

	As before.

					Q
			Well don't just stand there, say
			something.

	Picard advances into the room.

					PICARD
			Get out of my chair.

					Q
			I was hoping for something more
			along the lines of "Welcome back,
			Q. It's a pleasure to see you
			again old friend."

					PICARD
			We are not friends.

					Q
			You wound me, mon Capitain.

	Q snaps his fingers and now it's Picard who sits at his
	desk and Q who stands before him.

					Q
			There, perhaps now your manners
			will show some improvement.

					PICARD
			What brings you here, Q? Have you
			been banished from the Continuum
			once again?

					Q
			Hardly. They're still apologizing
			to me for the last time.

					PICARD
			Then what is it you want?

        STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT TWO        20.

16   CONTINUED:

					Q
			Must I always have a reason to
			stop by. I was in the sector
			and...
				(Picard doesn't buy it)
			Alright. You force a confession
			from me. The truth is I have a
			debt to settle.

					PICARD
			A debt?

					Q
			To you, Picard. And it gnaws at
			me. It interferes with each day.

					PICARD
			I have no idea what you're talking
			about...

					Q
			Without your assistance at our
			last encounter, I never would
			have survived. I would have taken
			my own life but for you, Jean-Luc.

					PICARD
			We all make mistakes.

					Q
			Your good deed made possible my
			reinstatement into the continuum.
			And I resent owing you
			anything... so I'm here to pay
			up... what shall it be... tell
			me and I'll be gone...

					PICARD
			Just be gone. That will suffice
			nicely.

					Q
			No, it must be something...
			something...
				(searching)
			...constructive. My new word for
			the day.

					PICARD
			Some other time, all right?
			Right now I have several things
			to attend to.


        STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT TWO        21.

16   CONTINUED: (2)

					Q
			Yes, your speech. I've read it.
			I found it dull and pedantic.
			Much like yourself.
				(an idea)
			I could help you with it.

					PICARD
			No.

					Q
			You've never actually been to the
			ruins in Tagus Three, have you?

					PICARD
			They've been sealed off for over
			a century.

					Q
			How can you write about what you
			haven't seen?

16A  ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	Q is suddenly wearing a safari suit...

					Q
				(brightening)
			I'll take you there!

					PICARD
			Impossible. That would mean
			breaking Taguan law.

					Q
			Must you always be so ethical?
				(thinking)
			I suppose we could travel back
			in time. You could see what Tagus
			was like two billion years ago.
			They really knew how to have fun
			in those days.

					PICARD
			I'm afraid my answer is still no.
			My lecture will have to stand on
			its own. Now, will you please
			leave my ship.

					Q
			Then you refuse my help?

        STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT TWO        22.

16A  CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			Completely.

	A beat as Q broods. Then finally...

					Q
				(mildly)
			You're simply impossible to find
			a gift for, Picard.

	And he's gone.

					PICARD
				(to Conn)
			Commander Riker, report to my
			Ready Room.

	Riker ENTERS.

					RIKER
			Yes, Captain?

					PICARD
			I've just been paid a visit by
			Q.

					RIKER
			Q?
				(concerned)
			Any idea what he's up to?

					PICARD
			He wants to do something nice for
			me.

	Riker REACTS. That definitely sounds like trouble.

					RIKER
			I'll alert the crew.

	OFF Picard's look of approval:

17   INT. CORRIDOR - MINUTES LATER

	Picard EXITS the turbolift. He heads down the Corridor
	on the way to meet with one of the Council Officials.
	At the hall he hesitates, turns left instead of right.

18   NEW ANGLE

	Picard HALTS at a doorway. RINGS the bell.

          STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT TWO          23.

18   CONTINUED:

					VASH (V.O.)
			Who's there?

					PICARD
			It's me.

					VASH (V.O.)
			Who?

					PICARD
			Jean-Luc.

	The door slides open. Vash stands in the entrance.

					VASH
			Yes.

					PICARD
			May I come in?

					VASH
			What for?

					PICARD
			To talk.

					VASH
			I'm listening.

					PICARD
			If it's all the same to you I'd
			rather this discussion not take
			place in a public corridor.

	He slips past her.

19   INT. VASH'S QUARTERS

	The first thing Picard notices are various digging
	tools piled in a corner. He looks over at Vash.

					VASH
			I thought these were "private"
			quarters.

	Picard picks up a PADD off the table.

20   INSERT PADD

	A map of the ruins of Tagus.

          STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT TWO          24.

21   BACK TO SCENE

	Picard places the Padd back on the table.

					PICARD
			And I thought I was the only
			reason you came to Tagus.

					VASH
			I never fooled you for a second.

	She moves closer to Picard.

					VASH
			Still, you are the most important
			reason.

					PICARD
			Am I?

	Vash steps away.

					VASH
			That's the trouble with being such
			a well known liar. Even when I
			tell the truth no one believes
			me.

	Picard refuses to be swayed.

					PICARD
			I'm afraid all this equipment will
			have to be confiscated.

					VASH
			Is that necessary?

					PICARD
			I could have you placed in the
			brig.

					VASH
			Why don't you?

					PICARD
			If the Taguans were to catch you
			down there...

					VASH
			You gave me the same warning about
			Sarathong Five.

					PICARD
			I remember.

         STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT TWO 25-25A.           

21   CONTINUED:

					VASH
			Well, it didn't stop me from going
			there. I brought back some very
			impressive artifacts, too.

					PICARD
			Which you no doubt sold for a nice
			profit.

