Return to home
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"A View from Below"
Written by
Anne Louise Coryell
Jim Fleming
Marlene Hutchison
Rob Janes
Dave Moebs
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"A View from Below"
CAST
PICARD DAEGAN
RIKER ALINA
DATA MANABA
BEVERLY KETSIN
TROI COMPUTER VOICE
GEORDI ENGINEERING SUPERNUMERARY
WORF MEDICAL SUPERNUMERARY
MEDICAL TEAM MEMBER SMITTY'S VOICE
GUY VARDAMAN
Non-Speaking
SUPERNUMERARIES
CHILD
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"A View from Below"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
MAIN BRIDGE USS ENTERPRISE
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM
OBSERVATION LOUNGE
TURBOLIFT
CORRIDOR
TEN FORWARD
MAIN ENGINEERING
DECK 27 CREW LOUNGE
BEVERLY'S QUARTERS
TROI'S QUARTERS
RAW FOOD STOCK STORAGE AREA
DECK 38 ENGINEERING CONTROL
DAMAGED COMPARTMENT
CORRIDOR OUTSIDE DAMAGED COMPARTMENT
SICK BAY
JEFFERIES TUBE
ACCESS TUNNEL
PUBLIC FOOD REPLICATOR STATION
DATA'S QUARTERS/HOLODECK
TEASER 1
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE(OPTICAL) 1
Moving through space at warp speed.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's Log. Stardate xxxxx.1. The
Enterprise is enroute to the stellar
observatory on Gamma-Hydra 8 to deliver
scientific equipment and supplies. The
Bussard ramscoops are operating to replenish
our deuterium supply which was depleted when
we assisted the Federation freighter, Argos,
after its primary tank ruptured.
CLOSE in to the Bussard ramscoops that are operating.
2 INT. DECK 27 CREW LOUNGE 2
CU from the outside as the lounge door opens to show the
label on the door, "Crew Lounge." The lounge is not as big
or as fancy as 10 Forward but a little more gregarious,
closer to a college dining hall or a military mess hall.
There are tables and chairs for dining but also a small bar
and some sofas and game tables. Over the bar is a hand
lettered sign: "The Watering Whole - Holistic Relaxation."
Crew members are scattered around the room in 2's and 3's.
CLOSE to one table. Seated at the table is Daegan (an
Ardunan male, smallish, late 50's or 60's) and Alina (a
Tellerite female, large without being fat, 20's or 30's).
DAEGAN
I tell you, Alina, the more I study the
ship's systems the more I'm impressed with
the inherent beauty of the interlocking
structures. Each system is a part of the
larger whole. It's almost fractal in its
design. Why I was just looking through the
manual at the layout of the ramscoops... Now
there is a study in style and form.
ALINA
Daegan, you Ardunans go nuts over the form of
your solutions. We Tellerites are more
interested in its effectiveness. We have a
different sense of aesthetics.
3 EXT. SPACE: THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) 3
An explosion appears on the starboard-forward side of the
engineering section of the ship. The ship immediately drops
out of warp. A spherical wave is seen emanating from the
point of impact.
4 INT. RAW FOOD STOCK STORAGE AREA (OPTICAL) 4
The raw food stock storage area is a rarely visited part of
the ship. It contains bulky equipment, the raw food stock
storage tank and various other pipes, conduits and machines.
On the raw food stock storage tank is a special valve,
large enough to be clearly noticed but small enough to be
carried by hand.
The wave front is seen passing through the area. As it
passes through the valve on the raw food stock storage tank,
the valve is transformed and it begins glowing bright green.
5 INT. DECK 27 CREW LOUNGE 5
Alert horn sounds ... Faces look up; alert, not frightened.
RIKER (V.O.)
Red Alert. Red Alert. Damage Control teams
to your stations.
Everyone begins to head to the door.
ALINA
(rising)
Uh oh. That's us. Well, once more into the
breach.
6 INT. MAIN BRIDGE 6
Looking at the bridge from the viewscreen. Bridge crew
includes Picard, Worf, Riker, and Data.
PICARD
Mr. Worf. Report.
WORF
Sir. We are receiving reports that air-tight
emergency doors are sealing off portions of
the engineering section. Damage control
teams are starting to report in. There
appears to be a hull breach in the
engineering section. There is some secondary
damage caused by the emergency deceleration
from warp speed. The hull breach seems to be
the only major damage.
7 INT. DAMAGED COMPARTMENT (OPTICAL) 7
Wide shot of compartment in extreme disarray. Air-tight
emergency doors are in place. Two crewmen lie motionless on
the deck. Outside wall shows a door-sized hole to space.
Confinement shields are maintaining hull integrity at the
breach.
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
ACT 1
FADE IN:
8 INT. MAIN BRIDGE 8
The ship is at red alert and everyone is at their posts.
PICARD
Status report.
RIKER
The hull breach has been contained. We have
no report on injuries from the penetrated
area. Injury reports coming in from all
decks. No fatalities reported.
DATA
The computer cores are off-line. Whatever
hit us appears to have affected all three
computer cores on board.
PICARD
Data, what did hit us? Have we been
attacked?
DATA
It is difficult to say with certainty since
all computers are off-line. However, I do
not believe it was a result of hostile
action. The signals we received immediately
prior to the computers' going off-line were
consistent with matter/anti-matter
annihilation energy patterns. It is possible
we were struck by a large amount of anti-
hydrogen which could penetrate our shields
through the holes created to channel hydrogen
into the Bussard ramscoops.
It appears that it will be necessary to
reload the computer cores from archival
copies since all cores have been damaged.
This procedure will take 4 to 5 hours.
WORF
(General Broadcast)
Attention all crew. There has been a hull
penetration in the engineering section. All
main computers are off-line. It will be
necessary to use tricorders and standalone
computers until the computer cores can be
restored. This will take several hours.
PICARD
Were there any ships within sensor range that
might either assist or pose a threat?
WORF
There were no ships within sensor range at
the time of impact. However, I recommend
that repair of shields and weapons systems be
given top priority.
PICARD
Make it so.
9 INT. DECK 38 ENGINEERING CONTROL 9
Deck 38 Engineering Control is much like main engineering
having various consoles and controls around but no engines
or dilithium chambers.
Various engineering supernumeraries are being briefed by
Engineering Chief Nessa Ketsin. Ketsin is a human female,
probably in her 40's or 50's, and is sometimes addressed as
"Chief."
KETSIN
With the computers down, we'll have to use
tricorders and footwork to locate the hull
breach. Preliminary reports put it somewhere
on deck 24. The faster we find it, the
faster we can treat any injured and get it
fixed. Use Channel D on your communicators
to coordinate with me and report any results.
Move out.
Supernumeraries EXIT and Daegan and Alina arrive, moving
quickly.
KETSIN
Good. You're here. I need our best
structural technicians on this one. We have
a hull breach. With the computers down, we
haven't pinpointed it yet. While other teams
work on that, I want you to break out the
hull breach kit. Be sure you include the
power jaws. There have been reports of
jammed doors due to warping of their frames.
