










                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                      "Descent, Part II" 
                          #40277-253 
                              
                          Written by 
                        Rene Echevarria 
                              
                          Directed by 
                          Alex Singer 


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 1993 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 This script is not for publication or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

                        JUNE 24, 1993

        STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 06/24/93 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                      "Descent, Part II" 

                             CAST                               
                              
                PICARD             LORE
                RIKER              CROSIS
                DATA               HUGH
                BEVERLY            TAITT
                TROI               BARNABY
                WORF               SALAZAR
                GEORDI             GOVAL
                                   CON OFFCIER'S VOICE
                                   POWELL'S VOICE

                Non-Speaking       Non-Speaking
                  N.D. CREWMEMBERS   BORG

        STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 06/24/93 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                      "Descent, Part II" 
                       
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                  EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE             USS ENTERPRISE
              BRIDGE
              TRANSPORTER ROOM         PLANET'S SURFACE
              DATA'S QUARTERS
          
              BORG COMPOUND
                HALL
                CELL/CORRIDOR
                LAB
          
            UNDERGROUND CAVERNS

      STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - TEASER      1.

                STAR TREK: The Next Generation                  
                      "Descent, Part II"                           
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

        (NOTE: Episode begins with 90 second RECAP of Part I)          

1    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it orbits the planet.

					BEVERLY'S V.O.
			Acting Captain's Log,
			Supplemental: The skeleton crew
			left on board the Enterprise is
			unable to help in the search for
			Commander Data. The planet's
			unusual EM field is interfering
			with the ship's sensors, severely
			limiting their effectiveness.

2    INT. BRIDGE

	Since we have only the skeleton crew the Bridge is
	slightly undermanned. BEVERLY stands at an Aft Station
	studying the sensors. There is a young woman, TAITT,
	at Tactical.

					BEVERLY
			Without our sensors, we're sitting
			ducks. A Borg ship could be right
			on top of us before we knew it...
				(turns to Tactical)
			Ensign, we need to modify the
			sensor array to filter out these
			EM pulses. Can you do that?

	Taitt turns to her. She is young -- not long out of
	the Academy, from the looks of it -- eager to please,
	and a little nervous. There is a hesitation before she
	answers.

					TAITT
			Yes, sir.
				(beat)
			I think so.

	Taitt begins to work the controls and Beverly can't
	help but smile to herself. Gently --

      STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - TEASER      2.

2    CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			What's your name?

					TAITT
			Taitt, sir.

					BEVERLY
			I don't think I've seen you
			before.

					TAITT
			I was just posted here six weeks
			ago.

					BEVERLY
			Well, Taitt -- I'll bet you never
			thought you'd be serving as
			Tactical Officer after only six
			weeks.

	Taitt looks up at her, grateful for the understanding
	of her predicament she hears in Beverly's voice.

					TAITT
			No, sir, I sure didn't.
				(beat)
			I think I've filtered out some of
			the sensor noise. I'll bring the
			modifications on line.

					BEVERLY
				(approvingly)
			Good work.

	Beverly starts crossing down toward the Command Area
	when Riker's voice comes in over the Com:

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Riker to Enterprise.

					BEVERLY
			Go ahead, Wil.

                                             INTERCUT BRIDGE WITH:

3    EXT. PLANET'S SURFACE

	RIKER, WORF and two N.D.s.

					RIKER
			I can't contact the Captain.
					(MORE)

      STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - TEASER      3.

3    CONTINUED:

					RIKER (Cont'd)
			It might just be the interference,
			but I'd like to be sure.

					BEVERLY
			Understood.
				(beat)
			Enterprise to Captain Picard.

	No response. Taitt starts working her console.

					BEVERLY
			Crusher to Picard.

	Still no answer.

					TAITT
				(off console)
			I'm not getting a Com signal from
			anyone on the Captain's team.

					BEVERLY
			The last time they checked-in they
			were investigating a structure in
			section gamma two-five.

	Suddenly, Taitt reacts to something on her readout.
	She looks a little pale.

					TAITT
			Sir, I'm picking up a vessel
			closing in on our location.

					BEVERLY
			Is it a Borg ship?

	Taitt fumbles at the controls. This is all unfamiliar
	to her.

					TAITT
			It... it seems to match the
			configuration of a ship The
			Enterprise encountered... at
			Ohniaka Three...

					BEVERLY
			Red Alert. How long before
			they're in weapons range?

      STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - TEASER      4.

3    CONTINUED: (2)

					TAITT
			Ahh... about... ninety seconds.
			No -- no, make that seventy
			seconds.

	Taitt is nervous and having to work hard to hold
	herself together. She does not inspire confidence.

					BEVERLY
				(to com)
			Crusher to Transporter Room Three.

					SALAZAR'S VOICE
			Salazar here, sir.

					BEVERLY
			Start transporting the Away Teams
			off the surface.

					SALAZAR'S VOICE
			Aye, sir.

					BEVERLY
			Use the transporters in the cargo
			bays if you have to. I want those
			teams up here as fast as possible.

4    ON THE SURFACE

	In the b.g. we see two N.D. 's of his team, and another
	team more at a distance.

					RIKER
				(to an N.D.)
			Armstrong, you and the others get
			ready to beam up.
				(to com)
			Beverly, Worf and I will stay here
			and look for the Captain's team.

					BEVERLY
			I'm not going to leave you down
			there --

					RIKER
				(firm)
			Pull as many people off the
			surface as you can and get back to
			the transwarp conduit. The
			Captain's orders were to get the
			Enterprise to Federation space.

      STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - TEASER      5.

4    CONTINUED:

	Beverly has no choice but to back off.

					BEVERLY
			Acknowledged.

					RIKER
			Riker, out.

                                             END INTERCUT ON BRIDGE.

	Beverly accepts what she has to do, but she doesn't
	like it one bit.

					BEVERLY
				(to con officer)
			Prepare to leave orbit.

					TAITT
			Sir, the Borg ship is powering up
			its forward weapons array.
			They'll be in firing range in...
			in twenty seconds.

					BEVERLY
				(to com)
			Salazar, how many people are still
			down there?

5    INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (INTERCUT)

	SALAZAR, a young NCO, is at the controls. We can see
	several Away Teams stepping off the Transporter pad.

					SALAZAR
			Seventy-three, sir.

	On the Bridge, Beverly moves toward the Viewscreen.

					BEVERLY
			Put the Borg ship on screen.

6    ANGLE - VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	The Borg ship is bearing down in the distance.

					TAITT
			Should I raise shields, sir?

					BEVERLY
			Not yet. I want to keep bringing
			people up until the last possible
			second.

      STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - TEASER      6.

6    CONTINUED:

	Everyone reacts to Beverly's order; she's cutting it
	close, but if she pulls it off she'll have gotten that
	many more people off the surface.

					TAITT
			Ten seconds.

					BEVERLY
			Stand by to raise shields and
			break orbit on my mark.

					TAITT
			Five seconds.

					BEVERLY
			Mark.

7    ANGLE - VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	The Borg ship fires at the Enterprise. The Enterprise
	is rocked by the blast.

					TAITT
			Shields are down to seventy
			percent.

					BEVERLY
			Establish a frequency-shift firing
			pattern and return fire.

					TAITT
			Ah... right.

	On the Viewscreen, we see the Borg ship taking a direct
	hit as the Enterprise passes above it and continues
	away.

					TAITT
			Direct hit... no damage.

					BEVERLY
			Helm, set course for the conduit,
			maximum warp.

8    OMITTED

    STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - TEASER    7.

9    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it flashes away.

10   INT. BRIDGE

					TAITT
			The Borg aren't following us, sir.

					BEVERLY
				(to com)
			Salazar, how many people did we
			leave behind?

11   INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM

	Where we see more Away Teams stepping off the Pad and
	filing out the door.

					SALAZAR
			Forty-seven, sir.

12   INT. BRIDGE

	Beverly is not happy about this. Her frustration
	shows.

					BEVERLY
				(to herself)
			Another minute and we could have
			had them...

13   EXT. PLANET'S SURFACE

	Riker and Worf are now alone, the two N.D.s having been
	evacuated. The planet's surface suddenly seems that
	much more vast and desolate.