					VASH
				(angry)
			It's what I do!

					PICARD
			Not while you're aboard my ship.
			I will not allow it.

					VASH
			Let's get one thing straight,
			Picard. I can not change who
			I am for you or anyone else.

					PICARD
			Nor can I change who I am.

					VASH
				(calmly)
			Then we have nothing more to say
			to each other.

					PICARD
			So it would seem.

	Picard leaves. Vash sits at the table. She's
	depressed and upset.

22   NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	Q's head APPEARS from the bulkhead behind her. He's
	obviously overheard their discussion and found it
	fascinating.

23   INT. CORRIDOR

	As Troi, Geordi and Data walk down it...


        STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT TWO        26.

23   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			What do you think it is?

					DATA
			What do I think what is?

					GEORDI
			About her. That, you know, gets
			to the Captain.

					DATA
			Perhaps it is their common
			interest in archaeology.

					TROI
			I don't think so.

					DATA
			But Counselor, as an
			archaeologist, her company would
			certainly be intellectually
			stimulating to the Captain.

					GEORDI
			She's not just stimulating his
			intellect, Data...

					TROI
			It's really none of our business.

	They turn a corner and come face to face with...

23A  Q (OPTICAL)

	Leaning against a wall. Wearing a Starfleet uniform
	again.

					Q
			You want to know about Picard and
			that woman? I'll tell you...

	We HEAR the SOUND of BIRDS CHIRPING in the air.

        STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/6/91 - ACT TWO        27.

23A  CONTINUED:

					Q
				(sneering)
			It's love.

	He DISAPPEARS.

24   INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)

	Picard ENTERS, disgruntled. He goes into his bedroom,
	which is dark. As he enters, he sees a figure under
	the covers in his bed. A slight smile creeps to his
	lips. He moves to the bed, pulls back the covers to
	reveal Q.

					Q
			Sleeping alone, Picard?

					PICARD
			I'm in no mood for your
			foolishness, Q.

					Q
			I thought there was something
			different about you. You seemed
			tense, preoccupied. Somewhat...
			smaller.
				(a beat)
			At first I thought it was that
			horrible lecture of yours. But
			I was mistaken.

					PICARD
			Whatever game you want to play
			will have to wait until tomorrow.

	Picard gets into bed but Q refuses to be ignored.

					Q
			I had such hopes for you,
			Jean-Luc. I thought you were a
			bit more evolved than the rest
			of your species. But now I
			realize you're as weak as all the
			others.
				(a beat)
			Still, it pains me to see the
			great Picard brought down by a
			woman.

        STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT TWO        28.

24   CONTINUED:

	Picard, tries not to feign disinterest.

					PICARD
			What woman?

					Q
			Don't play coy with me Captain.
			I witnessed your little spat with
			Vash. Nor will I soon forget that
			look of misery on your face. The
			pain. The anguish. If I didn't
			know better I would have thought
			you were already married.

					PICARD
			You really must be bored, Q.
			You're letting your imagination
			run away with you.

					Q
			This human emotion of Love is
			a dangerous thing, Picard. You
			are obviously ill equipped to
			handle it. She's found a
			vulnerability in you... a
			vulnerability that I've wanted
			to find for years. If I had known
			this sooner, I would have arrived
			as a female. Mark my words,
			Jean-Luc, this is your Achilles
			heel..

					PICARD
			Believe what you wish.

					Q
			You deny you care for this woman?

	Picard doesn't answer.

					Q
			Believe me, Picard, I'd be doing
			you a big favor if I simply turned
			her into a Klabnian eel.

					PICARD
				(very seriously)
			Stay away from her, Q.

					Q
			I only want to help... my debt
			to you...

        STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT TWO        28A.

24   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
				(interrupting)
			... is hereby nullified. I don't
			want your help... your advice...
			your favors... or for that matter
			-- you. Can you understand that
			once and for all?

					Q
			You would have me stand idly by
			while she leads you to your
			destruction?

					PICARD
			Yes!

					Q
			As you wish.

	And once again, he's gone.

	A concerned Picard is left wondering what Q meant by
	that last remark.

         STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/8/91 - ACT TWO         29.

25   INT. MEETING ROOM - NEXT MORNING

	As Picard and Riker ENTER...

					RIKER
			Knock 'em dead, Captain.

	Picard nods and moves toward the podium; Riker toward
	the audience.

26   ANOTHER ANGLE

	All seats are filled in anticipation of Picard's
	lecture. Vash sits among the Council Members. Our
	regular crew members are present as well.

26A  ANGLE - PICARD

	As he steps up to the podium. He's waited for this
	moment a long time.

					PICARD
			Ladies and gentlemen, members of
			the Archeology Council. Welcome.
			It is the mystery of Tagus Three
			that brings us together today...
			a mystery that has invited more
			argument and deduction than the
			best Sherlock Holmes or Dixon Hill
			tale. Well, if you'll excuse the
			conceit, you're about to hear my
			own detective story.

26B
thru	OMITTED
26C

26D  ANGLE - TROI AND BEVERLY (OPTICAL)

	Suddenly, a hunting cap, with feather, appears on
	Beverly's head. As Troi attempts to point this
	phenomenon out to Beverly, a similar cap appears on her
	own head. They stare at each other in disbelief.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			For several years, I have been
			trying to unravel the secrets of
			Tagus Three. Needless to say,
			I have not succeeded.

         STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/8/91 - ACT TWO         30.

