FADE IN:
SPACE - A STARFIELD - (ILM SHOT)
As the stars appear, we hear the AMBIENCE OF SPACE, a
litany of groans, squeals and pings of the unknown.
Over this we SUPER:
"PARAMOUNT PICTURES PRESENTS:"
We are MOVING through the stars slowly and to our right
as the SUPER FADES. And we hear a hoarse voice.
SPORK (V.O.)
Space... the dark lands.
Our MOVE CONTINUES to reveal the Dreamcast planet and its
sun, which flares into our lens.
SPORK (V.O.)
(continuing)
This is the never ending travels
of the Starship Duckprise. Her
fast paced job...
The sunflare has DISSOLVED us to the planet's primal
surface. We are MOVING through the trees and greens of
this Eden-like place. A soft, smoky haze covers every-
thing.
SPORK (V.O.)
(continuing)
To eximine bizarre unknown planets...
To find out new life shapes, and
new civilizations... To bravey go,
where no toon has gone before...
And now, amid the trees, we see it, and CAMERA comes to
a brief rest: Spork's tube, a photon torpedo tube,
black with red letters, "Swine III." The DUCK TREK FAN-
FARE is heard, and we SUPER:
"DUCK TREK III : THE BIRTH OF SPORK"
The CREDITS BEGIN. As they appear, we MOVE away from
the casket and through the lush forest.
The haze thickens, until at last it becomes an obliter-
ating cloud, and then we DISSOLVE through into moving
clouds of the planet's atmosphere, and PULL BACK from
them, DISSOLVING once again back to space and the Dream-
cast planet where we HOLD as CREDITS END.
Then, a final SUPER:
"THE DREAMCAST PLANET.
STARDATE: 8001.3"
We hear the SOUND of an approaching SPACESHIP.
SPACE - USS GRIDDLE - (ILM SHOT)
A mid-sized Federation Science Vessel approaching at
impulse power. She PASSES CAMERA, and we PAN WITH her
to see her path leads to the Dreamcast Planet in the
distance.
INT. BRIDGE - USS GRIDDLE
Starfleet LIEUTENANT FAAVIK, looking radiant, is wear-
ing her hair down these days, but is as intense and
efficient as ever. The CRACKLE OF ELECTRONIC ACTIVITY
fills the air.
FAAVIK
(crossing bridge)
We are approaching destination
planet at point zéro trois cinq.
So not-ed in ship's log.
She delivers the log to the Captain as ANGLE WIDENS to
include CAPTAIN ELMERSTAN, late forties, a cautious Star-
fleet veteran. Behind him, various OFFICERS on
station.
ELMERSTAN
Wery well, Weutenant. Execwute
standward orbital apprwoach.
HELM SLAPPY
Yeah, yeah. Standard orbit.
I'm getting too old for these cameos.
ELMERSTAN
Communications. Send a coded
message for Starfweet Commander,
priority wone... "Fedweration
Science Wessel Griddle arriving
Dreamcast Planet, Kutwara Sector to
begin search. As owrdered, full
secwurity prowcedures are in effect.
J.F. Elmerstan, cowmmanding."
COMM OFFICER
Its not working, sir. Maybe if I use my mallet!
ELMERSTAN
(turning)
Dr. Duckus, it's your pwanet.
ANGLE WIDENS to reveal MARK DUCKUS, mid-twenties, who
will be remembered as the co-creator of Dreamcast, and
also as Pluck's son.
MARK
Thank you, Captain. Begin
scanning, please.
Faavik has taken a position next to Mark at the sci-
ence panel and together they begin activating the de-
vices.
MARK
(continuing;
enthusiastically)
This is where the fun begins,
Faavik!
FAAVIK
(working)
Like your Papa... so Duckie.
(then)
All uneetz functional, recorderz
are on... Scanning sector un.
Foliage in fully developed state
of growth. Temperature, vingt-
duex point duex Celsius.
MARK
Sector two... Indicating desert
terrain. Minimal vegetation,
temperature thirty-nine point
four.
FAAVIK
Sector trois... Sub-tropeecal
vegetation... Temperature --
(puzzled)
Temperature decreazing rapidly --
MARK
It's snow. Snow in the same
sector. Fantastic!
FAAVIK
... Fascinating.
MARK
All the varieties of land and
weather known to Earth within a
few hours walk!
FAAVIK
(to him)
Vu must be very proud of what you
and your Mama have created.
MARK
(checking)
It's a little early to celebrate.
Suddenly... BEEP... BEEP... BEEP... a new and unique
SOUND is heard from the MONITORS. Faavik flicks con-
trols and a new image appears on screen.
FAAVIK
Same seecteer. Metallic mass.
MARK
Underground deposit?
FAAVIK
Non, on surface... a
manufactured object.
MARK
There's only one thing it could
be... Short range scan.
Faavik complies. Mark's intensity rises. Captain
Elmerstan, curious about the BEEPS, has joined them.
FAAVIK
Approximately deux meters long...
Cylindrical in form...
MARK
A photon tube...!
ELMERSTAN
Cwould it be Spork's?
MARK
It has to be. Gravitational
fields were in flux... It must
have soft landed...!
ELMERSTAN
(to Comm Officer)
In cwode to STARFLEET...
Captain's Spork's tube lowcated
intact on Dweamcast surface. Will
weway more data on subsequent
orbits.
COMM OFFICER
Its working now, sir. My mallet helped!
As the BEEPS DIMINISH, we HOLD on Mark and Faavik.
There is mystery in the air.
CUT TO:
SPACE - USS DUCKPRISE - (ILM SHOT)
She comes AT US slowly, majestically, a great wounded
bird limping home, showing, as she passes, the patched
scars of battle. Over this we hear:
PLUCK (V.O.)
USS Enterprise, Captain's personal
log... With most of our battle
damage repaired, we are almost
home. Yet, I feel -- cold. And
I wonder why. Oh yeah of those rookies turned on the AC
INT. BRIDGE - USS DUCKPRISE - CLOSE - JAMES T. PLUCK
He is stalking the bridge, lost in his thoughts.
CAMERA IS MOVING with him. In b.g., bridge activity is
normal.
PLUCK (V.O.)
The emptiness of this
vessel: most of our trainee crew
have been reassigned; Lieutenant
Faavik and my son Mark are
exploring a new world... and
Duckprise feels like a house with
all the children gone...thank goodness Nah. Only kidding.
He has reached Spork's vacant chair. He touches it.
PLUCK (V.O.)
(continuing)
The news of Spork's tube has
shaken me.
(beat)
It seems that I have left the
best part of myself back there,
on that newborn planet. Better him then me.
We HOLD on him. Then, he shakes off his mood and:
PLUCK
What's our situation, Mr. Bulu?
WIDER ANGLE
to include BULU and MOUSOV at forward stations, MUHURA
at the communications post.
BULU
Going fine, Admiral. Estimating
Spacedock in two point one hours.
PLUCK
Very well.
(a beat)
Mr. Mousov, I need pre-approach
scan... Take the science station,
please.
Mousov hesitates for a moment. Then:
MOUSOV
Yes, sir.
He rises and crosses to Spork's empty chair, as Pluck
continues.
PLUCK
Muhura, any response from Starfleet
on our Project Dreamcast inquiries?
MUHURA
Sorry, Ad. They ain't sayin' nuthin'.
PLUCK
Hmm.. Very odd.
(at chair, hits
comm button)
Flynny. Progress report?
INT. ENGINEERING TUBE
FLYNNY and an ENGINEER TRAINEE are working at a junc-
tion of circuitry.
FLYNNY
I'm almost done, sir. You'll be
fully automated by the time we
dock.
INTERCUT WITH BRIDGE
PLUCK
Your timing is excellent, Mr.
O'Flynn. You've fixed the swamp grass
after the swans has come home.
How much refit time till we can
take her out again?
FLYNNY
Eight weeks, sir.
(as Pluck opens
his mouth)
But you don't have eight weeks so
I'll do it for ya in two.
PLUCK
(considers)
Mr. O'Flynn. Have you always
multiplied your repair estimates
by a factor of four? Better use my calculator.
SCOTTY
Certainly, sir. How else can I
keep my reputation as a miracle
worker?
PLUCK
Your reputation is secure, Flynn.
(a beat)
Mr. Bulu, take the con. I'll be
in my quarters.
BULU
Aye sir.
Pluck heads for the elevator, presses the door button.
He is about to enter when he is intercepted by TRAINEE
Yakko, a young puppy officer too eager for protocol.
TRAINEE YAKKO
So..Admiral.. just wondering something, any hot babes gonna
welcome us?
Pluck turns.
TRAINEE YAKKO
(continuing)
You know- big party- wild gathers-
"HELLO NURSE!"
PLUCK
Look kid. Bug off. If that
is what you'd want... yeah, who
knows, there should be. This time
we paid for the party with our
dearest pork.
He enters the elevator, and the doors close.
INT. ELEVATOR - PLUCK
Even as the doors close, his mood changes. The mantle
of command falls away and he allows himself the luxury
of his deeper feelings. Feelings of aloneness. And
grief. CAMERA IN CLOSE to HOLD this anguished moment.
Then, an intrusive interruption. Pluck covers hiss feel-
ings.
CUT TO:
SPACE - A STARFIELD - (ILM SHOT)
Over the vast emptiness we SUPER:
"SOMEWHERE IN ORGANIAN SPACE..."
As the SUPER FADES, a vessel drifts slowly INTO SCENE,
a dark-looking merchantman. She gives the impression
of drifting in space... of waiting.
INT. BRIDGE - MERCHANTMAN
Small and grubby; populated by three or four crewmen of
mixed special breeds, and a renegade CAPTAIN who sug-
gests a Federation traitor. And, lurking in the
shadows, her face concealed by a half-veil, what ap-
pears to be an exotically beautiful WOMAN of epic pro-
portions and mystery.
CAPTAIN
Steady... Steady, boys. Keep
scanning...
(beat)
I thought you people were
reliable... Where can he be!
PENELOPE
He has been here for some time.
Put me on the hailing frequency.
He shakes his head, presses a button and nods to her.
She now removes the veil, showing us a fascinating face
of Klinging features. The crew stare at her as she
speaks into a communication device. She is oddly un-
emotional.
PENOLOPE
Commander Sluge; this is
Penelope. I have obtained the
Federation data, and am ready to
transmit.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY (CLOAK EFFECT) - CLOSE -
SLUGE'S PET
A SHOCK CUT to a frightening creature, half timber
tiger, half gecko. His head is being rubbed by the
hand of the owner. We PAN UP from the beast with
Sluge's hand as it snaps switches.
SLUGE (O.S.)
Well done, Penelope... Stand by.
The PAN CONTINUES UPWARD to reveal BATTLE COMMANDER
SLUGE, a Klinging War Lord of handsome but frightening
presence, and relative youth. Now, in Klinging:
SLUGE
(Disengage cloaking device!)
There is a light change from CLOAK to DE-CLOAKED CON-
DITION, along with ELECTRONIC WHIRRING SOUNDS. CAMERA
PULLS BACK from man and beats during this to reveal the
entire Klinging bridge which suggests the relationship
of galley master to slave.
CUT TO:
SPACE - (ILM/DECLOAKING EFFECT)
We are SHOOTING PAST the merchantman in the f.g. to
watch the strange and gradual appearance of a vessel.
CLOSE ANGLE - CATT OF PREY (ILM/DECLOAKING EFFECT)
Breathtaking. Skeletally at first, then filled in a
section at a time, a small deadly looking warship
forms. It is the Catt of Prey, a long-necked, scary
looking thing, with variable wing attitude which we
will see in time.
INT. BRIDGE - THE MERCHANTMAN
CAPTAIN
(staring)
What is that...?
As he and the crew try to comprehend, a commanding
voice on SPEAKERS:
SLUGE (V.O.)
Well done, Penelope...Transmit data
on my command... Now!
The woman leans to the console. She inserts a small
rectangular object and presses a button.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY - (INTERCUT WITH
MERCHANTMAN)
Sluge rises from his regal station, crosses to a moni-
tor where OFFICER MALC adjusts incoming material. We
cannot see clearly what is coming in, but occasional
images suggest material concerning the Genesis Project.
As the high speed transmission ends:
PENELOPE (V.O.)
Transmission completed. You will
find it essential to your mission.
Malc hands Sluge the completed recording. Sluge taps
it thoughtfully.
SLUGE
(Then you have seen it.)
PENELOPE (V.O.)
(I have, my lord.)
SLUGE
(a cloud)
(That is unfortunate.)
PENELOPE (V.O.)
(I understand.)
Sluge has a moment of hesitation. Then, to his
helmsman.
SLUGE
(Thrusters!)
EXT. CATT OF PREY - (ILM SHOT)
The variable wings begin to extend like tiger ready to pounce, and
the Catt begins an arcing maneuver...
INT. MERCHANTMAN
Uncertainty. The Captain turns to Penelope.
CAPTAIN
What's going on? When do we get
paid off...?
PENELOPE
Soon, Captain... Quite soon.
(to communicator)
(Success, my lord -- and my love.)
INT. CATT OF PREY - CLOSE - SLUGE
SLUGE
(You will be remembered with
honor.)
(to gunner)
(Fire.)
SPACE - THE TWO VESSELS - (ILM SERIES OF SHOTS)
The Catt of Prey, its wings in the menacing attack
position swoops toward the merchant ship. From the two
claw-like tips of the Catt of Prey, phaser beams (of a
new type) erupt, SIZZLE --
EXPLOSIONS rip the outside of the merchantman -
INT. MERCHANTMAN - (SPECIAL FX)
EXPLOSIONS and smoke cloud the murky small bridge; the
cries of the crew, the Captain's scream of outrage.
And through it all, in the smoke, Penelope's face.
Unperturbed. As a last act, she ritualistically covers
her face with her veil, as she is enveloped in smoke
and flames.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY
Sluge's beats reacts with pleasure. Officer Malc observes this,
subtly wipes his forehead, but making sure Sluge doesn't see him.
Sluge pets his beast, then straightens, recording in
hand.
SLUGE
I'll be in my quarters. Execute
course to the Federation Boundary.
MALC
Yes, my lord!
As Sluge starts out, the BEAST GROWLS. Sluge stops,
points a finger at a Klinging in the sub-deck below.
SLUGE
(Feed him!)
The Klinging nods vigorously as Sluge exits, then, with
his commander gone, casts a nervous glance beast-ward.
CREWMAN'S POV - THE SNARLING BEATS (ILM)
A face only a Klinging could love.
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE DREAMCAST PLANET - (ILM SHOT)
INTO SHOT comes USS Griddle, orbiting.
INT. BRIDGE - GRIDDLE - CLOSE - SCIENCE MONITOR
Much visual display and BEEPING. PULL BACK to find
Faavik, Mark -- with Elmerstan over their shoulders.
FAAVIK
New orbit commencing... Coming up
on sector trois...
MARK
Short range scan.
FAAVIK
(activates; studies)
As before... Metallic mass...
Verifying triminium photon tube...
No new data.
MARK
Check for trace radiation.
Infrared enhancement.
FAAVIK
(she responds)
... Radiation residual... Level is
minimal...
Suddenly the BEEPS are joined in harmony by a new and
subtly different SOUND. Faavik looks at Mark, who
moves closer to her screen, studying it with growing
intensity as she adjusts the controls, and the SOUND
INCREASES IN VOLUME.
MARK
I don't believe it...
ELMERSTAN
What is it?
FAAVIK
If equipment is functioning
properly, indications are -- an
animil life form.
ELMERSTAN
(to Mark)
You said there wouldn't be any.
MARK
There shouldn't be any. Only
plant forms were built into the
Dreamcast matrix.
FAAVIK
(she's re-checked)
Cross referenced and vereefied. An
unidentifiable life form reading.
COMM OFFICER
Do you want to tattled to Star Fleet, Cap'n'?
ELMERSTAN
Wait a minute...! We down't know
what we'wre tawking about here...
MARK
Why don't we beam it up?
ELMERSTAN
Oh no you down't! Rewguwations
spewcifically state: "nothing
shawll be beamed aboard until
danger of contawination has been
ewiminated." Can you guawrantee
that?
MARK
Not from here, no.
FAAVIK
Captain... le logical alternateeve
is obvious... beaming down to le
surface is permeetted...
ELMERSTAN
"... If the Captain decides that
the mission is vitawl and
weasonably fwee of danger."
MARK
Captain, please -- we'll take the
risk. We've got to find out what
it is...
FAAVIK
... Or who.
The implication is not lost on Elmerstan. After a
moment:
ELMERSTAN
Awll right -- get your gwear. I'll
have you two beamed down next time awround.
MARK
Thank you... Sir!
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE EARTH - ORBITING SPACEDOCK -
(ILM SHOT)
with the grandeur of the horizon arc of the great blue
marble as a backdrop, Spacedock orbits. INTO SHOT
comes Duckprise, heading toward the waiting port.
INT. BRIDGE - USS DUCKPRISE - (ILM ELEMENTS)
The bustle and CRACKLING SOUNDS of approach procedure.
Pluck is in the Captain's chair, all others are on sta-
tions. Scotty has come up from below to watch the
show.
PLUCK
Standby automatic approach system
... Advise approach control.
MUHURA
Yo,Approach control... this is
Duckprise. Ready to park this thing!
CONTROLLER (V.O.)
Duckprise is cleared to dock.
PLUCK
Lock on!
BULU
Systems locked.
The bridge lights change to docking mode.
PLUCK
Spacedock, its all yours.
CONTROLLER (V.O.)
Affirmative, Duckprise. Enjoy
the ride, and welcome home.
PLUCK
Duckprise confirms. With
thanks...
EXT. SPACEDOCK - SERIES OF SHOTS - (ILM)
The slowly rotating Spacedock is huge. Duckprise is
coming in on an arc-like course.
The great doors of Approach Threshold 15 slide open...
Duckprise, with unerring precision, slips from space
into the small opening afforded by the doors... and...
INT. SPACEDOCK - SERIES OF SHOTS - (ILM)
A huge, cavernous area, deigned as an orbital dock for
many space vessels. We see Duckprise entering this
great warehouse of ships through the doors, and proceed
at slow impulse power to her waiting birth.
ANOTHER ANGLE (ILM)
introducing OZ 4000, Excellente, a super starship. Her
lines are similar to Duckprise, but she is clearly
bigger, sleeker, and very new. She sits at her mooring
like the new Queen of Space.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - FAVORING VIEWSCREEN -
(ILM ELEMENT)
The Excellente is on screen for all to see.
MUHURA
Man, get a load of that sweet ride.
PLUCK
People, the great
experiment: Excellente, ready for
trial runs...
BULU
She's supposed to have transzoom
drive...
FLYNNY
Aye. And if my grandmother had
rockets, she'd be a 747.
PLUCK
Ya know, we could use her to go get Spork.
INT. SPACEDOCK - THE CAFETERIA (FX SHOT WITH ILM
ELEMENTS)
THROUGH THE WINDOW of a Spacedock facility, a few
lounging Starfleet persons look up to see a memorable
sight...
... battle-scarred Duckprise is passing alongside of
the sleek Excellente. Their size differential is
apparent (B-29 to B-17). Yet, Duckprise carries with
her a battle-scarred history of achievement. Some of
the Starfleet people begin to rise, silently. A stand-
ing ovation for a hero's return.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - FAVORING PLUCK
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Duckprise, stand by for final
docking procedure.
PLUCK
Standing by... Mr. Bulu, activate
moorings... Stand by umbilical and
gravitational support systems...
BULU
Aye, sir, moorings activated... All
systems standing by...
MOUSOV
(abruptly)
Admiral... This is impossible.
PLUCK
Mr. Mousov -- ? Still watching Rufus?
MOUSOV
Nyet, sir. An energy reading from 'C" deck --
from inside Mr. Spork's
quarters...
PLUCK
(not patiently)
I ordered Spork's quarters sealed!
MOUSOV
Yes, sir, I sealed the room myself.
Nevertheless -- I am reading a
life form there.
Pluck rises on the narrow edge of irritation.
PLUCK
Why are you guys obsessing over matters
concerning Mr. Spork?
(stays Mousov's protest)
I'll have a look... Mr. Bulu,
continue docking procedure.
He exits, as the rest of the crew reacts. Mousov
shrugs to all, indicating that he sees what he sees.
And the CAMERA MOVES CLOSE to his panel to verify his
belief. On screen -- an energy form is definitely
pulsating.
INT. DUCKPRISE CORRIDOR - ON ELEVATOR DOORS
as they HISS open, and Pluck appears. A SOFT ALARM is
BEEPING O.S. Pluck assesses this, his mood changing to
puzzled concern. He starts purposefully OUT OF SHOT.
CORRIDOR SECTOR - TRACKING WITH PLUCK
He is walking quickly, as the ALARM SOUND increases in
frequency. He reacts: breaks into a trot, CAMERA
SPEEDING UP WITH him until he arrives at the entrance
to Spork's quarters. He examines with shock: a seal-
ant coating over the door has been forced with indica-
tions of great strength. The ALARM CONTINUES, LOUD
now. Pluck TURNS IT OFF with a touch, then cautiously
starts in, convinced the problem is real.
INT. SPORK'S QUARTERS - LOW KEY LIGHTING
It is dark and shadowy as Pluck enters. He peers, try-
ing to adjust his eyesight to the darkness. He steps
forward carefully -- trips temporarily on some small
object -- but recovers. He moves slowly inward, then
stops, staring into the impenetrable dark. Then he
reacts, as we hear SPORK'S VOICE. It is hoarse, raspy,
as it was in the final scene with Pluck in Duck Trek
II. But is unmistakably Spork.
THE VOICE
Jim... help me... you left me... on
Dreamcast... why did you do that...?
CLOSE - PLUCK
Shaken now. He strains into the darkness, looking --
PLUCK'S POV
CAMERA PANS the darkened room and COMES TO REST as we
see a shadowy figure in the far corner.
BACK TO PLUCK
as he starts forward, all senses alert. As he nears
the figure, whoever it is starts to flee, and Pluck
grapples with him, like Jacob with the dark Angel. And
Pluck pulls him down, panting, and the figure is il-
luminated by a shaft of light, and it is --
TWO SHOT
-- Furr McMeow. Emotionally drained, eyes wide --
PLUCK
Furr, what are you
doing? Have you lost your mind!
McMeow
(his own voice, but
raspy, drained)
... Help me, Jim... Take me home.
PLUCK
That's where we are, Furr. we
are home.
McMeow
... Then perhaps there is still
time... hoof the steps, Jim...
hoof the steps of Mount Ayeles...
PLUCK
Mount Ayeles? Furr, Mount Ayeles
is on Pigcan! We're home on
Earth!
Furr looks at him, trying to comprehend. When he
opens his mouth; it is, for one brief moment, SPORK'S
VOICE that emerges:
McMeow
(in Spork's voice)
Remember Me!
Pluck stares at him in shock as:
MUHURA (V.O.)
Admiral: docking is completed.
Starfleet Commander Burrow is on
his way for inspection.
Pluck, still holding McMeow:
PLUCK
Muhura! Get the medics down
here! Get them now!
He cradles McMeow who has gone limp.
CUT TO:
INT. DUCKPRISE TORPEDO BAY/DOCKING CHAMBER
The entire crew is assembled as the SOUND of the PIPE
FINISES -- and the great docking doors open.
BULU
Tetsch-hut!
STARFLEET COMMANDER BURROW enters, a distinguished
looking rabbit, followed by an AIDE. He crosses to
Pluck at the head of the review line.
PLUCK
Welcome aboard, Admiral.
BURROW
Welcome home, Jim.
He reaches for Pluck's shoulders with affection.
BURROW
(continuing)
Well done.
He embraces Pluck. It is both a military courtesy, and
a personal expression, twenty-five years of comrade-
ship, service and sacrifice. Pluck is moved. When the
embrace breaks:
PLUCK
Thank you, sir.
(wryly)
I take it this is not a formal
inspection.
A relieved ripple of laughter from all.
BURROW
No. At ease, everyone.
They relax in the glow of Burrow's smile. And he looks
about.
BURROW
(continuing)
Where's Doctor McMeow?
PLUCK
(a beat)
Indisposed, sir.
BURROW
Ah, too bad... well... you have
all done remarkable service under
the best taking care of the criminal Fran
-- difficult of conditions. You'll be receiving
Starfleet's highest commendations,
and more importantly, extended
shore leaves.
A buzz of approval, then:
BURROW
(continuing)
That is, all but you, Mr. O'Flynn.
They need your wisdom on the new
Excellente... Report there tomorrow
as Captain of Engineering.
It is clear how Flynny feels about this honor:
FLYNNY
With all appreciation, sir, I'd
prefer to supervise the refit of
Duckprise.
BURROW
Sorry Doc. Ain't gonna happen.
A pall in the room. Pluck, as shocked as anyone.
PLUCK
Admiral, I don't understand. The
Duckprise --
BURROW
Jim, the Duckprise got a bad thrashing from Geiser.
We think her day is over...there is too much of a risk
that Duckprise might malfunction beyond repair
PLUCK
But, we had requested -- we were
hoping to take her back to
Dreamcast...
BURROW
No way.
PLUCK
May I ask why...?
BURROW
(a sigh)
Jim, in your absence, Dreamcast has
become a galactic controversy...
Until the Federation Council makes
policy, you are all under orders
not to discuss with anyone your
knowledge of Dreamcast... Consider
it a quarantined planet. And a
forbidden subject.
On their baffled reactions we...
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE CATT OF PREY - (ILM SHOT)
We are TRACKING with her through space. She is quite
visible, her wings in level configuration.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY - VERY CLOSE - MONITOR
At first we are disoriented. Jim Pluck's image FILLS
THE SCREEN talking right AT US.
PLUCK'S IMAGE
To fully understand the events on
which I report, it is necessary to
review the theoretical data on the
Dreamcast Device...
We are PULLING BACK. The bridge is lit normally. On
screen, Pluck's voice now continues, describing what we
see: molecular charts, followed by a barren graphic
depiction of a planetoid. Toward it a torpedo arcs,
causing fire, inferno, and a resulting new surface,
capable of bearing life. (COMPUTER GRAPHIC, STAR TREK
II.) This is being watched on the bridge by Sluge,
Malc, and OFFICER Troy, slighty older than Malc, more gung-
ho.
INTERCUT - THE DREAMCAST TAPE
with the reactions of the two junior officers, seeing
it for the first time.
BACK TO SCENE
Sluge turns the machine off. He studies the two
officers. Then with quiet intensity:
SLUGE
So!
(to Troy)
Speak!
TROY
Grand power... to control...
dominate... destroy. If it works.
Sluge considers the answer, turns to Malc.
SLUGE
Speak.
MALC
(thoughtfully)
Impressive... They can make
planets... Possibilities are
endless... Colonies, resources...
SLUGE
Yes... New cities, homes in the
country... your woman at your
side... children playing at your
feet... and overhead, fluttering
in the breeze... the flag of the
Federation. Charming...
(hisses at Malc)
Station!
MALC
Yes, my lord!
Malc snaps to and leaves, chastened. Kruge turns to
Troy like a wily serpent.
SLUGE
Share this with no one.
TROY
Understood, my lord.
SLUGE
We are going to this "planet."
Even as our emissaries negotiate
for "peace" with the Federation,
we will act for the preservation
of our race! We will seize the
secret of this weapon. The secret
of ultimate power!
TROY
(whispered)
Success, my lord.
SLUGE
Station!
Troy crosses out, Sluge turns toward his chair, kneels
to pet his beast as we hear:
HELMSMAN (V.O.)
(My lord: approaching Federation
territory...)
SLUGE
(Steady on course... Engage
cloaking device!)
HELMSMAN (V.O.)
(Cloaking device -- engaged!)
Lights change... ELECTRONIC SOUND BEGINS... and:
EXT. SPACE - CATT OF PREY - (ILM CLOAKING EFFECT)
The ship, sectionally, vanishes before our eyes.
CUT TO:
SPACE - THE DREAMCAST PLANET - (ILM)
USS Griddle is orbiting. We hear:
ELMERSTAN (V.O.)
Tranwsporter room, stand by two
energize...
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DREAMCAST PLANET - (BEAM DOWN
EFFECT)
We are PANNING. An area of great primal beauty, poet-
ic, romantic. A smoky haze persists. The PAN STOPS as
we hear a familiar ENERGY SOUND: And Faavik and Mark
begin to appear in the BEAM DOWN EFFECT.
CLOSER ANGLE - FAAVIK AND MARK
fully materialized. They are equipped with scientific
backpacks. Their TRICORDERS BLEEP reassuringly, as
they look about.
INT. GRIDDLE BRIDGE - FAVORING ELMERSTAN (INTERCUT
WITH FAAVIK)
He and his officers are monitoring the progress of the
landing party. DATA SOUNDS fill the bridge.
Then, LT. HINES points something out on a viewscreen.
ELMERSTAN
Gwiddle to wanding party. We have
you apprwoaching wadioactive
indications. Do you concur?
FAAVIK (V.O.)