					RIKER
				(hits combadge)
			Riker to any team leader.

					POWELL'S VOICE
			Lieutenant Powell here, sir.

					RIKER
			Round up everyone who was left
			behind. Take cover and try to
			avoid any contact with the Borg.

      STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - TEASER      8.

13   CONTINUED:

					POWELL'S VOICE
			Aye, sir.

					RIKER
			Riker, out.

	Riker turns to Worf.

					RIKER
			Even if Beverly gets back to
			Federation space, it'll be a few
			days before Starfleet can get any
			ships here... until then, we're
			on our own.

	They both know they're facing pretty stiff odds. Off
	their grim expressions...

                                             FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

   STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT ONE   9.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

          (NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)            

14   INT. BORG HALL (OPTICAL)

	LORE is moving through the crowd of Borg that still
	surround PICARD, TROI, and GEORDI. DATA is nearby, as
	is CROSIS.

					LORE
			What do you think of my followers,
			Picard? Impressive, aren't they?

					PICARD
			I'm not particularly impressed.
			You've simply taught them to enjoy
			killing.

					DATA
			You are wrong, Captain. My
			brother and I serve a much higher
			purpose.

	Troi stares at Data, noticing something unusual.

					TROI
			Data... I can sense feelings in
			you.

					DATA
			Yes. My brother has made it
			possible.

					PICARD
				(realizing)
			He gave you the chip -- the one
			Doctor Soong made for you.

	But this produces only a merry laugh from Lore. During
	the next, Picard's attention is focused on Data --
	studying, inspecting, looking for any clue to his
	unusual behavior.

					LORE
			Oh, no, no. I still have the
			emotional program my father
			designed. I wouldn't want to give
			it up. It's what has given me
			such a strong sense of family --
			an intense desire to re-unite with
			my dear brother.

   STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/30/93 - ACT ONE   10.

14   CONTINUED:

					TROI
			Then you're responsible for
			bringing him here.

					LORE
			He came of his own accord. All I
			had to do was lure the Enterprise
			into investigating those attacks
			we staged. Once the Borg told him
			about my plans, I knew Data would
			want to join me.

					GEORDI
				(surprised)
			You mean... you attacked those
			outposts... killed all those
			people... just to get Data here
			with you?

					PICARD
			How did he do it, Data? What made
			you decide to come here?

	Lore has noticed Picard ignoring him, focusing on Data.
	Nettled, he grabs Picard's arm and turns him away from
	Data, toward him.

					LORE
			I am talking to you, Picard. I
			will tell you what you need to
			know.

					PICARD
			You're controlling him. And
			you've corrupted the Borg.

	Lore stares at Picard, anger draining, shaking his head
	sadly.

					LORE
			You simply don't understand.

   STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/30/93 - ACT ONE   11.

14   CONTINUED: (3)

					LORE
			You have no idea what has happened
			here. How I found my true
			calling... how the Borg found
			something to believe in.

					PICARD
			I'd like to learn about it. But
			I want Data to tell us.

	This produces another flare in Lore.

					LORE
			I told you -- I will tell you what
			you need to know.

					PICARD
			How do you like that, Data? He
			won't even let you talk.

					DATA
			Do not try to drive a wedge
			between us, Captain. I am loyal
			to my brother.

	Lore beams at this. But even during the next, Picard
	continues to focus on Data, watching him and ignoring
	Lore.

					LORE
			You see, Picard? He's not your
			pawn anymore. I've helped him
			break free --
				(gesture to Borg)
			-- just as I've helped them.

	Lore begins moving through the Borg, wound up now and
	enjoying being center stage. He is putting on a show,
	not just for Picard and crew, but for his faithful
	followers.

     STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT ONE     12.

14   CONTINUED: (4)

					LORE
			Look at them. Look at what I've
			helped them become. They're no
			longer mindless automatons.
			They're passionate. Alive.

					TROI
			Are you saying you caused them to
			become individuals?

					LORE
			No. You and your friends did
			that. All I did was clean up the
			mess you made when that Borg you
			befriended returned to his ship.

					DATA
			Hugh interfaced with the others
			and transferred his sense of
			individuality to them. It almost
			destroyed them.

					PICARD
			Data, do you remember when Hugh
			was on the Enterprise? Do you
			remember what you were like then?

	Lore moves to step directly in front of Picard, forcing
	his attention.

					LORE
			That doesn't matter.

					PICARD
			It does to me. I want to know
			what's happened to Data.

	Lore seethes at this, has to struggle to control his
	temper.

   STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/30/93 - ACT ONE   13.

14   CONTINUED: (5)

					LORE
			What's important is what I've done
			here. I've found my calling,
			Picard. I know now why I was
			created. And no one can ever take
			that away from me.

	He gestures to the Borg.

					LORE
			Without me, they would have
			perished. When I stumbled on
			their ship, they were lost,
			disoriented -- they had no idea
			how to function as individuals.
			They couldn't even navigate their
			vessel. They had lost their sense
			of purpose.

	He turns back to Picard, drilling into him.

					LORE
			I gave them that purpose. And
			they gave me mine.

					DATA
			The Borg aspire to the perfection
			my Brother and I represent: fully
			artificial life forms. We are
			their future.

					LORE
			The reign of biological life forms
			is coming to an end. You and
			those like you are obsolete,
			Picard.

	Lore turns to Data.

					LORE
			Take them, Brother.

     STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT ONE     14.

14   CONTINUED: (6)

	Data gestures to a BORG GUARD for assistance, then
	pulls out a Borg-style WEAPON and moves forward to take
	Picard and the others away. Off Lore's approving
	look...

15   EXT. PLANET'S SURFACE - DAY

	Riker and Worf come to a stop on a ridge that is
	covered by scrub-like vegetation. Worf scans with his
	TRICORDER.

					WORF
				(off tricorder)
			Still no sign of the structure.

					RIKER
			With all this interference it
			could be a hundred meters away and
			we wouldn't know it.
				(frustrated)
			This could take hours.

	Worf sees something off to one side, and takes a few
	steps in that direction.

					WORF
			I am detecting a faint energy
			reading.

	Riker moves to him, scanning.

					RIKER
			Residual thermal traces... someone
			stopped here...

					WORF
				(also scanning)
			The decay rate indicates they were
			human...

					RIKER
			They followed this path...

	They move off, scanning the ground before them.

   STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/30/93 - ACT ONE   15.

16   INT. BORG CELL (OPTICAL)

	Data and the Borg Guard are marching the prisoners into
	a brig-like holding cell. Picard and the others have
	obviously been working on Data, trying to assess what's
	happened to him, trying to find a way to reach him.

					PICARD
			You must realize that something
			has happened to you. The Data I
			know would not be a willing party
			to Lore's plan.

					DATA
			I now realize that my life aboard
			the Enterprise was a waste. My
			quest to become human was
			misguided, an evolutionary step in
			the wrong direction.

	Troi tries another tack.

					TROI
			Data, all I'm sensing from you is
			anger... hatred -- have you felt
			any other emotions?

					DATA
			There are no other emotions.

					TROI
			What about love... joy?

					DATA
			Those are words without substance.
			Love is nothing more than the
			absence of hate. Joy is the
			absence of fear.

     STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT ONE     16.

16   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Just because you haven't
			experienced certain emotions
			doesn't mean they don't exist..
			Lore is just feeding you the
			negative ones.

					DATA
			Counselor Troi herself told me
			that feelings are not positive or
			negative, it is how we act on them
			that becomes good or bad.

					PICARD
			Fine. Then what about the things
			Lore is proposing? What about the
			lives that have already been lost?

					DATA
			You do not understand. In a quest
			such as ours, sacrifices must be
			made. It is regrettable. But the
			greater good must be served.

	Data turns to Geordi.

					DATA
			Give me your Visor.

					GEORDI
				(disbelieving)
			Why?

	Data raises his Borg WEAPON threateningly.

					DATA
			Give it to me or I will take it by
			force.

	Geordi has no choice but to surrender it. He takes the
	VISOR and EXITS the cell. The Borg Guard activates the
	force-field, which FRITZES on and is visible for only
	a moment. Data turns and regards his old friends with
	a cold eye.