26E  ANGLE - PICARD

	Still unaware that anything is amiss.

					PICARD
			However, I have, I believe,
			turned up some new information,
			that if nothing else, raises a
			whole new set of mysteries that
			I hope we can discuss during our
			time togther.

26F  ANGLE - RIKER AND GEORDI (OPTICAL)

	Riker reacts to the quarterstaff that appears in his
	hand; Geordi to the mandolin that appears in his.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			There have been nine hundred and
			forty-seven known Archaeological
			excavations conducted on the
			planet's surface.

26G  ANGLE - DATA (OPTICAL)

	who finds himself wearing a cowl... and holding a leg
	of lamb.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Out of that number some
			seventy-four are generally
			considered to have revealed
			findings of major importance.

26HA	ANGLE - WORF

	Astounded by the chaperone which has appeared on his
	shoulders.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			The earliest took place some
			twenty-two thousand years ago.

26H  ANGLE - PICARD (OPTICAL)

	who along with the rest of the theater audience is
	beginning to realize that something peculiar is going
	on.

         STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/8/91 - ACT TWO         30A.

26H  CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			The last was completed within
			the last four hundred years.

	Suddenly he's dressed in a jerkin and cap of familiar
	Lincoln green. The audience REACTS. So does Picard.
	Then, as a yeoman's bow appears in his hand...

					PICARD
			What the hell... !

	He VANISHES.

27   EXT. FOREST - DAY - (OPTICAL)

	Picard, Riker, Geordi, Data, Worf, Beverly and Troi all
	APPEAR at the same time... all dressed in period
	costume. Beverly and Troi wear men's clothing.
	Beverly also carries a sword; Troi a longbow and
	arrows. Data is bald except for a soupbowl fringe
	plastered to his forehead. Riker wears a yellow jerkin
	and carries his quarterstaff. Worf is dressed like a
	dandy and Geordi still holds his madolin.

	As they all react...

					PICARD
				(raging)
			Q!

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

        STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/7/91 - ACT THREE        31.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

28   EXT. FOREST - DAY

	As our heroes survey the scenery around them...

					TROI
			Is this Tagus Three?

					PICARD
			I doubt there are many oak trees
			on Tagus. No, my guess is this
			is supposed to be Earth.
				(off reactions)
			Sometime around the twelfth
			century. And this is England,
			Sherwood Forest to be precise.
			Or at least Q's re-creation of
			it.

       STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT THREE       32.

28   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			That explains these costumes.

					PICARD
			Exactly, Number One.
				(a beat)
			Or should I say, John Little.

	Riker studies Picard to see if he's serious.

					BEVERLY
			If he's Little John, that would
			make you...

					PICARD
			I know. Robin Hood.

	A beat as this sinks in.

					WORF
			Sir, I protest. I am not a merry
			man.

					DATA
			On the contrary, Lieutenant Worf,
			your clothing identifies you with
			the character of Will Scarlett.
			Just as Geordi's Mandolin suggests
			he is Alan-A-Dale.

					RIKER
			And you, Mister Data, bear a
			striking resemblance to one Friar
			Tuck.

	Data examines his stomach.

        STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/1/91 - ACT THREE 33-33A.          

28   CONTINUED: (2)

					WORF
			I will not play the fool for Q's
			amusement.

	He takes off his cap, looks at it in disgust, and
	slams it on the ground.

					PICARD
			You're quite right, Worf.
				(loudly)
			Do you hear that Q? You may as
			well return us to our ship
			immediately.

	They react to a horse's shrill whinny and turn to
	see...

       STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT THREE       34.

29
thru	OMITTED
30

30A  SIR GUY OF GISBOURNE

	Mounted on a sleek charger, sword drawn.

					SIR GUY
			I have you at last, Robin Hood.

	As he charges at Picard...

30B  NEW ANGLE

	Worf draws his own sword to defend his Captain...

30C  ANOTHER ANGLE

	Sir Guy rides past Worf, cutting him across the
	shoulder with his sword. Worf is ready to fight on,
	but... Suddenly an arrow slams into a tree next to
	Picard...

30D  ANGLE - SEVEN MEN AT ARMS

	Coming over a nearby hill. Longbows at the ready.

30E  RESUME ANGLE - PICARD AND WORF

	Three more arrows strike trees around them. Picard
	sees there's only one hope to escape.

					PICARD
			Quick. Into the forest.

       STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT THREE       34A.

31
thru	OMITTED
31B

31C  ANGLE - WORF

	prepares to cover their retreat.

31D  ANGLE - PICARD

	Hanging back as the others disappear into the trees.

					PICARD
			Mister Worf. That's an order.

	Worf follows Picard into the forest.

31E  OMITTED

31F  NEW ANGLE

	A furious Sir Guy turns to his men, who search the
	underbrush.

					SIR GUY
			Enough, you fools. We'll never
			find them in the greenwood.

32   INT. FOREST - A GLADE - DAY

	Picard and his crew are resting. He approaches Worf
	who is being tended to by Beverly (sans tricorder.)

					BEVERLY
				(applying a makeshift
				 bandage)
			I've managed to stop the
			bleeding.

33   NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	Q appears on horseback. He's garbed in the cloak and
	livery of the High Sheriff of Nottingham.

       STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT THREE       35.

33   CONTINUED:

	An angry Picard approaches Q.

					PICARD
			It's about time you showed up,
			Q.

					Q
			I'd prefer it if you addressed
			me as His Honor the High Sheriff
			of Nottingham.