Oui, Captain. Our
readings are well below danger
level.
ELMERSTAN
Wery well. Exercise caution,
Weutenant. This wanding is
Captain's discwetion and I'm the
one who's out on a wimb.
FAAVIK (V.O.)
I'll try to remember that,
Captain.
EXT. DREAMCAST PLANET - HIGH SHOT - SPORK'S GLADE - DAY
Mark is in the lead, a distant figure, then stops to
take readings as Faavik catches up to him. Then to-
gether they start forward TOWARD US. As they approach,
HIGH CAMERA NOW LOWERS until it reveals, in f.g.,
Spork's tube.
EXT. DREAMCAST PLANET - SERIES OF SHOTS (ILM)
The two explorers take readings; they begin to realize
what they are heading for...
Their tempo increases, they follow their tricorders,
until...
EXT. DREAMCAST - SPORK'S TUBE IN FOREGROUND
Faavik and Mark come INTO VIEW, close by, and stop,
seeing it.
POV - SPORK'S CASKET - (ILM SHOT)
At the base of the tube, worm-like forms shimmy and
squirm. They are small , horrible, and unquestionably
alive.
FAAVIK AND MARK
They try to maintain their scientific objectivity, in
spite of their horror -- and their disappointment at
not finding some trace of Spork.
MARK
Well. There's your life form
reading. These were microbes on
the tube's surface. We shot them
here from Duckprise.
(with irony)
They were fruitful, and
multiplied.
FAAVIK
But... how could they have evolved
so quickly...?
Mark doesn't answer, his curiosity caught by something
else. He starts slowly forward, Faavik Following
close. Their tricorders begin to register higher radia-
tion levels as they approach the tube.
SERIES OF SHOTS - (PRODUCTION & ILM)
Mark and Faavik's faces as they approach.
Feet step among the wormy creatures to gain access to
the tube. (ILM)
Even the unemotional Faavik reacts to this.
Mark reaches the tube, raises the lid of Spork's bier.
He looks inside, and sees:
MARK'S POV INTO SPORK'S TUBE
It is empty, except for some kind of rumpled black
cloth.
BACK TO MARK
He reacts, stunned.
He reaches in, withdraws the blue-like cloth, and
hands it to Saavik. As she touches, she knows.
MARK
(continuing)
What is it?
FAAVIK
Spork's bureial overalls.
As they stare at each other without answers, the planet
makes a gentle RUMBLING SOUND -- then the ground qui-
vers slightly.
And in the far distance, a poignant CRY is heard. A
young animal in pain, perhaps. Faavik and Mark do not
know.
CUT TO:
INT. PLUCK'S APARTMENT - VIEW OF THE BAY - NIGHT
Tranquil. We hear the SOUNDS of HARBOR and distant
CITY. We are PULLING BACK, past Kirk as he stares qui-
etly at the view, a glass in hand. Then he turns
'round, raises his glass in a toast.
PLUCK
To all we lost.
ANGLE WIDENS to include Muhura, Mousov and Bulu, who
toast in response, and drink.
BULU
So, what's going to
happen to Duckprise?
PLUCK
Gonna be scraped. Too much damage,
no thanks to Fran.
MOUSOV
Will we get another ship?
PLUCK
I can't get an answer. Starfleet
is up to its brass in galactic
conference-as usual. No one has time for
those who only stand... and wait.
Pluck sips his drink thoughtfully, as do all. Then:
MUHURA
How is the feline, sir?
PLUCK
He's home in bed, he promised me he'd stay there...
They say it's exhaustion...
A DOOR CHIME.
PLUCK
(continuing)
Ah. Mr. O'Flynn, with the pizza.
They all turn toward the door. We hear it WHIRR open,
O.S. Their expressions change and they stare at:
THEIR POV - ANGLE TOWARD THE DOOR
A tall, mysterious figure in a hooded Pigcan robe walks
slowly toward us, then stops, CLOSE, face unseen. Is
it Furr?... A Spork apparition? The figure removes
his hood, revealing the distinguished older features
of:
BACK TO GROUP - FAVORING PLUCK
PLUCK
(astonished)
Sardek!
A hush of wonder falls over all. The ANGLE WIDENS as
AMBASSADOR SARDEK comes to Pluck.
PLUCK
(continuing)
Ambassador, I -- I had no idea you
were here...
(then)
I think you know my crew...
SARDEK
I will spueal with you alone, Pluck.
Pluck turns to his crew. They look at him questioningly.
PLUCK
Go on guys. Get out of here.
The crew, their concern showing, leave their glasses
and file out. Sardek steps to the bay window, looks out
in contemplation, his back to Pluck. With the others
gone, Pluck comes up behind Sardek. A pause. Then:
PLUCK
(continuing)
Sorry about your kid and all... I would have come to
Pigcan... to express my deepest
sympathies...
SARDEK
(raises a hand)
Spare me your fowl platitudes,
Pluck. I have been to your
Government. I have seen the
Dreamcast information, and your own
report.
PLUCK
Then you know how bravely your son
met his death. Probably alot braver then I.
SARDEK
Why did you leave him on Dreamcast! Spork trusted you
-- and you denied him his future!
PLUCK
What future?!
SARDEK
Only his body was "in
death," Pluck! And you were the
last one to be with him.
PLUCK
Yes, I was...
SARDEK
Then you must know that you should
have come with him to Pigcan.
PLUCK
But -- why?
SARDEK
Because he asked you to! He
entrusted you with his very
essence -- with everything
was not of the body. He asked you
to bring him to us -- and to bring
that which he gave you: his
Katra. His living spirit.
PLUCK
(deeply, quietly)
Sir. Your son meant more to me
than you can know. I'd have given
my life if it would have saved
his. You must believe me when I
tell you that he made no request
of me!
SARDEK
He would not have spoken of it
openly.
PLUCK
Then, how --
SARDEK
(interrupting)
Pluck, I must have your thoughts.
May I join your mind?
PLUCK
Yeah, sure.. this gonna hurt much?
Sardek steps close to Pluck as CAMERA PUSHES IN VERY
CLOSE. Sardek's hoofs are on Pluck's temples in familiar
v shaped fashion. And the eyes of both men are closed.
MIND MELD SEQUENCE
(This can be LITERAL, or can be illustrated by SUB-
LIMINAL FILM from DUCK TREK II. To be determined.)
Strange, SUB-MUSICAL SOUNDS underscore. The music of
Pigcan, unlike anything we have ever heard before.
After a moment:
SARDEK
... He spoke of your friendship.
PLUCK
(semi-trance)
Yes...
SARDEK
He asked you not to grieve...
PLUCK
... Yes...
SARDEK
... The needs of the many outweigh...
PLUCK
... The needs of the few...
SARDEK
... Or the one.
PLUCK
... Spork...
SARDEK
I have been... and always shall
be... your friend. Pig large...
and fossil!
PLUCK
... No...!
Pluck, bathed with sweat, suddenly shudders in pain.
Sardek opens his eyes, removes his hoofs. He touches
Pluck with gentleness as Jim recovers, opens his eyes.
ANGLE - SARDEK AND PLUCK
SARDEK
Forgive me. It is not here. I
figured he had mind-melded with
you. It is the Pigcan way when
the body's end is near.
PLUCK
But he couldn't hoof me...! We
were separated!
SARDEK
I see... and I understand.
(rises wearily)
Then everything that he was...
Everything that he knew... is
lost. And when I return home
empty-handed, many shall mourn.
He turns now, starting for the door. Kirk stops him
with an agonized wail:
PLUCK
Please wait!... Surely he would
have found a way! If there was so
much at stake -- Spock would have
found a way!
SARDEK
(hesitating)
Yes... But -- how...?
PLUCK
(rising)
Sardek!... What if he melded with
someone else?!
On their exchange of looks --
INT. SMALL ELECTRONIC CENTER
We are VERY CLOSE on an electronic screen. There is
the frozen face of Spork with his hand splayed on the
engine room glass. A mechanical voice tells us:
COMPUTER VOICE
Engine Room, Flight Recorder
Visual. Stardate 8128 point seven
eight, point seven eight, point
seven eight --
KIRK (V.O.)
Back. Point seven seven.
The tape begins to speed backwards in a scrambled
image.
REVERSE ANGLE - CLOSE - PLUCK (INTERCUT WITH SCREEN)
His face intense. The SOUND of BACKWARD TAPE is heard.
Then it stops.
On screen: Spork and Pluck in their final conversation.
Pluck watches a moment, painfully, then breaks off:
PLUCK
Back. Point seven six.
The computer responds. More BACKWARD SOUND, then:
COMPUTER VOICE
Flight recorder visual. Stardate
8128 point 76, point 76 --
PLUCK
Go.
The tape activates. On screen we watch Spork enter the
engine room, go to the console. He make a few adjust-
ments then heads for the radiation room where he is
intercepted by McMeow.
Pluck stares in growing fascination.
McMeow talks to Spork briefly. Spork tricks McMeow into
looking away, then applies the Pigcan head tap.
Furr falls.
On screen: Spork moves close to McMeow, takes gloves
from the unconscious Scott, then places his hand on
McMeow's temple.
SPORK'S IMAGE
Remember Me.
PLUCK
Hold!
He stares at the frozen image, then:
PLUCK
(continuing)
Augment and repeat!
The CAMERA ZOOMS IN a TIGHT TWO SHOT. The action
repeats:
SPORK'S VOICE
Remember Me!
PLUCK
(breathlessly)
Freeze...!
The image of the critical mind meld is there to see.
Pluck is stunned.
CAMERA ANGLE WIDENS now, to reveal for the first time
that Sardek is with Pluck in the shadowy room.
PLUCK
Furr!...
SARDEK
One alive, one not. Yet both in
pain.
PLUCK
What must I do?
SARDEK
You must bring them to Mount
Ayales -- on Pigcan. Only there
is the passage possible. Only
there can both find peace...
PLUCK
Its kinda hard ya know.
SARDEK
You will find a way, Pluck. If you
honor them both, you must.
Pluck looks at the screen, examines all that is clear to
him, and accepts the truth of Sardek's challenge.
PLUCK
Yeah, yeah. I'll get on it, eventually.
Over his determined face, we hear a weird OVERLAPPED
SOUND: the strange CRY OF PAIN from the Dreamcast
Planet.
EXT. DREAMCAST PLANET - AREA 2
A different texture than the Spork Glade. Cactus
growth, seeming desert, yet... slightly gnarled,
slightly off. Over this empty landscape there is
another trembling of the earth. And again, the CRY.
UP ANGLED - AREA 2
The SOUND OF RUNNING FOOTSTEPS. Then Mark and Faavik
run INO SHOT staring O.S. as the CRY repeats itself.
They stare O.S. and see:
THEIR POV - VISTA - (ILM SHOT)
Past the tall cactus in f.g., we see snow-covered ter-
rain in the middle distance. The CRY is heard once
more.
FAAVIK
(continuing; to
communicator)
Captain, thees is Saavik. We have
strong life sign readings bearing
zéro-une-cinq relative, and we are
proceeding to investigate.
ELMERSTAN (V.O.)
We concuw, Faavik. And Faavik...
be advised we are weading a severe
and unnaturaw age curve on the
planet. I'm getting nervous...
FAAVIK
(a look to Mark)
Do you have an explanation?
Mark
Later. Much. Let's go...
FAAVIK
Griddle, your message acknowledged.
Will advise... Out.
And she hurries after Mark.
INT. BRIDGE - GRIDDLE - FAVORING ELMERSTAN
ELMERSTAN
USS Griddwe, out.
(bends over his
science station)
There's something scrwewy going on down
there.
EXT. DREAMCAST PLANET - AREA 3 - SNOWSCAPE (ILM --
VISTAVISION)
Mark leading, Faavik catching up as they enter a snow-
covered patch of ground. CAMERA TRACKS with them now
as the WIND begins to HOWL, and the first visible snow-
flakes begin to fall. As the wind and snow increase,
causing them to hold their hands up against the ele-
ments, they stop and stare outward.
THEIR POV
In the snow-covered landscape ahead of them, a series
of tracks. Small, indeterminate. They lead ahead.
BACK TO FAAVIK AND MARK
They respond. The WIND HOWLS, but they start forward.
CUT TO:
INT. STARFLEET OFFICER'S LOUNGE - ADMIRAL BURROW
- NIGHT
BURROW
Forget it, Jim, you are quacking in the wrong swamp.
ANGLE HAS WIDENED to include Pluck, a passionate Pluck.
The intimacy of the conversation is broken by a star-
fleet steward who bears drinks. Pluck sits in frus-
trated suspension until the steward leaves. Then Pluck
tries to resume his plea, but Morrow stays him.
BURROW
You are my best officer and
if I had a best friend, you'd be
that too. But I am Commander,
Starfleet, so I don't break rules!
PLUCK
Don't quote rules! We're
talking about loyalty.
And sacrifice. One man who died
for us, another who has deep
emotional damage --
BURROW
Now wait a minute! This business
about Spork and McMeow. Honestly,
I have never understood Pigcan
mysticism.
PLUCK
You don't have to believe!
I'm not even sure I believe. But
if there's even a chance that
Spork has an eternal soul -- then
that is my responsibility.
BURROW
Yours...?!
PLUCK
As surely as if it were my own.
(deeply)
Give me back the
Duckprise! With Flynny's help...
BURROW
No, Jim! Duckprise would never
stand the pounding.
PLUCK
Then I'll find a ship -- I'll hire
a ship.
BURROW
Out of the question. The Council
has ordered that no one but the
science team goes to Dreamcast.
Jim, your life and your career
stand for rationality, not
intellectual chaos. Keep up this
emotional behavior and you'll lose
everything. You'll destroy
yourself!
Pluck looks for a long moment, then sighs, his body
sagging.
PLUCK
I had to try. No problem
Thanks for the drink.
BURROW
Any time.
Pluck rises with a smile, starts out. HOLD on Burrow.
MOVING WITH KIRK
He crosses the room filled with Starfleet senior
officers, CAMERA TRACKING until he passes out of the
main room, into the entry room -- where we are sur-
prised to see Bulu and Mousov waiting for him conspir-
atorially. Pluck stops close to them, looks about cau-
tiously.
BULU
The word, sir?
PLUCK
The old rabbit said "no".
(a beat)
Yet when I have ever listened to any rabbits?
BULU
Me for starters, but count on our help, sir.
PLUCK
I'll need it, Bulu.
MOUSOV
Shall I alert Dr. McMeow?
PLUCK
Yes. He has a long journey ahead.
CUT TO:
INT. BAR - NIGHT
A crowded, smoke-filled watering hole of the twenty-
third century, filled with a smattering of civilians,
Starfleet personnel, and visitors from strange and far-
off civilizations. It does not have the bizarre quali-
ties of the "Futuristic Bar" which is across the
street.
McMeow is discovered entering the bar. He is haggard,
less than clean shaved. He appears to be looking for
something as he starts forward.
HIS POV - MOVING THROUGH THE BAR (ILM ELEMENT)
noting patrons at the twenty-third century equivalent
of video games, darts. We see two people playing at a
holographic version of a video game, in which World War
1 biplanes are engaged in 3-d combat... and a dart
player throwing pneumatic jet propelled darts...
BACK TO McMeow
Not finding what he is looking for, he settles into a
small alcove. A seedy, pink canary but attractive WAITRESS ar-
rives.
WAITRESS
Hiya, Furr.
McMeow
Hi Sweetie anyone been looking for
me?
WAITRESS
I have... But I'm always able to get away from you!
(a smile)
What'll it be?
McMeow
Seltair water...
WAITRESS
Wow, trying something different tonight?
McMeow
(confused)
To expect one to change a certain like in a
bar is not logical.
WAITRESS
Uh, whatever you say.
She leaves. McMeow scans the room. He picks out some-
one approaching.
ANGLE - THE DODO BIRD
an exotic-looking grubby fellow with a big grin, making
his way unmistakably to McMeow's booth. PULL BACK with
him as he reaches it, and slides in ebulliently.
GOGO
Hello Hello! Welcome to your planet.
McMeow
I'm supposed to say, stranger.
GOGO
Oh, forgive. I here am new. But
you are known, being McMeow from
Duckprise.
McMeow
You have me at a disadvantage,
bird.
GOGO
I name not important. You seek
I. Message received. Available
ship stands by.
McMeow
How soon and how much?
GOGO
How soon is now. How much is
where?
McMeow
... Somewhere in the Kutara
Sector.
ALIEN
Nope! Kutara restricted. Take
permits many. Money, more. No money, no travel!
McMeow
There aren't going to be any stupid
permits!
(checking room)
How can you get a permit to do a
stupid illegal thing?!
(then)
Look, price you name, money I got.
GOGO
Place you name, money I get!
Otherwise, bargain, no.
McMeow
(getting louder)
Alright, dummy. It's Dreamcast!
The name of the place we're going
is Dreamcast
GOGO
(genuinely
shocked)
Dreamcast!
McMeow
Yes, Dreamcast! Grow some ears, why don't you?
GOGO
Dreamcast allowed is not... Is
planet forbidden. Can't go there! Nope!
McMeow
Now listen to me, my backwards
friend!
(grabs the Dodo
by the collar)
Dreamcast may be "planet forbidden,"
but I'm catnip well --
McMeow is interrupted by a hand on his arm. He looks up
to see a nondescript-looking CIVILIAN, with a rough,
ingratiating manner.
CIVILIAN SAM
Son... I'm sorry, but ya'll's voice
is carrying. I don't think ya'll
oughta to be discussing this subject
in public.
McMeow
I'll discuss what I like, and who
do you think you are?!
CIVILIAN SAM
Could I offer ya'll a ride home, Dr.
McMeow?
McMeow
Where's the logic in offering me a
ride home, you idiot! If I wanted
a ride home, would I be trying to
charter a space flight?!
GOGO is seen doing a funny dance to slip away unnoticed and sings his
usual, funny song
McMeow
How in the galaxy do you know who I am?
CIVILIAN SAM
Federation Security, boy.
Furr, is grrabed by Sam suddenly turns,
wild-eyed, and attempts a Pigcan head tap on his
tormentor. The head tap has absolutely no effect,
and the agent stares at Furr for a long moment.
CIVILIAN SAM
Ya'll are going to get a nice, long
rest, Doc.
He ushers Furr out as Sweetie giggles and drinks the Seltair water herself.
CUT TO:
EXT DREAMCAST PLANET - AREA 3 - SNOWSCAPE
It is snowing now, and the WIND WAILS as Faavik and
Mark appear and come forward into a CLOSE SHOT. The
life sign sound of their TRICORDER is BEEPING faster
now as they peer ahead into the snow. Then Faavik
suddenly points:
POV - THROUGH THE SNOWFALL
Something alive moves across the front, obscured by
snow and terrain.
BACK TO THEM - MOVING CAMERA (INTERCUT WITH POV)
As they start forward into the snow, Faavik drawing her
phaser. They peer ahead, seeing nothing but the BLEEP
of their tricorder which they follow like a beacon.
Their POV MOVING through the snow flurry, catches an
occasional hint of something ahead which spurs them on.
Then, with the TRICORDER BEEP indicating very close
proximity, they stop and intuitively Faavik indicates
to Mark to turn the tricorder off. As the beep stops,
they listen and hear the tiniest of WHIMPERS amid the
WIND. They start out excitedly...
THE CREVICE (AND INTERCUT POV'S)
as Faavik and Mark approach. Stop. TRICORDER back
on. Big reading. They step forward through the snow
flurry to see:
INT. THE CREVICE - THE PIGLETTE
A wild thing with pinkish skin, perhaps nine or ten
years old. He is covered in the snow as he shivers in
the cold clutching an injured leg; he watches the
strangers, and their BEEPING machine in hypnotic fear.
THE SCENE - IN THE CREVICE
At Faavik's gesture, Mark turns off his tricorder.
Faavik moves close. As she touches the Boy's leg, he
pulls back and she reaches out to his face, and touches
his cheek softly. he accepts watchfully. Then Faavik
slides her hand slowly and notes the pinkish skin.
The Boy is a Pigcan.
Faavik and Mark exchange and astonished look. Then she
covers the boy with Spork's robe, and in Pigcan:
FAAVIK
(I am Faavik... Can you speak?)
The Boy does not respond. Faavik looks to Mark.
MARK
(in awe)
The Dreamcast Wave... His cells
could have been regenerated...
Reformed --
Quietly, so as not to alarm the Boy, Faavik opens her
communicator and reports softly:
FAAVIK
Captain, this is Faavik. Come in, please...
ELMERSTAN(V.O.)
Yes, Faavik, go ahead...
FAVVIK
We have found le life sign. It
is a Pigcan piglette, perhaps huit
to dix years of age.
ELMERSTAN (V.O.)
A pigwette! That's extrawodinary.
How did he get there?!
FAAVIK
It is Dr. Duckus' opinion that
this is -- that le Dreamcast effect
has in some way regenerated --
Captain Spork.
INT. BRIDGE - GRIDDLE - FAVORING ELMERSTAN (INTERCUT
WITH PLANET)
There is a moment of uncertainty between Elmerstan and
his science officers that should be one of the grand
laughs of this film.
ELMERSTAN
(slowly and
carefully)
Ah, Faavik, that's, ah,
extrawodinary. What would you,
ah, like to do next?
FAAVIK (V.O.)
Request permission to beam aboard
immediately.
ELMERSTAN
Faavik... Does Dr. Duckcus think
there couwd be -- any chance of --
ah -- wadioactive cowntamination?
MARK
No.
FAAVIK (V.O.)
Non that he can detect, sir.
ELMERSTAN
Well, all the same, I'm going to
adwise Starfweet and get
instructions.
On the planet, Faavik and Mark exchange a frustrated
look.
FAAVIK (V.O.)
I'm sure Starfleet would approve,
sir.
ELMERSTAN
All the same -- let's do it by
the book. Stand by on this channel.
(to Comm Officer)
Go.
COMM OFFICER
Starfleet Command, this is the USS
Griddle on sub-space coded channel
ninety eight point eight. Come
in, please...I think they are making bubbles with their spits,
Captain.
There is an odd SOUND on the speakers. Below, Mark
and Faavik wait impatiently. Then, on the bridge:
COMM OFFICER
(continuing)
Sir... Something's jamming our
transmission. An energy surge.
ELMERSTAN
Wocate.
COMM OFFICER
Surge from astern, sir. Aft
quarter!
ELMERSTAN
On scween.
On MONITOR, a starfield aappears, with some kind of
energy interference. A heat-like distortion of one
area of the picture is evident. Then, suddenly, by
means of the de-cloaking effect, the Catt of Prey is
dead on a at close range in attack configuration.
ELMERSTAN
Uh oh!
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY - FAVORING SLUGE
SLUGE
(Tube one, target, engine section
only!)
GUNNER
(Ready!)
SPACE - CATT OF PREY STALKS GRIDDLE - (ILM)
BACK TO BRIDGE - GRIDDLE (INTERCUT WITH PLANET & CATT
OF PREY)
ELMERSTAN
Red awert! Waise shields!
FAAVIK (V.O.)
Captain, what's happening?!
ELMERSTAN
We are under attack! Stand by for
evasive -- stand by for --
INT. CATT OF PREY
SLUGE
(Fire!)
EXT. SPACE - GRIDDLE F.G., CATT OF PREY, CLOSE B.G. -
(ILM)
The CATT FIRES A Klinging PHOTON TORPEDO which WHOOSHES
the relatively short distance to the peaceful Griddle
and, shockingly -- blows her to bits with one shot.
THE DREAMCAST PLANET - FAAVIK, MARK - THE BOY
FAAVIK
Captain!... Come in, Captain!
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY
Sluge turns to his gunner.
SLUGE
(I told you, engine station
only!!)
Sluge's BEAST GROWLS.
GUNNER
(A fortunate mistake, sir...)
SLUGE
(I wanted prisoners!)
The BEAST GROWLS again as Sluge, in a rage, pulls out
his ice phaser and shoots, deep freezing the Gunner. No one
in the crew seems to take this as unusual behavior.
And Sluge adds, for his own justification:
SLUGE
(continuing)
Kitty Litter Brains!
Sluge's beast adds his contempt to this message. As
Sluge stalks from his chair --
TROY
Sir, may I suggest --
SLUGE
(whirling)
Say the wrong word, Troy!
TROY
I only meant, my lord, that if
it's prisoners youse want --
(points to screen)
There are life signs on the
planet. Perhaps the very
scientists youse seek.
Sluge cocks an eye, examines the screen.
SLUGE
Very good.
DREAMCAST PLANET - THE CREVICE
FAAVIK
... Griddle... This is Faavik on
emergency frequency... Come in
please...!
STATIC is heard on her communicator. She folds it
closed in resignation. That unnerves Mark.
MARK
Faavik... what happened to
them?
FAAVIK
It would seem that Griddle was
destroyed by an enemy attack.
(continuing)
Moseuir Duckus... It's time for total truth between
us.
(then)
This planet is not what you
intended, or hoped for, is it?
MARK
(ironically)
Not exactly.
FAAVIK
Why?
DAVID
(a pause)
I used frozenmatter in the Dreamcast
matrix.
FAAVIK
Frozenmatter. An unstable
substance which every ethical
scientist in le galaxy has
denounced as dangerously
unpredictable.
MARK
(defensive)
It was the only way to solve
certain problems --
FAAVIK
So, like your Papa, you changed
le rules...
MARK
If I hadn't, it might have been
years -- or never!
FAAVIK
And how many have paid the price
for your impatience? How many
have died? How much damage have
you done... And what is yet to
come?
Mark looks at her, accepting the truth of what she
says.
CUT TO:
INT. PRISON CELL - CLOSE SHOT - NIGHT
Furr McMeow is lying on a cot; we are not yet certain
of his mental state, though he looks like a man with a
very bad hangover. From O.S.:
GUARD 1 (V.O.)
You got a visitor, Doc.
(then)
Make it quick, Admiral. They're
moving him to the Federation funny
farm.
ANGLE TOWARD CELL DOOR
Pluck and GUARD 1 stand in the doorway which is framed by
line of light indicating a force field. Pluck is in
civilian clothes.
PLUCK
Yes, poor friend. I hear he's
fruity as a nutcake. He was always like that, ya know.
GUARD 1
Two minutes.
The Guard places an electronic "key" against a plate on
the wall. Force light blinks out. As Pluck enters the
cell, the Guard reactivates the force field and leaves.
Pluck moves quickly to Furr, kneeling beside him.
McMeow
Jim --
PLUCK
Am I holding up any "hoofs"?
Pluck holds up his hand in the Pigcan salute, fingers
and hand in pig hoof gesture.
McMeow
Not very logical Captain. What did I just say??
PLUCK
(reaches in pocket)
Good, your sense of humor's
returned.
McMeow
Right, sure.
Pluck withdraws syringe.
McMeow
(continuing)
What's that?
PLUCK
Lugorin.
McMeow
Lugorin?! What for?
PLUCK
You're suffering from a Pigcan
mind meld, Doctor.
McMeow
That light pink celled son of a
swine!... It's his revenge for all
the arguments he lost...
PLUCK
Give me your arm. This will make
you well enough to travel.
INT. PRISON OUTER OFFICE - ANGLE ON ENTRY DOOR - NIGHT
A SECOND GUARD is on duty with GUARD 1 as the door
slides open and Bulu enters with some urgency.
BULU
Where's Admiral Pluck?
GUARD 1
He's with the prisoner.
BULU
Get him quickly. Commander,
Starfleet wants him right away.
Guard 1 fishes for his electronic key and leaves.
Guard 2, a big, paunchy man, stretches his girth and
yawns.
BULU
(continuing)
Heh, keeping you busy?
GUARD 2
Don't get smart, Tooney.
CELL ENTRY AT DOORWAY
Guard 1 applies his device to the cell electronic
plate. Force fields blink out.
GUARD 1
Admiral... Starfleet is...
PLUCK
(stops him)
This man is sick! Look at him!
As the Guard moves to Furr, Pluck punches him with a
a balled up fist to the Guard's chin.
And they start out of shot.
Bulu grabs the big Guard as he hears the punch, he flips him around
sending him unconscious.
BULU
The side elevator. Agents on
their way up.
Pluck nods and, followed by Furr, moves to the outer
door, opens it, and they hurry out. Meanwhile, Bulu
has stepped to the master console, a bank of flashing
lights and comm equipment. He reaches underneath with
an electronic device, then steps back as the entire
console shorts itself to oblivion in a shower of sparks
and electronic pain. Bulu starts out of the room, but
cannot resist stopping for a split second over the
fallen body of Guard 2.
BULU
(continuing)
Eh, hey buddy, don't call me "Tooney".
As Bulu hurries after the others, we PUSH gently to the
fallen giant, sleeping peacefully.
INT. ELEVATOR - BULU, FURR, PLUCK
Pluck whips out his communicator as they descend.
PLUCK
Little Mouse, this is Grand Duck. The
Bobayashimi Mawruh has set sail for
the promised console. Acknowledge.
MOUSOV (V.O.)
Message acknowledged. All units
will be informed.