					DATA
			I am not your puppet anymore.

	He and the Borg guard EXIT. Off our people's concerned
	faces...

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

     STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT TWO     17.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

17   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it drops out of warp.

18   INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Various N.D. 's are ENTERING the Bridge by the
	Turbolift, taking up positions to fully man the
	stations. Beverly is in the Command Chair, unhappy
	about having to leave crew behind.

					TAITT
			Sir, we've reached the coordinates
			of the conduit. The tachyon
			matrix is energized and ready to
			go.

	Beverly stands and turns to her.

					TAITT
			And Lieutenant Barnaby has
			returned from the surface. He'll
			be relieving me.

	Beverly glances at BARNABY, an older, seasoned veteran.

					BEVERLY
			Right. Stand by to trigger the
			conduit.

	She sees that Taitt is heading a bit dejectedly for the
	Turbolift. A beat, and then --

					BEVERLY
			Taitt.

	She stops, turns back.

					BEVERLY
			I'd like you to stay on the
			Bridge. I'll need a Science
			Officer at the Aft Station.

	Taitt blinks, tries not to show her pleasure.

					TAITT
			Yes, sir.

					BEVERLY
			Helm, set a course back to the
			planet.

     STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT TWO     18.

18   CONTINUED:

	Barnaby reacts to this surprising order.

					BEVERLY
			I'm not leaving those people
			stranded back there. An emergency
			buoy can transmit a copy of our
			log entries to Starfleet just as
			easily as we can.
				(to Taitt)
			Ensign, prepare a buoy and launch
			it when you're ready.

					TAITT
			Aye, sir.

					BEVERLY
			Lieutenant, open the conduit.

	On the VIEWSCREEN we see the conduit open up in space.

					TAITT
			Launching the buoy now, sir.

	On the Viewscreen, we see a probe-like device entering
	the conduit. Beverly watches the screen for a moment,
	then turns to Barnaby.

					BEVERLY
			Lieutenant, scan for any Borg
			ships between here and the planet.

					BARNABY
				(working)
			Sensors detect no vessels.

     STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT TWO     19.

18   CONTINUED: (3)

					TAITT
			We have to assume the ship that
			attacked us is still in orbit.

					BEVERLY
			How long will we have before they
			can detect us and intercept?

					TAITT
			If their sensors function as well
			as ours -- it could be as little
			as thirty seconds.

					BEVERLY
				(to com)
			Crusher to Salazar... how long
			will it take to get the rest of
			the crew off the surface?

19
thru	OMITTED
20

20A  INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM - INTERCUT

					SALAZAR
			One minute should do it.

					BEVERLY
			We don't have one minute. How
			much can you shave off that?

					SALAZAR
			If I can get a good lock on them
			quickly... I might be able to do
			it in forty-five or fifty seconds.

					BEVERLY
				(to Bridge crew)
			We need to buy ourselves fifteen
			seconds.
				(beat)
			Is there any way we can use the
			planet as a barrier... to keep the
			Borg from realizing we're in
			orbit?

					BARNABY
			We can enter orbit while they're
			on the far side of the planet.
				(a beat, as he ponders)
			And if we delayed dropping out of
			warp until the last possible
			instant -- we could gain a few
			more seconds.

     STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT TWO     19A.

20A  CONTINUED:

					TAITT
				(worried)
			If your calculations are even
			slightly off... we'd hit the
			atmosphere...

	Barnaby seems to take this as a challenge.

					BARNABY
			Then I'll have to be sure my
			calculations are accurate.

					BEVERLY
			Let's go for it. Helm, hard
			about.

	Off Taitt's reaction...

     STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT TWO     20.

21   INT. BORG HALL (OPTICAL)

	Lore is talking with an N.D. Borg. Other Borg move
	around the hall going about their various tasks. When
	Lore sees Data ENTER the hall he sends the N.D. Borg
	away and calls out to him:

					LORE
				(heartily)
			Brother!

	Data approaches with Geordi's VISOR.

					DATA
			Here is the VISOR. May I ask why
			you wanted it?

	Lore slips it over his eyes.

					LORE
			I thought it might look good on
			me.

	He turns and regards Data with a smile.

					LORE
				(continuing)
			What do you think?

	Data looks at him blankly. Lore takes it off with a
	frown.

					LORE
				(continuing)
			Maybe we'd better work on your
			sense of humor, Brother.

	Lore begins to examine the VISOR terminals.

					LORE
				(continuing)
			Actually, I was thinking that La
			Forge's implants would make him an
			ideal test subject for my
			experiment.

					DATA
			All the Borg you have experimented
			on so far have suffered extensive
			brain damage.

   STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT TWO   21.

21   CONTINUED:

	Lore looks up sharply. Is Data going to argue for
	sparing Geordi?

					LORE
			Using the humans to perfect the
			procedure would allow us to
			prevent any further Borg deaths.

	Lore smiles as he realizes Data is on board.

					DATA
			I understand.

	CROSIS, the Borg who Data left the Enterprise with,
	ENTERS with another Borg, GOVAL. He angrily drags the
	frightened Goval before Lore. The other Borg in the
	hall start to gather as they sense what is going on.

					LORE
				(continuing)
			What is it?

					CROSIS
			This Borg disconnected himself
			from the others. He would not let
			me hear his thoughts.

	Lore doesn't get angry, but shakes his head as if he is
	sorrowful that someone would do such a thing.

					LORE
				(to Goval)
			I've asked you all to remain
			linked to Crosis at all times.
			You know that, don't you?

					GOVAL
			Yes...

					CROSIS
				(stern)
			This is the third time he has
			disabled the link since he was
			brought here. He should die as an
			example to the others.

					GOVAL
			No -- please --

     STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT TWO     22.

21   CONTINUED: (2)

	Lore holds up a hand to stop Crosis.

					LORE
			I appreciate your vigilance,
			Crosis. With you monitoring the
			thoughts of the others, I can be
			sure they are not falling into
			confusion.

	Lore looks Crosis in the eye as he says this; he knows
	how to make his followers feel special and important.

					LORE
				(continuing)
			But Goval has not been with us
			long. Don't you remember what it
			was like when I first found you?
			How bewildered you were?

	Crosis can't deny it. Lore turns to Goval.

					LORE
				(continuing)
			I understand how difficult it is
			for you. How uncertain you feel.
			All these sensations are new --
			and they can be frightening.
			Isn't that right?

	Goval responds to Lore's ability to tap into his
	feelings.

					GOVAL
			Yes. I -- have doubts...

					LORE
			Of course you do. That's only
			natural. And no one is going to
			blame you for that.

	Goval is becoming more relaxed.

					LORE
				(continuing)
			But the only way to lose those
			doubts... to keep you from fear
			and confusion... is for you to
			stay linked with the others. So
			their strength and confidence can
			help you.

   STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT TWO   23.

21   CONTINUED: (3)

	He approaches Goval, puts his hand on his shoulder.

					LORE
				(continuing)
			I need you, Goval. I need you to
			help me build a future for the
			Borg.

	Lore looks into his eyes -- drawing him in, making him
	feel special.

					LORE
				(continuing)
			I can't do it without you. Will
			you help me?

	Goval has never been the object of this kind of
	attention -- and from Lore, no less, the leader
	everyone looks up to.

					GOVAL
			Yes... I will...

					LORE
			Then I need you to be strong. I
			need you to be certain in your
			thinking. Will you stay linked to
			your brothers?

					GOVAL
			Yes. I understand now.

	Lore turns and smiles at Crosis, pleased that he's been
	able to solidify yet another follower.

22   INT. BORG CELL (OPTICAL)

	Picard, Troi and the VISOR-less Geordi in midconversation.

					GEORDI
			Lore must have told Data to take
			my VISOR because he realized I
			could see a carrier wave radiating
			from him.

					PICARD
			A carrier wave... is that how he's
			manipulating Data?

   STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT TWO   24.

22   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			I think what's happening is that
			Lore is tapping into the chip he
			stole from Doctor Soong. He's
			found a way to transmit part of
			that emotional program to Data.