Daegan and Alina move off and begin fiddling with equipment.
Ketsin follows them.
KETSIN
You heard the announcement. The computer
cores are down. You'll have to use
tricorders and PADDs for any analysis you
might need to do. We're using Channel D to
keep in touch. Get the gear to a turbolift
and commandeer it with emergency override
omega-3. Once we locate the breach, you'll
be ready to get there as quickly as possible.
10 INT. TURBOLIFT 10
Daegan and Alina are in the turbolift which is not moving.
ALINA
This waiting is killing me. Let's run the
standard checklists.
DAEGAN
I'm ready.
Alina consults her PADD while Daegan operates equipment.
ALINA
Power jaws fully charged.
DAEGAN
Check.
ALINA
Power jaws internal diagnostic.
DAEGAN
Check.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
Ketsin to Alina.
ALINA
Go ahead chief.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
We've got it. Deck 24, section 21. Move
out. A medical team is on its way.
ALINA
Acknowledged.
(to turbolift)
Deck 24, section 21.
The turbolift starts moving.
ALINA
Without the main computer we'll have to use
compartment controls and tricorders to check
life-support in the damaged area before going
in.
DAEGAN
We also need to remind the medical team that
they shouldn't enter until we've done a quick
structural check on the area.
11 INT. OUTSIDE DAMAGED COMPARTMENT 11
Daegan and Alina are moving quickly down the corridor.
ALINA
Laser hull welder fully charged.
DAEGAN
Check.
ALINA
Laser hull welder internal diagnostic.
DAEGAN
Check.
They arrive at the compartment. Daegan goes to a wall
panel, opens it and begins to take readings. The medical
team arrives from the other direction.
ALINA
(to medical team)
Once we open the compartment, be sure to wait
out here while we run a check to assess the
structural stability of the damaged area.
We'll tell you when it's safe to enter.
MEDICAL TEAM MEMBER
We'll wait but this section is usually
occupied and there are probably casualties
inside.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
Ketsin to Alina.
ALINA
Alina here.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
The bridge is requesting your status.
ALINA
We are at the penetrated section. We are
checking life-support now. We expect to be
able to enter very soon.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
Let's keep this channel open. Keep me
apprised.
DAEGAN
There's atmosphere in the compartment. I'm
opening the door.
Daegan presses the appropriate controls to open the door.
It opens about 15 centimeters and sticks. Daegan and then
Alina attempt to manually open it. Daegan takes his
tricorder and checks the area around the door with it.
DAEGAN
(to com)
Chief, the door is stuck.
(beat)
But the structure can handle the power jaws.
Alina uses the power jaws and opens the door.
12 INT. DAMAGED COMPARTMENT 12
Daegan and Alina go in using their tricorders to check the
compartment. The compartment is the same as it appeared in
the teaser.
DAEGAN
(to medical team)
The compartment is stable. You may enter.
The medical team enters and begins treating the injured.
Alina begins using the laser hull welder to begin closing
the hull breach. There is sparking and hissing as the
welder puts out material to seal the breach.
DAEGAN
(to com)
Chief, we've entered the compartment. It's
structurally stable and the medical team has
entered. We are beginning to seal the
breach.
KETSON'S COM VOICE
Good. I'll inform the bridge.
Alina completes the work with the laser hull welder. Daegan
takes his tricorder and examines the seal.
DAEGAN
(to com)
The breach has been successfully sealed.
Hull integrity has been restored. However,
the size of the breach and structural damage
are such that a hull patch will have to be
replicated and installed. Please remind the
bridge that we will not be able to go to warp
speeds with the current patch and will not be
able to exceed warp 2 even after the hull
patch has been installed.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
Acknowledged.
13 INT. SICK BAY 13
There's lots of activity in sick bay. There are many
injured and the medical staff is very busy. Troi is there
helping out when and where she can.
BEVERLY
(to comm)
So when will the computer be back up? We're
limited down here without full access to
patient records and the extended medical
databases.
WORF'S COM VOICE
Once Ops is restored, medical databases will
be the top priority. It will take at least
another hour. You will have to use
tricorders and your local computers until
then.
BEVERLY
We'll manage. Crusher out.
(to medical supernumerary)
What's our status?
MEDICAL SUPERNUMERARY
Initial reports appear to be accurate. Many
injuries, but limited to broken bones and
concussions. Nothing more serious.
BEVERLY
We were lucky this time.
Crusher moves off to attend to a patient. PAN to Troi who
is with an upset child.
TROI
Don't be frightened. Your mother will be
fine. You'll be able to go back to your
quarters with her soon. I'll tell you what,
why don't we get you an ice cream cone. Do
you like ice cream?
The child brightens a little and nods agreement. They go to
a replicator where a medical technician is getting a refill
ampule for a hypospray. The technician gets it, begins
installing it and moves off. Troi steps in front of the
replicator.
TROI
(to replicator)
One ice cream cone.
COMPUTER VOICE
The main computer is off-line. Only medical
supplies are available from this unit at this
time.
TROI
(to replicator)
Patient dessert number one.
A dish of chocolate pudding appears at the replicator.
TROI
(to child)
Chocolate pudding. Isn't this nicer than an
ice cream cone?
The child is dubious but accepts the pudding and begins
eating it.
14 INT. MAIN BRIDGE 14
GEORDI
Captain, the hull breach has been sealed.
Installation of the hull patch is proceeding.
Only a starbase has the facilities to make a
permanent repair of a breach of this size.
DATA
The sensors do not appear to be damaged but
they will remain down until the computer
cores are reloaded.
RIKER
Sick bay reports everything is under control.
No fatalities or serious injuries. Only 6
crew members will need to remain in sick bay
overnight.
PICARD
Mr. Data, what is the nearest starbase with
the facilities we need?
DATA
Starbase 191 has a space-dock with full
structural facilities. With the hull patch
limiting us to Warp 2, it is 4 days, 5 hours
away.
PICARD
We seem to be out of immediate danger.
Reduce status to yellow alert. Areas except
engineering and medical may return to
standard duty rotation. Mr. Worf, Mr.
LaForge, please insure that all necessary
repairs and diagnostics are underway before
you go off duty. Ensign. Lay in a course
for Starbase 191; full impulse. Increase to
warp 2 once we're capable of warp drive.
(MORE)
PICARD (Cont'd)
(less formally)
Mr. LaForge, inform me once the hull patch is
installed. I would like to inspect it.
GEORDI
Yes sir.
15 INT. DECK 38 ENGINEERING CONTROL (OPTICAL) 15
Manaba is seated at a console. She is a regular crew member
but alien, some race not previously seen by viewers. Ketsin
approaches.
KETSIN
Manaba, how's the reload of the computer
cores progressing?
MANABA
The main reload is complete. I'm about to
begin enhancements and incrementals.
KETSIN
Good. I'm going to check on the progress of
the hull patch installation.
Ketsin EXITS. Manaba is alone at the console.
MANABA
Computer, transfer enhancement records from
archival storage to active status, access
code gamma-2.
COMPUTER VOICE
This process will take approximately 15
minutes.