Pluck flips his communicator closed. McMeow raises an
eyebrow.
McMeow
You're taking me to the promised
console?
PLUCK
Yeah, sure, I owe ya a few favors.
INT. SPACEDOCK - USS EXCELLENTE - (ILM SHOT)
The new Queen of Space is quietly docked, floodlit like
a great monument, but essentially in bed for the night.
INT. DESERTED CORRIDOR - EXCELSIOR
Mr. O'Flynn, looking cautiously around, stands by the
elevator door in the empty corridor. The elevator door
opens, and as O'Flynn is preparing to step in, CAPTAIN
STEGHORN steps out. Steghorn is the familiar loud mouth
tall annoying rooster.
If he's a little stuffy, it's pardonable; he
does, after all, have the plum assignment in all of
Starfleet.
STEGHORN
Ah, Mr. O'Flynn. Calling it a
night? I say CALLING IT A NIGHT, SON?
FLYNN
Ah, yes, Captain.
STEGHORN
Kinda tired myself. I say I'm very sleepy myself. Looking
forward to breaking some of
Duckprise's speed records tommorrow.
FLYNN
Yes, sir. Good night. Big mouth..
The doors of the elevators close, leaving Flynny alone
inside. A slightly condescending MALE VOICE says:
ELEVATOR (V.O.)
Level please!
FLYNNY
Transporter room.
ELEVATOR (V.O.)
Thank you.
FLYNNY
Cross your wires..
INT. A SHABBY TRANSPORTER STATION - ON MUHURA - NIGHT
MUHURA
(into comm)
Roger. Old City Station at 2200
hours. All is kicking.
She releases comm and methodically begins adjusting
controls on her console as CAMERA WIDENS to reveal a
lanky, cynical Starfleet LIEUTENANT DUNCAN-very young rabbit
he leans back in his chair, hands clasped behind
his head.
LIEUTENANT
You amaze me, Commander. You sure do.
MUHURA
(working)
Whatca mean, homes...?
LIEUTENANT
A long year space officer, yet
you ask for the worst duty station
in town. I mean, look at this
place: the hind end of space.
MUHURA
I likes the solitude,
Lieutenant.
LIEUTENANT
Well, maybe that's okay for
someone like you whose career is
winding down. But me: I need
some challenge in my life. Some
virtual reality... Even just a surprise
or two.
MUHURA
You know what they say, Lieutenant.
Careful what you wish for: you may
get it.
The entry door slides open and Pluck, Furr and Bulu
hurry in and begin walking without hesitation, toward
the pods.
MUHURA
(continuing)
Gentlemen. Whassup?
PLUCK
Good evening, Commander. Everything
ready?
MUHURA
In readyness, Admiral. Step into my parlor.
The parade of purposeful men passes the befuffled
Lieutenant as if he weren't there. He watches as they
settle themselves onto the pods, while Muhura busies
herself with the setting of controls. He crosses with
concern to where she is working so efficiently.
LIEUTENANT
(sotto)
Commander, these are some of the
most famous people in Starfleet!
Admiral Pluck, holy cow!
MUHURA
Glad ya'll know yer stuff, Lieutenant.
LIEUTENANT
But it's very irregular. No
destination orders, no encoded
i.d...
MUHURA
True.
LIEUTENANT
Well -- what are we going to do
about it?!
MUHURA
I ain't going to do nothing about
it. You are put yerself in the
closet. Ya might find a invisble virtual reality
helmet in there.
LIEUTENANT
The closet?! Have you lost all
sense of reality?
UHURA
This isn't just reality. This is
viritual reality.
With that Muhura turns, a phaser leveled.
MUHURA
(continuing)
You wanted virtual reality? How's this?
The old imgination going?
(he nods)
Cool. Now get yerself in the closet.
He backs into it, disappears inside, and she closes the
door from her panel.
McMeow
I'm glad you're on our side.
PLUCK
(re -- the closet)
Will you be able to handle
that...?
MUHURA
Oh, I'll have "Mr. VR"
eating out of my hand. And I'll
see you at the rendezvous.
(then)
Peace out, Ad.
She smiles and activates THE BEAM. They wave back to
her until they are gone.
INT. SPACEDOCK - DUCKPRISE (ILM SHOT)
CAMERA PUSHES TOWARD the darkened bridge section as
energizer and ELECTRONIC SOUNDS are heard, and suddenly
from within, the lights begin to go on.
INT. BRIDGE - DUCKPRISE - ELEVATOR DOORS
They open and Pluck, Furr and Bulu appear on the bridge
where activity is now bustling thanks to Flynny and
Mousov.
FLYNNY
As promised, she's all yours,
sir. All systems automated and
ready. A chimpanzee and two
trainees could run her.
PLUCK
Thank you, Mr. O'Flynn. I'll try not
to take that personally.
(to all)
My friends... I can't ask you to
go any further. Dr. McMeow and I
have to do this. The rest of you
do not. Uh please come with us?
MOUSOV
Admiral, I'd go anywhere you would go!
BULU
What course please, Admiral?
PLUCK
Mr. O'Flynn?
FLYNNY
I'd be grateful, Admiral, if you'd
give the word.
PLUCK
(a moment)
Gentlemen... may the cold of space be not at
our hinders. Stations please!
As they reach stations, we are on Pluck as a series of
orders and responses are given...
PLUCK
(continuing)
Clear all moorings... engage auto
systems... one-quarter impulse
power...
CUT TO:
INT. SPACEDOCK - DUCKPRISE - (ILM SHOT)
The scarred, noble vessel begins to move slowly, im-
pulse, rockets WHOOSHING intermittently.
INT. SPACEDOCK - THE CAFETERIA - (FX SHOT WITH ILM
ELEMENTS)
It's darkened now, and empty. A lone cleaning man
works among the stacked tables as behind him, in the
great window, Duckprise begins backing away from
Excellente like a mouse tip-toeing away from a sleeping
cat. The cleaning man looks up in surprise. What
is going on?
INT. SPACEDOCK - DUCKPRISE - (ILM SHOT)
Backing slowly into the last third of the great dock --
and the great closed doors through which she must pass.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
BULU
One minute to space doors.
McMeow
(edgy)
You just gonna -- walk through
them?
PLUCK
Chill out, Furr.
MOUSOV
Sir. Commander, Starfleet on
emergency channel. He orders you
to surrender this wessel.
PLUCK
(a breath)
No reply, Mousov... Continue on
course...
INT. EXCELLEMTE - CAPTAIN'S QUARTERS - CLOSE - STEGHORN
Sleeping, he is jarred awake by an alarm KLAXON. Then:
BRIDGE VOICE (1ST OFFICER)
Dadgum Captain! Dadgum Yellow alert! Captain to the
dadgum bridge. Yellow alert -- !
Steghorn fumbles to consciousness, not pleased to be
awakened. He gropes for a comm button.
STEGHORN
Bridge, this is the Captain. How
can you have a Yellow Alert in
Spacedock! I say ya'll have flipped your feathers!
BRIDGE VOICE
Dadgum it, sir... Someone is stealing the
Dadgum Duckprise!
Steghorn' mouth drops open. Then:
STEGHORN
On my way.
INT. BRIDGE - DUCKPRISE
BULU
Thirty seconds to spacedoors.
MOUSOV
Sir: Excellente is powering up
with orders to pursue.
INT. EXCELLENTE BRIDGE (ILM ELEMENT)
Doors open, Steghorn strides in, buttoning tunic.
STEGHORN
Status! Status I say, boy!
1ST OFFICER
All dadgum automates ready and
functioning. Automatic dadgum moorings
retracted. All dadgum speeds available
through dadgum transwarp drive.
STEGHORN
Incredible machine. I SAY INCRIDLE MACHINE! Helm,
one-quarter impulse power.
INT. SPACEDOCK - EXCELLENTE - (ILM SHOT)
As she moves away, heading forward, looking faster than
Duckprise even in low speed.
INT. SPACEDOCK - DUCKPRISE, F.G. - THE SPACEDOORS -
(ILM)
They are closed -- and approaching!
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
PLUCK
Steady... Steady... All right, Mr.
O'Flynn.
FLYNNY
(distracted)
Sir...?
PLUCK
(an edge)
The doors, Mr. O'Flynn!
This is not lost on Furr -- But Flynny is too busy to
panic, rolling in numbers on his console coolly.
FLYNNY
Yes, sir, workin' on it...
He presses a final button, looks up at the screen as --
INT. SPACEDOCK - THE DOORS - (ILM)
They slide slowly open just in time to allow Duckprise
a narrow passage out into space...
BACK TO THE BRIDGE
BULU
(sweat in his voice)
... We have cleared Spacedoors.
PLUCK
Full impulse power.
EXT. SPACEDOCK - DUCKPRISE - (ILM)
Picks up speed and EXITS the SHOT... But Excellente is
seen now exiting the Spacedoors and coming on.
INT. BRIDGE - EXCELLENTE - FAVORING STEGHORN
1ST OFFICER
Dadgum Duckprise maintaining dadgum full
impulse power...
STEGHORN
Stand by, tractor beam! I say use that tractor beam, boy!
1ST OFFICER
STOP SHOUTING IN MY DADGUM EAR!
STEGHORN
I'm trying to let you know that if he tries to get away with Warp
Drive, he's really in for a shock...
SPACE - BEYOND THE EARTH - (ILM)
Duckprise first... Excelsior clearly closing the gap.
DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
MOUSOV
Excellente closing to 4,000 meters,
sir.
PLUCK
Mr. O'Flynn, we need everything
you've got now.
FLYNNY
Aye, sir... Warp Drive is standing
by...!
EXCELLENTE BRIDGE - STEGHORN
STEGHORN
Pluck, boy! You do this, you'll
never sit in the Captain's chair
again. I say you are gonna be demoted big time!
BACK TO SCENE
PLUCK
Warp Speed, Mr. Bulu...
BULU
Aye, sir, Warp Speed...
He moves his control, SOUND builds, and --
EXT. SPACE - DUCKPRISE - (ILM)
The Warp Drive explodes her forward and OUT OF VIEW.
INT. EXCELLENTE BRIDGE - FAVORING STEGHORN
STEGHORN
Allright duck..He wants to play it the hard way!
Prepare for Warp Speed! Standby
Transwarp Drive! I say use the thing allready!
Appropriate KLAXONS and SOUNDS prepare the ship, the
helmsman completes his pre-sets and nods to the first --
1ST OFFICER
Dadgum Transwarp at your command, Sir!
STEGHORN
Execute! EXCUTE IT I SAY, BOY!
There is a massive buildup of SOUNDS, and then -- a
sudden series of BANGS, SHAKES, COUGHS and WHEELS, as
if the ship had hit a series of potholes in space.
SPACE - EXCELLENTE- (ILM)
She begins to shake and vibrate, shuddering her way
through space...
INT. EXCELLENTE BRIDGE
Strange, impotent SOUNDS no one of them has heard be-
fore, and on Steghorn' face, absolute bafflement.
INT. BRIDGE - DUCKPRISE
Except for the puzzled McMeow, there seems to be quiet
satisfaction on the Duckprise.
PLUCK
Mr. O'Flynn: as good as your word.
FLYNNY
Aye, sir. The more they over-
think the plumin', the easier it
is to stop up the drain.
(turns to McMeow)
Here, Doctor, a souvenir as one
surgeon to another.
He hands McMeow a tiny microchip (INSERT). McMeow looks
up bewildered, still shaky from the chase.
FLYNNY
(continuing)
I took it out of her main
Transwarp computer drive.
McMeow
Nice of you to tell me in
advance.
PLUCK
(wry)
That's what you get for being the last one
around Spork, Doctor. Gentlemen,
your work today was outstanding...
I intend to recommend you all for
promotion... in whatever fleet
we end up serving.
(continuing)
Best speed to Dreamcast.
SPACE - DUCKPRISE - (ILM)
Responding to Bulu's touch, she speeds off.
CUT TO:
SPACE - THE DREAMCAST PLANET - (ILM)
The Catt of Prey is orbiting.
INT. BRIDGE - BIRD OF PREY
Malc and a half-dozen Klinging are on station under
Troy. The young officer leans into a monitor with
interest. We see two BLIPS there, one converging on
the other.
EXT. DREAMCAST PLANET - SPORK'S GLADE - CLOSE TRACKING -
DAY
We are on a Klinging TRICORDER which is BEEPING excitedly.
WIDEN to see that it is in Sluge's hand as he advances
rapidly, through the oddly changed glade.
SPORK'S GLADE - WIDER - STILL TRACKING
A SERGEANT and one CREWMAN are with Sluge on the
planet, always a half step behind his brisk pace. The
TRICORDER'S BEEPING INCREASES with each step. Then,
abruptly, the PLANETARY RUMBLE is heard -- and the
Klingons -- and CAMERA -- STOP, listening to the
rumble.
The earth shakes. As it does, a hideous, high-pitched
SQUEAL is heard, nearby O.S. (This is different than
the cry we have heard on the planet.) As the surface
stops shaking, the SQUEAL TAPERS OFF -- but the TRI-
CORDER BEEPS remain very active. Sluge, his curiosity
inflamed, starts forward OUT OF SHOT, the others fol-
lowing.
EXT. SPORK'S GLADE - FULL
The Spork tube is in the f.g. CAMERA RISES now as
the Klingings approach the tube, stop short in sur-
prise as they see:
SHOCK CUT - CLOSE - TUBE - (ILM SHOT)
Where the "squiggly forms" once were, now horrible 4-
foot-long SERPENTINE THINGS rise, Cobra-like, HISSING
and SQUEALING.
BACK TO SCENE
Sluge is impassive, the others a little shocked. The
Sergeant pulls his phaser -- but Sluge stops him with a
hand. Now Sluge regards the serpents... then steps
forward to them. He does this with total arrogance to
reassert his bravery to the crew. CAMERA PULLS with
Sluge. He smiles as he reaches the tube. Then he
reaches into the group of serpents.
SCENE - SLUGE AND SERPENTS - (PRODUCTION & ILM FX
SHOTS)
Sluge grasps one of the elusive Things, brings it close
for study. This has the macho quality of a bullfighter
getting within an inch of the bull. The crew watches
breathlessly. Then, suddenly --
The Thing makes a squidlike coiling motion and wraps
itself around Sluge's neck and right arm. It's squeez-
ing hard.
The crew reacts, but are wisely stayed by the Sergeant.
This is the boss's show.
Sluge responds in a worthy manner. Even though the
Thing is coiling tightly, Sluge exerts all the strength
he has in what he correctly guesses to be the crea-
ture's jugular. The creature POPS -- its strength
collapses -- and it slithers down and falls away from
its conqueror.
He takes a moment to enjoy the crew's reaction... then:
SLUGE
(to his communicator)
Bridge -- Nothing of consequence
here. Am resuming search.
The light around him begins to change dramatically. He
looks up, and reacts to:
HIGH - FULL DREAMCAST PEAK - (ILM SHOT)
The highest promontory on the small planet gives us a
view of the sunlight TERMINATOR LINE (the line between
day and night, as on the moon) rolling forward on the
terrain below, where we now know the Klingings are.
Sunlight is being replaced by night with the rolling
motion.
CLOSE - MARK
The POV has been his. He watches in wonder as the day-
night line crosses him, in a light change. He stands,
turns, and looks behind him to see:
DREAMCAST PEAK - FULL - (PRODUCTION)
The highest plateau is turned into night to complete the
cycle. We now see this area for the first time as the
starlight begins to fill it. A rocky, craggy place
with giant tree roots and gnarled shapes everywhere.
BACK TO MARK
He reacts in wonder.
INT. THE CAVE AT DREAMCAST PEAK - CLOSE - MOVING - NIGHT
Faavik is ministering to the O.S. boy. We do not yet
see his face. We hear his SOFT SOUNDS, the aftermath
of cries which we heard earlier. CAMERA CONTINUES
MOVING as Faavik takes off her tunic and throws it as
an added cover on the O.S. figure. Then she stops,
looks at the boy in wonder, as CAMERA completes its arc
to reveal the BOY.
We are shocked to see the Boy has changed. He is now
unquestionably older, perhaps 13 or 14. He is breath-
ing heavily as the pain recedes.
She rises, and slowly steals out. HOLD on the Boy.
EXT. DREAMCAST PROMONTORY - CLOSE - DAVID - NIGHT
Looking out over the darkened planet, lost in thought.
WIDEN to admit Faavik. She too looks outward. A dis-
tant, FAINT RUMBLE. No tremor felt. Then:
MARK
(taking tricorder
readings)
This planet is aging in surges.
FAAVIK
(nods; then)
And Spork with it. They are
joined together.
... How long?
MARK
Days... Maybe hours... Frozenmatter
has made the situation unpredictable.
(softly)
I'm sorry.
FAAVIK
(accepts; then)
It will be hardest on Spork. Soon
he will feel le burning of his
Pigcan blood.
DAVID
I don't understand.
SAAVIK
Pig Soui. Pigcan males must
endure it every seventh year of
their adult life.
But his TRICORDER is BEEPING FAINTLY. He checks it.
MARK
(continuing)
Whoever they are, they're getting
closer.
FAAVIK
I'll go...
MARK
No!... I'll do it.
(then)
Give me your icer.
Their eyes meet. She gives him the icer. Then he
hurries out. HOLD on Faavik. Slightest RUMBLE of the
planet. Concern. Is another surge coming?
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - DUCKPRISE EN ROUTE - (ILM)
She passes us at high speed.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
Around Pluck is his new "formation"; Mousov is at the
Comm station, Bulu at the helm, next to him O'Flynn on
weapons/engineering; and at the Spork science post --
well, we haven't seen yet.
BULU
Estimating Dreamcast 2.9 hours,
present speed.
PLUCK
Can we hold speed, Mr. O'Flynn?
FLYNN
Aye, sir, she's got her second
wind now.
PLUCH
Scan for vessels in pursuit.
SPOTK'S VOICE (O.S.)
Scanning... Indications negative
at this time...
You could drop a pin. Everyone turns to Spork's
station...
ANGLE - FAVORING FURR
McMeow
Did I get it right?
PLUCK
Yeah, Furr...next time with a little more
feeling.
MOUSOV
Sir, Starfleet calling Griddle
again. A warning about us.
PLUCK
Response?
MOUSOV
(a beat)
Nothing. As before.
PLUCK
What's Griddle up to?... Will they
join us, or fire on us...?
(thinks)
Mousov, break radio silence. Send
my apologies to Captain Elmerstan.
MOUSOV
Aye, sir.
Mousov begins calling, as Pluck crosses easily to McMeow.
PLUCK
How we doing?
McMeow
(thoughtfully)
How are we doing... Funny you
should put it quite that way, Jim.
(beat)
We are doing fine. But I'd feel
safer giving him one of my hairballs
than what's scrambled in my brain.
MOUSOV
Admiral, there is no response from
the Griddle on any channel.
PLUCK
Keep trying, Mousov. At regular
intervals.
CUT TO:
EXT. PROMONTORY - CLOSE - FAAVIK
She has fallen asleep in her exhaustion. There is a
faint SOUND OF TRICORDER LIFE SIGNS BEEPING. She slum-
bers through this. Then, the planet begins to tremble.
A RUMBLE. An O.S. CRY, which by now we know is from
the young Spork. Faavik shakes herself, wakes up not
knowing what has just happened. The first thing she is
aware of is the BEEPING TRICORDER. She checks it,
uncertain. Then pulls her communicator.
There is STATIC, and no response. Then the planet
trembles again, and there is a definite O.S. CRY.
Faavik reacts in alarm, hurries OUT OF SCENE as the
RUMBLING and the CRIES CONTINUE.
INT. ENTRANCE TO THE CAVE - NIGHT
As Faavik appears in the opening.
We hear the O.S. CRIES OF PAIN from the boy as Faavik
watches, sympathetic but helpless. As the CRIES
SUBSIDE, and there are no more rumblings, Faavik takes
a few steps inside. She sees:
HER POV - THE YOUNG MAN
Hunched down in a corner, his face turned AWAY FROM US,
is Spork. He is now in some kind of awful spasm. Squealing like a pig
BACK TO FAAVIK
She studies what she sees. She understands. His SQUEAL
OF RAGE now splits the air and:
THE YOUNG SPORK
He turns TO CAMERA suddenly, a YOUNG MAN in his late
teens, lean of face, high of cheekbone. The look on
this tortured face and his body language tell us he is
fighting for control of body and his world. He is
fevered and shuddering. He looks at Faavik with wild
eyes which are both frightened -- and frightening.
FAAVIK
She approaches him cautiously, but with absolute under-
standing. She stops a step away from him.
FAAVIK
So it has come.
Spork hears, but does not understand.
FAAVIK
(continuing)
It is called Pig Soui.
He stares.
FAAVIK
(continuing)
Pig Soui.
Her voice has calmed him some. She takes the last step
and is now close to him. Calmly and in Pigcan:
FAAVIK
(continuing)
(... Will you trust me...?)
Spork does not respond; he is in quiet agony. She
kneels beside him. His breathing is labored... Faavik
offers her hand in Pig Soui configuration -- like a
two-finger hoof salute. Spork studies it, then
she brings up his right hand in the same configuration.
With her two extended fingers she touches his and then
slowly begins to stroke his entire hand in gentle fore-
play. His breathing eases now, his body begins to
relax. Uncertainly, he begins to return the finger-
play, first on Faavik's hand and then on her temples.
He is more in control now... intense. His eyes turn
and lock on hers. Hands touching, they move together
until their faces are brushing... and their fingers
embrace.
CUT TO:
SPACE - THE STARS (ILM)
A moment of soft SPACE AMBIENCE. Then Duckprise
glides silently INTO SHOT.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - FAVORING BULU
BULU
We are secured from Warp Speed...
Now entering Dreamcast Sector of
Kutara Quadrant.
PLUCK
What about Griddle, Mr. Mousov?
MOUSOV
Still no response, sir
PLUCK
Mr.Bulu, proceed at impulse power.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY - CLOSE - MONITOR SCREEN
An object appears, accompanied by a SOFT ALARM. PULL
BACK. The screen is being watched by Malc, who reacts.
MALC
Vessel entering sector.
Troy has come up, bends over screen.
TROY
Yes... Federation Battle
Cruiser.
(then)
Have they scanned us?
MALC
Not yet.
TROY
Engage cloaking device.
The SOUNDS and lights of cloaking begin...
INT. CAVE - DREAMCAST - CLOSE - THE YOUNG SPORK
Morning light is streaming in. His eyes are closed, he
breathes calmly. A hand, Faavik's, ENTERS SHOT, to
sooth his brow and smooth his matted hair.
FAAVIK
A softer look than we have seen before. But a look of
concern and apprehension.
She sighs, then picks up communicator. She is about to
transmit a message when an instinct makes her put it
down, turn to the cave entrance. We PAN with her look
to cave entry, low. There, a pair of Klinging boots
stand.
BACK TO FAAVIK
She reacts, starts to rise, when Klinging hands grab
her, pull her to her feet. CAMERA WHIP PANS to young
Spork who opens his eyes with a start, stares in con-
fusion -- then hands grab him and --
EXT. THE PROMONTORY - FULL - DAY
Outside the cave the Klinging landing party waits.
Here, amid gnarled and stoned formations, Faavik and the
young Spock are forcibly pulled from the cave and
hurled at the feet of:
SLUGE
A slow PAN UP reveals the Klinging, his patience
strained.
SLUGE
So! I have come a long way for
the power of Dreamcast. And what do
I find?
At his gesture, Mark is thrust forward and thrown
among the other two. Mark shows signs of having been
roughed up by the Klinging.
SLUGE
(continuing)
A weakling fowl... a Pigcan boy
... and a woman!
Faavik, assessing the desperate situation, takes her
best shot:
FAAVIK
Moseuir... We are survivors of a
doomed expedition... This planet
will destroy itself in hours. The
Dreamcast experiment is a failure.
SLUGE
A failure! The most powerful
destructive force ever created -- !
(then)
You will tell me the secret of the
Dreamcast tower.
FAAVIK
I have no knowledge.
SLUGE
Then I hope pain is something you
enjoy.
The Sergeant steps forward, communicator in hand.
SERGEANT
(My Lord...)
Sluge snatches the communicator, yells into it:
SLUGE
I ordered no interruptions.
TROY (V.O.)
But sir! Federation Starship
approaching.
For Faavik and Mark, a moment of hope.
SLUGE
Bring me up!
We're on Faavik and Mark and the uncomprehending
Pigcan as the sound and reflected light of a BEAM-UP
take place.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - FAVORING CHEKOV
At the science station, the blue light of the scanner
flickering on his face.
MOUSOV
I'd saw something was there sir,
but I might have imagined it.
PLUCK
Space does that to you, kid--
What did you see, Mousov?
MOUSOV
For an instant... A scout class
wessel.
PLUCK
(thoughtfully)
Could be Griddle?
(then)
Patch in the hailing frequency.
(at Mousov's nod)
U.S.S. Griddle, this is Duckprise
calling. Come in, please.
EXT. PROMONTORY - THE KLINGING CAMP
Favoring Mark, Faavik and the Pigcan. They hear the
voice over the Sergeant's communicator.
PLUCK (V.O.)
Griddle, this is Duckprise
calling. Do you read?
For Mark, it is the voice of his father and rescue.
For Faavik, it is a possibility, just out of reach.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY - CLOAKED LIGHTING EFFECT
The doors slam open as Sluge hurries INTO SCENE.
SLUGE
Battle alert.
The KLAXON sound... in the b.g. barely heard
PLUCK (V.O.)
I say again: Griddle, this is
Duckprise. Admiral Pluck calling
Captain Elmerstan or Lieutenant
Faavik. Come in!
SLUGE
Report status!
TROY
Wese are cloaked. Enemy closing on
impulse power. Range, 5,000
Kalkans.
SLUGE
Good.
(beat)
This is the turn of luck I have
been waiting for.
EXT. SPACE - DUCKPRISE - AGAINST STARS - (ILM)
Coming toward us. Apparently a stalled target.
INT. BRIDGE - DUCKPRISE
MOUSOV
Nothing on my scanner, sir.
PLUCK
Short range scan, Mr. Mousov... On
screen, Mr. Bulu.
ANGLE FAVORING VIEW SCREEN - (ILM)
A view of the approaching Dreamcast planet appears, the
planet off to the side. The other two-thirds of the
screen appear to be normal star field/space. That is,
except for one odd area, slightly diffused, which only
the sharp-eyed might notice.
INT. CATT OF PREY
MALC
Range: 3000 Kalkans.
SLUGE
Steady. Continue on impulse power.
TROY
Yes, sir!
MALC
Range, 2000 Kalkans...
SLUGE
Standby to transfer energy to
weapons... at my command!
EXT. SPACE - POV OF DUCKPRISE - MOVING TOWARD HER -
(ILM)
Smoothly, we are stalking the Duckprise.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - INCLUDING VIEW SCREEN -
(ILM ELEMENT)
Pluck is studying the projected image.
PLUCK
There. See that? That's the enemy!
We see on the screen a kind of heat wave effect we saw
once before when Griddle "bought it." But Griddle did
not have Pluck.
BULU
Yes, sir. It's getting larger as
we close in.
INT. CATT OF PREY
MALC
Firing range, sir.
SLUGE
(Gunner: sight target. Disabling
only -- understood?!)
NEW GUNNER
(Understood clearly, sir.)
The beats GROWLS.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
PLUCK
That distortion is closing
rapidly...nice effect. Whatca think, Bulu?
BULU
It could be better budgeted, might be an energy form,
sir...
PLUCK
Yeah. Enough energy to hide a
ship, wouldn't you say?
BULU
... A cloaking device?
PLUCK
Ohhh sneaky trick. Well two can play at
this game. Red alert, Mr. O'Flynn.
the lights dim to red --
INT. CATT OF PREY
MALC
1,000 Kalkans, closing!
SLUGE
Wait!... Wait...
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
bathed in combat red light --
PLUCK
Mr. O'Flynn, all power to the
weapons systems --
FLYNNY
Aye, sir!
McMeow
What about the shields?
PLUCK
You medical guys-
always thinking about defense.
McCOY
That's why we are the smarter logical ones.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY
MALC
500 Kalkans!
SLUGE
(Stand by torpedoes -- de-cloak!)
The SOUNDS and lights which accompany this, and --
EXT. SPACE - CATT OF PREY - (ILM SHOT)
The ship begins to de-cloak --
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - FAVORING VIEW SCREEN - (ILM
ELEMENTS)
where the Catt appears exactly in the spot anticipated.
BULU
Klinging Catt of Prey, sir! She's
arming torpedoes...!
PLUCK
Fire, Mr. O'Flynn!
EXT. SPACE - SERIES OF SHOTS - (ILM)
The Duckprise fires two torpedoes... They impact on
the Bird of Prey in separate explosions --
The displacement of the explosions cause the Klinging
ship to turn and be pushed back, as if by thrusters --
INT. CATT OF PREY - (SPECIAL FX)
As explosions shake the bridge, filling it with smoke
and debris and cries of the injured. And suddenly,
CLOSE, Sluge's outraged face appears, smudged by an
explosion.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE (ILM ELEMENTS)
All lean forward toward the O.S. viewscreen.