					PICARD
			We will not share in this
			pointless fantasy of yours.

	Q dismounts.

					Q
			Fine. Wait here and do nothing.
			By mid-day tomorrow, you'll all
			be safely back aboard your ship.
			But you will have to accept the
			consequences of your inaction.

					PICARD
			What consequences?

					Q
			What's the one thing Robin Hood
			is famous for?

       STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT THREE       36.

33   CONTINUED: (2)

	A beat. Nobody answers. Then...

					GEORDI
			Robbing from the rich to give to
			the poor?

					Q
			Besides that.

					DATA
			Are you referring to his rescue
			of Maid Marian from Nottingham
			Castle?

					Q
			Right you are, Data.

	Q looks over at Picard with glee.

					Q
			And it just so happens that Sir
			Guy of Gisbourne has decreed that
			Marian's head comes off tomorrow
			at noon.

					PICARD
				(grimly)
			Vash.

	Q smiles. He's enjoying himself thoroughly.

					Q
			The choice is yours my dear,
			Robin. You can either take your
			ease here within the sylvan glade
			or risk your life to save a woman
			you care nothing about.

					PICARD
			My feelings toward Vash are
			irrelevant. I'd attempt to save
			any innocent life, as you well
			know.

       STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT THREE       37.

33   CONTINUED: (3)

					Q
			But what of your merry men? Are
			you willing to put them in
			jeopardy as well? Is Vash's life
			worth losing hers or his or even
			his... ?
				(the last being Worf)
			Though I admit he would make a
			perfect throw rug at Nottingham
			Castle.

					PICARD
			Q, I ask you to end this now,
			before anyone else gets hurt.

	Q swings up onto the horse.

					Q
			Impossible. You see, I've given
			this fantasy as you call it, a
			life of its own. I don't know
			how things will turn out anymore
			than you do.
				(a beat)
			But of one thing I am certain.
			If you dare set foot in Nottingham
			Castle, blood will be spilled.

	He, and the horse vanish.

34   EXT. NOTTINGHAM CASTLE - DAY - (OPTICAL)

	Establishing.

35   INT. MAID MARIAN'S CHAMBERS - DAY

	A small, stark room in the tower; minimal furniture
	to include a wooden bench. Vash, dressed in Marian's
	virginal white, paces the floor. She's watched by an
	ELDERLY SERVANT.

					SERVANT
			You'll wear yourself out with
			all that pacing, M'lady.

       STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 1/31/91 - ACT THREE       38.

35   CONTINUED:

					VASH
			I told you to stop calling me
			that. My name's Vash.

					SERVANT
			My poor lamb, it's a brain
			sickness you've got for sure.
			Can't I get you something to ease
			your suffering?

					VASH
			I could use a drink.

					SERVANT
			It wasn't spirits I was thinking
			of M'lady.

	She picks up a wooden box.

					SERVANT
			I have here some nice fresh
			leeches to drain the fever.

	Vash points to the door.

					VASH
			Out. Get out.

	The servant rushes to the door, but before she can get
	there it opens and Sir Guy ENTERS.

					SERVANT
			Oh, her mind's in an awful
			turmoil, Sir Guy.

	Sir Guy stares at Vash with undisguised desire.

					VASH
			Who the hell are you?

					SERVANT
			M'Lady, everyone in Nottingham
			knows, Sir Guy of Gisbourne.

					VASH
			Sir Guy of what?

	Her Servant rolls her eyes towards heaven, and shaking
	her head hurries out of the room.

	Sir Guy closes the door behind her.

       STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT THREE       38A.

35   CONTINUED: (2)

					SIR GUY
			Do not mock me, Lady Marian. I'm
			prepared to offer you one final
			chance to change your mind.

	He grabs hold of her.

					SIR GUY
			Will you marry me?

	Vash pulls away and slaps him across the face.

       STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT THREE       39.

35   CONTINUED: (3)

					SIR GUY
				(coldly)
			I see. Then the execution will
			proceed as scheduled.

	Sir Guy turns to leave.

					VASH
			What execution?

					SIR GUY
				(turning back)
			I warn you Marian, this pathetic
			attempt at feigning madness will
			not save your life.

					VASH
				(shocked)
			You mean I'm the one getting
			executed?

	Though Vash is at a loss to explain how she came to be
	in this current predicament, a lifetime of adventure
	has honed her survival instincts to a razor's edge.

					VASH
			Sir Guy, wait? Can't we talk this
			over?
				(a beat)
			I admit, I haven't been myself
			lately.
				(flashing her best
				 smile)
			Perhaps we've both been acting
			a bit hasty.

	She sits down on the bench. Pats the space next to
	her.

					VASH
			Please.

	Sir Guy smiles. Delighted.

36   EXT. SHERWOOD FOREST DAY

	We hear bad mandolin playing in the background as Troi
	pulls back on a bow and lets fly an arrow. We HEAR
	the THWACK of impact. CAMERA PANS OVER to the tree
	that was her intended target. There's no sign of the
	arrow.


        STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/7/91 - ACT THREE        39A.

36   CONTINUED:

	PAN OVER a few feet to the right. Data is standing
	with an arrow in his chest.

	Troi hurries over.

					TROI
			Data, are you alright?

	A beat, as Data checks his systems.

					DATA
			The arrow impacted just above
			my sixth intercostal support,
			penetrating my secondary
			subprocessor.

	Data moves his arm up and down and in and out.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			Fortunately, none of my
			biofunctions seem impaired.