MANABA
(to herself)
Good. That should give me time to get a
snack.
Manaba gets up and goes to a nearby food replicator. No one
else in the area notices her.
MANABA
(to replicator)
Cheese sandwich.
The replicator produces a gruel sandwich. GRUEL has the
size, shape, and consistency of the item requested but
otherwise looks like oatmeal. Manaba picks it up, looks at
it and carefully tastes it. She makes a face and goes to a
disposal slot. She staggers very slightly on the way to it.
She disposes of the plate and "sandwich." As she walks
back to the console she started from, she stumbles back to
her chair and collapses to the floor. There's general
excitement.
ENGINEERING SUPERNUMERARY
(to com)
Medical emergency, Deck 38 Engineering
Control.
FADE OUT
END OF ACT 1
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
16 INT. CORRIDOR 16
Daegan and Alina are returning from their damage control
work. They are still in the outfits they were wearing while
on red alert status.
DAEGAN
We're all fortunate that there were no
fatalities. A hull breech like that along
with the rest of the damage could have meant
many more injuries than there were.
ALINA
It sure could have been much more serious.
It's a good thing that this ship has so many
redundant systems. Some of the older ships
that I've served on would have suffered
damage to several compartments and probably
fatalities.
DAEGAN
That's one of the beauties of a well-designed
vessel. In addition to the redundant
systems, related systems back each other up,
adding to the whole pattern of security for
their occupants.
While walking along the corridor Daegan slips slightly in a
puddle of water in the corridor.
DAEGAN
What the....
(looking closer)
Something's seeping from under that panel.
ALINA
Let's check it out.
(Points tricorder at puddle)
It appears to be water.
Daegan and Alina go over to the panel that appears to be the
source of the leak and remove it. They see a dripping
condenser. Alina checks the water conduit going into the
temperature regulator with her tricorder.
ALINA
The temperature is much higher than I'd
expect.
Daegan stands, and examines the corridor to determine the
destination of the water conduit.
DAEGAN
That water temperature regulator handles the
water supply to the hydroponics lab.
ALINA
... and the lab has a very high water flow
rate. That explains it then. The condenser
is working overtime to cool all that water.
Alina uses her tricorder on the conduit.
ALINA
The temperature is 40 degrees Celsius. The
water appears to be free of any
contamination.
(beat)
I'd really like to run a more exhaustive
diagnostic. Do you think they have the main
computer back on-line?
DAEGAN
Let's find out. Computer, run a temperature
and contamination diagnostic on the water
supply conduit at our location.
COMPUTER VOICE
The water supply system at your location is
operating within normal temperature and
quality parameters.
DAEGAN
Great. With the main computer back online,
solving this problem should be easy.
ALINA
(skeptically)
Computer, what is the normal temperature of
the water supply in conduit 4B-386?
COMPUTER VOICE
Normal water temperature is 27 degrees
Celsius.
DAEGAN
The main computer and your tricorder seem to
disagree. The diagnostics must not be
completely restored.
ALINA
Or the sensors may not be fully on-line yet.
If the sensors aren't working right we
could get results like this.
DAEGAN
Good thought. Since the sensors and
diagnostics aren't any help let's check some
other conduits to see if they're running hot.
(beat)
We'd better clean up some of this mess first.
Daegan removes a super-soaker-upper substance, about the
size and shape of a drink coaster, from their work kit,
places it under the condenser, and spreads it on the rest of
the moisture.
DAEGAN
(taps com badge)
Daegan to ship's maintenance.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
Ketsin here. What do you need, Daegan?
DAEGAN
There's a puddle on deck 22, corridor 4B. We
put an absorber on it but someone needs to
finish cleaning it up. We'll work on finding
the source.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
It's been logged. We'll get someone on it as
soon as we get through the backlog of damage
repair requests. Ketsin out.
ALINA
I'll bet our ancestors had to deal with
problems like this all of the time.
DAEGAN
(Yea? Like me?)
What do you mean ancestors? I've been on
several ships that had these problems.
ALINA
Now, Daegan. You know I don't think of you
as old... just vastly more experienced.
Daegan and Alina move off down the corridor.
17 INT. SICK BAY 17
There is still an air of ordered frenzy. Activity has
calmed down from the triage that immediately followed the
accident, but there are still a good number of people being
treated.
A medical supernumerary reports to Beverly. They are
standing by the biobed occupied by Manaba.
MEDICAL SUPERNUMERARY
Manaba is displaying an allergic reaction
typical for her race. She should hibernate
for 1 - 2 days until her body deals with the
substance that caused the reaction. Then she
should be fine.
BEVERLY
What caused this reaction?
MEDICAL SUPERNUMERARY
There aren't any clues. Nothing unusual was
found in the area of her collapse. Her
medical record shows no history of allergies.
BEVERLY
Could her collapse have been a reaction to
the impact that caused the hull breech?
MEDICAL SUPERNUMERARY
Unlikely. Her collapse happened too long
after the impact. The crew members with her
reported that she was not injured in the
impact. She seemed normal until she
collapsed.
BEVERLY
We'll need to determine the cause in order to
prevent recurrences. When she recovers run
the standard panel of allergy tests on her.
18 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM (OPTICAL) 18
Picard is sitting at his desk reading information on his
display.
PICARD
Computer, display status of shields and
propulsion systems.
Picard turns the display toward the food replicator, gets up
and walks to it. He stands in front of the replicator but
continues looking at the display.
PICARD
Tea, Earl Grey, hot.
What appears is a cup of gruel tea. Not paying much
attention to it, Picard picks it up and takes a sip.
Startled reaction.
PICARD
("what's this doing here?")
Gruel?
19 INT. TROI'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL) 19
Troi enters her quarters from the corridor looking tired.
She makes the following entry while physically going through
typical "coming off duty" activities.
TROI
Computer, counselor's log supplemental. I
have just completed assisting in sick bay.
While there were few serious medical injuries
resulting from the impact, many people have
been sharply reminded that starship duty is
not as safe as it sometimes seems. I
anticipate an increased load for the next few
weeks as the crew struggles to regain its
sense of personal security. Computer, close
log and notify my staff of a briefing in my
office at 0900 hours.
COMPUTER VOICE
Unable to send notification at this time.
Personnel staffing files are not online.
Troi continues as she crosses to the replicator.
TROI
(to herself)
Terrific. I'll have to contact each of them
tonight. With the systems only partially up, nothing is
going to be running smoothly for a while.
(to replicator)
I'd really like a hot fudge sundae.
The replicator produces a parfait glass of gruel. Troi
examines it and responds with a moan.
TROI
Computer, are all the replicator files
online?
COMPUTER VOICE
All food replication data is online.
TROI
(to com)
Troi to maintenance.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
Ketsin here, Counselor.
TROI
I just got a serving of gruel in place of a
hot fudge sundae. Are you aware of any
replicator problems?
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
Affirmative, Counselor. We're getting
reports from throughout the ship of similar
replicator malfunctions. We're looking into
the problem and will keep the senior staff
apprised.
TROI
Thanks, Chief.