PLUCK
Good shooting, Flynny.
INT. CATT OF PREY BRIDGE
Amid the shouts and the orders in Klinging, a dis-
orientated Sluge wanders for just a moment until he al-
most stumbles across something. It is a body. He
looks to see:
SLUGE'S POV
His beast. Dead.
BACK TO SCENE
A passion of rage. He is back to his instincts now.
SLUGE
Emergency power to
the thrusters!
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - FAVORING MOUSOV
He shows growing concern.
McMEOW
Jim, the shields, now!
PLUCK
Allright, don't hack up, Furr.
Raise the shields, Mousov.
MOUSOV
Sir, the shields... Non-
responsive.
PLUCK
Flynny...?
FLYNNY
The automation system's
overloaded. I didn't expect to
take us into combat, ya know...!
He begins hitting buttons
EXT. SPACE - THE BIRD OF PREY (ILM)
The thrusters stabilize her turning and backward
movement. She is now lined up with a splendid angle on
Duckprise.
INT. CATT OF PREY - SLUGE
SLUGE
(Fire!)
EXT. CATT OF PREY - FIRES TORPEDOES - (ILM)
EXT. SPACE - DUCKPRISE (ILM)
as she shudders and tilts with the hits, and the
flashes of flame...
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - TILTED
A blast hits. Flynny's panel sizzles... LIGHT OUT!
PLUCK'S VOICE
Emergency power!
The light return, EMERGENCY MODE. The ship rights
itself. Pluck has been knocked down. Furr to him --
PLUCK
Stand by to
return fire! Mr. O'Flynn, transfer
power to the phaser banks --
FLYNNY
I dinna think so...
PLUCK
What's wrong?
FLYNNY
They've knocked out the blinking
automation center.
I've got no control over anything!
Pluck pales, looks quickly to:
PLUCK
Mr. Bulu...?!
BULU
Sorry, sir...
Mousov shakes his head in helplessness. Pluck
digests this. Then:
PLUCK
(continuing)
Ok... these felines have us like hunted birds.
INT. CATT OF PREY - A DATA GAUGE - OVER TROY'S
SHOULDER
TROY
Ready for fire emergency tube--
ANGLE WIDENS to include Sluge, who raises his hand for
pause, and thought.
SPACE - THE TWO SHIPS DRIFT QUIETLY - (ILM)
BACK TO SCENE
SLUGE
Why haven't they finished us?...
They outgun me ten to one.
MALC
My Lord, enemy commander wishes a
truce to confer.
SLUGE
Put him on screen.
ANGLE FAVORING KLINGING SCREEN (INTERCUT)
The screen is a different configuration than we are
used to; Pluck's image appears. (We will INTERCUT the
Planet and Duckprise as needed during following
sequence.)
PLUCK'S IMAGE
This is Admiral James T. Pluck of
the Federation Starship Duckprise.
On the Catt of Prey: Sluge's reaction to Pluck's face:
SLUGE
Well, well; our Dreamcast narrotar, boys.
PLUCK'S IMAGE
Who do you felines think you are dealing with, hmm?
You have no idea who you are messing with. Why I took
down a giant rat just to deal with an ex of mine and you
kittens are push-overs. So back off or we will
take you down!
SLUGE
(to Troy)
He's hiding something. We may
have dealt him a more serious blow
than I thought.
TROY
How can youse tell that?
SLUGE
I trust my instincts.
(leans to comm
button)
Admiral Pluck. This is your
advisary "trimbeling". Loser..
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE (AND INTERCUT)
Only Sluge's voice is heard here, and on the planet
below.
SLUGE (V.O.)
I know a fake stupid ridicouis hero speech and
you just said the grande of them all, now you just
made a wrong move, duck and it will cost your feathery
hyde. It seems I'm well aware of the armageddon weapon
called "Dreamcast", and I'll do what I can to get my paws
on it so you fools won't corrupt it for your own greedy selfs!
PLUCK
How did he know?
SLUGE
On the planet below, I have three
prisoners from the team who
developed your doomsday weapon.
If you do not surrender
immediately, I will execute them,
one at a time, as enemies of
galactic peace.
PLUCK
Who is this?! How dare you --
SLUGE
Who I am is not important. That I
have them is.
(beat)
I will let you speak to them.
EXT. DREAMCAST - THE KLINGING CAMP (INTERCUT)
As Sluge's VOICE yells a Klinging order over the commun-
icator, Faavik, Mark and the Pigcan are rousted to
their feet by the Klinging, and assembled in a line.
The Sergeant thrusts the communicator in front of
Faavik, pokes her to make his command clear. She leans
into the communicator, controlling carefully.
FAAVIK
Admeeral, Bonjour! This is Lieutenant
Faavik.
PLUCK
(softly)
Faavik... Is... Mark with you?
FAAVIK
Oui, he is. And someone else.
Pigcan scientist of your
acquaintance.
PLUCK
This Pigcan -- is he alive?
FAAVIK
He is not himself -- but he lives.
He is subject to rapid aging --
like this unstable planet.
The Sergeant has had enough with her long windedness,
pulls the communicator and thrusts it in front of
Mark.
MARK
Hello, Father. It's Mark.
PLUCK
(shaken)
Sorry I'm late.
MARK
It's okay -- I should have known
you'd come... Faavik's right:
this planet is unstable. It's
going to destroy itself in a
matter of hours.
PLUCK
Mark what went wrong?
MARK
I went wrong.
A beat.
PLUCK
Mark, you are not making any sense...
Mark
I'm sorry, Dad. Just don't
surrender. Dreamcast doesn't
work! It never did... I can't believe they'll
ice us for it --
But a Klinging crew member has cut Mark off the air --
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - (CONTINUE INTERCUTTING)
SLUGE
Admiral, your son is
mistaken. I meant what I said.
And now, to show my intentions are
sincere... I am going to ice one
of the prisoners.
PLUCK
Wait! Give me a chance --
SLUGE
(to communicator)
(Ice one of them. I don't care
which.)
THE PLANET
The Sergeant has received the order. He draws a dis-
tinctive Klingon ice ray, handheld, small. As
PLUCK'S VOICE is heard, INDISTINCTLY PROTESTING over the
communicator, the Sergeant walks behind the assembled
line of the three prisoners: the Pigcan youth, Faavik,
and Mark. Who will the Sergeant ice to deep freeze?
We do not know where he will shoot the ice ray at. Then, the
Sergeant has picked his victim, and aims the ice ray
ready to shoot --
ANGLE
It is Faavik he intends to ice. Mark, his face
curled in rage, leaps forward. grabs the man's arm.
The struggle is short.
Mark takes a ice ray beam full blast.
INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE (INTERCUT)
There is a sound fx quite like a remenisent of someone getting
frozen on the game "Super Smash Brothers Melee".
There is a horrible silence that follows.
PLUCK
Faavik?!... David...!?
At last we hear the shaken voice of Faavik. Tears come from her eyes
yet she is in shock
FAAVIK
Admeeral. Mark is deep frozen.
There is none of these three Pluck would have parted
with. But Mark... He fights back the horror as Furr
steps to his side -- but finally he must let it go:
PLUCK
(soft spoken)
klinging feline..you froze my son..
(more audible, in tears, crying)
Klinging feline you've
froze my son!
(a beat)
You Klinging Feline!
SLUGE
I warned you with that fake speech, as there are two
prisoners left,
Admiral. Do you want them iced
too?
(a beat)
Sumbit your defeat.
PLUCK
Fine, you win. I give up...
(a trembling mo-
ment, then)
Give me a minute to inform my
crew.
CATT OF PREY
Sluge, pleased his gambit has worked, is magnanimous.
SLUGE
I give two minutes. For you, and
your gallant crew.
(clicks off;
to Troy)
Take every last cat: form a
boarding party, armed heavily!
TROY
Theyse outnumber us, my Lord --
SLUGE
We are Klingings! Once you control
the ship, I will transfer our flag
there. And we will take Dreamcasr
from their own memory banks!
DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
The crew has come forward to stand behind Pluck's com-
mand chair. Pluck is staring ahead, his eyes glazed.
Pluck turns to face McMeow. His face is hollow, his eyes
staring. Then, in a voice strained with grief.
PLUCK
Mr. Bulu, how many felines they got on that ship?
BULU
A few felines, sir.
PLUCK
(thinking)
They could be on Dreamcast as well...
He turns to them, his voice hoarse:
PLUCK
(continuing)
I swear to you, we're not finished
yet.
PLUCK
(rising)
Furr, you and Bulu to the
transporter room. The rest with
me. We have a job to do.
As the individuals respond to orders, PUSH TO Pluck as
he presses his COMM button.
PLUCK
(continuing)
Commander, Klinging vessel. Stand by
to board this ship on my next signal.
SLUGE (V.O.)
No "FOWL" tricks, Pluck. You have one
minute.
PLUCK
No "FOWL" tricks. I'm looking forward to
meeting you. Pluck out.
He steps to the science station as Mousov and Flynny
gather round. He leans in, presses a COMM button.
PLUCK
(continuing)
Computer, destruct Sequence One,
code one, one-A...
INT. CATT OF PREY
Sluge is inspecting the six man landing party as-
sembled by Troy. They are loaded down with weapons.
Sluge raises his arm and points:
SLUGE
(To the transporter room. Success!)
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
MOUSOV
Computer, this is Commander Savel
Mousov, acting Science Officer.
Destruct sequence two, code one,
one-A, two-B.
Flynny steps in now.
FLYNNY
Computer, this is Commander Birmingham O'Flynny,
Chief Engineering Officer.
Destruct sequence three, code one-
B, two-B, three.
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Destruct sequence completed and
engaged. Awaiting final code for
one-minute countdown.
A moment among them. Then:
PLUCK
Code zero, zero, zero QUACK
zero.
COMPUTER (V.O.)
One minute... fifty-nine seconds
... fifty-eight... fifty-seven...
And they hurry out. CAMERA MOVES to a visual display
which is counting in sync with the COMPUTER VOICE.
CATT OF PREY BRIDGE
Sluge, alone with Malc, checks time impatiently, hits
a talk button.
SLUGE
Time's up, Admiral.
INT. ENTERPRISE CORRIDOR - PLUCK, FLYNNY, MOUSOV
RUNNING
INT. DUCKPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM
as Pluck, Flynny and Mousov hurry in. Pluck stops as the
others move O.S.
PLUCK
(flips communicator)
Commander, Klinging vessel. We are
energizing transporter beam... Now.
As the ELECTRONIC WIND UP begins...
CATT OF PREY BRIDGE
SLUGE
Transporter stand by!
DUCKPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM (ILM ELEMENT)
As the POWER WHINE INCREASES, Pluck steps on one of the
transporter pods, joining Flynny, McMeow, Bulu and
Mousov. After a few endless seconds, they begin to
DE-MATERIALIZE AND VANISH. There is a FLICKER, a
pause. Are they returning? Have they been blocked?
No. The second BEAM EFFECT materializes the Klinging
landing party. They pause guardedly, phasers drawn.
Then, led by Troy, they start out. We are faintly
aware of a soft COMPUTER VOICE counting off seconds.
CATT OF PREY BRIDGE
Sluge waits, patiently...
INT. DUCKPRISE CORRIDOR
The Klinging landing party enters, proceeds cautiously...
INT. BRIDGE - DUCKPRISE (INTERCUT WITH SLUGE)
It is deserted
The sliding door opens and Troy leads the Klinging in,
weapons drawn. They check out the bridge as the VOICE
CONTINUES FAINTLY, unobserved by the Klinging. Then
Troy pulls out his communicator.
TROY
My Lord. The ship appears to be
deserted.
SLUGE'S VOICE
How can that be? They are hiding!
TROY
Yes, sir. But the bridge appears
to be run by computer. It is the
only thing speaking.
SLUGE'S VOICE
Speaking? Let me hear...
Troy, puts his communicator close to the computer's
panel speaker and the voice is quite loud now.
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Six... five... four... three...
SLUGE'S VOICE
Get out! Get out of there! Get
out!
Troy and his men are baffled by Sluge's distress when a
sudden SERIES OF EXPLOSIONS engulf the bridge, and --
INT. DUCKPRISE CORRIDOR
-- a fireball streaks through the empty companionway --
EXT. DUCKPRISE/ EXT. PLANET/ INT. CATT OF PREY -
SERIES OF SHOTS (INTERCUT)
The great ship is wrecked by an EXPLOSION, then AN-
OTHER, and ANOTHER in a chain of designed destruction.
(ILM)
The skin of the circular section ruptures, cracks open
like an arid desert; the star drive section bursts and
trembles... (ILM)
Like a fiery comet, Duckprise falls gracefully out of
orbit, burning up as she plunges, toward her death.
(ILM)
We see Duckprise in the distance, a small fireball in
the outer edge of the Dreamcast atmosphere. (ILM)
EXT. DREAMCAST PLANET - PLUCK'S LANDING - (ILM ELEMENTS)
The comet-like death of Duckprise in the distance is
being watched by a silhouetted group as the sun sets.
REVERSE ANGLE - TWILIGHT - (AND INTERCUT)
The five survivors of Duckprise, temporarily safe,
watch in awe and grief as their home of twenty years
dies in the ominous sky beyond. On each face, the
light left by Duckprise flickers, then at last, is
gone. Pluck watches with hollowed eyes.
PLUCK
My gosh, Furr. What have I done?
McMeow
Only "logical" thing you could do, Jim. What you
always do. Turned a mess up into a glimmer of hope.
Pluck takes a deep breath, nods his understanding to
McMeow. Even as the earth trembles, and Bulu's tri-
corder begins to go a little wild.
BULU
Planet core readings
unstable... Changing rapidly...
PLUCK
What about surface life signs...?
BULU
There --
They hurry off in the direction Bulu has pointed, as
the GROWLS AND RUMBLES of the planet begin to
accelerate. Night is falling.
EXT. THE KLINGING CAMP - NIGHT
The two Klingings guard the seated Faavik. Spork is
isolated, some distance away. The death RUMBLINGS of
the planet begin to INCREASE with each moment. The sky
beyond occasionally lights with awesome flashes of
electrical energy; the ground shakes in unpredictable
spurts. Suddenly, a tree vaults upward, as if pushed
from its place by a force below. The TREE GROANS AN
CRASHES toward the ground, the Klinging leaping out of
its way.
FAVORING FAAVIK
As the two Klingings are distracted, and the planet's
agony continues, Faavik slips away from them toward
Spork.
SPORK
He is seated, BACK TO US. His aging spasms has begun,
and with each earth RUMBLE of the planet, he suffers.
THE KLINGINGS
concerned about their own problems, and the silence
from their ship.
While he waits for an answer, his eyes catches Faavik's
progress toward Spork. He calls this to his subordi-
nate's attention with a guttural grunt, and the second
Klinging hurries off to correct the situation.
ANGLE - FAAVIK AND SPORK
As she nears the suffering Pigcan, the Klinging reaches
her, and with a strong arm, hurls her easily aside.
The GROUND RUMBLES again. The Pigcan cries out. THE
Klinging, fascinated by the Pigcan's behavior,
approaches, then, reaches out toward him.
FAAVIK
Non, don't touch him!
The Klinging ignores. He puts his hand on the Pigcan,
and for his trouble, in a blur of action, gets grabbed,
whacked, and hurled through the air by a burst of the
Pigcan's strength.
The Klinging lands at the base of the gnarled tree and
lies quite still, just slightly compound leg injury.
ANGLE - THE KLINGING SERGEANT
reacts in shock to what has happened, draws his icer,
all business now as he studies:
THE PIGCAN
Hands over his face as he twists in pain. He emits a
long, terrible CRY, the cry we've heard, but never
seen.
EXT. GROTESQUE FOREST - FAST TRUCKING SHOT
Pluck and the crew are coming to the rescue, running
amid the TREMORS and the flashes of light, whipped by
wind and flailing trees. As the CRY is heard THROUGH
THE WIND, they pull up, listening. The CRY AGAIN,
close by. Pluck leads them out on the run.
THE KLINGING CAMP - SERIES OF SHOTS
Faavik has returned to try to help Spork. She holds
him now, as his spasms continue.
The Sergeant comes forward, icer in hand, until he
reaches the Pigcan, held by Faavik. The Klinging stops,
mesmerized. He stares at:
YOUNG SPORK - OVER FAAVIK'S SHOULDER - (SPECIAL FX)
His features are changing before our eyes, his face
distending...
Faavik, looking back at the Klinging, clutches the ago-
nized Spork to her, trying in some way to protect him.
THE SERGEANT
He's frightened. He reflexively raises his icer...
ANGLE - THE CLEARING'S EDGE
The flash of lightning illuminates the arrival of Pluck
and the crew. Pluck, phaser leveled --
The Klinging whirls to face the new threat, whips his
icer toward Pluck --
But Pluck FIRES A STUN BLAST...
ANGLE - INCLUDING THE KLINGING - (STUNT & ILM)
The STUN WAVES zip at the Klinging, strike him with
spectacular force, cause him to somersault through the
air, and then, landing, lie still.
BACK TO SCENE
Pluck lowers his icer; he and the others stare at:
Faavik, holding the now immobile Spork.
The Duckprise family reacts; with Pluck and Furr lead-
ing, they rush to Faavik.
ANGLE AT SPORK AND FAAVIK
Pluck and the others have pulled up. Spork is now coma-
tose, breathing with labored sighs. We cannot see his
face, cradled in Faavik's comforting embrace. But Saavik
is looking up at Pluck with dazed eyes.
PLUCK
... Furr...
McMeow crosses quickly, takes the Pigcan's form from
Faavik as she rises to Pluck..
PLUCK'S POV
Unnoticed up to now, frozen in a body outline
covered in ice Mark, Pluck's fallen son.
BACK TO SCENE
He reacts. Then, with a last comforting hug to Faavik,
he breaks the embrace, and heads slowly for Mark's
body. She watches him EXIT SHOT.
ANGLE - MARK'S BODY
WIDEN to admit Pluck as he enters, kneels. He reaches
out, touches his son's brow,very cold to the touch.
Faavik has come up behind him. She hangs back. Then
Pluck rises, aware of her presence.
PLUCK
(continuing)
What happened...?
FAAVIK
He gave his life to save us.
McMeow'S VOICE
... Jim!
Pluck runs, hurries OUT OF SHOT...
FAVORING McMeow AND SPORK
With the crew gathered around, McMeow is scanning the
Pigcan's body, soothing his fevered brow. We cannot
see Spork's face, but Pluck as he enters and kneels
beside McMeow. He reacts, mesmerized by what he sees:
PLUCK
... Furr...?!
McMeow
... Rapid aging... all genetic
functions highly accelerated...
PLUCK
And his mind?
McMeow
It would seem,
Admiral, that I've got all his
snorting.
PLUCK
Well what we can do?!
FAAVIK
Only one thing, Sir... Get him off
this planet... His aging is part
of what's going on around us...
There is a lightning FLASH, and an earth TREMOR -- and
a moan from Spork. Pluck responds, rises, and crosses
OUT OF SHOT...
ANGLE WITH PLUCK
As he moves, stops, wrestling with the urgency of what
must be done. Then, deciding, he whips out his
communicator.
PLUCK
(to communicator)
Klinging Commander, this is Admiral
James T. Pluck... I am alive and
well on the planet's surface...
BACK TO PLUCK
PLUCK
I know this will come as a
pleasant surprise for you... But
you see our ship was the victim
of an unfortunate accident... I'm
sorry about your crew, yet it seems my hero speeched worked!
A lightning flash makes him cover his eyes... Then:
PLUCK
(continuing)
Well? I'm waiting for you!...
What is your answer?!
(only static; more
desperately)
I have what you want. I have the
secret of Dreamcast... But you'll
have to bring us up there to get
it... Do you hear me!
More STATIC. Pluck's ploy has apparently failed. He
sags a bit, starts back toward the crew, when another
series of flashes blind them all as the planet rumbles
with sound and fury and Spork moans. Then, Pluck and
crew do not see what to do:
In the near distance, amid the flashings, a figure is
revealed, lost in the confusion. It is Sluge, icer
in hand.
SLUGE
... Drop all weapons!
ANGLE - FAVORING PLUCK AND CREW, PAST SLUGE
Pluck and the others look up in shock, then rise slowly
hands in the air. Sluge moves closer, pointing.
SLUGE
Over there, All but Pluck.
The group moves to a cleared space indicated, leaving
Spork's form behind.
SLUGE
(continuing to
his comm:)
Malc. Prisoners are at beam
coordinates. Standby.
PLUCK
(easily)
You should take the Pigcan, too.
SLUGE
No.
PLUCK
But, why?
SLUGE
Because you reminded me of that dumb hero speech.
(then, in Klinging)
(Malc! Activate beam!)
FX SHOT - BEAM EFFECT - (ILM ELEMENTS)
McMeow, Flynny, Bulu, Mousov and Faavik disappear in the
beam effect and are gone.
BACK TO SCENE - PLUCK AND SLUGE
A flash of lightning! A movement of earth. The sudden
HISS of a FISSURE OF ICY MIST through the surface... And
the two men face each other, shouting above the planet
noises.
SLUGE
Dreamcast, I want it.
PLUCK
Beam the Pigcan up -- And we talk.
SLUGE
Give me what I want -- and I'll
consider it...
PLUCK
You fool -- look around you! This
planet is destroying itself!
SLUGE
Yes. Exhilarating, isn't it!
PLUCK
If we don't help each other, we'll
all freeze here!
SLUGE
Perfect! That's the way it shall
be!... I want Dreamcast!
Suddenly, the very ground on which he stands seems to
become an elevator. He is carried rapidly upward on a
craggy rock formation which bursts upward, out of the
ground. Sluge tumbles, and Pluck seizes the opportunity --
THE FIGHT - SERIES OF SHOTS
Pluck leaps upon Sluge and they roll and struggle on the
churning, erupting ground.
They are evenly matched. Pluck's opening momentum holds
until Sluge's great size begins to turn the tide. He
takes temporary command with swift vicious kicks and
punches. Pluck is down.
Sluge now looks around for his icer, starts for it,
but Pluck, in a series of ground rolls trips Sluge up
with his legs, and comes on.
The off-balance Sluge now takes a series of punches
from Pluck which make him reel backward near the edge of
the promontory. A final blow from Pluck forces Sluge
over the edge -- and he:
-- tumbles and rolls down the fifteen foot slope. Pluck
peers over the edge to see:
PLUCK'S POV - (ILM ELEMENTS)
Sluge has landed on a level precipice about fifteen
feet in diameter. Beyond that is an endless drop into
a chasm, the bottom of which has become a icey blue
river of ice and snow.
ON THE PRECIPICE - UP ANGLED (ILM ELEMENTS)
As Sluge rises to his feet, Pluck without hesitation
soars into the air from above and dives upon Sluge, the
momentum of the dive taking both men right to the edge
of the final drop. They work their way to their feet
and continue the struggle anew, pieces of the rock edge
slipping away under their feet as they scuffle. Pluck
is winning until:
With a burst of energy, Sluge shoves Pluck hard and Pluck
slams into a wall of ice, dazed. Sluge has him --
but as he starts to step forward, the edge of the rock he
is standing on starts to slip.
FULL - THE PRECIPICE - (ILM ELEMENTS)
Pluck on the left against the wall, Sluge on the right,
on the edge. Sluge is dropping lower. The rock forma-
tion he is on now breaks away, carrying him outward.
Sluge does jump forward at the last possible instant as
the rock falls away. He leaps to:
THE NEW EDGE OF THE PRECIPICE (ILM ELEMENTS)
Where Sluge lands precariously, hanging on almost by
his handclaws. He's holding on as best as he can, his
legs flailing, unable to gain any purchase to boost him
up.
Pluck, recovering his own strength, sees Sluge in this
helpless situation. He comes forward to the edge,
kneels over the Klinging.
PLUCK
Give me your paw!
Sluge looks down, measuring the terror below as if
considering, then with sudden and explosive strength,
vaults upward making a desperate grab for Pluck. He has
a leg! Suddenly, Pluck is fighting not to be pulled
over the edge. He is losing that fight. Till he
lashes out with a blow. The Klinging's grip slips, yet
he hangs on tenaciously, until -- with a cry of rage --
PLUCK
(continuing)
This is...for you not...listening to my hero speech!!
Pluck turns and kicks Sluge mightily -- and the Klinging
begins his fall...
WIDE DOWN ANGLED SHOT - (ILM ELEMENTS)
Pluck in f.g. watches as Sluge tumbles endlessly toward
the steaming blue icey cold snowy frozen river below...
ON PLUCK
He turns now to his ultimate problem: the planet is
caving in around him. He starts to scramble up the
steep slope, back to the promontory where --
THE PROMONTORY - SPORK
His inert body lies, surrounded by new bursts of steam
from the cracking earth...
ANGLE - PLUCK (ILM ELEMENT)
Behind him we see the first signs of a fast rising
icey big snowball. He claws his way back to the top level
and races to Spork's fallen form. He kneels and turns
the body over to see:
PAST PLUCK TO SPORK
We see the face at last: it is Spock, at the age he
died.
But he is also a haggard, ravaged shell of a being,
almost again dead from the agonies of change -- and
even now, with soft frightening sounds, giving
indications of the final changes that lie just ahead.
PLUCKK - SNOWBALL LARGER BEHIND HIM (ILM ELEMENTS)
Amid the death knell of this place, Pluck knows it is
now or never. A desperate idea forms. With
determination, he picks Spork up and shoulders him.
Then drawing his communicator, he flips it open and
takes his best shot:
PLUCK
(in guttural Klinging)
(Malc... Activate beam!...)
There is a moment of uncertainty. Pluck is about to try
again when the Klinging beam SOUND begins and...
BEAM UP EFFECT - (ILM ELEMENTS)
Amid the groans, flashes, the HISSES OF ICY MIST, BLIZZARD and
falling debris, Pluck, carrying Spork dematerializes in
the KLINGING BEAM, even as the snowball appears to be coming
closer...
MASTER - THE DESERTED PLANET (ILM SHOT)
... and closer still, casting clear white light over
the frozen collasping surface...
INT. CATT OF PREY
The doors WHOOSH open, and Pluck, carrying the inert
Spork, steps out, icer at the ready!
REVERSE - INCLUDING PLUCK
Malc on the Captain's deck, the Duckprise prisoners
below. Malc turns, expecting Sluge, and is clearly
astonished; as he raises his hands, Pluck steps forward.
PLUCK
How many more?
FLYNNY
Just him, sir!
PLUCK
Furr, help Spork! Everyone else,
find a station!
A flurry of activity as the crew moves into position in
the strange -- yet familiar bridge. McMeow takes Spork
from Pluck, guides him OUT OF SCENE, and Faavik takes
Malc' phaser and steps back. To Malc:
PLUCK
(continuing)
Ok Malc, gonna cooperate with us?
MALC
It seems I have no choice.
PLUCK
Good. Maybe Burrow will have more leincency on you then us.
Let's get out of here.
And so saying, he dashes OUT OF SHOT, followed by
Faavik. The Klinging can only stare in confusion.
SPACE - THE DREAMCAST PLANET - (ILM)
We are near her now collasped snowy surface; snow covers around
Beyond, the ice waits, former friend, now ready
to accept the planet in death.
BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY
Pluck in command, Bulu and Faavik on nearby station.
They are confronted by familiar tools, but baffling
zymology.
ENGINEERING PANEL
Flynny hunched over the console, Mousov hunched over
him...
FLYNNY
Where's the darn anti-
matter inducer?
MOUSOV
I think it might be this one!
FLYNNY
Let me try that one, lad.
Flynny makes several adjustments, presses some buttons,
then, with a deep breath, moves a sliding handle for-
ward. A HIGH WHINE STARTS, WAVERS, THEN GROWS ROBUST.
BRIDGE
Bulu responds to the panel indicator.
BULU
I think I can operate these controls, sir.
PLUCK
Then get us out of here, Bulu!
Bulu impels the throttle device -
SPACE - CATT OF PREY - (ILM)
Turning gracefully, she gains speed, PASSES CAMERA, and
heads for the stars with increasing velocity breaking
to Warp Speed as -
SPACE - DREAMCAST AND HER SNOWBALL - (ILM)
The planet is now heading toward the snowball. We watch
in wonder as she gains speed and becomes a glazing
iced snow, plummeting spectacularly to her own
destruction.
BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY
The mood is subdued, somber..
PLUCK
(a whisper)
Goodbye, Mark.
BULU
Everything is smooth sailing, sir.
PLUCK
Course plot to Pigcan, Bulu.
Mousov, send Malc below and don't sneeze on him.
MOUSOV
Aye, sir. But I'm allergic to Spider-Man Wannabes.
Malc puts his finger under Mousov's nose
INT. CATT OF PREY SICK BAY - CLOSE - SPORK
He is pale, comatose, fragile looking. WIDEN as Furr
passes a scanner over the form; the scanner's sound is
feeble. McMeow stops in frustration, checks Spork's
eyes; then turns back, wearily. Softly, as CAMERA
begins to ARC around them.