	Data pulls the arrow out of his body. He offers it to
	Troi who is much relieved.

					DATA
			Do not get discouraged. I believe
			your aim is improving.

       STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT THREE       40.

36A  NEW ANGLE

	Beverly is checking Worf's wound in the background
	as Geordi sits on a log strumming the mandolin... it
	sounds like fingernails on a blackboard.

	Worf gets up, crosses to Geordi, and takes the
	mandolin out of his hands. He walks over, and smashes
	it against a tree. Hands the neck back to Geordi.

					WORF
			Sorry.

37   NEW ANGLE

	A relieved grin from Riker as he watches Picard buckle
	on his sword.

       STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT THREE       41.

37   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			It's about time we got out of
			here, sir.

					PICARD
			Not we Commander. You and the
			others are to wait here until I
			return.

					RIKER
			You're not planning to go after
			her alone, are you?

	The others gather around.

					PICARD
			This is not a mission. It's
			personal, between Q and myself.
			I don't want any of you involved.

					RIKER
			But Captain...

					PICARD
			You have your orders, Commander.
			I expect you to follow them.

	With a final glance at his crew, Picard heads off
	towards Nottingham.

	On Riker's worried look we...

									FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

         STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/7/91 - ACT FOUR         42.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

38   EXT. COURTYARD INSIDE WALLS OF CASTLE - NIGHT

	Cold, imposing, and lit by flickering torches. We see
	a limited section of the yard... Heraldic banners hang
	from the walls. A circular staircase rises to the
	tower.

	Only a few servants are visible as a haughty Q (still
	dressed as the High Sheriff) surveys his domain with
	smug satisfaction.

	Nearby is an EXECUTIONER. Off to the side, a TINKER,
	with his back to us, repairs the chains on a pair of
	shackles. The massively built Executioner is busy
	sharpening the blade of his broad axe against a foot
	powered grindstone. He pauses to inspect his work. Q,
	passing by, barely taps the edge of the blade with his
	index finger.

					Q
			A touch sharper, shall we?

	The Executioner starts up the grindstone.

	Q suddenly halts in confusion as he discovers a
	surprising sight before him.

39   NEW ANGLE

	Vash and Sir Guy, looking surprisingly chummy as they
	approach from another part of the courtyard. She
	carries a bouquet of fresh-picked flowers. Sir Guy
	holds up a pomegranate. Vash smiles and demurely
	nibbles it.

	A suspicious Q approaches them.

					Q
			Such benevolence, Sir Guy,
			allowing the condemned prisoner
			fresh air.

					SIR GUY
			You're mistaken, Sheriff. Maid
			Marian has consented to be my
			wife.

        STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT FOUR        43.

39   CONTINUED:

	Q looks at Vash in disbelief.

					Q
			But that's impossible?

	Vash motions to a servant who approaches with a tray
	and two goblets of wine.

					VASH
				(innocently)
			Not at all. Though I admit a
			maiden seldom has the opportunity
			to win herself such a noble
			husband.

	She takes a goblet from the tray and hands it to Sir
	Guy...

					SIR GUY
			A toast to the most beautiful
			bride-to-be in all of England.

	He goes to drink.

					Q
			Hold there, Sir Guy.

	He knocks the goblet to the ground.

					SIR GUY
			Have you taken leave of your
			senses?

					Q
			It could be poisoned. Some foul
			scheme of Robin Hood. She's in
			league with him still, I'll
			warrant.

					VASH
			Robin Hood?

	A beat as Vash absorbs this rather bizarre accusation.
	She has no choice but to bluff her way through it.

					VASH
			Oh, Robin Hood... that was over
			long ago.

					Q
			Why, all of Nottingham knows you're
			in love with him.

            STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT FOUR            44.

39   CONTINUED: (2)

					VASH
			That's a lie.
				(to Sir Guy)
			He... bewitched me. Put me under
			some evil spell.

	Sir Guy gives her hand an encouraging pat.

					SIR GUY
			Just as I suspected.
				(to Q)
			You can add sorcery to the list
			of charges against that rogue.

					Q
			But Sir Guy, if anyone has been
			bewitched it's you.

	Sir Guy stands. His hand is placed firmly on the hilt
	of his sword.

					SIR GUY
			Silence. Any further impudence
			and it'll be your head on the
			chopping block.
				(a beat)
			Guards, escort the Lady Marian
			to her chamber.

					VASH
				(standing)
			But I'd much rather stay with you.

					SIR GUY
			Of course you would, my child.
			But I have important business to
			discuss with the Sheriff.
				(a beat; then dripping
				 with implication)
			And you must prepare for your
			wedding.

					VASH
			I count the hours.

	She kisses him. She allows herself to be led away, but
	not before her eyes flash him the promise of future
	delights.

	Sir Guy and Q watch her depart.

            STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT FOUR           44A.

39   CONTINUED: (3)

					SIR GUY
			Lovely creature.

					Q
				(with grudging
				 admiration)
			She is intriguing.

	Q is determined not to allow his well-laid scheme go
	astray.

					Q
			Sir Guy, perhaps it would be wise
			to keep this wedding a secret for
			now.

					SIR GUY
			What are you babbling about?

					Q
			You still hope to capture Robin
			Hood, don't you?

					SIR GUY
			I live for the moment.

					Q
				(thinking of Picard)
			Well, if he were to hear that
			Marian's life was no longer in
			danger, there would be no need
			for him to come to Nottingham to
			rescue her.