					TROI
			But the only emotions Data seems
			to feel are negative.

					GEORDI
			I'm sure that's intentional. But
			for those emotions to affect Data,
			Lore would have had to disable his
			ethical program first...

					PICARD
			Can we reactivate it?

					GEORDI
				(musing)
			If I could generate a phased
			kedion pulse at the right
			frequency, it would trigger Data's
			subsystems and reboot the program.

					PICARD
			Lore would still be feeding him
			negative emotions, but at least
			Data might listen to us.

					TROI
			I think it's worth a try.

   STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT TWO   25.

22   CONTINUED: (2)

	Geordi breaks their momentum with a hard fact:

					GEORDI
				(wry)
			So... got any ideas on how we can
			generate a kedion pulse?

	Picard and Troi realize they've gotten ahead of
	themselves -- this isn't the Enterprise with its array
	of technological help. Suddenly, they HEAR the forcefield
	FRITZ OFF. Data comes in and moves to take
	Geordi.

					PICARD
			Where are you taking him?

					DATA
			That's not your concern.

	He takes Geordi's arm and moves him out the opening.
	Picard starts after them.

					PICARD
			Data, wait -- let us talk to you --

	But the force field FRITZES on again, bringing Picard
	up short. Without a look back, Data walks off with
	Geordi.

     STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT TWO     26.

23   EXT. PLANET'S SURFACE

	Riker and Worf are making their way up a fairly steep
	hill. It is rough going. Suddenly Worf reacts to
	something off to the side, and quickly shoves Riker and
	himself into the cover of nearby bushes.

24   BORG FEET

	walking by as Riker and Worf crouch in silence. The
	feet march on.

25   RESUME SCENE

	Worf peers out from under the brush, is satisfied the
	Borg are gone, and gestures Riker out. The two stand,
	brushing themselves off.

	Worf points in a direction away from the path the Borg
	took.

	They head toward it, climbing upward as they do. Worf
	reaches the top first.

					WORF
			Commander, we have found it.

	Riker reaches the top.

26   THE BORG COMPOUND (OPTICAL)

	seen from a distance.

27   RESUME SCENE

	Suddenly, they hear footsteps and muffled voices off to
	one side. Quickly, they move the opposite direction,
	toward some brush (trees, etc.). They move through the
	brush, seeking cover -- when suddenly they run right
	into three Borg holding their weapons trained on them.

     STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT TWO     27.

28   INT. UNDERGROUND CAVERNS

	Riker and Worf are being led along a rock-lined
	passageway by the three Borg. There are CARGO
	CONTAINERS and other signs that this place is lived in.

	They are taken into a larger CHAMBER where several
	other Borg are standing silently. They're brought to
	a stop right in front of these Borg, who regard them
	without a word.

	Suddenly a figure steps out from behind them. To our
	people's astonishment, it is HUGH.

					RIKER
			Hugh... ?

	But Hugh has changed from the last time Riker and Worf
	saw him. He does not welcome them; his words are
	tinged with bitterness and confrontation.

					HUGH
			Why are you here, Commander Riker?
			Hasn't the crew of the Enterprise
			caused enough damage already?

	Off Riker and Worf's surprise...

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT THREE  28.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

29   INT. UNDERGROUND CAVERNS

	Riker, Worf, and Hugh have moved to another part of the
	chamber and are talking. Hugh has explained Lore's
	takeover of the Borg, and his take on it does not sit
	right with Worf.

					WORF
			You blame us -- for what has
			happened to the Borg?

	Hugh is on the attack, his words tinged with anger.

					HUGH
			You gave me a sense of
			individuality -- changed me and
			sent me back to the collective.
			You must have known that change
			would be passed on to others.

					RIKER
			We considered it. We knew it was
			a possibility...

					HUGH
			Then you made it possible for Lore
			to dominate us.

					WORF
			I do not accept that. Lore is
			only one man. The Borg could have
			stopped him.

					HUGH
			You don't know the condition we
			were in when he found us.

	Remembering, Hugh's anger diminishes somewhat; but his
	words still have a bitter edge.

					HUGH
				(continuing)
			Before my experience on the
			Enterprise, the Borg were a singleminded
			collective. The voices in
			our heads were smooth and flowing.
			But after I returned, the voices
			began to change. They became
			uneven... discordant.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT THREE  29.

29   CONTINUED:

	Riker and Worf listen, rapt.

					HUGH
			For the first time, individual
			Borg had differing ideas about how
			to proceed.
				(beat)
			We couldn't function. Some Borg
			fought each other. Others simply
			shut themselves down. Many
			starved to death.

					RIKER
			And then -- Lore came along.

					HUGH
			You probably can't imagine what it
			is like to be so lost and
			frightened that you will listen to
			any voice which promises change.

					WORF
			Even if that voice insists on
			controlling you?

					HUGH
			That's what we wanted -- someone
			who could show us a way out of
			confusion. Lore promised clarity
			and purpose.

	Hugh begins to move deeper into the cavern; Riker and
	Worf follow.

					HUGH
				(continuing)
			In the beginning, he seemed like
			a savior. The promise of becoming
			a superior race -- of becoming
			fully artificial -- was
			compelling. We gladly did
			everything he asked of us.

	Riker and Worf listen as they walk the cavern.

					HUGH
			But after a while, it became clear
			that Lore had no idea how to keep
			his promise. That's when he began
			talking about the need for us to
			make sacrifices.

 STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT THREE 29A.

29   CONTINUED: (2)

	They are nearing two Borg who are sitting with their
	backs against the wall.

					HUGH
				(continuing)
			And before we realized it -- this
			was the result.

	Riker and Worf look at the two Borg. They are horribly
	twisted and misshapen, as if by nerve damage. One is
	constantly wracked by small tremors; the other has only
	one arm.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT THREE  30.

29   CONTINUED: (3)

					RIKER
			What's happened to them?

					HUGH
			Lore began to experiment -- trying
			to re-make us in his image.

	Hugh sees that one of the Borg has slumped over so he
	bends down and helps him into a sitting position. The
	crippled Borg manages a smile at this small kindness.

					HUGH
				(continuing)
			This is the result of my encounter
			with the Enterprise, Commander.
			So you can see I don't
			particularly welcome your presence
			here.

	Riker looks around the cavern, at the ragged little
	band. There seems to be little our people can say to
	change Hugh's feelings. After a moment --

					RIKER
			I'm sorry you feel that way.

	Riker glances at Worf, gestures that they should get
	going.

					RIKER
			We came here to get our people.
			I don't want to cause you any more
			trouble...

	Hugh is about to let them leave, but he can't dismiss
	his experience on the Enterprise that easily.

					HUGH
			Tell me... about my friend.

					RIKER
			Friend?

					HUGH
			The human called Geordi.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/30/93 - ACT THREE  31.

29   CONTINUED: (4)

					RIKER
			I wish I could tell you. We think
			he's being held inside the
			compound.

	Hugh's face changes -- he fears the worst. But when he
	looks around at the others who are hiding here, he's
	torn by his conflicting responsibilities.

					HUGH
			I cannot help you... I cannot risk
			our being discovered.

					RIKER
				(beat)
			Will you at least show us how to
			get into the compound?

	A beat, as Hugh wars with himself, then --

					HUGH
				(gesturing)
			These caverns lead to tunnels
			which run beneath the compound.
			Some of them connect with the
			environmental control ducts.

					WORF
			Show us. If we can determine the
			geography of the compound, we can
			form a rescue plan.

	Hugh regards them gravely... then turns and heads down
	a tunnel. Riker and Worf follow.

    STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT THREE    32.

30   INT. BORG LAB (OPTICAL)

	A small chamber with alien scientific equipment.

	Geordi is STRAPPED onto a tilting PLATFORM. He's alone
	and can't see. After a moment, Data ENTERS and Geordi
	reacts to the sound.

					GEORDI
			Data?

	Data doesn't answer.

					GEORDI
				(continuing)
			Is somebody there?

	A cold look crosses Data's face.

					DATA
				(Picard's voice)
			Geordi...

					GEORDI
			Captain --

					DATA
				(as Picard)
			Shhh. We're getting out of here.