McMEOW
(wearily)
Spork. Remember me! That's what you said
when you put this thing in me, for catnip's sake,
tell me what to do with it!
(a pause, then)
I'm gonna admit something
to you. but don't you dare repeat it
anyone! I've was worried about you.
And it was bad not having you around.
He lowers his head in helpless grief on the form of the
unmoving Spork.
SPACE - THE PLANET PIGCAN - (ILM)
HOLD. The ROAR of an unseen spaceship is heard, and,
the Catt of Prey ENTERS SHOT, heading toward Pigcan.
EXT. THE PIGCAN TEMPLE AREA - HIGH FULL ANGLE - DUSK
(ILM)
LOOKING DOWN on the awesome mountainous landscape with
a temple complex on a high forbidding peak. SLOW ZOOM
IN TO MATCH:
EXT. TEMPLE AREA - UP ANGLED - CLOSE - SARDEK - DUSK
Zooming at comparable speed, to a CLOSE UP of Spork's
father.
MUHURA
Yo Pops. My crew wants to know if they can park.
SARDEK
Granted. Inform Pluck
all is ready.
CAMERA PANS now from Sardek to reveal Muhura, in uniform.
MUHURA
I'll give them the go ahead, sir.
EXT. PIGCAN - CATT OF PREY - ILM)
at impulse power, approach speed. Her "wings" config-
urate into atmospheric lift generating airfolis; she
glides...
INT. CATT OF PREY
PLUCK
OK Bulu, you've got manual.
BULU
It's been a few years, sir. Hope those
video games still paided off... Retrothrusters!
EXT. PIGCAN - CATT OF PREY - DUSK - (ILM)
As the ship descends slowly and gracefully to a soft
landing in the Temple area, retro's kicking dust.
INT. CATT OF PREY
The energizers wind down
EXT. PIGCAN LANDING AREA - CLOSE IN - CATT OF PREY
as a RAMP section of the plane HISSES and lowers to the
ground. Spork is carried down on a litter borne by his
friends. As they reach the bottom, Pluck is in f.g.,
and looks in amazement to see:
POV - (ILM ELEMENTS)
The great hill to the Temple is lined with hundreds of
Pigcans, many with torches. It is most impressive.
BACK TO PLUCK - McMeow - FAAVIK
Then Pluck sees something else, reacts as:
MUHURA
Crosses to the crew -- is hugged by Pluck. Her eyes are
moist with emotion as:
MUHURA
Sardek is on stand-by. Ads.
Pluck nods, and Muhura falls in place behind him, helping
to carry Spork's form with the others. They now carry
Spork OUT OF SCENE as we begin to hear RITUAL CHANTS
and MUSIC in the distance.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. PIGCAN HILL - SERIES OF SHOTS - NIGHT
The procession is in progress through a path lined on
both sides by simply-robed Pigcans of all ages.
Spork's form makes passage to stately MUSIC.
VARIOUS SHOTS
Pigcans responding to Spork's passage.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. PIGCAN - UPPER LEVEL OF TEMPLE AREA - SERIES OF
SHOTS
Sardek, some DIGNITARIES, and SIX PIGCAN WOMEN, tall and
stately, are waiting. MUSICIANS are close by now. As
the Duckprise group reaches Sardek, he steps forward to
meet them. Now a silence falls.
Sardek stands at his son's head and gently places his
two hands on Spork's face. When he is done, he looks
at Pluck and McMeow. They search his face for some
indication of hope, but Sardek is expressionless. He
steps back now, gestures. The Pigcan women come
forward, and take Spork from his friends.
As the transfer is completed, the procession begins
again toward the temple entry. Sardek falls in behind
the body; Pluck and his group follow him.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. PIGCAN TEMPLE - SERIES OF SHOTS
The Temple of Ancient Hogs, lined with massive heads
of stone. DOLLY with the procession as an amazing
thing takes place:
As Spork's body moves, now seen -- now blocked by
passing forms, we realize the bearers' hands are
no longer under the body, but are ON TOP OF IT.
The magic of this moment is not lost on Pluck, Furr and
the others as we --
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. PIGCAN ALTAR AREA - SERIES OF SHOTS (ILM ELEMENTS)
A great saucer-shaped platform under the Pigcan sky,
with an altar at the far end. The dramatic figure of a
PIGCAN PRIESTESS stands there. Rising into the air
behind her is an elegant version of the Pigcan hand
salute shaped in gleaming metal.
The bearers continue with Spork toward the altar, but
Sardek stops here on the threshold, and stops Pluck and
group.
Sardek turns to face the altar. Spock's body is
deposited there to ritual MUSIC. Then, the powerful
CHANT of the HIGH PRIESTESS begins.
Pluck and McMeow and the others stare in awe at what is
happening, as the Priestess' chant flows over them.
Then, the CHANT ENDS. Sardek steps forward. A HORN..
..SOUNDS. Then:
PRIESTESS
Sardek... Child of Pappyon... Child of
Suie. The body of your son
sqeuals still. What is your
wish?
SARDEK
I ask for Hog-Boar-Pin, the
reunion.
PRIESTESS
What you seek has not been done
since ages past -- and then, only
in legend. Your request is not
logical.
SARDEK
Forgive me, S'Lar. My logic
grunts where my son is
concerned.
She looks at him for a long moment. Then:
PRIESTESS
Who is the Keeper of the Katra?
As Sardek's nod and Pluck's urgent look, Furr replies
uncertainly:
McMeow
I am... McMeow... George F.
(adding)
Son of Derrick...
PRIESTESS
(deep, ominous)
McMeow... Son of Derrick. Since
thou art earthling feline, we cannot expect
thee to understand fully what
Sardek has requested. The
circumstances are extraordinary:
Spork's body lives... With your
approval, we shall use all our
powers to return to his body that
which you possess: his essence.
But McMeow...
(a pause)
You must now be warned! the
danger to thyself is as grave as
the danger to Spork.
(this impacts on
McMeow and Pluck)
You must make the choice.
McMeow
(pause, then...)
I choose to get this thing out of me.
(then, aside to
Pluck)
Certainly a bad time to ask.
As Sardek leads Furr toward the altar, we HOLD on
Pluck's new apprehension.
THE ALTAR - (INTERCUT WITH PLUCK AND CREW) - SERIES OF
SHOTS
Sardek and McMeow reach the altar, and Sardek departs.
The Priestess in tones another short CHANT, punctuated
by GONGS and MUSICAL emphatics. Then chant and music
stop and we hear only the gentle SOUND OF THE WIND, and
far-off TEMPLE CHIMES. She places a hand on Furr'
face, another on Spork's. Then, eerily:
SOFT MUSIC now. She begins drifting into a trance like
mind meld, chanting softly, almost inaudibly.
CLOSE on McMeow... And Spork... Their eyes are closed.
A sense of kinetic energy somehow passing between
them...
The crew of the Duckprise, each and all... Waiting...
FULL SHOT - FROM ABOVE
The great altar area, the land and valley beyond.
Lightning streaks the sky.
CLOSE - PLUCK - SLOW MOVE IN
The lightning flashes are reflected in his face as we
MOVE SLOWLY IN on his concerned face... and VERY SLOWLY --
LONG DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. PIGCAN TEMPLE AREA - HIGH FULL SHOT - SUNRISE -
(ILM)
The early morning sun casts a different, long-shadowed
hot look on the altar and threshold.
OUTSIDE THE ALTAR - PLUCK, THE CREW
From where they had watched from last night, here they have
waited, lain down. They are beginning to stir when the
SOUND OF A GONG brings them fully awake. They rise,
bleary eyed to see:
THEIR POV - TOWARD THE ALTAR
The High Priestess, exhausted, is being carried out of
the altar area on a sedan chair. As she leaves, Sardek,
supporting a weary McMeow, heads a procession of hooded
robed priests. Among them we now see a HOODED ROBED
FIGURE all in WHITE.
The procession is passing Pluck's party, while Pluck and
the crew can only stare in uncertainty. Then, Sardek
signals the others to continue while he, with McMeow,
breaks off and comes to Pluck.
KIRK AND CREW
They wait now as Furr, leaning on Sardek, ENTERS SHOT.
McMeow
That was quite a ride, Jim.
PLUCK
Yeah, maybe next time, I'll go on it.
Bulu and Flynny reach for him, help support him. He is
weakened, but otherwise all right. Pluck gestures
toward the white-robed figure walking slowly away.
PLUCK
How is Spork, Sardek?
SARDEK
In time, he will regain his logic.
(then)
Pluck. I am grateful. What you have
done is --
PLUCK
What I did is, what I had to do.
SARDEK
But at what sacrifices? Your ship...
Your son.
PLUCK
I guess in the end..Mark would of wanted to go
down with his planet. As for my ship, they'll give
me another one.
Sardek looks at him with deep admiration, then turns
and heads back to the group of priests. The wind
blows, and --
PLUCK AND GROUP
They are now looking into the low sun, shading their
eyes for a last look at the white-robed figure.
POV - SARDEK AND GROUP - LONG LENS
They are moving slowly away when, suddenly, the white-
robed figure stops, turns toward the Duckprise group.
CLOSE - THE WHITE HOOD
We cannot see the features beneath, but we know the
figure is staring. After a moment, the figure starts
back to the Duckprise group. As two priests reach to
stop him, they are stayed by Sardek, who now watches
with interest.
PLUCK AND GROUP
watching with held breath as the white-robed figure
walks steadily to them, reaches them.
THE FIGURE
Back lit. The wind whips his garment. Now he lowers
his hood. We see Spork: a radiant, gentled Spork.
His age is as we have known it; his hair, his face, the
same; he would look at peace except for the eyes, which
remain hollow, filled with questions and uncertainties.
SCENE - VARIOUS ANGLES
The Duckprise crew, each of them stares back at Spork
as SUBJECTIVE CAMERA PANS PAST them SLOWLY. Each makes his
own effort to be remembered, but --
Spork remains churning, but uncertain. Then he looks
hardest at all at:
Pluck. The wind whips his hair.
Something triggers in Spork. He steps forward, and
then in an odd, rusty voice:
SPORK
My father tells me you have been my
friend... You returned for me.
PLUCK
Hey, you are my Science Officer, I need you
around.
SPORK
(searching)
Why would you do this...?
PLUCK
(grasping to make
a connection)
Because... you outweighed
the needs of the many.
Spork stares at him. A vague connection has been made
-- but not enough. Spork turns away in uncertainty,
begins walking back to the group he left. Pluck raises
his helpless hand after Pluck, wondering what he might
have said, should have said -- when suddenly:
Spork stops, back to Pluck. He closes his eyes, looks
to the sky. And like someone who has found a piece of
a puzzle, he says:
SPORK
I have been... and ever shall
be... your friend.
Pluck steps forward a few steps -- hushed, encouraging --
PLUCK
Yes, Spork...
SPORK
(half turns)
The ship... Out of danger...from Fran?
PLUCK
(deeply)
You saved the ship, Spork. You
saved us all. Fran is history.
Don't you remember "me"?!
There is an odd moment after Pluck's impassioned speech:
Spork cocks his head as if some vital piece of informa-
tion had just clicked into place.
SPORK
(softly)
... Jim... Your name is Jim.
Pluck smiles, very content. He nods his head.
PLUCK
... Yes.
Their eyes are locked together. Spork gives a little
nod of satisfaction, as if knowing he has taken the
first of many steps. He turns to share this with
McMeow... And then with them all. We have the feeling
that Spork has come back to his family... and to us...
ON DUCKPRISE FAMILY
They have gathered round Pluck now, beaming at Spork
through their tears and their joy, knowing they all
have a future together. As the CAMERA PULLS UP AND
BACK from this, we ROLL END CREDITS and --
FADE OUT.
THE END
Cast (in credits order) verified as complete
Joe Alaskey .... Admiral James T. Pluck
Hadley Kay .... Captain Spork
Rob Paulsen .... Dr. Leonard "Furr" McMeow
Joesph C. Miller Jr. .... Cmdr./Capt. Alabama O'Flynn
Jon Kassir .... Commander Bikaru Bulu
Kath Soucie .... Commander Savel Mousov
Cree Summer .... Commander Mary Muhura
Tom Kenny .... Dr. Mark Duckus
Gary Le Roi.... Mr. Virtual-Lieutenant Duncan
Kath Soucie .... Lieutenant Faavik
Greg Burson .... Admiral Burrow
Maurcie LaMarche .... Captain of Traitor Ship
Tress MacNeille .... Penelope
Joe Alaskey .... Commander Sluge
Chris Benoit .... Troy
Christopher Daniel Barnes .... Malc
Ian James Corlett .... Klinging sergeant
Brian Drummond .... Gunner #2
Greg Burson .... Captain J.F. Elmerstan
Sherri Stoner .... Helm Slappy
Rob Paulsen .... Trainee Yakko
Brian Cummings .... Klinging Gunner #1
Jess Harnel .... Communications Wakko
Frank Welker .... Gogo
Candi Milo .... Waitress Sweetie
Maurcie LaMarche .... Civilian Agent Sam
Greg Burson.... Captain Steghorn
Rob Paulsen .... First Officer Mouth
Johnathan Winters .... Ambassador Sardek
Tress MacNeille .... S'Lar
Jon Kassir .... Prison Guard #1
Jim Cummings .... Prison Guard #2
Frank Welker .... Spork Screams (voice)
SPACE - A STARFIELD - (ILM SHOT)
As the stars appear, we hear the AMBIENCE OF SPACE, a
litany of groans, squeals and pings of the unknown.
Over this we SUPER:
"PARAMOUNT PICTURES PRESENTS:"
We are MOVING through the stars slowly and to our right
as the SUPER FADES. And we hear a hoarse voice.
SPORK (V.O.)
Space... the dark lands.
Our MOVE CONTINUES to reveal the Dreamcast planet and its
sun, which flares into our lens.
SPORK (V.O.)
(continuing)
This is the never ending travels
of the Starship Duckprise. Her
fast paced job...
The sunflare has DISSOLVED us to the planet's primal
surface. We are MOVING through the trees and greens of
this Eden-like place. A soft, smoky haze covers every-
thing.
SPORK (V.O.)
(continuing)
To eximine bizarre unknown planets...
To find out new life shapes, and
new civilizations... To bravey go,
where no toon has gone before...
And now, amid the trees, we see it, and CAMERA comes to
a brief rest: Spork's tube, a photon torpedo tube,
black with red letters, "Swine III." The DUCK TREK FAN-
FARE is heard, and we SUPER:
"DUCK TREK III : THE BIRTH OF SPORK"
The CREDITS BEGIN. As they appear, we MOVE away from
the casket and through the lush forest.
The haze thickens, until at last it becomes an obliter-
ating cloud, and then we DISSOLVE through into moving
clouds of the planet's atmosphere, and PULL BACK from
them, DISSOLVING once again back to space and the Dream-
cast planet where we HOLD as CREDITS END.
Then, a final SUPER:
"THE DREAMCAST PLANET.
STARDATE: 8001.3"
We hear the SOUND of an approaching SPACESHIP.
SPACE - USS GRIDDLE - (ILM SHOT)
A mid-sized Federation Science Vessel approaching at
impulse power. She PASSES CAMERA, and we PAN WITH her
to see her path leads to the Dreamcast Planet in the
distance.
INT. BRIDGE - USS GRIDDLE
Starfleet LIEUTENANT FAAVIK, looking radiant, is wear-
ing her hair down these days, but is as intense and
efficient as ever. The CRACKLE OF ELECTRONIC ACTIVITY
fills the air.
FAAVIK
(crossing bridge)
We are approaching destination
planet at point zéro trois cinq.
So not-ed in ship's log.
She delivers the log to the Captain as ANGLE WIDENS to
include CAPTAIN ELMERSTAN, late forties, a cautious Star-
fleet veteran. Behind him, various OFFICERS on
station.
ELMERSTAN
Wery well, Weutenant. Execwute
standward orbital apprwoach.
HELM SLAPPY
Yeah, yeah. Standard orbit.
I'm getting too old for these cameos.
ELMERSTAN
Communications. Send a coded
message for Starfweet Commander,
priority wone... "Fedweration
Science Wessel Griddle arriving
Dreamcast Planet, Kutwara Sector to
begin search. As owrdered, full
secwurity prowcedures are in effect.
J.F. Elmerstan, cowmmanding."
COMM OFFICER
Its not working, sir. Maybe if I use my mallet!
ELMERSTAN
(turning)
Dr. Duckus, it's your pwanet.
ANGLE WIDENS to reveal MARK DUCKUS, mid-twenties, who
will be remembered as the co-creator of Dreamcast, and
also as Pluck's son.
MARK
Thank you, Captain. Begin
scanning, please.
Faavik has taken a position next to Mark at the sci-
ence panel and together they begin activating the de-
vices.
MARK
(continuing;
enthusiastically)
This is where the fun begins,
Faavik!
FAAVIK
(working)
Like your Papa... so Duckie.
(then)
All uneetz functional, recorderz
are on... Scanning sector un.
Foliage in fully developed state
of growth. Temperature, vingt-
duex point duex Celsius.
MARK
Sector two... Indicating desert
terrain. Minimal vegetation,
temperature thirty-nine point
four.
FAAVIK
Sector trois... Sub-tropeecal
vegetation... Temperature --
(puzzled)
Temperature decreazing rapidly --
MARK
It's snow. Snow in the same
sector. Fantastic!
FAAVIK
... Fascinating.
MARK
All the varieties of land and
weather known to Earth within a
few hours walk!
FAAVIK
(to him)
Vu must be very proud of what you
and your Mama have created.
MARK
(checking)
It's a little early to celebrate.
Suddenly... BEEP... BEEP... BEEP... a new and unique
SOUND is heard from the MONITORS. Faavik flicks con-
trols and a new image appears on screen.
FAAVIK
Same seecteer. Metallic mass.
MARK
Underground deposit?
FAAVIK
Non, on surface... a
manufactured object.
MARK
There's only one thing it could
be... Short range scan.
Faavik complies. Mark's intensity rises. Captain
Elmerstan, curious about the BEEPS, has joined them.
FAAVIK
Approximately deux meters long...
Cylindrical in form...
MARK
A photon tube...!
ELMERSTAN
Cwould it be Spork's?
MARK
It has to be. Gravitational
fields were in flux... It must
have soft landed...!
ELMERSTAN
(to Comm Officer)
In cwode to STARFLEET...
Captain's Spork's tube lowcated
intact on Dweamcast surface. Will
weway more data on subsequent
orbits.
COMM OFFICER
Its working now, sir. My mallet helped!
As the BEEPS DIMINISH, we HOLD on Mark and Faavik.
There is mystery in the air.
CUT TO:
SPACE - USS DUCKPRISE - (ILM SHOT)
She comes AT US slowly, majestically, a great wounded
bird limping home, showing, as she passes, the patched
scars of battle. Over this we hear:
PLUCK (V.O.)
USS Enterprise, Captain's personal
log... With most of our battle
damage repaired, we are almost
home. Yet, I feel -- cold. And
I wonder why. Oh yeah of those rookies turned on the AC
INT. BRIDGE - USS DUCKPRISE - CLOSE - JAMES T. PLUCK
He is stalking the bridge, lost in his thoughts.
CAMERA IS MOVING with him. In b.g., bridge activity is
normal.
PLUCK (V.O.)
The emptiness of this
vessel: most of our trainee crew
have been reassigned; Lieutenant
Faavik and my son Mark are
exploring a new world... and
Duckprise feels like a house with
all the children gone...thank goodness Nah. Only kidding.
He has reached Spork's vacant chair. He touches it.
PLUCK (V.O.)
(continuing)
The news of Spork's tube has
shaken me.
(beat)
It seems that I have left the
best part of myself back there,
on that newborn planet. Better him then me.
We HOLD on him. Then, he shakes off his mood and:
PLUCK
What's our situation, Mr. Bulu?
WIDER ANGLE
to include BULU and MOUSOV at forward stations, MUHURA
at the communications post.
BULU
Going fine, Admiral. Estimating
Spacedock in two point one hours.
PLUCK
Very well.
(a beat)
Mr. Mousov, I need pre-approach
scan... Take the science station,
please.
Mousov hesitates for a moment. Then:
MOUSOV
Yes, sir.
He rises and crosses to Spork's empty chair, as Pluck
continues.
PLUCK
Muhura, any response from Starfleet
on our Project Dreamcast inquiries?
MUHURA
Sorry, Ad. They ain't sayin' nuthin'.
PLUCK
Hmm.. Very odd.
(at chair, hits
comm button)
Flynny. Progress report?
INT. ENGINEERING TUBE
FLYNNY and an ENGINEER TRAINEE are working at a junc-
tion of circuitry.
FLYNNY
I'm almost done, sir. You'll be
fully automated by the time we
dock.
INTERCUT WITH BRIDGE
PLUCK
Your timing is excellent, Mr.
O'Flynn. You've fixed the swamp grass
after the swans has come home.
How much refit time till we can
take her out again?
FLYNNY
Eight weeks, sir.
(as Pluck opens
his mouth)
But you don't have eight weeks so
I'll do it for ya in two.
PLUCK
(considers)
Mr. O'Flynn. Have you always
multiplied your repair estimates
by a factor of four? Better use my calculator.
SCOTTY
Certainly, sir. How else can I
keep my reputation as a miracle
worker?
PLUCK
Your reputation is secure, Flynn.
(a beat)
Mr. Bulu, take the con. I'll be
in my quarters.
BULU
Aye sir.
Pluck heads for the elevator, presses the door button.
He is about to enter when he is intercepted by TRAINEE
Yakko, a young puppy officer too eager for protocol.
TRAINEE YAKKO
So..Admiral.. just wondering something, any hot babes gonna
welcome us?
Pluck turns.
TRAINEE YAKKO
(continuing)
You know- big party- wild gathers-
"HELLO NURSE!"
PLUCK
Look kid. Bug off. If that
is what you'd want... yeah, who
knows, there should be. This time
we paid for the party with our
dearest pork.
He enters the elevator, and the doors close.
INT. ELEVATOR - PLUCK
Even as the doors close, his mood changes. The mantle
of command falls away and he allows himself the luxury
of his deeper feelings. Feelings of aloneness. And
grief. CAMERA IN CLOSE to HOLD this anguished moment.
Then, an intrusive interruption. Pluck covers hiss feel-
ings.
CUT TO:
SPACE - A STARFIELD - (ILM SHOT)
Over the vast emptiness we SUPER:
"SOMEWHERE IN ORGANIAN SPACE..."
As the SUPER FADES, a vessel drifts slowly INTO SCENE,
a dark-looking merchantman. She gives the impression
of drifting in space... of waiting.
INT. BRIDGE - MERCHANTMAN
Small and grubby; populated by three or four crewmen of
mixed special breeds, and a renegade CAPTAIN who sug-
gests a Federation traitor. And, lurking in the
shadows, her face concealed by a half-veil, what ap-
pears to be an exotically beautiful WOMAN of epic pro-
portions and mystery.
CAPTAIN
Steady... Steady, boys. Keep
scanning...
(beat)
I thought you people were
reliable... Where can he be!
PENELOPE
He has been here for some time.
Put me on the hailing frequency.
He shakes his head, presses a button and nods to her.
She now removes the veil, showing us a fascinating face
of Klinging features. The crew stare at her as she
speaks into a communication device. She is oddly un-
emotional.
PENOLOPE
Commander Sluge; this is
Penelope. I have obtained the
Federation data, and am ready to
transmit.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY (CLOAK EFFECT) - CLOSE -
SLUGE'S PET
A SHOCK CUT to a frightening creature, half timber
tiger, half gecko. His head is being rubbed by the
hand of the owner. We PAN UP from the beast with
Sluge's hand as it snaps switches.
SLUGE (O.S.)
Well done, Penelope... Stand by.
The PAN CONTINUES UPWARD to reveal BATTLE COMMANDER
SLUGE, a Klinging War Lord of handsome but frightening
presence, and relative youth. Now, in Klinging:
SLUGE
(Disengage cloaking device!)
There is a light change from CLOAK to DE-CLOAKED CON-
DITION, along with ELECTRONIC WHIRRING SOUNDS. CAMERA
PULLS BACK from man and beats during this to reveal the
entire Klinging bridge which suggests the relationship
of galley master to slave.
CUT TO:
SPACE - (ILM/DECLOAKING EFFECT)
We are SHOOTING PAST the merchantman in the f.g. to
watch the strange and gradual appearance of a vessel.
CLOSE ANGLE - CATT OF PREY (ILM/DECLOAKING EFFECT)
Breathtaking. Skeletally at first, then filled in a
section at a time, a small deadly looking warship
forms. It is the Catt of Prey, a long-necked, scary
looking thing, with variable wing attitude which we
will see in time.
INT. BRIDGE - THE MERCHANTMAN
CAPTAIN
(staring)
What is that...?
As he and the crew try to comprehend, a commanding
voice on SPEAKERS:
SLUGE (V.O.)
Well done, Penelope...Transmit data
on my command... Now!
The woman leans to the console. She inserts a small
rectangular object and presses a button.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY - (INTERCUT WITH
MERCHANTMAN)
Sluge rises from his regal station, crosses to a moni-
tor where OFFICER MALC adjusts incoming material. We
cannot see clearly what is coming in, but occasional
images suggest material concerning the Genesis Project.
As the high speed transmission ends:
PENELOPE (V.O.)
Transmission completed. You will
find it essential to your mission.
Malc hands Sluge the completed recording. Sluge taps
it thoughtfully.
SLUGE
(Then you have seen it.)
PENELOPE (V.O.)
(I have, my lord.)
SLUGE
(a cloud)
(That is unfortunate.)
PENELOPE (V.O.)
(I understand.)
Sluge has a moment of hesitation. Then, to his
helmsman.
SLUGE
(Thrusters!)
EXT. CATT OF PREY - (ILM SHOT)
The variable wings begin to extend like tiger ready to pounce, and
the Catt begins an arcing maneuver...
INT. MERCHANTMAN
Uncertainty. The Captain turns to Penelope.
CAPTAIN
What's going on? When do we get
paid off...?
PENELOPE
Soon, Captain... Quite soon.
(to communicator)
(Success, my lord -- and my love.)
INT. CATT OF PREY - CLOSE - SLUGE
SLUGE
(You will be remembered with
honor.)
(to gunner)
(Fire.)
SPACE - THE TWO VESSELS - (ILM SERIES OF SHOTS)
The Catt of Prey, its wings in the menacing attack
position swoops toward the merchant ship. From the two
claw-like tips of the Catt of Prey, phaser beams (of a
new type) erupt, SIZZLE --
EXPLOSIONS rip the outside of the merchantman -
INT. MERCHANTMAN - (SPECIAL FX)
EXPLOSIONS and smoke cloud the murky small bridge; the
cries of the crew, the Captain's scream of outrage.
And through it all, in the smoke, Penelope's face.
Unperturbed. As a last act, she ritualistically covers
her face with her veil, as she is enveloped in smoke
and flames.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY
Sluge's beats reacts with pleasure. Officer Malc observes this,
subtly wipes his forehead, but making sure Sluge doesn't see him.
Sluge pets his beast, then straightens, recording in
hand.
SLUGE
I'll be in my quarters. Execute
course to the Federation Boundary.
MALC
Yes, my lord!
As Sluge starts out, the BEAST GROWLS. Sluge stops,
points a finger at a Klinging in the sub-deck below.
SLUGE
(Feed him!)
The Klinging nods vigorously as Sluge exits, then, with
his commander gone, casts a nervous glance beast-ward.
CREWMAN'S POV - THE SNARLING BEATS (ILM)
A face only a Klinging could love.
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE DREAMCAST PLANET - (ILM SHOT)
INTO SHOT comes USS Griddle, orbiting.
INT. BRIDGE - GRIDDLE - CLOSE - SCIENCE MONITOR
Much visual display and BEEPING. PULL BACK to find
Faavik, Mark -- with Elmerstan over their shoulders.
FAAVIK
New orbit commencing... Coming up
on sector trois...
MARK
Short range scan.
FAAVIK
(activates; studies)
As before... Metallic mass...
Verifying triminium photon tube...
No new data.
MARK
Check for trace radiation.
Infrared enhancement.
FAAVIK
(she responds)
... Radiation residual... Level is
minimal...
Suddenly the BEEPS are joined in harmony by a new and
subtly different SOUND. Faavik looks at Mark, who
moves closer to her screen, studying it with growing
intensity as she adjusts the controls, and the SOUND
INCREASES IN VOLUME.
MARK
I don't believe it...
ELMERSTAN
What is it?
FAAVIK
If equipment is functioning
properly, indications are -- an
animil life form.
ELMERSTAN
(to Mark)
You said there wouldn't be any.
MARK
There shouldn't be any. Only
plant forms were built into the
Dreamcast matrix.
FAAVIK
(she's re-checked)
Cross referenced and vereefied. An
unidentifiable life form reading.
COMM OFFICER
Do you want to tattled to Star Fleet, Cap'n'?