	Sir Guy slaps Q on the back.

					SIR GUY
			By heavens, you're right. No word
			of my wedding shall leave these
			walls.
					(MORE)

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/7/91 - ACT FOUR             45.

39   CONTINUED: (4)

					SIR GUY (Cont'd)
				(a beat)
			What better way to celebrate a
			marriage than with an execution.

	Sir Guy and Q share a chuckle, then go their separate
	ways.

					Q
				(musing)
			This could be fun.

40   NEW ANGLE

	Q crosses by the Tinker hammering at a chain. The
	Tinker looks up once Q has passed him by, REVEALING
	himself to be Picard in disguise.

41   INT. MAID MARIAN'S CHAMBER - NIGHT

	Vash paces around the room. Suddenly she stops.
	Listening to what could be a faint rustling. The noise
	ceases. Vash continues to pace. The rustling resumes,
	louder now. Again, Vash stops pacing. The sound,
	and now it's clearly the rustling of vines, is coming
	from outside her open window. She moves towards the
	embrasure, when SUDDENLY a hand APPEARS on the ledge.
	With a final GRUNT, Picard lifts himself through the
	window. Vash throws herself at him.

					VASH
			Jean-Luc. Am I glad to see you.

	She throws herself into his arms, and kisses him.

					VASH
			You would not believe what I've
			been through. One minute I'm on
			the Enterprise... the next thing
			I know I'm here in Nottingham.
			First, they're going to chop my
			head off... and now I'm supposed
			to marry someone named Sir Guy...
			and everyone insists on calling
			me Marian...

            STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT FOUR           45A.

41   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Yes, I know.

					VASH
			You do? But how...

	For the first time she notices his outfit.

					VASH
			You're Robin Hood?

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/7/91 - ACT FOUR             46.

41   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			My staff and I were brought here
			by an old adversary of mine named
			Q. I'll tell you the rest once
			we're safe.

	He leads her towards the window.

					PICARD
			Come, we don't have much time.

					VASH
			Are the others outside?

					PICARD
			They're waiting for us back in
			Sherwood.

	That brings Vash to a quick stop.

					VASH
			You mean you came alone?

					PICARD
			Yes, now let's...

					VASH
			What kind of plan is that?

					PICARD
			An excellent one if you'd only
			hurry up.

	But Vash refuses to budge.

					VASH
			You do realize our lives are at
			stake here.

					PICARD
			Only too well.

					VASH
			And this is the best strategy
			you could come up with? One man
			against an entire castle.

					PICARD
			I suppose you know of a better
			one.


            STAR TREK: "Q Love" - REV. 2/5/91 - ACT FOUR            47.

41   CONTINUED: (3)

					VASH
			How about this? You go. I'll
			stay here.

	She walks away from the window.

					PICARD
			And do what?

					VASH
			Marry Sir Guy if I have to.

					PICARD
				(ironic)
			That is brilliant.

					VASH
			If there's a way to escape, I'll
			find it, eventually. With my head
			still attached.

					PICARD
			You don't really expect me to
			leave you here?

	He reaches for her. She pulls away.

					VASH
			I can take care of myself.

					PICARD
			Must you be so stubborn?

	Suddenly the door is flying OPEN and Sir Guy enters
	backed by a retinue of SOLDIERS.

					SIR GUY
			There'll be no escape for you this
			time, Robin Hood.

					PICARD
				(to Vash)
			Behind me.

	He steps in front of her and reaches for his sword.
	But Vash is quicker. She pulls the blade out of his
	scabbard and points it at his chest.

					VASH
			You should have left while you
			had the chance.

              STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT FOUR              48.

41   CONTINUED: (5)

	Sir Guy advances on them, smiling.

					SIR GUY
			Well done, my dear.

					VASH
				(sweetly)
			Consider it my wedding present
			to you.

	The Guards lead Picard away.

42   EXT. COURTYARD - NIGHT

	Picard and the Guards come down the stairs. He barely
	glances at a beaming Q as he's hurried away. Sir Guy
	follows behind.

					Q
			Congratulations, Gisbourne. I
			see you've snared the jackal.

					SIR GUY
			It's Marian who deserves the
			credit. Took him with his own
			sword.

	On Q's astonished REACTION...

43   INT. MAID MARIAN'S CHAMBER - NIGHT

	Vash is seated at a table, writing feverishly. Her
	SERVANT ENTERS and scuttles across the room to her.

					SERVANT
			You sent for me, M'Lady?

					VASH
			You must take this letter to
			Robin's men.

					SERVANT
			You want me to go to Sherwood
			Forest? At this time of night?

					VASH
			You'll leave immediately.

              STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT FOUR              49.

43   CONTINUED:

					SERVANT
				(glancing out the
				 window)
			But it's dark. I'll get lost.

	Vash continues to write.

					SERVANT
			Besides, it's not safe. What with
			all them hedge robbers and worse
			lurking about.

					VASH
			Please, this is urgent.

					SERVANT
			You ask me, you'd be better off
			staying with Sir Guy. He's got
			a future. Why you'll be living
			in London before you know it.

					VASH
			But you must go. Otherwise,
			they're going to kill him.

	She's about to offer the folded letter to the Servant,
	when the door SWINGS open. Vash leaps up dropping the
	letter on the table as Q ENTERS.

					VASH
			How dare you come barging in here
			this way!

					Q
			I come to offer apologies for my
			harsh words earlier. I had no
			idea you were so ruthless. The
			cold blooded way you betrayed
			Robin was most impressive.