She disposes of the gruel into the replicator drain.
(sarcastically)
Wonderful.
(beat)
Just what the crew needs.
20 INT. SICK BAY 20
It's been a long day in sick bay and it shows. Beverly is
talking with one of the medics.
MEDICAL SUPERNUMERARY
(signs of concern)
Dr. Crusher, have you had anything to eat in
the past 12 hours?
BEVERLY
("It's been a loooong day.")
No, I suppose I haven't. We've had so many
patients...
MEDICAL SUPERNUMERARY
("Listen to your mother, now.")
You cannot take care of others unless you
first take care of yourself.
(concerned)
Things are under control here. Why don't you
take a break?
BEVERLY
(shrugs, smiles)
You've got a point. I'm going to my quarters
to get some food and take a nap. Call me if
I am not back in 2 hours.
Beverly EXITS.
21 INT. BEVERLY'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL) 21
Beverly ENTERS
BEVERLY
Computer, music program 4 and lower lighting
to setting 3.
COMPUTER VOICE
The quarters preference database is not
available.
BEVERLY
(Small sigh of disappointment)
Beverly goes to the replicator.
BEVERLY
(Mumbles to food replicator)
Blue plate special.
The replicator produces a plate of gruel. Beverly sees the
gruel.
BEVERLY
Gruel?! I must be more tired than I thought.
She dumps the gruel into the replicator disposal chute.
BEVERLY
(Very clearly and distinctly)
Blue plate special.
More gruel. Again it goes into the disposal chute.
BEVERLY
Roast beef - medium, mashed potatoes and
gravy, carrots - sliced and marinated with
chives.
More gruel. She picks up the plate.
BEVERLY
(disgusted)
Well, at least it's hot and nutritious.
22 INT. CORRIDOR 22
Daegan and Alina are in the corridor and have removed a
panel to access another portion of the water conduit.
Alina uses her tricorder on it.
ALINA
This conduit is at normal temperature like
the others we checked.
DAEGAN
That one section is the only one running hot.
ALINA
So, the temperature increase is not due to
the water supply itself. There must be a
heat source upstream of that section.
DAEGAN
This would be a lot easier if the diagnostics
were working properly. We'll have to fall
back on an old technique for solving problems
like this.
ALINA
You mean like doing a binary search starting
with the several checks we've already made?
That should lead us to the source of the
increased temperature in the conduit. We
could check points between here and the
dripping condenser.
Alina begins to replace the wall panel that covers the water
conduit.
DAEGAN
Sounds like a plan. Let's pull up a display
of the conduit that we have to trace.
Daegan goes to a wall com panel.
DAEGAN
Computer, display the water conduit path from
this location to the water regulator near
Deck 22, Corridor 4B.
An Okudagram of pipes and ship's layout is displayed.
DAEGAN
(studying display)
This is going to take a fair amount of time
to track down. Most of this conduit goes
through areas that are difficult to get to.
ALINA
True. At the rate the ship is recovering
I'll bet we'll be on normal duty tomorrow,
too. Should this take priority?
DAEGAN
Warm water and our only symptom a puddle?
No. When we get back to the labs tomorrow,
I'll bet we're running diagnostics and fixing
things for at least two days. Still this is
curious.
ALINA
I'd hate to bother someone else with this
just because we think it's interesting. What
do you say we make some time outside our work
hours to investigate this?
DAEGAN
This has the feel of one of those problems
that ultimately has a single and satisfying
solution. How about meeting half an hour
before breakfast here
(pointing to comm panel)
for our first iteration?
ALINA
Done. See you then.
23 INT. 10 FORWARD 23
Riker and Geordi are seated at a table. Riker has a bowl of
gruel in front of him.
RIKER
(looking at bowl)
Received any cookies from home lately?
GEORDI
I never thought I'd be wishing for some
cafeteria food.
Worf ENTERS. Geordi calls him over to their table.
GEORDI
Here Worf. You'll probably like this.
Geordi passes Riker's bowl to Worf.
WORF
Why do you think I'll like this? It looks
like oatmeal.
("Yeech")
My mother made me eat oatmeal.
(tastes it and brightens)
This is good. However, it would be better
with some prune juice.
Geordi and Riker react.
24 INT. CORRIDOR & DAMAGED COMPARTMENT 24
Geordi and Picard are shown walking together down a corridor
on their way to the compartment that sustained the hull
penetration.
GEORDI
...We're making good progress, Captain,
considering the extent of some of the damage.
They reach the compartment and enter. Geordi points out the
location of the hull penetration and the temporary patch
that is now in place.
GEORDI
That's where the breach occurred. The damage
control team used the laser hull welder to
effect an emergency fix. Technicians from
the structural group have installed the
temporary hull patch which is what you see
here.
PICARD
How long will we need to remain at the
starbase to complete repairs?
GEORDI
24 to 36 hours once we get access to the spacedock.
PICARD
Good. What about the problems with sensors,
diagnostics and food replicators?
GEORDI
The sensors and diagnostics rely on
customized software. The main reload is
complete and we're working on the
incrementals. This is our top priority since
having reliable diagnostics should simplify
the rest of the repairs. Once the software
is restored to normal operation, we'll focus
our efforts on the food replicators. We
already have technicians collecting data on
the problem and its symptoms. The sensors
and diagnostics should be back on-line by
morning. Then we can get to work on the
replicator problem.
PICARD
I was rather taken aback at getting gruel in
place of tea.
GEORDI
My dinner wasn't great either. At least the
food replicators are designed to produce a
nourishing product even if they can't produce
what we ask for. Gruel is only produced
when the replicators are operating just above
the point where they would shut themselves
down.
PICARD
(just between you and me)
Geordi, the consequences are serious enough
at present. What are the chances of a
complete failure of the replicators?
GEORDI
We've checked for that possibility, Captain.
The replicators seem to be functioning in a
stable manner. We don't expect further
degradation. As a precaution, we've begun
reconstituting emergency food supplies.
We'll have enough ready for two meals for the
entire crew should we need them.
PICARD
Mr. LaForge, you seem to have everything
under control. Keep me informed.
25 INT. RAW FOOD STOCK STORAGE AREA (OPTICAL) 25
View of raw food stock storage tank centered on glowing
valve as seen in the teaser.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
ACT 3
FADE IN:
26 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) 26
Moving through space at low warp speed.
GEORDI (V.O.)
Chief Engineer's Log. Stardate xxxxx.x. The
engineering night watch has completed all
operational fixes needed as a result of
yesterday's incident. We're ready to begin
restoring crew preference databases and other
amenities. This morning's breakfast was a
strong reminder that fixing the food
replicators is now a high priority item.
27 INT CORRIDOR 27
Daegan and Alina are walking down the corridor. Daegan
consults a PADD and glances at the ceiling tiles while Alina
carries a step ladder. They stop underneath one of the
panels. As Daegan begins setting up the ladder, Troi and
Riker, engaged in an inaudible conversation, walk past
Daegan and Alina. Riker smiles and nods a greeting to the
pair as he passes. Daegan and Alina's actions (Daegan
climbing ladder, removing the panel, reaching around a bit
in the off-screen ceiling area, deploying their tricorder,
...) are secondary to their conversation during this scene.