ELMERSTAN
Wait a minute...! We down't know
what we'wre tawking about here...
MARK
Why don't we beam it up?
ELMERSTAN
Oh no you down't! Rewguwations
spewcifically state: "nothing
shawll be beamed aboard until
danger of contawination has been
ewiminated." Can you guawrantee
that?
MARK
Not from here, no.
FAAVIK
Captain... le logical alternateeve
is obvious... beaming down to le
surface is permeetted...
ELMERSTAN
"... If the Captain decides that
the mission is vitawl and
weasonably fwee of danger."
MARK
Captain, please -- we'll take the
risk. We've got to find out what
it is...
FAAVIK
... Or who.
The implication is not lost on Elmerstan. After a
moment:
ELMERSTAN
Awll right -- get your gwear. I'll
have you two beamed down next time awround.
MARK
Thank you... Sir!
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE EARTH - ORBITING SPACEDOCK -
(ILM SHOT)
with the grandeur of the horizon arc of the great blue
marble as a backdrop, Spacedock orbits. INTO SHOT
comes Duckprise, heading toward the waiting port.
INT. BRIDGE - USS DUCKPRISE - (ILM ELEMENTS)
The bustle and CRACKLING SOUNDS of approach procedure.
Pluck is in the Captain's chair, all others are on sta-
tions. Scotty has come up from below to watch the
show.
PLUCK
Standby automatic approach system
... Advise approach control.
MUHURA
Yo,Approach control... this is
Duckprise. Ready to park this thing!
CONTROLLER (V.O.)
Duckprise is cleared to dock.
PLUCK
Lock on!
BULU
Systems locked.
The bridge lights change to docking mode.
PLUCK
Spacedock, its all yours.
CONTROLLER (V.O.)
Affirmative, Duckprise. Enjoy
the ride, and welcome home.
PLUCK
Duckprise confirms. With
thanks...
EXT. SPACEDOCK - SERIES OF SHOTS - (ILM)
The slowly rotating Spacedock is huge. Duckprise is
coming in on an arc-like course.
The great doors of Approach Threshold 15 slide open...
Duckprise, with unerring precision, slips from space
into the small opening afforded by the doors... and...
INT. SPACEDOCK - SERIES OF SHOTS - (ILM)
A huge, cavernous area, deigned as an orbital dock for
many space vessels. We see Duckprise entering this
great warehouse of ships through the doors, and proceed
at slow impulse power to her waiting birth.
ANOTHER ANGLE (ILM)
introducing OZ 4000, Excellente, a super starship. Her
lines are similar to Duckprise, but she is clearly
bigger, sleeker, and very new. She sits at her mooring
like the new Queen of Space.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - FAVORING VIEWSCREEN -
(ILM ELEMENT)
The Excellente is on screen for all to see.
MUHURA
Man, get a load of that sweet ride.
PLUCK
People, the great
experiment: Excellente, ready for
trial runs...
BULU
She's supposed to have transzoom
drive...
FLYNNY
Aye. And if my grandmother had
rockets, she'd be a 747.
PLUCK
Ya know, we could use her to go get Spork.
INT. SPACEDOCK - THE CAFETERIA (FX SHOT WITH ILM
ELEMENTS)
THROUGH THE WINDOW of a Spacedock facility, a few
lounging Starfleet persons look up to see a memorable
sight...
... battle-scarred Duckprise is passing alongside of
the sleek Excellente. Their size differential is
apparent (B-29 to B-17). Yet, Duckprise carries with
her a battle-scarred history of achievement. Some of
the Starfleet people begin to rise, silently. A stand-
ing ovation for a hero's return.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - FAVORING PLUCK
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Duckprise, stand by for final
docking procedure.
PLUCK
Standing by... Mr. Bulu, activate
moorings... Stand by umbilical and
gravitational support systems...
BULU
Aye, sir, moorings activated... All
systems standing by...
MOUSOV
(abruptly)
Admiral... This is impossible.
PLUCK
Mr. Mousov -- ? Still watching Rufus?
MOUSOV
Nyet, sir. An energy reading from 'C" deck --
from inside Mr. Spork's
quarters...
PLUCK
(not patiently)
I ordered Spork's quarters sealed!
MOUSOV
Yes, sir, I sealed the room myself.
Nevertheless -- I am reading a
life form there.
Pluck rises on the narrow edge of irritation.
PLUCK
Why are you guys obsessing over matters
concerning Mr. Spork?
(stays Mousov's protest)
I'll have a look... Mr. Bulu,
continue docking procedure.
He exits, as the rest of the crew reacts. Mousov
shrugs to all, indicating that he sees what he sees.
And the CAMERA MOVES CLOSE to his panel to verify his
belief. On screen -- an energy form is definitely
pulsating.
INT. DUCKPRISE CORRIDOR - ON ELEVATOR DOORS
as they HISS open, and Pluck appears. A SOFT ALARM is
BEEPING O.S. Pluck assesses this, his mood changing to
puzzled concern. He starts purposefully OUT OF SHOT.
CORRIDOR SECTOR - TRACKING WITH PLUCK
He is walking quickly, as the ALARM SOUND increases in
frequency. He reacts: breaks into a trot, CAMERA
SPEEDING UP WITH him until he arrives at the entrance
to Spork's quarters. He examines with shock: a seal-
ant coating over the door has been forced with indica-
tions of great strength. The ALARM CONTINUES, LOUD
now. Pluck TURNS IT OFF with a touch, then cautiously
starts in, convinced the problem is real.
INT. SPORK'S QUARTERS - LOW KEY LIGHTING
It is dark and shadowy as Pluck enters. He peers, try-
ing to adjust his eyesight to the darkness. He steps
forward carefully -- trips temporarily on some small
object -- but recovers. He moves slowly inward, then
stops, staring into the impenetrable dark. Then he
reacts, as we hear SPORK'S VOICE. It is hoarse, raspy,
as it was in the final scene with Pluck in Duck Trek
II. But is unmistakably Spork.
THE VOICE
Jim... help me... you left me... on
Dreamcast... why did you do that...?
CLOSE - PLUCK
Shaken now. He strains into the darkness, looking --
PLUCK'S POV
CAMERA PANS the darkened room and COMES TO REST as we
see a shadowy figure in the far corner.
BACK TO PLUCK
as he starts forward, all senses alert. As he nears
the figure, whoever it is starts to flee, and Pluck
grapples with him, like Jacob with the dark Angel. And
Pluck pulls him down, panting, and the figure is il-
luminated by a shaft of light, and it is --
TWO SHOT
-- Furr McMeow. Emotionally drained, eyes wide --
PLUCK
Furr, what are you
doing? Have you lost your mind!
McMeow
(his own voice, but
raspy, drained)
... Help me, Jim... Take me home.
PLUCK
That's where we are, Furr. we
are home.
McMeow
... Then perhaps there is still
time... hoof the steps, Jim...
hoof the steps of Mount Ayeles...
PLUCK
Mount Ayeles? Furr, Mount Ayeles
is on Pigcan! We're home on
Earth!
Furr looks at him, trying to comprehend. When he
opens his mouth; it is, for one brief moment, SPORK'S
VOICE that emerges:
McMeow
(in Spork's voice)
Remember Me!
Pluck stares at him in shock as:
MUHURA (V.O.)
Admiral: docking is completed.
Starfleet Commander Burrow is on
his way for inspection.
Pluck, still holding McMeow:
PLUCK
Muhura! Get the medics down
here! Get them now!
He cradles McMeow who has gone limp.
CUT TO:
INT. DUCKPRISE TORPEDO BAY/DOCKING CHAMBER
The entire crew is assembled as the SOUND of the PIPE
FINISES -- and the great docking doors open.
BULU
Tetsch-hut!
STARFLEET COMMANDER BURROW enters, a distinguished
looking rabbit, followed by an AIDE. He crosses to
Pluck at the head of the review line.
PLUCK
Welcome aboard, Admiral.
BURROW
Welcome home, Jim.
He reaches for Pluck's shoulders with affection.
BURROW
(continuing)
Well done.
He embraces Pluck. It is both a military courtesy, and
a personal expression, twenty-five years of comrade-
ship, service and sacrifice. Pluck is moved. When the
embrace breaks:
PLUCK
Thank you, sir.
(wryly)
I take it this is not a formal
inspection.
A relieved ripple of laughter from all.
BURROW
No. At ease, everyone.
They relax in the glow of Burrow's smile. And he looks
about.
BURROW
(continuing)
Where's Doctor McMeow?
PLUCK
(a beat)
Indisposed, sir.
BURROW
Ah, too bad... well... you have
all done remarkable service under
the best taking care of the criminal Fran
-- difficult of conditions. You'll be receiving
Starfleet's highest commendations,
and more importantly, extended
shore leaves.
A buzz of approval, then:
BURROW
(continuing)
That is, all but you, Mr. O'Flynn.
They need your wisdom on the new
Excellente... Report there tomorrow
as Captain of Engineering.
It is clear how Flynny feels about this honor:
FLYNNY
With all appreciation, sir, I'd
prefer to supervise the refit of
Duckprise.
BURROW
Sorry Doc. Ain't gonna happen.
A pall in the room. Pluck, as shocked as anyone.
PLUCK
Admiral, I don't understand. The
Duckprise --
BURROW
Jim, the Duckprise got a bad thrashing from Geiser.
We think her day is over...there is too much of a risk
that Duckprise might malfunction beyond repair
PLUCK
But, we had requested -- we were
hoping to take her back to
Dreamcast...
BURROW
No way.
PLUCK
May I ask why...?
BURROW
(a sigh)
Jim, in your absence, Dreamcast has
become a galactic controversy...
Until the Federation Council makes
policy, you are all under orders
not to discuss with anyone your
knowledge of Dreamcast... Consider
it a quarantined planet. And a
forbidden subject.
On their baffled reactions we...
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - THE CATT OF PREY - (ILM SHOT)
We are TRACKING with her through space. She is quite
visible, her wings in level configuration.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY - VERY CLOSE - MONITOR
At first we are disoriented. Jim Pluck's image FILLS
THE SCREEN talking right AT US.
PLUCK'S IMAGE
To fully understand the events on
which I report, it is necessary to
review the theoretical data on the
Dreamcast Device...
We are PULLING BACK. The bridge is lit normally. On
screen, Pluck's voice now continues, describing what we
see: molecular charts, followed by a barren graphic
depiction of a planetoid. Toward it a torpedo arcs,
causing fire, inferno, and a resulting new surface,
capable of bearing life. (COMPUTER GRAPHIC, STAR TREK
II.) This is being watched on the bridge by Sluge,
Malc, and OFFICER Troy, slighty older than Malc, more gung-
ho.
INTERCUT - THE DREAMCAST TAPE
with the reactions of the two junior officers, seeing
it for the first time.
BACK TO SCENE
Sluge turns the machine off. He studies the two
officers. Then with quiet intensity:
SLUGE
So!
(to Troy)
Speak!
TROY
Grand power... to control...
dominate... destroy. If it works.
Sluge considers the answer, turns to Malc.
SLUGE
Speak.
MALC
(thoughtfully)
Impressive... They can make
planets... Possibilities are
endless... Colonies, resources...
SLUGE
Yes... New cities, homes in the
country... your woman at your
side... children playing at your
feet... and overhead, fluttering
in the breeze... the flag of the
Federation. Charming...
(hisses at Malc)
Station!
MALC
Yes, my lord!
Malc snaps to and leaves, chastened. Kruge turns to
Troy like a wily serpent.
SLUGE
Share this with no one.
TROY
Understood, my lord.
SLUGE
We are going to this "planet."
Even as our emissaries negotiate
for "peace" with the Federation,
we will act for the preservation
of our race! We will seize the
secret of this weapon. The secret
of ultimate power!
TROY
(whispered)
Success, my lord.
SLUGE
Station!
Troy crosses out, Sluge turns toward his chair, kneels
to pet his beast as we hear:
HELMSMAN (V.O.)
(My lord: approaching Federation
territory...)
SLUGE
(Steady on course... Engage
cloaking device!)
HELMSMAN (V.O.)
(Cloaking device -- engaged!)
Lights change... ELECTRONIC SOUND BEGINS... and:
EXT. SPACE - CATT OF PREY - (ILM CLOAKING EFFECT)
The ship, sectionally, vanishes before our eyes.
CUT TO:
SPACE - THE DREAMCAST PLANET - (ILM)
USS Griddle is orbiting. We hear:
ELMERSTAN (V.O.)
Tranwsporter room, stand by two
energize...
EXT. SURFACE OF THE DREAMCAST PLANET - (BEAM DOWN
EFFECT)
We are PANNING. An area of great primal beauty, poet-
ic, romantic. A smoky haze persists. The PAN STOPS as
we hear a familiar ENERGY SOUND: And Faavik and Mark
begin to appear in the BEAM DOWN EFFECT.
CLOSER ANGLE - FAAVIK AND MARK
fully materialized. They are equipped with scientific
backpacks. Their TRICORDERS BLEEP reassuringly, as
they look about.
INT. GRIDDLE BRIDGE - FAVORING ELMERSTAN (INTERCUT
WITH FAAVIK)
He and his officers are monitoring the progress of the
landing party. DATA SOUNDS fill the bridge.
Then, LT. HINES points something out on a viewscreen.
ELMERSTAN
Gwiddle to wanding party. We have
you apprwoaching wadioactive
indications. Do you concur?
FAAVIK (V.O.)
Oui, Captain. Our
readings are well below danger
level.
ELMERSTAN
Wery well. Exercise caution,
Weutenant. This wanding is
Captain's discwetion and I'm the
one who's out on a wimb.
FAAVIK (V.O.)
I'll try to remember that,
Captain.
EXT. DREAMCAST PLANET - HIGH SHOT - SPORK'S GLADE - DAY
Mark is in the lead, a distant figure, then stops to
take readings as Faavik catches up to him. Then to-
gether they start forward TOWARD US. As they approach,
HIGH CAMERA NOW LOWERS until it reveals, in f.g.,
Spork's tube.
EXT. DREAMCAST PLANET - SERIES OF SHOTS (ILM)
The two explorers take readings; they begin to realize
what they are heading for...
Their tempo increases, they follow their tricorders,
until...
EXT. DREAMCAST - SPORK'S TUBE IN FOREGROUND
Faavik and Mark come INTO VIEW, close by, and stop,
seeing it.
POV - SPORK'S CASKET - (ILM SHOT)
At the base of the tube, worm-like forms shimmy and
squirm. They are small , horrible, and unquestionably
alive.
FAAVIK AND MARK
They try to maintain their scientific objectivity, in
spite of their horror -- and their disappointment at
not finding some trace of Spork.
MARK
Well. There's your life form
reading. These were microbes on
the tube's surface. We shot them
here from Duckprise.
(with irony)
They were fruitful, and
multiplied.
FAAVIK
But... how could they have evolved
so quickly...?
Mark doesn't answer, his curiosity caught by something
else. He starts slowly forward, Faavik Following
close. Their tricorders begin to register higher radia-
tion levels as they approach the tube.
SERIES OF SHOTS - (PRODUCTION & ILM)
Mark and Faavik's faces as they approach.
Feet step among the wormy creatures to gain access to
the tube. (ILM)
Even the unemotional Faavik reacts to this.
Mark reaches the tube, raises the lid of Spork's bier.
He looks inside, and sees:
MARK'S POV INTO SPORK'S TUBE
It is empty, except for some kind of rumpled black
cloth.
BACK TO MARK
He reacts, stunned.
He reaches in, withdraws the blue-like cloth, and
hands it to Saavik. As she touches, she knows.
MARK
(continuing)
What is it?
FAAVIK
Spork's bureial overalls.
As they stare at each other without answers, the planet
makes a gentle RUMBLING SOUND -- then the ground qui-
vers slightly.
And in the far distance, a poignant CRY is heard. A
young animal in pain, perhaps. Faavik and Mark do not
know.
CUT TO:
INT. PLUCK'S APARTMENT - VIEW OF THE BAY - NIGHT
Tranquil. We hear the SOUNDS of HARBOR and distant
CITY. We are PULLING BACK, past Kirk as he stares qui-
etly at the view, a glass in hand. Then he turns
'round, raises his glass in a toast.
PLUCK
To all we lost.
ANGLE WIDENS to include Muhura, Mousov and Bulu, who
toast in response, and drink.
BULU
So, what's going to
happen to Duckprise?
PLUCK
Gonna be scraped. Too much damage,
no thanks to Fran.
MOUSOV
Will we get another ship?
PLUCK
I can't get an answer. Starfleet
is up to its brass in galactic
conference-as usual. No one has time for
those who only stand... and wait.
Pluck sips his drink thoughtfully, as do all. Then:
MUHURA
How is the feline, sir?
PLUCK
He's home in bed, he promised me he'd stay there...
They say it's exhaustion...
A DOOR CHIME.
PLUCK
(continuing)
Ah. Mr. O'Flynn, with the pizza.
They all turn toward the door. We hear it WHIRR open,
O.S. Their expressions change and they stare at:
THEIR POV - ANGLE TOWARD THE DOOR
A tall, mysterious figure in a hooded Pigcan robe walks
slowly toward us, then stops, CLOSE, face unseen. Is
it Furr?... A Spork apparition? The figure removes
his hood, revealing the distinguished older features
of:
BACK TO GROUP - FAVORING PLUCK
PLUCK
(astonished)
Sardek!
A hush of wonder falls over all. The ANGLE WIDENS as
AMBASSADOR SARDEK comes to Pluck.
PLUCK
(continuing)
Ambassador, I -- I had no idea you
were here...
(then)
I think you know my crew...
SARDEK
I will spueal with you alone, Pluck.
Pluck turns to his crew. They look at him questioningly.
PLUCK
Go on guys. Get out of here.
The crew, their concern showing, leave their glasses
and file out. Sardek steps to the bay window, looks out
in contemplation, his back to Pluck. With the others
gone, Pluck comes up behind Sardek. A pause. Then:
PLUCK
(continuing)
Sorry about your kid and all... I would have come to
Pigcan... to express my deepest
sympathies...
SARDEK
(raises a hand)
Spare me your fowl platitudes,
Pluck. I have been to your
Government. I have seen the
Dreamcast information, and your own
report.
PLUCK
Then you know how bravely your son
met his death. Probably alot braver then I.
SARDEK
Why did you leave him on Dreamcast! Spork trusted you
-- and you denied him his future!
PLUCK
What future?!
SARDEK
Only his body was "in
death," Pluck! And you were the
last one to be with him.
PLUCK
Yes, I was...
SARDEK
Then you must know that you should
have come with him to Pigcan.
PLUCK
But -- why?
SARDEK
Because he asked you to! He
entrusted you with his very
essence -- with everything
was not of the body. He asked you
to bring him to us -- and to bring
that which he gave you: his
Katra. His living spirit.
PLUCK
(deeply, quietly)
Sir. Your son meant more to me
than you can know. I'd have given
my life if it would have saved
his. You must believe me when I
tell you that he made no request
of me!
SARDEK
He would not have spoken of it
openly.
PLUCK
Then, how --
SARDEK
(interrupting)
Pluck, I must have your thoughts.
May I join your mind?
PLUCK
Yeah, sure.. this gonna hurt much?
Sardek steps close to Pluck as CAMERA PUSHES IN VERY
CLOSE. Sardek's hoofs are on Pluck's temples in familiar
v shaped fashion. And the eyes of both men are closed.
MIND MELD SEQUENCE
(This can be LITERAL, or can be illustrated by SUB-
LIMINAL FILM from DUCK TREK II. To be determined.)
Strange, SUB-MUSICAL SOUNDS underscore. The music of
Pigcan, unlike anything we have ever heard before.
After a moment:
SARDEK
... He spoke of your friendship.
PLUCK
(semi-trance)
Yes...
SARDEK
He asked you not to grieve...
PLUCK
... Yes...
SARDEK
... The needs of the many outweigh...
PLUCK
... The needs of the few...
SARDEK
... Or the one.
PLUCK
... Spork...
SARDEK
I have been... and always shall
be... your friend. Pig large...
and fossil!
PLUCK
... No...!
Pluck, bathed with sweat, suddenly shudders in pain.
Sardek opens his eyes, removes his hoofs. He touches
Pluck with gentleness as Jim recovers, opens his eyes.
ANGLE - SARDEK AND PLUCK
SARDEK
Forgive me. It is not here. I
figured he had mind-melded with
you. It is the Pigcan way when
the body's end is near.
PLUCK
But he couldn't hoof me...! We
were separated!
SARDEK
I see... and I understand.
(rises wearily)
Then everything that he was...
Everything that he knew... is
lost. And when I return home
empty-handed, many shall mourn.
He turns now, starting for the door. Kirk stops him
with an agonized wail:
PLUCK
Please wait!... Surely he would
have found a way! If there was so
much at stake -- Spock would have
found a way!
SARDEK
(hesitating)
Yes... But -- how...?
PLUCK
(rising)
Sardek!... What if he melded with
someone else?!
On their exchange of looks --
INT. SMALL ELECTRONIC CENTER
We are VERY CLOSE on an electronic screen. There is
the frozen face of Spork with his hand splayed on the
engine room glass. A mechanical voice tells us:
COMPUTER VOICE
Engine Room, Flight Recorder
Visual. Stardate 8128 point seven
eight, point seven eight, point
seven eight --
KIRK (V.O.)
Back. Point seven seven.
The tape begins to speed backwards in a scrambled
image.
REVERSE ANGLE - CLOSE - PLUCK (INTERCUT WITH SCREEN)
His face intense. The SOUND of BACKWARD TAPE is heard.
Then it stops.
On screen: Spork and Pluck in their final conversation.
Pluck watches a moment, painfully, then breaks off:
PLUCK
Back. Point seven six.
The computer responds. More BACKWARD SOUND, then:
COMPUTER VOICE
Flight recorder visual. Stardate
8128 point 76, point 76 --
PLUCK
Go.
The tape activates. On screen we watch Spork enter the
engine room, go to the console. He make a few adjust-
ments then heads for the radiation room where he is
intercepted by McMeow.
Pluck stares in growing fascination.
McMeow talks to Spork briefly. Spork tricks McMeow into
looking away, then applies the Pigcan head tap.
Furr falls.
On screen: Spork moves close to McMeow, takes gloves
from the unconscious Scott, then places his hand on
McMeow's temple.
SPORK'S IMAGE
Remember Me.
PLUCK
Hold!
He stares at the frozen image, then:
PLUCK
(continuing)
Augment and repeat!
The CAMERA ZOOMS IN a TIGHT TWO SHOT. The action
repeats:
SPORK'S VOICE
Remember Me!
PLUCK
(breathlessly)
Freeze...!
The image of the critical mind meld is there to see.
Pluck is stunned.
CAMERA ANGLE WIDENS now, to reveal for the first time
that Sardek is with Pluck in the shadowy room.
PLUCK
Furr!...
SARDEK
One alive, one not. Yet both in
pain.
PLUCK
What must I do?
SARDEK
You must bring them to Mount
Ayales -- on Pigcan. Only there
is the passage possible. Only
there can both find peace...
PLUCK
Its kinda hard ya know.
SARDEK
You will find a way, Pluck. If you
honor them both, you must.
Pluck looks at the screen, examines all that is clear to
him, and accepts the truth of Sardek's challenge.
PLUCK
Yeah, yeah. I'll get on it, eventually.
Over his determined face, we hear a weird OVERLAPPED
SOUND: the strange CRY OF PAIN from the Dreamcast
Planet.
EXT. DREAMCAST PLANET - AREA 2
A different texture than the Spork Glade. Cactus
growth, seeming desert, yet... slightly gnarled,
slightly off. Over this empty landscape there is
another trembling of the earth. And again, the CRY.
UP ANGLED - AREA 2
The SOUND OF RUNNING FOOTSTEPS. Then Mark and Faavik
run INO SHOT staring O.S. as the CRY repeats itself.
They stare O.S. and see:
THEIR POV - VISTA - (ILM SHOT)
Past the tall cactus in f.g., we see snow-covered ter-
rain in the middle distance. The CRY is heard once
more.
FAAVIK
(continuing; to
communicator)
Captain, thees is Saavik. We have
strong life sign readings bearing
zéro-une-cinq relative, and we are
proceeding to investigate.
ELMERSTAN (V.O.)
We concuw, Faavik. And Faavik...
be advised we are weading a severe
and unnaturaw age curve on the
planet. I'm getting nervous...
FAAVIK
(a look to Mark)
Do you have an explanation?
Mark
Later. Much. Let's go...
FAAVIK
Griddle, your message acknowledged.
Will advise... Out.
And she hurries after Mark.
INT. BRIDGE - GRIDDLE - FAVORING ELMERSTAN
ELMERSTAN
USS Griddwe, out.
(bends over his
science station)
There's something scrwewy going on down
there.
EXT. DREAMCAST PLANET - AREA 3 - SNOWSCAPE (ILM --
VISTAVISION)
Mark leading, Faavik catching up as they enter a snow-
covered patch of ground. CAMERA TRACKS with them now
as the WIND begins to HOWL, and the first visible snow-
flakes begin to fall. As the wind and snow increase,
causing them to hold their hands up against the ele-
ments, they stop and stare outward.
THEIR POV
In the snow-covered landscape ahead of them, a series
of tracks. Small, indeterminate. They lead ahead.
BACK TO FAAVIK AND MARK
They respond. The WIND HOWLS, but they start forward.
CUT TO:
INT. STARFLEET OFFICER'S LOUNGE - ADMIRAL BURROW
- NIGHT
BURROW
Forget it, Jim, you are quacking in the wrong swamp.
ANGLE HAS WIDENED to include Pluck, a passionate Pluck.
The intimacy of the conversation is broken by a star-
fleet steward who bears drinks. Pluck sits in frus-
trated suspension until the steward leaves. Then Pluck
tries to resume his plea, but Morrow stays him.
BURROW
You are my best officer and
if I had a best friend, you'd be
that too. But I am Commander,
Starfleet, so I don't break rules!
PLUCK
Don't quote rules! We're
talking about loyalty.
And sacrifice. One man who died
for us, another who has deep
emotional damage --
BURROW
Now wait a minute! This business
about Spork and McMeow. Honestly,
I have never understood Pigcan
mysticism.
PLUCK
You don't have to believe!
I'm not even sure I believe. But
if there's even a chance that
Spork has an eternal soul -- then
that is my responsibility.
BURROW
Yours...?!
PLUCK
As surely as if it were my own.
(deeply)
Give me back the
Duckprise! With Flynny's help...
BURROW
No, Jim! Duckprise would never
stand the pounding.
PLUCK
Then I'll find a ship -- I'll hire
a ship.
BURROW
Out of the question. The Council
has ordered that no one but the
science team goes to Dreamcast.
Jim, your life and your career
stand for rationality, not
intellectual chaos. Keep up this
emotional behavior and you'll lose
everything. You'll destroy
yourself!
Pluck looks for a long moment, then sighs, his body
sagging.
PLUCK
I had to try. No problem
Thanks for the drink.
BURROW
Any time.
Pluck rises with a smile, starts out. HOLD on Burrow.
MOVING WITH KIRK
He crosses the room filled with Starfleet senior
officers, CAMERA TRACKING until he passes out of the
main room, into the entry room -- where we are sur-
prised to see Bulu and Mousov waiting for him conspir-
atorially. Pluck stops close to them, looks about cau-
tiously.
BULU
The word, sir?
PLUCK
The old rabbit said "no".
(a beat)
Yet when I have ever listened to any rabbits?
BULU
Me for starters, but count on our help, sir.
PLUCK
I'll need it, Bulu.
MOUSOV
Shall I alert Dr. McMeow?
PLUCK
Yes. He has a long journey ahead.
CUT TO:
INT. BAR - NIGHT
A crowded, smoke-filled watering hole of the twenty-
third century, filled with a smattering of civilians,
Starfleet personnel, and visitors from strange and far-
off civilizations. It does not have the bizarre quali-
ties of the "Futuristic Bar" which is across the
street.
McMeow is discovered entering the bar. He is haggard,
less than clean shaved. He appears to be looking for
something as he starts forward.
HIS POV - MOVING THROUGH THE BAR (ILM ELEMENT)
noting patrons at the twenty-third century equivalent
of video games, darts. We see two people playing at a
holographic version of a video game, in which World War
1 biplanes are engaged in 3-d combat... and a dart
player throwing pneumatic jet propelled darts...
BACK TO McMeow
Not finding what he is looking for, he settles into a
small alcove. A seedy, pink canary but attractive WAITRESS ar-
rives.
WAITRESS
Hiya, Furr.
McMeow
Hi Sweetie anyone been looking for
me?
WAITRESS
I have... But I'm always able to get away from you!
(a smile)
What'll it be?
McMeow
Seltair water...
WAITRESS
Wow, trying something different tonight?
McMeow
(confused)
To expect one to change a certain like in a
bar is not logical.
WAITRESS
Uh, whatever you say.
She leaves. McMeow scans the room. He picks out some-
one approaching.