					GEORDI
				(whispers)
			Hurry. Data was just here; he
			went to get something.

					DATA
				(as himself)
			Too late.

	Geordi realizes Data has tricked him.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			My Brother suggested that I try to
			develop my sense of humor. What
			do you think?

	Geordi can't afford to antagonize Data.

					GEORDI
			I think it needs a little work.

	Data approaches Geordi and uses a (TECH) DEVICE to
	shoot a BEAM inside Geordi's left VISOR terminal.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/29/93 - ACT THREE  33.

30   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
				(continuing, reacts)
			What's happening?

					DATA
				(as he does the right
				 terminal)
			I am neutralizing your pain
			receptors.

	Geordi swallows hard and asks in an even voice:

					GEORDI
			What are you going to do to me?

	Data picks up a (TECH) device that has a long needlelike
	point.

					DATA
			I am implanting nano-cortical
			fibers in your cerebrum that are
			designed to learn and mimic your
			neural firing patterns.

	As he speaks, Data calmly inserts the needle-like point
	into Geordi's skull. We're expecting Geordi to cry out
	in pain but he doesn't; he doesn't even feel it.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			Once they are in place, I will
			destroy your existing brain cells
			and see if the artificial neural
			network is able to take over
			cognitive functions.

	Data removes the point and we see the end of a thin
	FIBER protruding from Geordi's scalp.

					GEORDI
			Data, listen to me. Lore is
			controlling you -- he's
			transmitting a carrier wave that's
			affecting your positronic matrix.

	But Data pays no attention to this.

					DATA
			If the procedure is successful,
			your cognitive processing
			functions will be considerably
			improved.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT THREE  34.

30   CONTINUED: (2)

					GEORDI
			Don't you care that he's
			manipulating you?

					DATA
			However, there is approximately a
			sixty percent chance that you will
			not survive the procedure.

	Data inserts the probe into another part of Geordi's
	skull.

					GEORDI
			I don't much care for those odds.

					DATA
			They are cause for concern.

	Geordi reacts -- maybe there's some part of Data that
	still cares about him.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			However, since I also have
			Counselor Troi and Captain Picard,
			the odds are that at least one of
			the procedures will be successful.

	Data's cold math makes Geordi realize he
	misunderstood... and that nothing he can say will stop
	Data from methodically performing his grisly task...

31   INT. CORRIDOR/BORG CELL (OPTICAL)

	A BORG is standing silently at his post, just down the
	corridor from the cell where our people are being held.

	Suddenly he hears the SOUND of the force-field fritzing
	on. As he moves to investigate, the fritzing stops and
	he hears the SOUND of a body falling to the ground.

					TROI'S VOICE
			Help me!

	When he looks inside the cell he sees Troi kneeling by
	Picard's unconscious body. She looks up.

					TROI
				(alarmed)
			He tried to escape -- the force-field
			put him into neural shock.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT THREE  35.

31   CONTINUED:

	The Borg hesitates, suspicious.

					TROI
				(continuing)
			If he dies, Lore will blame you.

	The Borg decides she's right. He DEACTIVATES the force-field.
	He enters the cell and approaches Picard's
	body.

	When he bends down to take a closer look, Picard
	suddenly opens his eyes and reaches a hand up to pull
	a TUBE from the Borg's head, instantly disabling him.
	When the Borg slumps to the ground, we see a small
	amount of silvery FLUID seep from the torn tube.

	Picard gets up and examines the Borg's prosthetic ARM.
	He quickly separates the weapon from the Borg's arm and
	gives it to Troi.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			See if the corridor's empty.

	Picard stays with the Borg as she moves to the cell
	opening -- she stops short when she sees Data ENTER the
	corridor, holding a groggy Geordi by the arm.

	Data sees the weapon in Troi's hand and grabs Geordi by
	the throat.

					DATA
			Drop it or I will break his neck.

	Troi has no choice but to drop the weapon. Data
	unholsters his, then moves Geordi forward and hands him
	over to Picard and Troi.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			Take him.

	Picard and Troi lead Geordi to one of the side benches.
	Two Borg hurriedly ENTER. Data gestures to the fallen
	guard and they drag his body from the cell.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT THREE  36.

31   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
				(re: Geordi)
			What have you done to him?

	But Data ignores him.

					DATA
			I will be back for him later.

	With a cold look at Picard, he turns and EXITS. We
	HEAR the force-field go on.

	When Data's gone Picard turns to Troi and opens his
	hand, revealing a small DEVICE that is Borg-like in
	design. They approach Geordi.

					TROI
			Geordi, are you in pain?

					GEORDI
			No. I'm a little dizzy, but
			that's all.

					PICARD
			I was able to take part of a
			transceiver from the guard's
			interlink system. It uses some
			kind of phased pulse technology.
			Is there any way we could modify
			it to generate a kedion pulse and
			reboot Data's program?

	Geordi thinks for a moment.

					GEORDI
			It's a possibility.
				(beat)
			See if you can locate the phase
			modulation circuitry.

	Picard sets to work.

					TROI
			I'll watch the door.

	She goes to stand by the cell door.

					PICARD
				(finding it)
			All right, I've found it...

 STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT THREE 36A.

31   CONTINUED: (3)

					GEORDI
			Good... do you see anything that
			would act as a flux inhibitor?

	As Picard starts to look for it...

32   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it warps toward the planet.

33   INT. BRIDGE

	There is an air of urgency in the room. Beverly is at
	an Aft Station with Barnaby. They're looking at an
	OKUDAGRAM that shows the planet.

					TAITT
				(at aft science)
			Sensors still can't locate the
			Borg ship. I'm trying to filter
			out the interference.

					BARNABY
			We'll be within transporter range
			in nineteen seconds.

					TAITT
			I'm starting to get sensor
			resolution...
				(beat)
			There's the ship.

	She gestures toward the OKUDAGRAM; the Borg ship's
	position in orbit is now marked.

					BEVERLY
			We'll enter orbit here.

	She indicates a point on the opposite side of the
	planet.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT THREE  37.

33   CONTINUED:

					BARNABY
				(works)
			Helm, new course -- heading zero-five-two
			mark seven.

					CON OFFICER'S VOICE
			Aye, sir.

					BARNABY
				(works)
			Stand by to drop out of warp in...
			eight seconds.

					TAITT
			Once we're in orbit, we should
			have about forty-five seconds
			before they intercept us.

					BEVERLY
			I hope that's enough time...

					BARNABY
			Emergency deceleration in five
			seconds.

					BEVERLY
			Hold on --

	There is a sudden forward lurch as the thrusters engage
	and we drop out of warp.

					BEVERLY
				(continuing)
			Report.

					TAITT
			We're in standard orbit, sir. The
			Borg ship is on the planet's far
			side, and is moving to intercept.

					BEVERLY
				(to com)
			Bridge to Transporter Rooms --
			begin evacuation.

					BARNABY
			The Borg will be in weapons range
			in... thirty-two seconds.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT THREE  38.

33   CONTINUED: (2)

					BARNABY
				(off console)
			We still can't locate Captain
			Picard's Team... and there's no
			sign of Commander Riker or
			Lieutenant Worf.

					BEVERLY
				(to com)
			Crusher to Salazar. Report.

34   INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM

	A group of N.D. officers are stepping off the
	Transporter pad.

					SALAZAR
				(at the console)
			We're pulling the last teams off
			right now. But there are six
			people still unaccounted for.

35   INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

					BEVERLY
			Keep trying.

	On the VIEWSCREEN the Borg ship can be seen
	approaching.

					BARNABY
			The Borg ship is powering up its
			weapons array.

	Beverly wants to give the Transporter Chief a few more
	seconds.

					BEVERLY
				(to herself)
			Come on, Chief. It's now or
			never.

					TAITT
			They're preparing to fire.

					BEVERLY
			Raise shields.

	A beat later, the ship takes a hit and shakes
	violently.

					BARNABY
			The port nacelle's been hit.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT THREE  39.

35   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			Helm, get us out of here.

					BARNABY
			We've lost warp engines.

					BEVERLY
			Evasive maneuvers, full impulse.