DAEGAN
Now that's my idea of an exemplary officer.
ALINA
Commander Riker?
Daegan nods
ALINA
(This ought to be good)
I agree, but what makes him so exemplary to
you?
DAEGAN
Well, beyond the obvious, I suppose it's the
way he seems to really know everyone on
board. I know that's part of the job, but he
seems to enjoy getting to know people
personally. For instance, just the other day
he asked if I was going to compete in the
Fili tournament. I've seen him a few times on
the Fili courts, but had no idea he'd even
seen me play.
(switching topics briefly)
I think I've located it. Hand me the
tricorder.
Alina hands Daegan the tricorder.
ALINA
(back to the more interesting subject)
He can be very friendly, but he can draw a
line in a relationship when he wants to.
DAEGAN
(Oh really!?)
Oh?
ALINA
Well, let's just say I was interested once
and he politely let me know he wasn't.
(switching to the now safer topic)
What are the readings on the pipe?
DAEGAN
Warmer than before. I think we're heading the
right direction.
Daegan hands down the tricorder and begins backing out of
the ceiling, reattaching the panel, getting down, folding up
the ladder.
DAEGAN
I've heard Commander Riker's been offered
several command positions. I wonder why he
hasn't taken one?
ALINA
You don't suppose he's holding out for
command of the Enterprise, do you?
DAEGAN
If he is, I expect he's got a long wait.
Captain Picard doesn't look like he'll retire
anytime soon. Of course, the Captain's pretty
quiet about things like that. Bet the
Counselor could tell us, though.
ALINA
What makes you say that?
DAEGAN
She's a telepath, isn't she? While she seems
quite nice, I always get the feeling she's
reading every inappropriate thought I've ever
had.
ALINA
("Silly boy.")
You've probably been worrying for nothing.
I'm pretty sure Counselor Troi is an empath,
not a telepath. She can sense feelings and
moods, but not thoughts, word for word.
(beat)
Of course, I suppose it depends on just how
focused and intense your "inappropriate"
thoughts are....
DAEGAN
(I beg your pardon)
My thoughts are orderly, clear, precise and
private. Now that I know she can't read my
mind, I'll be more comfortable around her.
(why don't you make yourself useful)
Here.
Daegan hands Alina the ladder.
ALINA
(looking at the ladder)
Yes, I suppose we should be stepping along.
28 INT MAIN ENGINEERING 28
Geordi's obviously in a good mood. Various supernumeraries
are present.
GEORDI
(to everyone)
... and I'll take the food replicator
problem. Any questions?
(beat)
OK. Let's get to it.
Geordi goes to a console. Ketsin is working nearby.
GEORDI
Computer, run a level 5 diagnostic on the
food replicator system.
COMPUTER VOICE
The food replicator system is functioning
normally.
GEORDI
(to Ketsin)
Ketsin, the inboard sensor system was checked
out wasn't it?
KETSIN
Yes sir. All sensor systems passed level 3
diagnostics.
GEORDI
Have someone run a level 1 diagnostic on the
inboard sensor system. The diagnostic shows
the food replicators are working fine.
KETSIN
The diagnostic must have skipped breakfast
this morning.
29 INT. JEFFERIES TUBE 29
Daegan and Alina are crawling through a Jefferies Tube.
Throughout the scene they are looking for a water conduit,
locating it, checking its temperature and replacing any
access plates they may have removed in the process.
PICARD (V.O.)
Attention all crew. All critical ship's
functions have been restored. You may stand
down from Yellow Alert. Each of you is to be
commended for a job well done under trying
circumstances. Engineering is now addressing
the problem with the food replicators. Your
continued patience is required. Captain out.
DAEGAN
You'll notice the Captain didn't request our
continued patience. He's quite a leader.
ALINA
Yes. He's a very impressive person. We're
lucky to be serving under him.
DAEGAN
True, but sometimes I wish he would keep us
better informed in emergency situations. I
know they're busy up there. But when the
ship is getting knocked around I'd like some
idea whether to say my prayers or finish my
bath.
ALINA
Regardless, Captain Picard is one of the
reasons I put in for the Enterprise. Not
everyone gets a chance to serve with a
legend.
DAEGAN
Thanks, but I need just a little more time to
reach legend status.
(pause for Alina's reaction)
Why else did you want this assignment?
ALINA
Mostly the obvious reasons I guess.
Exploring the galaxy, meeting new people and
new races, being the first person to set foot
on a new planet. Things like that. Applying
for this assignment was no bed of roses. All
those tests: aptitude, psych, skills,
physical. Why were you willing to go through
all that, Daegan?
DAEGAN
We certainly do see a lot of excitement. But
the opportunities for personal growth are the
most exceptional thing for me. Look at all
the training available to us. Where else
could I take classes in subspace physics,
T'ai Chi, and psychology from authorities
such as LaForge, Worf and Troi. ...and the
training exercises on the holodecks. You
mentioned being the first to set foot on a
new planet. We may not get to be first for a
long time, but remember the "Procedures for
First Landings" class? On the holodeck, I
got to be the first person to set foot on 6
different planets in one day.
30 INT. MAIN ENGINEERING 30
Geordi is seated at a console. Ketsin ENTERS and approaches
Geordi.
KETSIN
The diagnostics reported the sensors are
operating normally.
Geordi turns to his console.
GEORDI
Computer, run a level 4 diagnostic on the
food replicator system.
(turns toward Ketsin)
I wonder if the inboard sensors could have
gotten out of calibration without our
noticing...
COMPUTER VOICE
The food replicator system is functioning
normally.
GEORDI
(to Ketsin)
Recalibrate inboard sensors J11 to J16 and
let me know as soon as it's done.
KETSIN
I'm on it.
31 INT 10 FORWARD 31
Troi, Data and Worf are seated at a table.
WORF
I don't understand it. People keep
complaining about gruel and no one does
anything.
TROI
What do you mean, "no one does anything?"
They're working as hard as they can to fix
the problem.
WORF
I don't mean the problem, I mean the
complaining. Why don't people get angry, hit
something and get it out of their system?
TROI
Worf, you know humans well enough to know we
aren't violent like that. Instead, we try to
deal with our feelings non-violently. One way
to do this is by complaining.
WORF
It would be much easier to hit something and
be done with it.
32 INT DECK 27 CREW LOUNGE 32
Daegan is at a table talking to Guy. Data is seen in the
background talking to someone at the bar. Both have some
gruel in front of them. Daegan has a PADD with him.
GUY
You know most Ardunians don't handle
adversity well because they place a lot of
store in form and appearance.
(indicating gruel)
How is it that you're getting along so well?
DAEGAN
I didn't know you were an anthropology
student, Guy. We are driven by aesthetics
and I cannot find anything aesthetically
pleasing about gruel ...with the possible
exception that molded and baked it makes a
good medium for sculpting.
My attitude is largely due to my Star Fleet
training. That gave me the perspective to
see that this is a short term anomaly and
that soon all will be back in balance.