ANGLE - THE DODO BIRD
an exotic-looking grubby fellow with a big grin, making
his way unmistakably to McMeow's booth. PULL BACK with
him as he reaches it, and slides in ebulliently.
GOGO
Hello Hello! Welcome to your planet.
McMeow
I'm supposed to say, stranger.
GOGO
Oh, forgive. I here am new. But
you are known, being McMeow from
Duckprise.
McMeow
You have me at a disadvantage,
bird.
GOGO
I name not important. You seek
I. Message received. Available
ship stands by.
McMeow
How soon and how much?
GOGO
How soon is now. How much is
where?
McMeow
... Somewhere in the Kutara
Sector.
ALIEN
Nope! Kutara restricted. Take
permits many. Money, more. No money, no travel!
McMeow
There aren't going to be any stupid
permits!
(checking room)
How can you get a permit to do a
stupid illegal thing?!
(then)
Look, price you name, money I got.
GOGO
Place you name, money I get!
Otherwise, bargain, no.
McMeow
(getting louder)
Alright, dummy. It's Dreamcast!
The name of the place we're going
is Dreamcast
GOGO
(genuinely
shocked)
Dreamcast!
McMeow
Yes, Dreamcast! Grow some ears, why don't you?
GOGO
Dreamcast allowed is not... Is
planet forbidden. Can't go there! Nope!
McMeow
Now listen to me, my backwards
friend!
(grabs the Dodo
by the collar)
Dreamcast may be "planet forbidden,"
but I'm catnip well --
McMeow is interrupted by a hand on his arm. He looks up
to see a nondescript-looking CIVILIAN, with a rough,
ingratiating manner.
CIVILIAN SAM
Son... I'm sorry, but ya'll's voice
is carrying. I don't think ya'll
oughta to be discussing this subject
in public.
McMeow
I'll discuss what I like, and who
do you think you are?!
CIVILIAN SAM
Could I offer ya'll a ride home, Dr.
McMeow?
McMeow
Where's the logic in offering me a
ride home, you idiot! If I wanted
a ride home, would I be trying to
charter a space flight?!
GOGO is seen doing a funny dance to slip away unnoticed and sings his
usual, funny song
McMeow
How in the galaxy do you know who I am?
CIVILIAN SAM
Federation Security, boy.
Furr, is grrabed by Sam suddenly turns,
wild-eyed, and attempts a Pigcan head tap on his
tormentor. The head tap has absolutely no effect,
and the agent stares at Furr for a long moment.
CIVILIAN SAM
Ya'll are going to get a nice, long
rest, Doc.
He ushers Furr out as Sweetie giggles and drinks the Seltair water herself.
CUT TO:
EXT DREAMCAST PLANET - AREA 3 - SNOWSCAPE
It is snowing now, and the WIND WAILS as Faavik and
Mark appear and come forward into a CLOSE SHOT. The
life sign sound of their TRICORDER is BEEPING faster
now as they peer ahead into the snow. Then Faavik
suddenly points:
POV - THROUGH THE SNOWFALL
Something alive moves across the front, obscured by
snow and terrain.
BACK TO THEM - MOVING CAMERA (INTERCUT WITH POV)
As they start forward into the snow, Faavik drawing her
phaser. They peer ahead, seeing nothing but the BLEEP
of their tricorder which they follow like a beacon.
Their POV MOVING through the snow flurry, catches an
occasional hint of something ahead which spurs them on.
Then, with the TRICORDER BEEP indicating very close
proximity, they stop and intuitively Faavik indicates
to Mark to turn the tricorder off. As the beep stops,
they listen and hear the tiniest of WHIMPERS amid the
WIND. They start out excitedly...
THE CREVICE (AND INTERCUT POV'S)
as Faavik and Mark approach. Stop. TRICORDER back
on. Big reading. They step forward through the snow
flurry to see:
INT. THE CREVICE - THE PIGLETTE
A wild thing with pinkish skin, perhaps nine or ten
years old. He is covered in the snow as he shivers in
the cold clutching an injured leg; he watches the
strangers, and their BEEPING machine in hypnotic fear.
THE SCENE - IN THE CREVICE
At Faavik's gesture, Mark turns off his tricorder.
Faavik moves close. As she touches the Boy's leg, he
pulls back and she reaches out to his face, and touches
his cheek softly. he accepts watchfully. Then Faavik
slides her hand slowly and notes the pinkish skin.
The Boy is a Pigcan.
Faavik and Mark exchange and astonished look. Then she
covers the boy with Spork's robe, and in Pigcan:
FAAVIK
(I am Faavik... Can you speak?)
The Boy does not respond. Faavik looks to Mark.
MARK
(in awe)
The Dreamcast Wave... His cells
could have been regenerated...
Reformed --
Quietly, so as not to alarm the Boy, Faavik opens her
communicator and reports softly:
FAAVIK
Captain, this is Faavik. Come in, please...
ELMERSTAN(V.O.)
Yes, Faavik, go ahead...
FAVVIK
We have found le life sign. It
is a Pigcan piglette, perhaps huit
to dix years of age.
ELMERSTAN (V.O.)
A pigwette! That's extrawodinary.
How did he get there?!
FAAVIK
It is Dr. Duckus' opinion that
this is -- that le Dreamcast effect
has in some way regenerated --
Captain Spork.
INT. BRIDGE - GRIDDLE - FAVORING ELMERSTAN (INTERCUT
WITH PLANET)
There is a moment of uncertainty between Elmerstan and
his science officers that should be one of the grand
laughs of this film.
ELMERSTAN
(slowly and
carefully)
Ah, Faavik, that's, ah,
extrawodinary. What would you,
ah, like to do next?
FAAVIK (V.O.)
Request permission to beam aboard
immediately.
ELMERSTAN
Faavik... Does Dr. Duckcus think
there couwd be -- any chance of --
ah -- wadioactive cowntamination?
MARK
No.
FAAVIK (V.O.)
Non that he can detect, sir.
ELMERSTAN
Well, all the same, I'm going to
adwise Starfweet and get
instructions.
On the planet, Faavik and Mark exchange a frustrated
look.
FAAVIK (V.O.)
I'm sure Starfleet would approve,
sir.
ELMERSTAN
All the same -- let's do it by
the book. Stand by on this channel.
(to Comm Officer)
Go.
COMM OFFICER
Starfleet Command, this is the USS
Griddle on sub-space coded channel
ninety eight point eight. Come
in, please...I think they are making bubbles with their spits,
Captain.
There is an odd SOUND on the speakers. Below, Mark
and Faavik wait impatiently. Then, on the bridge:
COMM OFFICER
(continuing)
Sir... Something's jamming our
transmission. An energy surge.
ELMERSTAN
Wocate.
COMM OFFICER
Surge from astern, sir. Aft
quarter!
ELMERSTAN
On scween.
On MONITOR, a starfield aappears, with some kind of
energy interference. A heat-like distortion of one
area of the picture is evident. Then, suddenly, by
means of the de-cloaking effect, the Catt of Prey is
dead on a at close range in attack configuration.
ELMERSTAN
Uh oh!
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY - FAVORING SLUGE
SLUGE
(Tube one, target, engine section
only!)
GUNNER
(Ready!)
SPACE - CATT OF PREY STALKS GRIDDLE - (ILM)
BACK TO BRIDGE - GRIDDLE (INTERCUT WITH PLANET & CATT
OF PREY)
ELMERSTAN
Red awert! Waise shields!
FAAVIK (V.O.)
Captain, what's happening?!
ELMERSTAN
We are under attack! Stand by for
evasive -- stand by for --
INT. CATT OF PREY
SLUGE
(Fire!)
EXT. SPACE - GRIDDLE F.G., CATT OF PREY, CLOSE B.G. -
(ILM)
The CATT FIRES A Klinging PHOTON TORPEDO which WHOOSHES
the relatively short distance to the peaceful Griddle
and, shockingly -- blows her to bits with one shot.
THE DREAMCAST PLANET - FAAVIK, MARK - THE BOY
FAAVIK
Captain!... Come in, Captain!
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY
Sluge turns to his gunner.
SLUGE
(I told you, engine station
only!!)
Sluge's BEAST GROWLS.
GUNNER
(A fortunate mistake, sir...)
SLUGE
(I wanted prisoners!)
The BEAST GROWLS again as Sluge, in a rage, pulls out
his ice phaser and shoots, deep freezing the Gunner. No one
in the crew seems to take this as unusual behavior.
And Sluge adds, for his own justification:
SLUGE
(continuing)
Kitty Litter Brains!
Sluge's beast adds his contempt to this message. As
Sluge stalks from his chair --
TROY
Sir, may I suggest --
SLUGE
(whirling)
Say the wrong word, Troy!
TROY
I only meant, my lord, that if
it's prisoners youse want --
(points to screen)
There are life signs on the
planet. Perhaps the very
scientists youse seek.
Sluge cocks an eye, examines the screen.
SLUGE
Very good.
DREAMCAST PLANET - THE CREVICE
FAAVIK
... Griddle... This is Faavik on
emergency frequency... Come in
please...!
STATIC is heard on her communicator. She folds it
closed in resignation. That unnerves Mark.
MARK
Faavik... what happened to
them?
FAAVIK
It would seem that Griddle was
destroyed by an enemy attack.
(continuing)
Moseuir Duckus... It's time for total truth between
us.
(then)
This planet is not what you
intended, or hoped for, is it?
MARK
(ironically)
Not exactly.
FAAVIK
Why?
DAVID
(a pause)
I used frozenmatter in the Dreamcast
matrix.
FAAVIK
Frozenmatter. An unstable
substance which every ethical
scientist in le galaxy has
denounced as dangerously
unpredictable.
MARK
(defensive)
It was the only way to solve
certain problems --
FAAVIK
So, like your Papa, you changed
le rules...
MARK
If I hadn't, it might have been
years -- or never!
FAAVIK
And how many have paid the price
for your impatience? How many
have died? How much damage have
you done... And what is yet to
come?
Mark looks at her, accepting the truth of what she
says.
CUT TO:
INT. PRISON CELL - CLOSE SHOT - NIGHT
Furr McMeow is lying on a cot; we are not yet certain
of his mental state, though he looks like a man with a
very bad hangover. From O.S.:
GUARD 1 (V.O.)
You got a visitor, Doc.
(then)
Make it quick, Admiral. They're
moving him to the Federation funny
farm.
ANGLE TOWARD CELL DOOR
Pluck and GUARD 1 stand in the doorway which is framed by
line of light indicating a force field. Pluck is in
civilian clothes.
PLUCK
Yes, poor friend. I hear he's
fruity as a nutcake. He was always like that, ya know.
GUARD 1
Two minutes.
The Guard places an electronic "key" against a plate on
the wall. Force light blinks out. As Pluck enters the
cell, the Guard reactivates the force field and leaves.
Pluck moves quickly to Furr, kneeling beside him.
McMeow
Jim --
PLUCK
Am I holding up any "hoofs"?
Pluck holds up his hand in the Pigcan salute, fingers
and hand in pig hoof gesture.
McMeow
Not very logical Captain. What did I just say??
PLUCK
(reaches in pocket)
Good, your sense of humor's
returned.
McMeow
Right, sure.
Pluck withdraws syringe.
McMeow
(continuing)
What's that?
PLUCK
Lugorin.
McMeow
Lugorin?! What for?
PLUCK
You're suffering from a Pigcan
mind meld, Doctor.
McMeow
That light pink celled son of a
swine!... It's his revenge for all
the arguments he lost...
PLUCK
Give me your arm. This will make
you well enough to travel.
INT. PRISON OUTER OFFICE - ANGLE ON ENTRY DOOR - NIGHT
A SECOND GUARD is on duty with GUARD 1 as the door
slides open and Bulu enters with some urgency.
BULU
Where's Admiral Pluck?
GUARD 1
He's with the prisoner.
BULU
Get him quickly. Commander,
Starfleet wants him right away.
Guard 1 fishes for his electronic key and leaves.
Guard 2, a big, paunchy man, stretches his girth and
yawns.
BULU
(continuing)
Heh, keeping you busy?
GUARD 2
Don't get smart, Tooney.
CELL ENTRY AT DOORWAY
Guard 1 applies his device to the cell electronic
plate. Force fields blink out.
GUARD 1
Admiral... Starfleet is...
PLUCK
(stops him)
This man is sick! Look at him!
As the Guard moves to Furr, Pluck punches him with a
a balled up fist to the Guard's chin.
And they start out of shot.
Bulu grabs the big Guard as he hears the punch, he flips him around
sending him unconscious.
BULU
The side elevator. Agents on
their way up.
Pluck nods and, followed by Furr, moves to the outer
door, opens it, and they hurry out. Meanwhile, Bulu
has stepped to the master console, a bank of flashing
lights and comm equipment. He reaches underneath with
an electronic device, then steps back as the entire
console shorts itself to oblivion in a shower of sparks
and electronic pain. Bulu starts out of the room, but
cannot resist stopping for a split second over the
fallen body of Guard 2.
BULU
(continuing)
Eh, hey buddy, don't call me "Tooney".
As Bulu hurries after the others, we PUSH gently to the
fallen giant, sleeping peacefully.
INT. ELEVATOR - BULU, FURR, PLUCK
Pluck whips out his communicator as they descend.
PLUCK
Little Mouse, this is Grand Duck. The
Bobayashimi Mawruh has set sail for
the promised console. Acknowledge.
MOUSOV (V.O.)
Message acknowledged. All units
will be informed.
Pluck flips his communicator closed. McMeow raises an
eyebrow.
McMeow
You're taking me to the promised
console?
PLUCK
Yeah, sure, I owe ya a few favors.
INT. SPACEDOCK - USS EXCELLENTE - (ILM SHOT)
The new Queen of Space is quietly docked, floodlit like
a great monument, but essentially in bed for the night.
INT. DESERTED CORRIDOR - EXCELSIOR
Mr. O'Flynn, looking cautiously around, stands by the
elevator door in the empty corridor. The elevator door
opens, and as O'Flynn is preparing to step in, CAPTAIN
STEGHORN steps out. Steghorn is the familiar loud mouth
tall annoying rooster.
If he's a little stuffy, it's pardonable; he
does, after all, have the plum assignment in all of
Starfleet.
STEGHORN
Ah, Mr. O'Flynn. Calling it a
night? I say CALLING IT A NIGHT, SON?
FLYNN
Ah, yes, Captain.
STEGHORN
Kinda tired myself. I say I'm very sleepy myself. Looking
forward to breaking some of
Duckprise's speed records tommorrow.
FLYNN
Yes, sir. Good night. Big mouth..
The doors of the elevators close, leaving Flynny alone
inside. A slightly condescending MALE VOICE says:
ELEVATOR (V.O.)
Level please!
FLYNNY
Transporter room.
ELEVATOR (V.O.)
Thank you.
FLYNNY
Cross your wires..
INT. A SHABBY TRANSPORTER STATION - ON MUHURA - NIGHT
MUHURA
(into comm)
Roger. Old City Station at 2200
hours. All is kicking.
She releases comm and methodically begins adjusting
controls on her console as CAMERA WIDENS to reveal a
lanky, cynical Starfleet LIEUTENANT DUNCAN-very young rabbit
he leans back in his chair, hands clasped behind
his head.
LIEUTENANT
You amaze me, Commander. You sure do.
MUHURA
(working)
Whatca mean, homes...?
LIEUTENANT
A long year space officer, yet
you ask for the worst duty station
in town. I mean, look at this
place: the hind end of space.
MUHURA
I likes the solitude,
Lieutenant.
LIEUTENANT
Well, maybe that's okay for
someone like you whose career is
winding down. But me: I need
some challenge in my life. Some
virtual reality... Even just a surprise
or two.
MUHURA
You know what they say, Lieutenant.
Careful what you wish for: you may
get it.
The entry door slides open and Pluck, Furr and Bulu
hurry in and begin walking without hesitation, toward
the pods.
MUHURA
(continuing)
Gentlemen. Whassup?
PLUCK
Good evening, Commander. Everything
ready?
MUHURA
In readyness, Admiral. Step into my parlor.
The parade of purposeful men passes the befuffled
Lieutenant as if he weren't there. He watches as they
settle themselves onto the pods, while Muhura busies
herself with the setting of controls. He crosses with
concern to where she is working so efficiently.
LIEUTENANT
(sotto)
Commander, these are some of the
most famous people in Starfleet!
Admiral Pluck, holy cow!
MUHURA
Glad ya'll know yer stuff, Lieutenant.
LIEUTENANT
But it's very irregular. No
destination orders, no encoded
i.d...
MUHURA
True.
LIEUTENANT
Well -- what are we going to do
about it?!
MUHURA
I ain't going to do nothing about
it. You are put yerself in the
closet. Ya might find a invisble virtual reality
helmet in there.
LIEUTENANT
The closet?! Have you lost all
sense of reality?
UHURA
This isn't just reality. This is
viritual reality.
With that Muhura turns, a phaser leveled.
MUHURA
(continuing)
You wanted virtual reality? How's this?
The old imgination going?
(he nods)
Cool. Now get yerself in the closet.
He backs into it, disappears inside, and she closes the
door from her panel.
McMeow
I'm glad you're on our side.
PLUCK
(re -- the closet)
Will you be able to handle
that...?
MUHURA
Oh, I'll have "Mr. VR"
eating out of my hand. And I'll
see you at the rendezvous.
(then)
Peace out, Ad.
She smiles and activates THE BEAM. They wave back to
her until they are gone.
INT. SPACEDOCK - DUCKPRISE (ILM SHOT)
CAMERA PUSHES TOWARD the darkened bridge section as
energizer and ELECTRONIC SOUNDS are heard, and suddenly
from within, the lights begin to go on.
INT. BRIDGE - DUCKPRISE - ELEVATOR DOORS
They open and Pluck, Furr and Bulu appear on the bridge
where activity is now bustling thanks to Flynny and
Mousov.
FLYNNY
As promised, she's all yours,
sir. All systems automated and
ready. A chimpanzee and two
trainees could run her.
PLUCK
Thank you, Mr. O'Flynn. I'll try not
to take that personally.
(to all)
My friends... I can't ask you to
go any further. Dr. McMeow and I
have to do this. The rest of you
do not. Uh please come with us?
MOUSOV
Admiral, I'd go anywhere you would go!
BULU
What course please, Admiral?
PLUCK
Mr. O'Flynn?
FLYNNY
I'd be grateful, Admiral, if you'd
give the word.
PLUCK
(a moment)
Gentlemen... may the cold of space be not at
our hinders. Stations please!
As they reach stations, we are on Pluck as a series of
orders and responses are given...
PLUCK
(continuing)
Clear all moorings... engage auto
systems... one-quarter impulse
power...
CUT TO:
INT. SPACEDOCK - DUCKPRISE - (ILM SHOT)
The scarred, noble vessel begins to move slowly, im-
pulse, rockets WHOOSHING intermittently.
INT. SPACEDOCK - THE CAFETERIA - (FX SHOT WITH ILM
ELEMENTS)
It's darkened now, and empty. A lone cleaning man
works among the stacked tables as behind him, in the
great window, Duckprise begins backing away from
Excellente like a mouse tip-toeing away from a sleeping
cat. The cleaning man looks up in surprise. What
is going on?
INT. SPACEDOCK - DUCKPRISE - (ILM SHOT)
Backing slowly into the last third of the great dock --
and the great closed doors through which she must pass.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
BULU
One minute to space doors.
McMeow
(edgy)
You just gonna -- walk through
them?
PLUCK
Chill out, Furr.
MOUSOV
Sir. Commander, Starfleet on
emergency channel. He orders you
to surrender this wessel.
PLUCK
(a breath)
No reply, Mousov... Continue on
course...
INT. EXCELLEMTE - CAPTAIN'S QUARTERS - CLOSE - STEGHORN
Sleeping, he is jarred awake by an alarm KLAXON. Then:
BRIDGE VOICE (1ST OFFICER)
Dadgum Captain! Dadgum Yellow alert! Captain to the
dadgum bridge. Yellow alert -- !
Steghorn fumbles to consciousness, not pleased to be
awakened. He gropes for a comm button.
STEGHORN
Bridge, this is the Captain. How
can you have a Yellow Alert in
Spacedock! I say ya'll have flipped your feathers!
BRIDGE VOICE
Dadgum it, sir... Someone is stealing the
Dadgum Duckprise!
Steghorn' mouth drops open. Then:
STEGHORN
On my way.
INT. BRIDGE - DUCKPRISE
BULU
Thirty seconds to spacedoors.
MOUSOV
Sir: Excellente is powering up
with orders to pursue.
INT. EXCELLENTE BRIDGE (ILM ELEMENT)
Doors open, Steghorn strides in, buttoning tunic.
STEGHORN
Status! Status I say, boy!
1ST OFFICER
All dadgum automates ready and
functioning. Automatic dadgum moorings
retracted. All dadgum speeds available
through dadgum transwarp drive.
STEGHORN
Incredible machine. I SAY INCRIDLE MACHINE! Helm,
one-quarter impulse power.
INT. SPACEDOCK - EXCELLENTE - (ILM SHOT)
As she moves away, heading forward, looking faster than
Duckprise even in low speed.
INT. SPACEDOCK - DUCKPRISE, F.G. - THE SPACEDOORS -
(ILM)
They are closed -- and approaching!
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
PLUCK
Steady... Steady... All right, Mr.
O'Flynn.
FLYNNY
(distracted)
Sir...?
PLUCK
(an edge)
The doors, Mr. O'Flynn!
This is not lost on Furr -- But Flynny is too busy to
panic, rolling in numbers on his console coolly.
FLYNNY
Yes, sir, workin' on it...
He presses a final button, looks up at the screen as --
INT. SPACEDOCK - THE DOORS - (ILM)
They slide slowly open just in time to allow Duckprise
a narrow passage out into space...
BACK TO THE BRIDGE
BULU
(sweat in his voice)
... We have cleared Spacedoors.
PLUCK
Full impulse power.
EXT. SPACEDOCK - DUCKPRISE - (ILM)
Picks up speed and EXITS the SHOT... But Excellente is
seen now exiting the Spacedoors and coming on.
INT. BRIDGE - EXCELLENTE - FAVORING STEGHORN
1ST OFFICER
Dadgum Duckprise maintaining dadgum full
impulse power...
STEGHORN
Stand by, tractor beam! I say use that tractor beam, boy!
1ST OFFICER
STOP SHOUTING IN MY DADGUM EAR!
STEGHORN
I'm trying to let you know that if he tries to get away with Warp
Drive, he's really in for a shock...
SPACE - BEYOND THE EARTH - (ILM)
Duckprise first... Excelsior clearly closing the gap.
DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
MOUSOV
Excellente closing to 4,000 meters,
sir.
PLUCK
Mr. O'Flynn, we need everything
you've got now.
FLYNNY
Aye, sir... Warp Drive is standing
by...!
EXCELLENTE BRIDGE - STEGHORN
STEGHORN
Pluck, boy! You do this, you'll
never sit in the Captain's chair
again. I say you are gonna be demoted big time!
BACK TO SCENE
PLUCK
Warp Speed, Mr. Bulu...
BULU
Aye, sir, Warp Speed...
He moves his control, SOUND builds, and --
EXT. SPACE - DUCKPRISE - (ILM)
The Warp Drive explodes her forward and OUT OF VIEW.
INT. EXCELLENTE BRIDGE - FAVORING STEGHORN
STEGHORN
Allright duck..He wants to play it the hard way!
Prepare for Warp Speed! Standby
Transwarp Drive! I say use the thing allready!
Appropriate KLAXONS and SOUNDS prepare the ship, the
helmsman completes his pre-sets and nods to the first --
1ST OFFICER
Dadgum Transwarp at your command, Sir!
STEGHORN
Execute! EXCUTE IT I SAY, BOY!
There is a massive buildup of SOUNDS, and then -- a
sudden series of BANGS, SHAKES, COUGHS and WHEELS, as
if the ship had hit a series of potholes in space.
SPACE - EXCELLENTE- (ILM)
She begins to shake and vibrate, shuddering her way
through space...
INT. EXCELLENTE BRIDGE
Strange, impotent SOUNDS no one of them has heard be-
fore, and on Steghorn' face, absolute bafflement.
INT. BRIDGE - DUCKPRISE
Except for the puzzled McMeow, there seems to be quiet
satisfaction on the Duckprise.
PLUCK
Mr. O'Flynn: as good as your word.
FLYNNY
Aye, sir. The more they over-
think the plumin', the easier it
is to stop up the drain.
(turns to McMeow)
Here, Doctor, a souvenir as one
surgeon to another.
He hands McMeow a tiny microchip (INSERT). McMeow looks
up bewildered, still shaky from the chase.
FLYNNY
(continuing)
I took it out of her main
Transwarp computer drive.
McMeow
Nice of you to tell me in
advance.
PLUCK
(wry)
That's what you get for being the last one
around Spork, Doctor. Gentlemen,
your work today was outstanding...
I intend to recommend you all for
promotion... in whatever fleet
we end up serving.
(continuing)
Best speed to Dreamcast.
SPACE - DUCKPRISE - (ILM)
Responding to Bulu's touch, she speeds off.
CUT TO:
SPACE - THE DREAMCAST PLANET - (ILM)
The Catt of Prey is orbiting.
INT. BRIDGE - BIRD OF PREY
Malc and a half-dozen Klinging are on station under
Troy. The young officer leans into a monitor with
interest. We see two BLIPS there, one converging on
the other.
EXT. DREAMCAST PLANET - SPORK'S GLADE - CLOSE TRACKING -
DAY
We are on a Klinging TRICORDER which is BEEPING excitedly.
WIDEN to see that it is in Sluge's hand as he advances
rapidly, through the oddly changed glade.
SPORK'S GLADE - WIDER - STILL TRACKING
A SERGEANT and one CREWMAN are with Sluge on the
planet, always a half step behind his brisk pace. The
TRICORDER'S BEEPING INCREASES with each step. Then,
abruptly, the PLANETARY RUMBLE is heard -- and the
Klingons -- and CAMERA -- STOP, listening to the
rumble.
The earth shakes. As it does, a hideous, high-pitched
SQUEAL is heard, nearby O.S. (This is different than
the cry we have heard on the planet.) As the surface
stops shaking, the SQUEAL TAPERS OFF -- but the TRI-
CORDER BEEPS remain very active. Sluge, his curiosity
inflamed, starts forward OUT OF SHOT, the others fol-
lowing.
EXT. SPORK'S GLADE - FULL
The Spork tube is in the f.g. CAMERA RISES now as
the Klingings approach the tube, stop short in sur-
prise as they see:
SHOCK CUT - CLOSE - TUBE - (ILM SHOT)
Where the "squiggly forms" once were, now horrible 4-
foot-long SERPENTINE THINGS rise, Cobra-like, HISSING
and SQUEALING.
BACK TO SCENE
Sluge is impassive, the others a little shocked. The
Sergeant pulls his phaser -- but Sluge stops him with a
hand. Now Sluge regards the serpents... then steps
forward to them. He does this with total arrogance to
reassert his bravery to the crew. CAMERA PULLS with
Sluge. He smiles as he reaches the tube. Then he
reaches into the group of serpents.
SCENE - SLUGE AND SERPENTS - (PRODUCTION & ILM FX
SHOTS)
Sluge grasps one of the elusive Things, brings it close
for study. This has the macho quality of a bullfighter
getting within an inch of the bull. The crew watches
breathlessly. Then, suddenly --
The Thing makes a squidlike coiling motion and wraps
itself around Sluge's neck and right arm. It's squeez-
ing hard.
The crew reacts, but are wisely stayed by the Sergeant.
This is the boss's show.
Sluge responds in a worthy manner. Even though the
Thing is coiling tightly, Sluge exerts all the strength
he has in what he correctly guesses to be the crea-
ture's jugular. The creature POPS -- its strength
collapses -- and it slithers down and falls away from
its conqueror.
He takes a moment to enjoy the crew's reaction... then:
SLUGE
(to his communicator)
Bridge -- Nothing of consequence
here. Am resuming search.
The light around him begins to change dramatically. He
looks up, and reacts to:
HIGH - FULL DREAMCAST PEAK - (ILM SHOT)
The highest promontory on the small planet gives us a
view of the sunlight TERMINATOR LINE (the line between
day and night, as on the moon) rolling forward on the
terrain below, where we now know the Klingings are.
Sunlight is being replaced by night with the rolling
motion.
CLOSE - MARK
The POV has been his. He watches in wonder as the day-
night line crosses him, in a light change. He stands,
turns, and looks behind him to see:
DREAMCAST PEAK - FULL - (PRODUCTION)
The highest plateau is turned into night to complete the
cycle. We now see this area for the first time as the
starlight begins to fill it. A rocky, craggy place
with giant tree roots and gnarled shapes everywhere.
BACK TO MARK
He reacts in wonder.
INT. THE CAVE AT DREAMCAST PEAK - CLOSE - MOVING - NIGHT
Faavik is ministering to the O.S. boy. We do not yet
see his face. We hear his SOFT SOUNDS, the aftermath
of cries which we heard earlier. CAMERA CONTINUES
MOVING as Faavik takes off her tunic and throws it as
an added cover on the O.S. figure. Then she stops,
looks at the boy in wonder, as CAMERA completes its arc
to reveal the BOY.