36   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as the Enterprise pulls out of orbit.

37   INT. BRIDGE

					TAITT
			Shields are down to eighty
			percent.

					BEVERLY
			Fire phasers.

	A beat, then --

					BARNABY
			Direct hit. No damage to the Borg
			ship.

	The ship is rocked by another blast.

					TAITT
			Shields at seventy-three percent.

					BEVERLY
			Status of the warp engines?

					BARNABY
			Still down. We can't outrun them.

	There is a tense beat as Beverly considers the
	situation.

					BEVERLY
				(to con)
			Helm, set a new course -- heading
			three-four-four mark six. Full
			impulse.

	Taitt checks this heading at her console, then turns to
	Beverly, uncertain.

    STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT THREE    40.

37   CONTINUED:

					TAITT
			Sir... that heading takes us
			directly into the sun...

	Beverly doesn't respond; obviously she knows this and
	intended it. Off her determined expression and Taitt's
	anxiety...

                                             FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT THREE  41.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

38   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	with the Borg ship in pursuit. A star is seen in the
	distance.

39   INT. BRIDGE

	Beverly is at the rear stations with Barnaby and Taitt.
	The next is at an urgent pace; they need an answer
	quickly.

					BEVERLY
				(to Barnaby)
			The databanks should contain
			information about a process called
			metaphasic shielding --

					BARNABY
			I know about that research.
			Commander La Forge was developing
			a program that would implement
			metaphasic properties...

					BEVERLY
			How far along was he?

					BARNABY
				(working console)
			The program's in the databanks...
			but it was never tested...

					BEVERLY
			If we had metaphasic shielding, we
			could enter the sun's corona and
			the Borg ship wouldn't be able to
			follow.
				(beat)
			Can you bring the program on line?

					BARNABY
			I can... but we have no way of
			knowing if the shields will hold.

					TAITT
			Sir, hull temperature is rising...
			now at twelve-thousand degrees C.
			Radiation level is nearing ten
			thousand rads.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT FOUR  42.

39   CONTINUED:

	Suddenly the ship is ROCKED by another phaser blast.

					BEVERLY
			Report.

					TAITT
			Shields at sixty-two percent...

					BEVERLY
			Lieutenant, activate the
			metaphasic program. We don't have
			a choice.

					BARNABY
			Aye, sir.

	He begins working at a console.

					TAITT
			Hull temperature is critical. We
			can't withstand this heat much
			longer.

					BARNABY
			The program is on line. Engaging
			metaphasic shield... now.

	There is a tense beat.

					TAITT
			Hull temperature dropping... down
			to seven thousand degrees.

	There is general relief.

					BEVERLY
			Maintain course.

40   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it disappears from view inside the sun's glare --
	moments later the Borg ship pulls up and away from the
	sun.

41   INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

					BARNABY
			The Borg ship has broken off
			pursuit.

					BEVERLY
			All stop.

   
  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/30/93 - ACT FOUR  43.

41   CONTINUED:

					TAITT
				(off console)
			Sir, the Borg ship is taking up
			position relative to ours.
			They're going to wait for us to
			come out.

	Beverly casts an eye toward the Viewscreen and sees the
	fiery glow of the corona.

					BEVERLY
			The question is... how long can we
			survive in here?

	Off her face...

42   INT. BORG CELL (OPTICAL)

	Geordi has been taken away again, and Picard is
	modifying the (TECH) component he took from the Borg.
	Troi is standing so as to block what he's doing should
	anyone look inside the cell.

					PICARD
			I've done everything Geordi said.
			Now to activate it...

	He makes a final adjustment to the transceiver as:

					TROI
			How are we going to know whether
			the pulse reboots Data's ethical
			program?

					PICARD
			We'll only be able to tell by his
			behavior.

					TROI
			Won't he realize something has
			happened to him?

					PICARD
			I doubt it. It's one program
			among thousands.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT FOUR  44.

42   CONTINUED:

	Picard has reached the cell opening. He glances down
	the corridor, then sets the transceiver on the floor
	and gently nudges it with his foot toward the force
	field.

					PICARD
			I just hope this force field has
			enough energy to trigger the
			pulse.

	The transceiver comes in contact with the force field,
	which ACTIVATES, fritzing continuously.

                                             CUT TO:

43   INT. BORG LAB

	Data is scanning Geordi with a MEDICAL DEVICE.

					GEORDI
			You know, Data -- I've been
			thinking... about some of the
			times we've had together.

	Geordi is hoping that the re-boot will work, and that
	he can reach Data on a personal level, reminding him of
	what was good about his life before he joined Lore's
	"cult."

	Suddenly Data gives a VERY SMALL head tilt, so minute
	that neither he nor Geordi realize anything has
	happened.

					GEORDI
			Like that time we went sailing on
			Devala Lake. Remember that?

					DATA
			I have a complete memory record of
			that day.

					GEORDI
			You decided to take a swim... but
			when you jumped out of the boat
			you sank straight to the bottom.

	Geordi can't help but laugh as he remembers.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT FOUR  45.

43   CONTINUED:

					DATA
				(matter of factly)
			I did not have enough buoyancy to
			get back to the surface.

					GEORDI
				(still chuckling)
			So you had to walk over a
			kilometer along the bottom of the
			lake to get to shore.

					DATA
			One kilometer, forty-six meters.

					GEORDI
			It took two weeks to get the water
			out of your servos...

	There is a beat, then --

					DATA
			I am ready to irradiate your
			existing brain cells.

	Geordi's face falls when he hears this... it seems a
	jarring contrast to the pleasant memory he was sharing.
	He doesn't seem to have reached Data.

					GEORDI
				(quiet)
			Data... if you ever go back to
			being the way you were, you may
			not be able to forgive yourself
			for what you're about to do to me.

	Data's face is unreadable. After a beat --

					DATA
			I am getting some anomalous
			readings from your neural net. I
			will have to do further tests
			before I proceed.

	Data has not even scanned for readings, but Geordi
	can't see this. Data stands.

					DATA
			Someone will come and take you
			back to your cell.

	Data regards Geordi for a moment, then turns and EXITS.

  STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT FOUR  46.

44   INT. UNDERGROUND CAVERNS

	Hugh, Riker and Worf have returned to the main chamber
	from their reconnaissance. Riker and Worf are laying
	out their rescue plan. Hugh stands to one side,
	listening.

					WORF
			We can use the environmental
			control ducts to get inside the
			compound. They should take us to
			the detention area.

					RIKER
			We'll have to move fast. If we
			have to stun a guard, the other
			Borg will know right away that
			he's been hurt.

					HUGH
			When they realize... your escape
			route may be compromised.

					RIKER
			We'll have to take that chance.

	There is a beat of silence. Hugh is torn -- he could
	offer to help them. But he cannot take the step.

					HUGH
			Good luck, Commander.

	Riker and Worf nod and head off down the tunnel. Hugh
	stares after them, conflicted.

45   EXT. BORG COMPOUND (OPTICAL) - DAY

	Data approaches Lore, who is seated, surveying the
	landscape from just outside an entrance to the
	compound. Borg workers come and go as they perform
	their various tasks.

         STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT FOUR         47.

45   CONTINUED:

					LORE
			There you are, Brother. Have you
			made any progress with La Forge?

					DATA
			It is too early to tell if the
			nano-cortical fibers have
			performed their function.

					LORE
			I suspect none of the humans will
			survive the process... but it's
			their own fault, isn't it? They
			should never have come here. What
			were they thinking?

	Data takes Lore's rhetorical question to heart.

					DATA
				(quiet)
			They came looking for me.

					LORE
			Humans are so sentimental.

	But things aren't so simple for Data anymore -- his
	ethical program is forcing him to think about things.
	As much to himself as to Lore:

					DATA
			I betrayed them. If they die...
			I am responsible.

	Lore looks at him, concerned.

       STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT FOUR      48.

45   CONTINUED: (2)

					LORE
			Why are you talking like this? Is
			something wrong with your
			programming? Perhaps I should
			check your systems.

					DATA
				(firm)
			I do not want you to check my
			systems. I must resolve these
			issues myself.

	Lore eyes Data, wary.