Similar to a few bars of planned cacophony in
an otherwise harmonious piece of music.
(indicating his gruel)
It is all a necessary part of the whole.
Alina ENTERS, gets a glass of water from the bar and walks
around the room greeting people. Daegan waves her over to
their table.
DAEGAN
Hi, Alina.
ALINA
Hi, Daegan. Guy. Good to see you.
(to Guy)
Are we still on for that walk through the
arboretum tonight?
GUY
You bet. I'm looking forward to it. But I
have to run now. We still haven't finished
running diagnostics. I need to be getting
back.
Guy EXITS and Alina sits down with Daegan. She glances
toward Data.
ALINA
That Data is really strange. He gives me the
creeps.
DAEGAN
Why's that? From what contact I've had with
him, he seems to be decent, if a bit naive.
ALINA
Data taught one of the first classes I
attended after arriving here. He didn't have
any idea how to interact with people,
couldn't recognize a joke, always answered
questions in excruciating detail, even
missing the point of some of the questions.
In the background, Data finishes his conversation and EXITS.
DAEGAN
...one of the first classes you took here?
That would've been about 6 years ago. He's
improved considerably since then.
ALINA
I certainly hope so. Except for knowing the
subject matter, he couldn't have been a worse
teacher.
DAEGAN
Data taught a bio-cybernetics seminar I took
several months ago. He may not understand
humans, but he's at least learning to mimic
them. He dealt with the students very well.
He recognizes humor even if his jokes didn't
go over very well.
ALINA
You make a good point. My experience with
Data is outdated. I've always tried to keep
an open mind--though not as open as Data's
during one of his checkups. I'll give him
another chance the next time he's posted to
teach something I'm interested in.
Daegan consults his PADD and shows it to Alina.
DAEGAN
This is the next iteration in our grand tour
of the ship's water conduits. Shall we meet
here just after dinner?
ALINA
(sourly)
How about instead of dinner?
33 INT MAIN ENGINEERING 33
Geordi is seated at a console when Ketsin approaches him.
KETSIN
Geordi, the recalibrations you requested are
complete.
GEORDI
Good. Now maybe we can get these food
replicators working. Computer, run a level 4
diagnostic on the food replicator system.
COMPUTER VOICE
The food replicator system is functioning
normally.
GEORDI
(hopes dashed)
Nuts.
(to Ketsin)
We'd better replace those sensors. I'd hoped
we could avoid that.
Ketsin acknowledges and EXITS.
FADE OUT
END OF ACT 3
ACT 4
FADE IN:
34 INT. ACCESS TUNNEL 34
Daegan and Alina are crawling along an access tunnel enroute
to their next inspection point.
ALINA
You just went through self-defense
certification. Doesn't Worf lead that?
DAEGAN
Oh, yes. What an exhilarating experience.
You know, the martial arts bring a pleasing
order and beauty to life. The grace of
movement and the sense of order that the mind
develops. It's as much a mental discipline
as a physical one ....
ALINA
(cutting him off)
But isn't Worf tough to read?
DAEGAN
One of the toughest. But if I'm ever in
danger, there's no one I'd rather have with
me.
They arrive at the test point of the water supply line and
begin using a tricorder.
DAEGAN
OK. I read this supply line at 50 degrees
Celsius. Still way too hot.
They turn around and begin to crawl back.
DAEGAN
I hear that his holodeck adventures would curl your hair. I
wonder if he ever lightens up?
ALINA
Having his son on board has softened him up a
bit, don't you think?
DAEGAN
Well, maybe a little. I hear that
Alexander's mother was something else, too.
ALINA
(anxiously)
Do you know if he's seeing anyone?
DAEGAN
(teasing)
Why, Alina. Are you interested in the
Lieutenant? I wouldn't have thought he was
your type.
ALINA
(flustered)
No! Lieutenant Worf is nice enough. But I'm
one of the few females on board who's not
"too fragile" for him and I wouldn't enjoy
the violence of Klingon courtship. I don't
like to be swept off my feet so literally.
35 INT. MAIN ENGINEERING 35
Geordi is working at a console.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
Ketsin to Commander LaForge.
GEORDI
LaForge here.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
The inboard sensors have been replaced.
GEORDI
Acknowledged. Thanks, Ketsin. LaForge out.
GEORDI (cont'd)
(to himself)
That should do it.
(to computer)
Computer run a level 4 diagnostic on the food
replicator system.
COMPUTER VOICE
The food replicator system is functioning
normally.
GEORDI
(frustrated)
That can't be right!
36 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE 36
WIDE SHOT of the conference room. The Senior Staff crew are
there (Riker, Troi, Beverly, Data, Worf and Geordi). Picard
ENTERS. Riker and Geordi look a little distracted; Troi and
Beverly look harried.
PICARD
Good morning. Dr. Crusher, what's the
situation in Sick Bay?
BEVERLY
All of the injuries have been treated. Only
two of the more seriously injured remain in
sick bay.
(smiling)
I am seeing a number of people just before
mealtimes complaining of stomach problems.
Picard looks a question at Beverly.
BEVERLY
No one much cares for the Simplified Organic
Sustenance coming out of the food
replicators. They seem to be hoping for a
good meal from the replicators in Sick Bay.
BEVERLY (Cont'd)
Word has gotten around that sick bay
replicators are on a different system and are
working fine.
PICARD
And how are you treating these patients?
BEVERLY
(grinning)
An old, folk remedy: a healthy dose of castor
oil. Once is enough to cure them.
Worf nods knowingly. The rest are amused except...
DATA
I do not understand, Doctor.
BEVERLY
Castor oil is a foul tasting, plant extract.
It used to be used as much to stop false
complaints of stomach aches as to relieve
them.
PICARD
Mr. LaForge. What progress are you making
with the food replicators?
Geordi walks to the display panel and brings up an Okudagram
of the food replicator system.
GEORDI
I'm still stuck. The diagnostics continue to
say that everything is working even though
we've recalibrated and replaced the inboard
sensors,
(points to display panel)
I've even run diagnostics on the diagnostics.
I've got a team working right now to develop
an alternate way of troubleshooting the
system.
BEVERLY
The sooner the better. I, for one, am sick
of this pasty substitute for real food. The
crew can't keep their edge very long on this
stuff.
WORF
I have noticed a great deal of complaining
among my Security people. I've told them
that complaining is inefficient and detracts
from their duties. Yet they continue to
complain.
DATA
In my visits around the ship, I have been
intrigued by the reactions of the crew. My
studies of humans are always more productive
during stressful situations.
The Simplified Organic Sustenance is causing
a great deal of stress for almost everyone.
Perhaps we should disable the food
replicators to this level during the ships's
annual combat drills to enhance the training
opportunity.
Worf nods in agreement.
BEVERLY
(looking at Data... and losing it)
Of all the insensitive, self-serving,...
What do you know about human behavior,
training and the effects of messing with
people's food!? How would you like it if
your computer chips were replaced with
slower, defective ones?!