	Q is now standing right by the table. Vash forces
	herself not to glance down at the letter.

					VASH
			That's most gracious of you.

					Q
			I admit I was surprised...
				(a beat)
			Though perhaps not as surprised
			as Jean-Luc.

              STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT FOUR              50.

43   CONTINUED: (2)

	Now it's Vash's turn to be surprised.

					VASH
			You're Q.

					Q
				(bowing)
			And you are a very interesting
			woman.

	He notices the letter.

					Q
			What's this?

	She tries to snatch it away.

					VASH
			Give me that.

	But it's too late.

					Q
			A letter to Riker?
				(reading)
			Quick... Come to Castle... Must save
			Captain...
				(cheerfully)
			Why this is wonderful. Such
			marvelous duplicity. You
			certainly fooled Sir Guy. And
			me as well.
				(a shrewd glance at
				 Vash)
			I do believe you're worth further
			study.

					VASH
				(turning on the charm)
			Am I?

					Q
			Unfortunately, we won't have the
			time.
				(shouting)
			Guards!

	They enter.

              STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT FOUR              51.

43   CONTINUED: (3)

					Q
			Take this traitor away.
				(to Vash)
			It appears there's going to be
			a double execution.

	Vash is marched from the room.

	And as Q gloats over this latest turn of events:

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/6/91 - ACT FIVE             52.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

44   EXT. COURTYARD - THE NEXT DAY

	A CROWD has gathered to SEE the show. Sir Guy and
	Q sit together at a dais at one end of the courtyard.

45   NEW ANGLE

	the stairs leading to the tower. We HEAR VOICES coming
	down off-camera, drawing close.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			My fault?

					VASH (V.O.)
			Yes, your fault.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			We'd have been safe in Sherwood
			if you hadn't grabbed my sword.

	Picard and Vash, both wearing shackles, come into VIEW
	as they walk toward CAMERA...

					VASH
			I grabbed it to prevent you from
			being killed.

					PICARD
			You should have never interfered.

					VASH
			You were the one interfering.

					PICARD
			I was trying to rescue you.

					VASH
			Next time don't bother.

					PICARD
			I won't.

	They come to a halt in front of the executioners block.
	Q steps forward to meet them.

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/6/91 - ACT FIVE             53.

45   CONTINUED:

					Q
			Don't you two ever stop arguing?

	No response.

					Q
			Tell me Picard, as you stand here
			facing the termination of your
			insect existence, do you see what
			has led you to this end?
				(beat, no reply)
			Was she worth it?

					PICARD
			Can we just get this over with.

					VASH
				(hurt)
			Are you implying I'm not worth
			it?

	But Picard keeps his eyes fixed on Q.

					PICARD
			Your game was for my benefit,
			Q. She is innocent in all this.

					Q
			She is many things, none of them
			innocent.

					PICARD
			Let her go.

					VASH
			Jean-Luc, you do care.

					Q
			A gallant gesture Picard. But
			a futile one.
				(a beat)
			Farewell. I hope you'll both be
			happy together.

	He moves aside as Sir Guy rises to his feet.

					SIR GUY
				(to Picard & Vash)
			You have been found guilty of
			outlawry and high treason. Do
			you have anything to say before
			sentencing is carried out?

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/7/91 - ACT FIVE            53A.

45   CONTINUED: (2)

	Impassive stares from the prisoners.

					SIR GUY
			Ready them for the block.

	The Guards remove the chains.

45AA	NEW ANGLE

	A group of hooded monks have entered the courtyard.
	Beneath the hoods are Riker, Worf, Geordi, Data,
	Beverly and Troi.

45A  ANGLE - PICARD AND VASH

	already kneeling at the block.

45B  ANGLE - THE MONKS (OPTICAL)

	taking in the scene in front of them. Worf reaches
	for the sword beneath his robe. Geordi lays a
	restraining hand on Worf's arm.

					GEORDI
			Too many of them. We'd never
			get to the Captain...

					RIKER
			Data, we need a diversion. Now.

	Data opens his left arm, revealing the circuitry and
	blinking lights within. He pulls out three small
	components and fastens them together.

					DATA
				(to Riker)
			Please stand back, Commander.
			Microfusion cells can be somewhat
			dangerous under high
			temperatures...

	Riker stands back. Data tosses the components into
	the Tinker's fire. The fire FLARES briefly, then there
	is a small explosion and a dramatic pyrotechnic
	discharge which startles the Executioner and the
	onlookers.

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/6/91 - ACT FIVE             54.

45B  CONTINUED:

	Amidst the confusion that follows, Picard leaps to his
	feet and rams his elbow into the executioner's stomach,
	knocking him to the ground. Picard then grabs hold
	of one of his guards, and pulls his sword free of its
	scabbard.

45C  OMITTED

45D  NEW ANGLE

	Riker, Worf, Geordi, Troi, Beverly and Data (who has
	closed the panel on his arm) throw off their monk's
	robes.

					VOICES
			It's the outlaws. Robin's band.

	Sir Guy unsheathes his sword.

					SIR GUY
			Guards. Take Marian to the
			tower.

	Vash whirls and punches one of her captors but two
	others drag her up the stairs.

	Picard SEES Vash being taken away and tries to follow.
	A guard tries to block him and is cut down.

46   NEW ANGLE

	As our crew beats back the attacking soldiers.

46A  DATA

	holds out his arm and "clotheslines" one soldier as he
	charges by. Then Data looks up at...