					LORE
			I think I've made a mistake. I
			don't believe you can tolerate the
			amount of emotion I've been giving
			you.

	His eyes locked on Data's, Lore reaches for one of his
	own fingers.

46   INSERT - FINGERNAIL

	as Lore flips the nail up, revealing circuitry inside.

         STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT FOUR         49.

47   BACK TO SCENE

					LORE
			Perhaps I should cut back a
			little...

	Lore adjusts something in his nail and Data seems to
	shudder -- like a junkie coming down off a drug.

					LORE
			How's that?

					DATA
			I... do not like it...

					LORE
			Ah. Then you prefer having more
			emotions... ?

					DATA
			Yes...

					LORE
			They give you pleasure.

					DATA
			Yes. Please... I want more...

	Lore lets Data yearn for a moment, then adjusts the
	circuitry as:

					LORE
			All right. For now, a little
			more.

	Data is again flooded with negative emotion. It's a
	relief -- like a fix.

					DATA
			Thank you...

					LORE
			Don't mention it. I just hope
			this has helped clarify things for
			you.

	Data walks off and Lore gazes after him. After a
	moment, he beckons to Crosis, who approaches.

					LORE
			I am concerned about my brother,
			Crosis. I don't believe he really
			wants to be a part of our great
			future.

	He exchanges a meaningful and ominous look with Crosis.

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

       STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT FIVE      50.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

48   EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL)

	The Enterprise hangs in space inside the sun's corona.

49   INT. BRIDGE

	Light from the sun's corona reflects on the Bridge
	crew. Barnaby and Taitt are at an Aft Station. Taitt
	is working a console, concentrating intently on
	something.

					BARNABY
				(to Beverly)
			Sir, the metaphasic shielding is
			losing integrity.

	Concerned, Beverly moves to him.

					BEVERLY
			Can you stabilize it?

					BARNABY
			No... we won't be able to stay in
			here more than another three or
			four minutes.

					BEVERLY
			Do we have warp engines yet?

					BARNABY
			The last estimate was another half
			hour.

	There is a charged silence. The options aren't good.
	Then --

					TAITT
			Sir?

	Beverly and Barnaby turn toward her.

					TAITT
			I think I have an idea...

	Beverly is interested. Taitt takes a breath.

       STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT FIVE      51.

49   CONTINUED:

					TAITT
			I think... it's possible we could
			induce a solar fusion eruption...
			that would destroy the Borg ship.

	Barnaby stares at her, disbelieving.

					BARNABY
			What?

	Taitt presses on. She's a little nervous about this,
	but nonetheless certain of her idea.

					TAITT
			We'd need to direct a highly
			energetic particle beam onto the
			sun's surface... it should
			produce a superfluid gas eruption.
			If we target the right spot -- the
			eruption would envelop the Borg
			ship.

	Barnaby shakes his head, dismissing her. Beverly
	doesn't.

					BEVERLY
			How do you know this'll work?

	There is a hesitation.

					TAITT
			I did my senior honors thesis on
			solar dynamics.

	Beverly looks at her, considering.

					BARNABY
			Excuse me, sir, but this isn't the
			Academy. And a student thesis is
			a long way from a workable plan.

	The goad seems to sharpen Taitt, focus her. She
	presses on.

					TAITT
			I've already configured the
			tractor emitters to create the
			particle beam... and I've located
			the target point on the surface...

         STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT FIVE         52.

49   CONTINUED: (2)

					BARNABY
			If her calculations are off, the
			eruption could encompass us.

	Taitt eyes him.

					TAITT
			Well. I'll just have to make sure
			my calculations are accurate.

					BEVERLY
			Let's do it.

					TAITT
			Yes, sir.

	She works her console.

50   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as a beam lances out from the hull and down toward the
	sun's surface.

51   INT. BRIDGE

					TAITT
			The target area on the photosphere
			is destabilizing... pressure wave
			expansion is accelerating...

					BARNABY
				(off console)
			Sub-surface fusion has been
			initiated...
				(beat)
			There's an eruption forming on the
			surface.

52   EXT. SPACE - BORG SHIP (OPTICAL)

	hangs unsuspecting in space. Suddenly an enormous
	solar flare comes bursting out of the corona and
	engulfs it.

53   INT. BRIDGE

					BARNABY
			She did it. The Borg ship has
			been destroyed.

       STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/24/93 - ACT FIVE      53.

53   CONTINUED:

					BEVERLY
			Helm, take us back to the planet,
			full impulse.

	Beverly turns to Taitt and gives her a smile and a nod:
	"Well done."

54   INT. BORG CELL

	Geordi is lying on one of the side benches; Troi sits
	nearby trying to make him comfortable. Picard paces
	restlessly.

	The SOUND of the force field deactivating causes them
	to look toward the cell opening, where Data appears.

					PICARD
				(re: Geordi)
			You're killing him. He won't
			survive another session.

					DATA
			I did not come for him -- I came
			for you.

	He indicates with his WEAPON that Picard should move
	out. Picard glances at Troi, then EXITS the cell.

55   INT. BORG HALL (OPTICAL)

	Picard and Data ENTER the empty room in midconversation.

					PICARD
			... It's not too late. If you
			remove the fibers, Geordi might
			recover.

					DATA
			That will not be possible.

					PICARD
			Why? Because Lore says so?

					DATA
				(beat)
			It is for the greater good.

	Picard senses that Data's program is working, and
	causing some confusion. He bears down.

       STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT FIVE      54.

55   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Good? Aren't good and bad, right
			and wrong, functions of your
			ethical program?

					DATA
			That is correct.

					PICARD
			What does that program tell you
			about what you're doing to Geordi,
			about what you and Lore are doing
			to the Borg?

	Unlike before, Data has no easy answer. Picard pushes
	forward.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			It tells you these things are
			wrong, doesn't it?

	Data's face says he's correct.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			How can actions that are wrong
			lead to a "greater good"?

					DATA
			You are attempting to confuse me.

					PICARD
			No, Data. You're not confused;
			you're sensing the truth. Your
			ethical program is fighting the
			negative emotions Lore is sending
			you.

	Data's face is anguished. Before Picard can continue
	Lore ENTERS the hall with a group of Borg.

					LORE
			There you are, Captain. Thank you
			for joining us. You're going to
			help me in a most important
			ceremony.

	Lore's words have an ominous ring. What does he have
	in mind?

         STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT FIVE         55.

56   INT. BORG CELL (OPTICAL)

	Troi is tending Geordi when her attention is caught by
	the SOUND of a phaser blast coming from the corridor
	outside the cell. Having no way of knowing what this
	portends, she listens with some concern to the SOUND of
	hurriedly approaching footsteps. To her relief, Riker
	and Worf appear at the cell door moments later.

					WORF
			Where's the Captain?

					TROI
			Data took him away.

	Worf DEACTIVATES the force-field and hangs back to make
	sure no one comes down the corridor. Riker's face
	registers concern when he sees the shape Geordi's in.

					RIKER
			There's not much time.
				(re: Geordi)
			Can he walk?

					TROI
			He'll need help.

	Riker and Troi help Geordi to his feet.

					RIKER
				(to Troi)
			There's an air duct in the
			corridor that connects to a tunnel
			underneath the compound. You take
			Geordi and we'll look for the
			Captain.

	Troi nods and they EXIT.

57   INT. BORG HALL (OPTICAL)

	Lore has approached Picard and Data. Crosis and the
	other Borg stand along the periphery of the room,
	watching silently.

					LORE
				(to Data)
			It's time to put your doubts
			aside, Brother. It's time to
			close the door on your past and
			commit yourself to the great work
			that lies ahead of us.
				(beat)
					(MORE)

       STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT FIVE      56.

57   CONTINUED:

					LORE (Cont'd)
			I need to know that I can count on
			you.

	He glances at Picard.

					LORE
			As proof, I want you to kill
			Captain Picard.

	Data's expression falters. He knows that if he doesn't
	comply Lore will cut off the flow of emotions, or quite
	possibly, kill him. He unholsters his weapon, turns
	and looks at Picard.

58
thru	OMITTED
60

61   ON LORE

	Looking on approvingly.