(...and then at Worf)
And you... Klingons eat almost anything!
How could you possibly understand the effects
of this on humans?
Beverly slumps in her chair, relieved but distressed by her
outburst. Troi shows surprise and concern. Riker is amused.
Geordi is concerned that maybe he's Beverly's next target.
PICARD
I think, Mr. Data, that we should focus on
solving the immediate problem and leave
training suggestions for a later time.
(glances at Beverly)
(turns to Geordi)
Mr. LaForge... let me know as soon as you
have anything to report.
37 INT. RAW FOOD STOCK STORAGE AREA 37
Daegan and Alina are approaching the door to the Raw Food
Stock Storage Area.
DAEGAN
(consulting his PADD)
The temperature gradients indicate we've got
to be getting close.
(reading the door)
Here we are: Raw Food Stock Storage.
Daegan and Alina ENTER the room.
WIDE SHOT as Alina walks to one of the bulkheads where a
water line enters the room.
ALINA
(looking at her tricorder and showing surprise)
This pipe is much hotter.
CLOSER SHOT of Alina following the pipe across the room
keeping an eye on her tricorder. PULLBACK to see Daegan
surveying the room. He finally notices the glowing green
valve on the raw food stock storage tank.
DAEGAN
(quietly)
Oh my.
CU - The small, glowing, green valve.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT 4
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
38 INT. SICK BAY 38
There are only one or two people in sick bay. There is a
flurry of activity as Manaba starts to regain consciousness.
MEDICAL SUPERNUMERARY
(to com)
Sick bay to Dr. Crusher.
BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
Crusher here.
MEDICAL SUPERNUMERARY
(to com)
Doctor, it appears that Manaba is regaining
consciousness. You asked to be informed.
BEVERLY'S COM VOICE
I'm on my way.
The medics are shown checking on Manaba. Manaba slowly sits
up on the biobed and looks around as though she does not
know where she is. BEVERLY enters sick bay and goes to
Manaba's bedside.
BEVERLY
Young lady, you gave us quite a start.
(beat)
And a mystery to solve. How are you feeling?
MANABA
Sort of groggy. Like I slept too long. How
long have I been here in sick bay?
BEVERLY
You have been unconscious for nearly 2 days,
Manaba. It appears from the test results
that you experienced an allergic reaction.
MANABA
Allergic reaction? To what?
BEVERLY
You were found unconscious near one of the
food replicators. Do you remember getting
anything from it?
MANABA
(beat)
I remember getting a strange substance. But,
I barely tried any of it.
BEVERLY
(nodding)
We were pretty sure it was the gruel.
MANABA
Gruel?
BEVERLY
Gruel is the substance that the food
replicators produce when they are still
functional but unable to accurately produce
the requested item. While it's not very
appetizing, it's supposed to be harmless.
MANABA
Did I do anything out of the ordinary while
hibernating? Some of my people have been
known to hallucinate and sleepwalk during
such recovery periods.
BEVERLY
You were a perfect patient, quiet and
unconscious.
MANABA
That's a relief! It could have been really
embarrassing.
BEVERLY
At least your experience alerted us to this
problem. We've informed Star Fleet Medical
that the composition of gruel needs to be
modified to prevent this reaction in the
future. A general medical alert has also
been sent out.
MANABA
Am I free to return to duty?
BEVERLY
I'll clear you for duty but you're to take it
easy. I also want you to stop by sick bay
before and after your normal shift. We'll do
a brief scan to make sure that you don't have
any lingering side-effects.
(beat)
And, for a few days at least, no strenuous
duty.
MANABA
Thanks, Doctor.
Manaba gets up and starts to leave.
BEVERLY
One last thing Manaba, the food replicators
in sick bay are the only ones producing
normal food. You'd better come here for all
your meals until the others are fixed. We
don't want a repeat performance.
MANABA
No problem, Doctor. Until the replicators
are back to normal, I'll dine at the Crusher
Cafe... starting right now. I'm famished.
39 INT. DECK 38 ENGINEERING CONTROL 39
Manaba ENTERS. Several Supernumeraries in the area turn as
she enters and there is an exchange of greetings.
KETSIN
It's good to see you back, Manaba.
MANABA
Thanks. It's good to be back. Hibernation
isn't all it's cracked up to be.
KETSIN
Are you back on duty or just visiting?
MANABA
Doctor Crusher has okayed me for full duty,
but I'm to check in a couple of times a day.
How are the repairs coming?
KETSIN
The breach has been sealed and a hull patch
installed. The food replicators are still
malfunctioning.
Commander LaForge has been trying to fix the
food replicators but the diagnostics keep
saying they're working fine. He suspects a
problem with the sensors, but we can't find
anything.
MANABA
(wide-eyed reaction)
Did anyone reload the sensor enhancements
that I was about to start....
Ketsin brightens, taps keys on her console, brightens
further, taps communicator.
KETSIN
(to comm)
Ketsin to LaForge.
40 INT. BRIDGE 40
Closeup of Geordi on bridge at his control panel. Picard is
also present, close enough that he can hear the following.
GEORDI
LaForge here. I hope you have some good
news, Chief.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
I sure do Commander. We think that we may
have found the problem with the sensors and
the diagnostics.
GEORDI
That's the best news I've heard all day.
What do you have?
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
Manaba collapsed before she was able to
reload the sensor enhancements. With
everything else going on at the time, it
didn't get done. As a result, the
diagnostics are misinterpreting the sensors.
The reload will take 15 to 20 minutes if we
can take the sensors off-line.
GEORDI
Go ahead and let me know as soon as it's
done.
Geordi smiles and turns to leave his console, encountering
Picard, also smiling.
41 INT. RAW FOOD STOCK STORAGE AREA 41
Daegan is using his tricorder to scan portions of the
ship's equipment. Alina is tracing a water conduit with a
tricorder up to the raw food stock storage tank. She scans
the tank.
ALINA
Daegan, this is definitely where the water is
picking up the heat.
Daegan is studying his tricorder.
DAEGAN
(excited)
I'll bet this is the problem with the food
replicators. This
(pointing to valve)
is the feeder valve for the raw food stock
storage tank. The replicators get their base
material from here.
Daegan manipulates his tricorder some more.
DAEGAN
Computer, compare the material of valve RN-5
against it's specifications.
COMPUTER VOICE
The material does not match specifications.
The structure of the current material is a
gamma-hydride lattice.
DAEGAN
Computer, what affect would this material
have when it comes in contact with the raw
food stock?
COMPUTER VOICE
The material would act as a catalyst breaking
the long chain molecules of the raw food
stock into short chain molecules.
DAEGAN
Would this reaction give off much heat?
COMPUTER VOICE
The reaction would be exothermic, producing
100 calories per gram.
DAEGAN
What would be the effect of short chain
molecules on the food replicator system?
COMPUTER VOICE
Food replications with short chain molecules
would require more energy. To conserve
energy, the food replicators would produce
Simplified Organic Sustenance.
Daegan and Alina go to the nearest display panel on the
corridor wall and call up an Okudagram of replacement
procedures and diagrams for the contaminated valve.