46B  ANOTHER SOLDIER

	who lunges toward him with a sword. The man stops in
	mid-thrust, shocked, as...

	Data catches the tip of the blade between his thumb and
	forefinger... and slowly CURLS it back.

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/6/91 - ACT FIVE            54A.

47   NEW ANGLE

	Q watches the battle that rages around him with
	delight.

48   NEW ANGLE

	Picard comes face to face with Sir Guy.

					SIR GUY
			I'll have you know I'm the
			greatest swordsman in all of
			Nottingham.

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/6/91 - ACT FIVE             55.

48   CONTINUED:

	A quick flurry of cuts and parries as they test each
	others skill.

					PICARD
			That's very impressive.

	They engage again.

					PICARD
			But there's something you should
			know.

	A furious series of strikes ending with their swords
	crossed at the hilt, their faces inches apart.

					SIR GUY
			And what would that be?

					PICARD
			I'm not from Nottingham.

	He pushes Sir Guy away.

49   NEW ANGLE

	Gradually Picard forces Sir Guy up the stairs leading
	to Marian's room. Sir Guy, panic building, takes a
	vicious cut at Picard's head. Picard ducks, thrusts
	upward, and stabs Sir Guy through the body.

	Sir Guy tumbles off the staircase.

50   INT. MARIAN'S CHAMBER (OPTICAL)

	Vash, listens to the SOUNDS of battle.

	Suddenly, the door SWINGS and Picard races in.

					VASH
			Jean-Luc.

	She runs into his arms. Picard is fed up with all
	this, tosses the sword to the floor.

					PICARD
				(shouting)
			It's over, Q. Now get us out of
			here.

	Q APPEARS in the room.

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/7/91 - ACT FIVE            55A.

50   CONTINUED:

					Q
				(applauding)
			My compliments, Captain. I doubt
			Robin Hood himself could have done
			better.

					PICARD
			If any of my people are hurt...

					Q
			Sadly, they're all fine... but
			the point is they could have been
			killed, and you might have been
			too... all for the "Love Of A
			Maid." My debt to you is paid,
			Picard, if you have learned how
			weak and vulnerable you really
			are... if you can finally see how
			"Love" brought out the worst in
			you...

					VASH
			Nonsense. You're absolutely
			wrong. It brought out the best
			in him.
				(to him, intimately)
			His nobility, courage, self-sacrifice.
			His tenderness.

					Q
				(to Vash)
			You're good. Very good.

					PICARD
				(end of his patience)
			Enough of this.

					Q
			Indeed.

	He snaps his finger and Picard DISAPPEARS.

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/7/91 - ACT FIVE             56.

51   OMITTED

52   INT. MEETING ROOM (OPTICAL)

	The room is empty. Picard, in uniform, suddenly
	APPEARS at the podium. Riker and the others APPEAR
	back in the audience, exactly where they were sitting
	before. All back in their Starfleet uniforms. They
	look around in confusion.

					RIKER
			Everybody here?

					TROI
			Where's Vash?

	Picard scans the room. No sign of her.

					PICARD
			Computer, locate Council Member
			Vash.

					COMPUTER (VOICE)
			Council Member Vash is not aboard
			the Enterprise.

	Off his look of concern...

52A  EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	still in orbit.

53   INT. READY ROOM (OPTICAL)

	Picard ENTERS. As the doors CLOSE behind him Vash
	MATERIALIZES.

					VASH
			Hello, Jean-Luc.

					PICARD
				(smiling)
			Well, this is a relief. I was
			afraid that Q...

					VASH
			There were a few things he wanted
			to discuss with me.

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/6/91 - ACT FIVE            56A.

53   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			I'm surprised he wasn't too busy
			gloating over his victory.

					VASH
				(beat)
			He was right about one thing,
			Jean-Luc. As ridiculous as it
			was, his game did prove how much
			you care.

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/6/91 - ACT FIVE             57.

53   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			I may not share my feelings with
			my crew, but I do have them.

	A warm moment passes between them.

					VASH
			I'm going to miss you, Picard.

					PICARD
			I wouldn't be surprised if our
			paths cross again.

					VASH
			I'll see to it.

	They kiss.

					PICARD
			So, where are you off to now?

					VASH
			I haven't made up my mind.

             STAR TREK: "Qpid" - REV. 2/6/91 - ACT FIVE             58.

54   CONTINUED:

					VASH
			Remind you of someone you know?

					PICARD
				(amused in spite of
				 himself)
			As a matter of fact... yes.

					Q
				(to Vash)
			We are going to have fun. I'll
			take you places no human could
			ever hope to see.

					VASH
				(to Picard)
			Who can resist an offer like that?

	Picard sees there's no way to change her mind. He
	advances on Q.

					PICARD
			As payment in full for your debt
			to me, you will guarantee her
			safety...

					Q
			She will not be harmed, Jean-Luc.
			I promise you that.

	Picard looks over at Vash. A silent farewell.

					Q
			Well, aren't you going to kiss
			her good-bye?

	Picard and Vash stare at him until he gets the hint.

					Q
			Oh, all right.

	He VANISHES.

	Vash smiles at Picard.

					VASH
			Well aren't you?

	A final kiss. Then Vash steps back.

					VASH
			Goodbye, Jean-Luc.

	She VANISHES.

              STAR TREK: "Q Love" - 1/31/91 - ACT FIVE              59.

55   C.U. PICARD

	A beat. Then a trace of a smile appears on his face.

56   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	turning towards the unknown.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END                             