62   ON DATA

	his face unreadable.

63   ON PICARD

	holding Data's gaze.

64   RESUME SCENE (OPTICAL)

	For a long moment, Data's decision hangs in the air.
	Finally:

					DATA
			No... It would be wrong.

         STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT FIVE         57.

64   CONTINUED:

	Crosis quickly moves to take the weapon from Data.
	Lore looks at his Brother, shakes his head sadly.

					LORE
			I didn't think you'd be able to do
			it. You've spent too many years
			among humans.

	Lore turns away from Data, as if it's too painful to
	look at him anymore. But we see him cast a glance at
	Crosis -- and as if by prearranged contingency, Crosis
	swings in to action.

					CROSIS
			Hold him.

	Two Borg step forward and take Data by the arms.

					LORE
				(to the assembled Borg)
			I've asked many sacrifices of you --
			sacrifices I knew were necessary
			in order to build a better future.

	He plays the moment, going for the dramatic impact.

					LORE
			I want you to know that I ask no
			more of you than I am prepared to
			give myself. I am willing to make
			the greatest sacrifice of all --
			my own dear brother.

	Lore takes a weapon from another Borg. He looks at
	Data with great sadness in his eyes.

65   NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	Revealing that one of the Borg standing behind Lore is
	Hugh.

					LORE
			Good bye, Data.

	As he starts to raise his weapon, Hugh rushes forward
	and knocks it away.

					HUGH
			No --

	Crosis aims to take Hugh out but a PHASER bolt from the
	stage area blasts him.

         STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT FIVE        57A.

	ANOTHER ANGLE

	Revealing that Riker and Worf had snuck into the hall
	and were hiding up in the stage area -- they stand
	ready to fire again if necessary.

66A  RESUME SCENE

	as a melee begins to erupt, various Borg beginning to
	charge each other.

66B  ANGLE

	as two Borg grapple hand-to-hand. One of them takes
	the other down and moves on toward some other foe.

66C  ANGLE

	as a Borg comes up behind Picard.

         STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT FIVE         58.

66D  ANGLE

	as Worf sees and takes aim.

66E  ANGLE

	as a PHASER blast takes out the Borg behind Picard.

67   RESUME SCENE

	Lore and Data stand looking at each other across the
	room, strangely still amidst the Pandemonium all around
	them.

	The fighting blocks his line of sight for a moment --
	and before Data realizes it Lore is gone. Data has to
	push past people to follow...

68   INT. BORG LAB (OPTICAL)

	Where Data had worked on Geordi. Lore is furiously
	working a console when Data ENTERS.

					DATA
			Lore...

	Lore turns and sees the weapon in Data's hand (although
	it's not aimed at him).

					LORE
			Be careful with that, Brother.
			Somebody could get hurt.

					DATA
			What are you doing?

					LORE
			I have a way out of here. I'm
			willing to forget about what
			happened back there and take you
			with me.
				(smiles)
			We don't need anyone else. We're
			Brothers.

	He sees that Data is unmoved by this.

         STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - 6/24/93 - ACT FIVE         59.

68   CONTINUED:

					LORE
			I'll give you the chip our father
			made. It contains more than just
			emotions -- it has memories.

68A  INSERT - FINGERNAIL

	As Lore speaks, he surreptitiously opens his
	fingernail.

					LORE'S VOICE
			Memories our Father wanted you to
			have.

68B  RESUME SCENE (OPTICAL)

	as Lore activates the circuitry and cuts off the flow
	of emotions -- Data shudders as before, and Lore uses
	the opportunity to go for a weapon on a nearby console.

	Lore whips it around to shoot him and leaves Data no
	choice but to FIRE; the bolt hits Lore square in the
	chest. Lore's systems overload -- TENDRILS of
	crackling energy course around his head, and he
	collapses to the ground.

	Data kneels at his side... the impact of the fall
	caused Lore's head flap to open and his BLINKING
	CIRCUITRY is now exposed.

	Lore looks up at him, his eyes filled with sadness.

					DATA
			I am going to deactivate you now.

	Lore speaks haltingly -- he's clearly damaged.

       STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT FIVE      60.

68B  CONTINUED:

					LORE
			Without me, you will never feel
			emotion again.

					DATA
			You leave me no other choice.

	Data uses a TOOL to starts shutting down Lore's
	systems, and the firing pattern of his blinkies starts
	to slow.

	Data pauses before shutting off the last system; he has
	to fight off the feeling of withdrawal.

					DATA
			Good bye, Lore.

	Lore's lost so many systems that his words come out
	distorted.

					LORE
			I... love you... Brother...

	Data shuts down the last system and Lore's circuitry
	stops blinking. He is still, lifeless. Data regards
	him silently, his face unreadable...

69   EXT. THE BORG COMPOUND (OPTICAL)

	seen from a distance.

70   INT. BORG HALL

	The fight is over. Riker approaches Worf and Picard.

					PICARD
			What about Geordi and Troi?

       STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/30/93 - ACT FIVE      61.

70   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
			The Enterprise is in orbit.
			They've been beamed aboard.

	There is a murmur from some of the Borg when they see
	Data ENTER the room. He approaches Picard and the
	others.

					DATA
			Lore is no longer functioning.
				(beat)
			He must be disassembled so that he
			is never again a threat.

					PICARD
			It's good to have you back, Data.

					DATA
			Thank you, sir.

	Riker turns to Hugh. They regard each other for a
	moment, then Riker smiles.

					RIKER
			What made you change your mind?

	Hugh considers for a beat.

					HUGH
			Perhaps my encounter with the
			Enterprise affected me more than
			I realized...

	Considering his angry words earlier, there is a sense
	that Hugh is aware of the irony of his admission.

					PICARD
			What will you do now?

					HUGH
			I don't know. We can't go back to
			the Borg collective...
				(beat)
			And we no longer have a leader
			here...

	Picard regards Hugh for a moment.

					PICARD
			I'm not sure that's true.

	Hugh's never seen himself that way so it takes him a
	moment to realize that Picard means him.

       STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/30/93 - ACT FIVE     61A.

70   CONTINUED: (2)

					HUGH
			Perhaps in time... we can learn to
			function as individuals -- and
			work together as a group.

	Picard nods thoughtfully.

					PICARD
			Good luck, Hugh.

					HUGH
			Good bye.

	Off this moment...

71   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	as it moves at warp.

					PICARD
			Captain's Log, Stardate 47025.4.
			We have returned to Federation
			Space and are en route to Starbase
			two-nine-five. Mister La Forge
			remains under Doctor Crusher's
			care.

       STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT FIVE      62.

72   INT. DATA'S QUARTERS

	Data is sitting at his desk, petting SPOT, looking at
	a MICRO-CHIP on a glass slide. The door CHIMES.

					DATA
			Enter.

	Geordi comes in.

					GEORDI
			Hi, Data.

	Data looks up at him, curious.

					GEORDI
			I just wanted to let you know that
			Doctor Crusher says I'll be able
			to return to duty soon.

	Data understands his intention.

					DATA
			I am glad that the injuries I
			inflicted on you are not
			permanent.

					GEORDI
				(notices slide)
			What's that?

					DATA
			This is the chip my Father created
			for me so that I could experience
			emotions. I had it removed from
			Lore's body before he was
			dismantled.

					GEORDI
			Does it still work?

					DATA
			No. I am pleased to say that it
			was damaged when I was forced to
			fire on Lore.

					GEORDI
			Pleased? Data, you've wanted
			emotions all your life.

					DATA
			Yes. But emotions were
			responsible for what I did to you.

	Data crosses over to a table.

       STAR TREK: "Descent, Part II" - REV. 6/25/93 - ACT FIVE      63.

72   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			I would never risk letting
			something like that happen again.
			My friendship with you is too
			important to me.

	Data puts the chip in a box and closes it.

					GEORDI
			I wouldn't be much of a friend to
			you if I let you give up on a life-long
			dream.

	Geordi picks up the box.

					GEORDI
			Who knows? Maybe someday we can
			repair this.

	Geordi reaches up and puts the box on Data's shelf.
	Off this moment...

                                             FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END                             