ALINA
Daegan, this procedure is relatively simple.
Why don't you go to the nearest matter
replicator and get a replacement for this
valve? I'll start removing the old one.
Daegan EXITS. Alina refers once more to the display panel
and then starts removing the valve. Shortly Daegan ENTERS.
DAEGAN
Here's the replacement. How are you coming?
ALINA
I'm just about done. There. Help me get
this out of the way and we can install the
replacement.
They get the new valve installed. While Alina is making
final adjustments, Daegan goes back to the display panel.
He returns to where Alina is finishing the installation.
DAEGAN
I checked out the restart procedures. We
should have this running in no time.
Daegan pushes a few buttons. Some indicator lights on the
raw food stock storage tank go on.
ALINA
Looks like it's up and running, Daegan.
Daegan uses his tricorder on the valve and tank.
DAEGAN
There's a temperature drop already.
(to com)
Daegan to Smitty.
SMITTY'S COM VOICE
Smitty here.
DAEGAN
Check the RN valve on the raw food stock
storage tank in the saucer section. It's
probably glowing light green and generating a
lot of heat. Maintenance procedure XJ-45 has
the replacement and restart procedures.
We're about to determine if this also fixes
the problem with the food replicators.
SMITTY'S COM VOICE
On it. Warp 9. Smitty out.
ALINA
There's a food replicator just down the
corridor. Let's see what we get now.
Alina is carrying the old valve with her. As they are
leaving the raw food stock storage area, Alina pauses and
looks back over her shoulder at where the valve was
replaced, and then back to Daegan.
ALINA
(mischievous smile)
Goodbye, gruel world.
42 INT. MAIN BRIDGE 42
Tight profile shot of Geordi at the engineering console on
the bridge.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
Ketsin to LaForge.
GEORDI
LaForge here, Chief.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
The reload of the sensor enhancements is
complete. The sensors should be working now.
GEORDI
Good work. Laforge out.
GEORDI (Cont'd)
(mumbling to himself)
Okay now. Let's try this one more time.
(to computer)
Computer run a level 4 diagnostic of the food
replicator system.
COMPUTER VOICE
The food replicators are functioning
normally.
GEORDI
(loudly)
What?!!!!
Entire bridge crew is startled and turns to look at Geordi.
GEORDI
What do you mean it's working fine! This is
unbelievable.
Geordi carefully taps a series of commands with several
other options and is pressing the membrane keys firmly.
Riker enters from the turbolift and immediately goes to
Geordi. Riker is grinning and pats Geordi on the back.
RIKER
Congratulations on fixing the food
replicators. A crew member almost choked on
her food as she tried to tell me that they
were fixed!
The entire bridge crew cheer at this news.
Geordi almost goes ballistic, gets tight-lipped, then
controls himself.
GEORDI
But I didn't do anything.
RIKER
Don't be so modest, Geordi.
GEORDI
(loudly)
Really, I(!!) didn't do ANYTHING(!!).
Puzzled expressions all around.
43 INT. PUBLIC FOOD REPLICATOR STATION 43
Daegan and Alina arrive at the food replicator. Alina goes
to the replicator and sets the old valve down.
ALINA
(to replicator)
Chocolate donut.
The replicator produces a chocolate donut. Alina takes it,
breaks off a piece, eats it and passes the rest to Daegan.
Daegan breaks off a piece and passes the remainder to the
other crew members in the area. Lots of excitement and
merriment from crew members.
ALINA
(to all present)
There's nothing like two days of grueling
punishment to make me appreciate good, old-
fashioned, home-replicated food.
(to Daegan)
Daegan, we better report this to the chief.
(to com)
Alina to Ketsin.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
Ketsin here. What's up?
ALINA
Daegan and I have fixed the food replicators
in the engineering section. We'd like to
show you what we found.
KETSIN'S COM VOICE
I'll ask Commander LaForge to join us in
Engineering. See you in a few minutes.
44 INT. DECK 38 ENGINEERING CONTROL 44
Ketsin, Daegan, Alina and Geordi are talking.
GEORDI
So you're telling me that you were just
following an unusually hot water conduit and
stumbled across the cause of the food
replicator problem?
DAEGAN
Actually we didn't just stumble across the
solution. Our hot water conduit and the food
replicator problem had the same cause, the
heat from the catalyzed reaction in the
storage tank. Since the diagnostics were
obviously not giving us useful information,
we just started a manual search for the heat
source.
GEORDI
And this was all on your own time?
DAEGAN
We didn't feel that a warm water conduit was
sufficient reason to take time from our other
duties. At first, everyone else was still
busy with damage control. Then, it just
became an interesting puzzle.
ALINA
Of course, if we'd known that it was so
closely connected with the food replicator
problem, we would have changed our
priorities.
Geordi holds up the replaced valve.
GEORDI
I've never seen anything like this. My guess
is that the original material was transformed
by the energy wave from the impact we took.
We'll run some analyses to see if we can
avoid this problem in the future.
(beat)
(Oh my gosh)
I wonder what else on the ship is made of
this material?
DAEGAN
We checked on that. The RN valves are the
only things made of this material. Their
special requirements of non-reactivity and
wear-resistance make them unique.
GEORDI
Good.
(to com)
LaForge to Picard.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Picard here.
GEORDI
Captain, I'd like to bring the crew members
who fixed the food replicators to the bridge.
They have a story that I think you'd like to
hear.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Certainly Mr. LaForge. Bring them up.
45 INT CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM 45
Ketsin, Daegan, Alina, Geordi, and Picard are present.
PICARD
My congratulations. You've shown the type of
dedication which is in the best tradition of
the Enterprise. You will each receive a
commendation for your efforts. "An army
marches on it stomach" and this ship is no
different.
DAEGAN
(serious)
Thank you, Captain. It's a privilege to
serve with you on the Enterprise.
ALINA
(teasing)
We hope you enjoy your tea.
GEORDI
Earl Gruel, hot. Right?
Groans all around. Ketsin rolls her eyes. Geordi and Alina
beam.
46 INT. HOLODECK/DATA'S QUARTERS 46
Data approaches the food replicator in a holodeck
replication of his quarters.
DATA
(to replicator)
A bowl of gruel please.
COMPUTER VOICE
Gruel is not in the food database. Please
supply the chemical formula for this
material.
Data proceeds to destroy the food replicator by hitting and
kicking it, yelling and cursing.
DATA
(Yelling)
You stupid machine. (Klingon curses such as:
What do you mean you do not know how to make
gruel. That is all you were able to make
before. I do not need any of your
back-talk.) Take that.
Once the food replicator is demolished, Data steps back,
assumes his usual neutral expression and shrugs as if to
say, "So what?" As he turns, the camera PULLS BACK and we
see Troi has been watching the whole thing.
TROI
(suppressing amusement)
What do you think?
DATA
The technique does not seem to apply to me.
Since I do not feel frustration, attempts to
release it are pointless.
Data and Troi turn to leave.
DATA
Computer, end program.
... as Data's quarters dissolve to the standard holodeck
grid.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END
Return to home