We are shocked to see the Boy has changed. He is now
unquestionably older, perhaps 13 or 14. He is breath-
ing heavily as the pain recedes.
She rises, and slowly steals out. HOLD on the Boy.
EXT. DREAMCAST PROMONTORY - CLOSE - DAVID - NIGHT
Looking out over the darkened planet, lost in thought.
WIDEN to admit Faavik. She too looks outward. A dis-
tant, FAINT RUMBLE. No tremor felt. Then:
MARK
(taking tricorder
readings)
This planet is aging in surges.
FAAVIK
(nods; then)
And Spork with it. They are
joined together.
... How long?
MARK
Days... Maybe hours... Frozenmatter
has made the situation unpredictable.
(softly)
I'm sorry.
FAAVIK
(accepts; then)
It will be hardest on Spork. Soon
he will feel le burning of his
Pigcan blood.
DAVID
I don't understand.
SAAVIK
Pig Soui. Pigcan males must
endure it every seventh year of
their adult life.
But his TRICORDER is BEEPING FAINTLY. He checks it.
MARK
(continuing)
Whoever they are, they're getting
closer.
FAAVIK
I'll go...
MARK
No!... I'll do it.
(then)
Give me your icer.
Their eyes meet. She gives him the icer. Then he
hurries out. HOLD on Faavik. Slightest RUMBLE of the
planet. Concern. Is another surge coming?
CUT TO:
EXT. SPACE - DUCKPRISE EN ROUTE - (ILM)
She passes us at high speed.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
Around Pluck is his new "formation"; Mousov is at the
Comm station, Bulu at the helm, next to him O'Flynn on
weapons/engineering; and at the Spork science post --
well, we haven't seen yet.
BULU
Estimating Dreamcast 2.9 hours,
present speed.
PLUCK
Can we hold speed, Mr. O'Flynn?
FLYNN
Aye, sir, she's got her second
wind now.
PLUCH
Scan for vessels in pursuit.
SPOTK'S VOICE (O.S.)
Scanning... Indications negative
at this time...
You could drop a pin. Everyone turns to Spork's
station...
ANGLE - FAVORING FURR
McMeow
Did I get it right?
PLUCK
Yeah, Furr...next time with a little more
feeling.
MOUSOV
Sir, Starfleet calling Griddle
again. A warning about us.
PLUCK
Response?
MOUSOV
(a beat)
Nothing. As before.
PLUCK
What's Griddle up to?... Will they
join us, or fire on us...?
(thinks)
Mousov, break radio silence. Send
my apologies to Captain Elmerstan.
MOUSOV
Aye, sir.
Mousov begins calling, as Pluck crosses easily to McMeow.
PLUCK
How we doing?
McMeow
(thoughtfully)
How are we doing... Funny you
should put it quite that way, Jim.
(beat)
We are doing fine. But I'd feel
safer giving him one of my hairballs
than what's scrambled in my brain.
MOUSOV
Admiral, there is no response from
the Griddle on any channel.
PLUCK
Keep trying, Mousov. At regular
intervals.
CUT TO:
EXT. PROMONTORY - CLOSE - FAAVIK
She has fallen asleep in her exhaustion. There is a
faint SOUND OF TRICORDER LIFE SIGNS BEEPING. She slum-
bers through this. Then, the planet begins to tremble.
A RUMBLE. An O.S. CRY, which by now we know is from
the young Spork. Faavik shakes herself, wakes up not
knowing what has just happened. The first thing she is
aware of is the BEEPING TRICORDER. She checks it,
uncertain. Then pulls her communicator.
There is STATIC, and no response. Then the planet
trembles again, and there is a definite O.S. CRY.
Faavik reacts in alarm, hurries OUT OF SCENE as the
RUMBLING and the CRIES CONTINUE.
INT. ENTRANCE TO THE CAVE - NIGHT
As Faavik appears in the opening.
We hear the O.S. CRIES OF PAIN from the boy as Faavik
watches, sympathetic but helpless. As the CRIES
SUBSIDE, and there are no more rumblings, Faavik takes
a few steps inside. She sees:
HER POV - THE YOUNG MAN
Hunched down in a corner, his face turned AWAY FROM US,
is Spork. He is now in some kind of awful spasm. Squealing like a pig
BACK TO FAAVIK
She studies what she sees. She understands. His SQUEAL
OF RAGE now splits the air and:
THE YOUNG SPORK
He turns TO CAMERA suddenly, a YOUNG MAN in his late
teens, lean of face, high of cheekbone. The look on
this tortured face and his body language tell us he is
fighting for control of body and his world. He is
fevered and shuddering. He looks at Faavik with wild
eyes which are both frightened -- and frightening.
FAAVIK
She approaches him cautiously, but with absolute under-
standing. She stops a step away from him.
FAAVIK
So it has come.
Spork hears, but does not understand.
FAAVIK
(continuing)
It is called Pig Soui.
He stares.
FAAVIK
(continuing)
Pig Soui.
Her voice has calmed him some. She takes the last step
and is now close to him. Calmly and in Pigcan:
FAAVIK
(continuing)
(... Will you trust me...?)
Spork does not respond; he is in quiet agony. She
kneels beside him. His breathing is labored... Faavik
offers her hand in Pig Soui configuration -- like a
two-finger hoof salute. Spork studies it, then
she brings up his right hand in the same configuration.
With her two extended fingers she touches his and then
slowly begins to stroke his entire hand in gentle fore-
play. His breathing eases now, his body begins to
relax. Uncertainly, he begins to return the finger-
play, first on Faavik's hand and then on her temples.
He is more in control now... intense. His eyes turn
and lock on hers. Hands touching, they move together
until their faces are brushing... and their fingers
embrace.
CUT TO:
SPACE - THE STARS (ILM)
A moment of soft SPACE AMBIENCE. Then Duckprise
glides silently INTO SHOT.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - FAVORING BULU
BULU
We are secured from Warp Speed...
Now entering Dreamcast Sector of
Kutara Quadrant.
PLUCK
What about Griddle, Mr. Mousov?
MOUSOV
Still no response, sir
PLUCK
Mr.Bulu, proceed at impulse power.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY - CLOSE - MONITOR SCREEN
An object appears, accompanied by a SOFT ALARM. PULL
BACK. The screen is being watched by Malc, who reacts.
MALC
Vessel entering sector.
Troy has come up, bends over screen.
TROY
Yes... Federation Battle
Cruiser.
(then)
Have they scanned us?
MALC
Not yet.
TROY
Engage cloaking device.
The SOUNDS and lights of cloaking begin...
INT. CAVE - DREAMCAST - CLOSE - THE YOUNG SPORK
Morning light is streaming in. His eyes are closed, he
breathes calmly. A hand, Faavik's, ENTERS SHOT, to
sooth his brow and smooth his matted hair.
FAAVIK
A softer look than we have seen before. But a look of
concern and apprehension.
She sighs, then picks up communicator. She is about to
transmit a message when an instinct makes her put it
down, turn to the cave entrance. We PAN with her look
to cave entry, low. There, a pair of Klinging boots
stand.
BACK TO FAAVIK
She reacts, starts to rise, when Klinging hands grab
her, pull her to her feet. CAMERA WHIP PANS to young
Spork who opens his eyes with a start, stares in con-
fusion -- then hands grab him and --
EXT. THE PROMONTORY - FULL - DAY
Outside the cave the Klinging landing party waits.
Here, amid gnarled and stoned formations, Faavik and the
young Spock are forcibly pulled from the cave and
hurled at the feet of:
SLUGE
A slow PAN UP reveals the Klinging, his patience
strained.
SLUGE
So! I have come a long way for
the power of Dreamcast. And what do
I find?
At his gesture, Mark is thrust forward and thrown
among the other two. Mark shows signs of having been
roughed up by the Klinging.
SLUGE
(continuing)
A weakling fowl... a Pigcan boy
... and a woman!
Faavik, assessing the desperate situation, takes her
best shot:
FAAVIK
Moseuir... We are survivors of a
doomed expedition... This planet
will destroy itself in hours. The
Dreamcast experiment is a failure.
SLUGE
A failure! The most powerful
destructive force ever created -- !
(then)
You will tell me the secret of the
Dreamcast tower.
FAAVIK
I have no knowledge.
SLUGE
Then I hope pain is something you
enjoy.
The Sergeant steps forward, communicator in hand.
SERGEANT
(My Lord...)
Sluge snatches the communicator, yells into it:
SLUGE
I ordered no interruptions.
TROY (V.O.)
But sir! Federation Starship
approaching.
For Faavik and Mark, a moment of hope.
SLUGE
Bring me up!
We're on Faavik and Mark and the uncomprehending
Pigcan as the sound and reflected light of a BEAM-UP
take place.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - FAVORING CHEKOV
At the science station, the blue light of the scanner
flickering on his face.
MOUSOV
I'd saw something was there sir,
but I might have imagined it.
PLUCK
Space does that to you, kid--
What did you see, Mousov?
MOUSOV
For an instant... A scout class
wessel.
PLUCK
(thoughtfully)
Could be Griddle?
(then)
Patch in the hailing frequency.
(at Mousov's nod)
U.S.S. Griddle, this is Duckprise
calling. Come in, please.
EXT. PROMONTORY - THE KLINGING CAMP
Favoring Mark, Faavik and the Pigcan. They hear the
voice over the Sergeant's communicator.
PLUCK (V.O.)
Griddle, this is Duckprise
calling. Do you read?
For Mark, it is the voice of his father and rescue.
For Faavik, it is a possibility, just out of reach.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY - CLOAKED LIGHTING EFFECT
The doors slam open as Sluge hurries INTO SCENE.
SLUGE
Battle alert.
The KLAXON sound... in the b.g. barely heard
PLUCK (V.O.)
I say again: Griddle, this is
Duckprise. Admiral Pluck calling
Captain Elmerstan or Lieutenant
Faavik. Come in!
SLUGE
Report status!
TROY
Wese are cloaked. Enemy closing on
impulse power. Range, 5,000
Kalkans.
SLUGE
Good.
(beat)
This is the turn of luck I have
been waiting for.
EXT. SPACE - DUCKPRISE - AGAINST STARS - (ILM)
Coming toward us. Apparently a stalled target.
INT. BRIDGE - DUCKPRISE
MOUSOV
Nothing on my scanner, sir.
PLUCK
Short range scan, Mr. Mousov... On
screen, Mr. Bulu.
ANGLE FAVORING VIEW SCREEN - (ILM)
A view of the approaching Dreamcast planet appears, the
planet off to the side. The other two-thirds of the
screen appear to be normal star field/space. That is,
except for one odd area, slightly diffused, which only
the sharp-eyed might notice.
INT. CATT OF PREY
MALC
Range: 3000 Kalkans.
SLUGE
Steady. Continue on impulse power.
TROY
Yes, sir!
MALC
Range, 2000 Kalkans...
SLUGE
Standby to transfer energy to
weapons... at my command!
EXT. SPACE - POV OF DUCKPRISE - MOVING TOWARD HER -
(ILM)
Smoothly, we are stalking the Duckprise.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - INCLUDING VIEW SCREEN -
(ILM ELEMENT)
Pluck is studying the projected image.
PLUCK
There. See that? That's the enemy!
We see on the screen a kind of heat wave effect we saw
once before when Griddle "bought it." But Griddle did
not have Pluck.
BULU
Yes, sir. It's getting larger as
we close in.
INT. CATT OF PREY
MALC
Firing range, sir.
SLUGE
(Gunner: sight target. Disabling
only -- understood?!)
NEW GUNNER
(Understood clearly, sir.)
The beats GROWLS.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
PLUCK
That distortion is closing
rapidly...nice effect. Whatca think, Bulu?
BULU
It could be better budgeted, might be an energy form,
sir...
PLUCK
Yeah. Enough energy to hide a
ship, wouldn't you say?
BULU
... A cloaking device?
PLUCK
Ohhh sneaky trick. Well two can play at
this game. Red alert, Mr. O'Flynn.
the lights dim to red --
INT. CATT OF PREY
MALC
1,000 Kalkans, closing!
SLUGE
Wait!... Wait...
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
bathed in combat red light --
PLUCK
Mr. O'Flynn, all power to the
weapons systems --
FLYNNY
Aye, sir!
McMeow
What about the shields?
PLUCK
You medical guys-
always thinking about defense.
McCOY
That's why we are the smarter logical ones.
INT. BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY
MALC
500 Kalkans!
SLUGE
(Stand by torpedoes -- de-cloak!)
The SOUNDS and lights which accompany this, and --
EXT. SPACE - CATT OF PREY - (ILM SHOT)
The ship begins to de-cloak --
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - FAVORING VIEW SCREEN - (ILM
ELEMENTS)
where the Catt appears exactly in the spot anticipated.
BULU
Klinging Catt of Prey, sir! She's
arming torpedoes...!
PLUCK
Fire, Mr. O'Flynn!
EXT. SPACE - SERIES OF SHOTS - (ILM)
The Duckprise fires two torpedoes... They impact on
the Bird of Prey in separate explosions --
The displacement of the explosions cause the Klinging
ship to turn and be pushed back, as if by thrusters --
INT. CATT OF PREY - (SPECIAL FX)
As explosions shake the bridge, filling it with smoke
and debris and cries of the injured. And suddenly,
CLOSE, Sluge's outraged face appears, smudged by an
explosion.
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE (ILM ELEMENTS)
All lean forward toward the O.S. viewscreen.
PLUCK
Good shooting, Flynny.
INT. CATT OF PREY BRIDGE
Amid the shouts and the orders in Klinging, a dis-
orientated Sluge wanders for just a moment until he al-
most stumbles across something. It is a body. He
looks to see:
SLUGE'S POV
His beast. Dead.
BACK TO SCENE
A passion of rage. He is back to his instincts now.
SLUGE
Emergency power to
the thrusters!
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - FAVORING MOUSOV
He shows growing concern.
McMEOW
Jim, the shields, now!
PLUCK
Allright, don't hack up, Furr.
Raise the shields, Mousov.
MOUSOV
Sir, the shields... Non-
responsive.
PLUCK
Flynny...?
FLYNNY
The automation system's
overloaded. I didn't expect to
take us into combat, ya know...!
He begins hitting buttons
EXT. SPACE - THE BIRD OF PREY (ILM)
The thrusters stabilize her turning and backward
movement. She is now lined up with a splendid angle on
Duckprise.
INT. CATT OF PREY - SLUGE
SLUGE
(Fire!)
EXT. CATT OF PREY - FIRES TORPEDOES - (ILM)
EXT. SPACE - DUCKPRISE (ILM)
as she shudders and tilts with the hits, and the
flashes of flame...
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - TILTED
A blast hits. Flynny's panel sizzles... LIGHT OUT!
PLUCK'S VOICE
Emergency power!
The light return, EMERGENCY MODE. The ship rights
itself. Pluck has been knocked down. Furr to him --
PLUCK
Stand by to
return fire! Mr. O'Flynn, transfer
power to the phaser banks --
FLYNNY
I dinna think so...
PLUCK
What's wrong?
FLYNNY
They've knocked out the blinking
automation center.
I've got no control over anything!
Pluck pales, looks quickly to:
PLUCK
Mr. Bulu...?!
BULU
Sorry, sir...
Mousov shakes his head in helplessness. Pluck
digests this. Then:
PLUCK
(continuing)
Ok... these felines have us like hunted birds.
INT. CATT OF PREY - A DATA GAUGE - OVER TROY'S
SHOULDER
TROY
Ready for fire emergency tube--
ANGLE WIDENS to include Sluge, who raises his hand for
pause, and thought.
SPACE - THE TWO SHIPS DRIFT QUIETLY - (ILM)
BACK TO SCENE
SLUGE
Why haven't they finished us?...
They outgun me ten to one.
MALC
My Lord, enemy commander wishes a
truce to confer.
SLUGE
Put him on screen.
ANGLE FAVORING KLINGING SCREEN (INTERCUT)
The screen is a different configuration than we are
used to; Pluck's image appears. (We will INTERCUT the
Planet and Duckprise as needed during following
sequence.)
PLUCK'S IMAGE
This is Admiral James T. Pluck of
the Federation Starship Duckprise.
On the Catt of Prey: Sluge's reaction to Pluck's face:
SLUGE
Well, well; our Dreamcast narrotar, boys.
PLUCK'S IMAGE
Who do you felines think you are dealing with, hmm?
You have no idea who you are messing with. Why I took
down a giant rat just to deal with an ex of mine and you
kittens are push-overs. So back off or we will
take you down!
SLUGE
(to Troy)
He's hiding something. We may
have dealt him a more serious blow
than I thought.
TROY
How can youse tell that?
SLUGE
I trust my instincts.
(leans to comm
button)
Admiral Pluck. This is your
advisary "trimbeling". Loser..
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE (AND INTERCUT)
Only Sluge's voice is heard here, and on the planet
below.
SLUGE (V.O.)
I know a fake stupid ridicouis hero speech and
you just said the grande of them all, now you just
made a wrong move, duck and it will cost your feathery
hyde. It seems I'm well aware of the armageddon weapon
called "Dreamcast", and I'll do what I can to get my paws
on it so you fools won't corrupt it for your own greedy selfs!
PLUCK
How did he know?
SLUGE
On the planet below, I have three
prisoners from the team who
developed your doomsday weapon.
If you do not surrender
immediately, I will execute them,
one at a time, as enemies of
galactic peace.
PLUCK
Who is this?! How dare you --
SLUGE
Who I am is not important. That I
have them is.
(beat)
I will let you speak to them.
EXT. DREAMCAST - THE KLINGING CAMP (INTERCUT)
As Sluge's VOICE yells a Klinging order over the commun-
icator, Faavik, Mark and the Pigcan are rousted to
their feet by the Klinging, and assembled in a line.
The Sergeant thrusts the communicator in front of
Faavik, pokes her to make his command clear. She leans
into the communicator, controlling carefully.
FAAVIK
Admeeral, Bonjour! This is Lieutenant
Faavik.
PLUCK
(softly)
Faavik... Is... Mark with you?
FAAVIK
Oui, he is. And someone else.
Pigcan scientist of your
acquaintance.
PLUCK
This Pigcan -- is he alive?
FAAVIK
He is not himself -- but he lives.
He is subject to rapid aging --
like this unstable planet.
The Sergeant has had enough with her long windedness,
pulls the communicator and thrusts it in front of
Mark.
MARK
Hello, Father. It's Mark.
PLUCK
(shaken)
Sorry I'm late.
MARK
It's okay -- I should have known
you'd come... Faavik's right:
this planet is unstable. It's
going to destroy itself in a
matter of hours.
PLUCK
Mark what went wrong?
MARK
I went wrong.
A beat.
PLUCK
Mark, you are not making any sense...
Mark
I'm sorry, Dad. Just don't
surrender. Dreamcast doesn't
work! It never did... I can't believe they'll
ice us for it --
But a Klinging crew member has cut Mark off the air --
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE - (CONTINUE INTERCUTTING)
SLUGE
Admiral, your son is
mistaken. I meant what I said.
And now, to show my intentions are
sincere... I am going to ice one
of the prisoners.
PLUCK
Wait! Give me a chance --
SLUGE
(to communicator)
(Ice one of them. I don't care
which.)
THE PLANET
The Sergeant has received the order. He draws a dis-
tinctive Klingon ice ray, handheld, small. As
PLUCK'S VOICE is heard, INDISTINCTLY PROTESTING over the
communicator, the Sergeant walks behind the assembled
line of the three prisoners: the Pigcan youth, Faavik,
and Mark. Who will the Sergeant ice to deep freeze?
We do not know where he will shoot the ice ray at. Then, the
Sergeant has picked his victim, and aims the ice ray
ready to shoot --
ANGLE
It is Faavik he intends to ice. Mark, his face
curled in rage, leaps forward. grabs the man's arm.
The struggle is short.
Mark takes a ice ray beam full blast.
INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE (INTERCUT)
There is a sound fx quite like a remenisent of someone getting
frozen on the game "Super Smash Brothers Melee".
There is a horrible silence that follows.
PLUCK
Faavik?!... David...!?
At last we hear the shaken voice of Faavik. Tears come from her eyes
yet she is in shock
FAAVIK
Admeeral. Mark is deep frozen.
There is none of these three Pluck would have parted
with. But Mark... He fights back the horror as Furr
steps to his side -- but finally he must let it go:
PLUCK
(soft spoken)
klinging feline..you froze my son..
(more audible, in tears, crying)
Klinging feline you've
froze my son!
(a beat)
You Klinging Feline!
SLUGE
I warned you with that fake speech, as there are two
prisoners left,
Admiral. Do you want them iced
too?
(a beat)
Sumbit your defeat.
PLUCK
Fine, you win. I give up...
(a trembling mo-
ment, then)
Give me a minute to inform my
crew.
CATT OF PREY
Sluge, pleased his gambit has worked, is magnanimous.
SLUGE
I give two minutes. For you, and
your gallant crew.
(clicks off;
to Troy)
Take every last cat: form a
boarding party, armed heavily!
TROY
Theyse outnumber us, my Lord --
SLUGE
We are Klingings! Once you control
the ship, I will transfer our flag
there. And we will take Dreamcasr
from their own memory banks!
DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
The crew has come forward to stand behind Pluck's com-
mand chair. Pluck is staring ahead, his eyes glazed.
Pluck turns to face McMeow. His face is hollow, his eyes
staring. Then, in a voice strained with grief.
PLUCK
Mr. Bulu, how many felines they got on that ship?
BULU
A few felines, sir.
PLUCK
(thinking)
They could be on Dreamcast as well...
He turns to them, his voice hoarse:
PLUCK
(continuing)
I swear to you, we're not finished
yet.
PLUCK
(rising)
Furr, you and Bulu to the
transporter room. The rest with
me. We have a job to do.
As the individuals respond to orders, PUSH TO Pluck as
he presses his COMM button.
PLUCK
(continuing)
Commander, Klinging vessel. Stand by
to board this ship on my next signal.
SLUGE (V.O.)
No "FOWL" tricks, Pluck. You have one
minute.
PLUCK
No "FOWL" tricks. I'm looking forward to
meeting you. Pluck out.
He steps to the science station as Mousov and Flynny
gather round. He leans in, presses a COMM button.
PLUCK
(continuing)
Computer, destruct Sequence One,
code one, one-A...
INT. CATT OF PREY
Sluge is inspecting the six man landing party as-
sembled by Troy. They are loaded down with weapons.
Sluge raises his arm and points:
SLUGE
(To the transporter room. Success!)
INT. DUCKPRISE BRIDGE
MOUSOV
Computer, this is Commander Savel
Mousov, acting Science Officer.
Destruct sequence two, code one,
one-A, two-B.
Flynny steps in now.
FLYNNY
Computer, this is Commander Birmingham O'Flynny,
Chief Engineering Officer.
Destruct sequence three, code one-
B, two-B, three.
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Destruct sequence completed and
engaged. Awaiting final code for
one-minute countdown.
A moment among them. Then:
PLUCK
Code zero, zero, zero QUACK
zero.
COMPUTER (V.O.)
One minute... fifty-nine seconds
... fifty-eight... fifty-seven...
And they hurry out. CAMERA MOVES to a visual display
which is counting in sync with the COMPUTER VOICE.
CATT OF PREY BRIDGE
Sluge, alone with Malc, checks time impatiently, hits
a talk button.
SLUGE
Time's up, Admiral.
INT. ENTERPRISE CORRIDOR - PLUCK, FLYNNY, MOUSOV
RUNNING
INT. DUCKPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM
as Pluck, Flynny and Mousov hurry in. Pluck stops as the
others move O.S.
PLUCK
(flips communicator)
Commander, Klinging vessel. We are
energizing transporter beam... Now.
As the ELECTRONIC WIND UP begins...
CATT OF PREY BRIDGE
SLUGE
Transporter stand by!
DUCKPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM (ILM ELEMENT)
As the POWER WHINE INCREASES, Pluck steps on one of the
transporter pods, joining Flynny, McMeow, Bulu and
Mousov. After a few endless seconds, they begin to
DE-MATERIALIZE AND VANISH. There is a FLICKER, a
pause. Are they returning? Have they been blocked?
No. The second BEAM EFFECT materializes the Klinging
landing party. They pause guardedly, phasers drawn.
Then, led by Troy, they start out. We are faintly
aware of a soft COMPUTER VOICE counting off seconds.
CATT OF PREY BRIDGE
Sluge waits, patiently...
INT. DUCKPRISE CORRIDOR
The Klinging landing party enters, proceeds cautiously...
INT. BRIDGE - DUCKPRISE (INTERCUT WITH SLUGE)
It is deserted
The sliding door opens and Troy leads the Klinging in,
weapons drawn. They check out the bridge as the VOICE
CONTINUES FAINTLY, unobserved by the Klinging. Then
Troy pulls out his communicator.
TROY
My Lord. The ship appears to be
deserted.
SLUGE'S VOICE
How can that be? They are hiding!
TROY
Yes, sir. But the bridge appears
to be run by computer. It is the
only thing speaking.
SLUGE'S VOICE
Speaking? Let me hear...
Troy, puts his communicator close to the computer's
panel speaker and the voice is quite loud now.
COMPUTER (V.O.)
Six... five... four... three...
SLUGE'S VOICE
Get out! Get out of there! Get
out!
Troy and his men are baffled by Sluge's distress when a
sudden SERIES OF EXPLOSIONS engulf the bridge, and --
INT. DUCKPRISE CORRIDOR
-- a fireball streaks through the empty companionway --
EXT. DUCKPRISE/ EXT. PLANET/ INT. CATT OF PREY -
SERIES OF SHOTS (INTERCUT)
The great ship is wrecked by an EXPLOSION, then AN-
OTHER, and ANOTHER in a chain of designed destruction.
(ILM)
The skin of the circular section ruptures, cracks open
like an arid desert; the star drive section bursts and
trembles... (ILM)
Like a fiery comet, Duckprise falls gracefully out of
orbit, burning up as she plunges, toward her death.
(ILM)
We see Duckprise in the distance, a small fireball in
the outer edge of the Dreamcast atmosphere. (ILM)
EXT. DREAMCAST PLANET - PLUCK'S LANDING - (ILM ELEMENTS)
The comet-like death of Duckprise in the distance is
being watched by a silhouetted group as the sun sets.
REVERSE ANGLE - TWILIGHT - (AND INTERCUT)
The five survivors of Duckprise, temporarily safe,
watch in awe and grief as their home of twenty years
dies in the ominous sky beyond. On each face, the
light left by Duckprise flickers, then at last, is
gone. Pluck watches with hollowed eyes.
PLUCK
My gosh, Furr. What have I done?
McMeow
Only "logical" thing you could do, Jim. What you
always do. Turned a mess up into a glimmer of hope.
Pluck takes a deep breath, nods his understanding to
McMeow. Even as the earth trembles, and Bulu's tri-
corder begins to go a little wild.
BULU
Planet core readings
unstable... Changing rapidly...
PLUCK
What about surface life signs...?
BULU
There --
They hurry off in the direction Bulu has pointed, as
the GROWLS AND RUMBLES of the planet begin to
accelerate. Night is falling.
EXT. THE KLINGING CAMP - NIGHT
The two Klingings guard the seated Faavik. Spork is
isolated, some distance away. The death RUMBLINGS of
the planet begin to INCREASE with each moment. The sky
beyond occasionally lights with awesome flashes of
electrical energy; the ground shakes in unpredictable
spurts. Suddenly, a tree vaults upward, as if pushed
from its place by a force below. The TREE GROANS AN
CRASHES toward the ground, the Klinging leaping out of
its way.
FAVORING FAAVIK
As the two Klingings are distracted, and the planet's
agony continues, Faavik slips away from them toward
Spork.
SPORK
He is seated, BACK TO US. His aging spasms has begun,
and with each earth RUMBLE of the planet, he suffers.
THE KLINGINGS
concerned about their own problems, and the silence
from their ship.
While he waits for an answer, his eyes catches Faavik's
progress toward Spork. He calls this to his subordi-
nate's attention with a guttural grunt, and the second
Klinging hurries off to correct the situation.
ANGLE - FAAVIK AND SPORK
As she nears the suffering Pigcan, the Klinging reaches
her, and with a strong arm, hurls her easily aside.
The GROUND RUMBLES again. The Pigcan cries out. THE
Klinging, fascinated by the Pigcan's behavior,
approaches, then, reaches out toward him.
FAAVIK
Non, don't touch him!
The Klinging ignores. He puts his hand on the Pigcan,
and for his trouble, in a blur of action, gets grabbed,
whacked, and hurled through the air by a burst of the
Pigcan's strength.
The Klinging lands at the base of the gnarled tree and
lies quite still, just slightly compound leg injury.
ANGLE - THE KLINGING SERGEANT
reacts in shock to what has happened, draws his icer,
all business now as he studies:
THE PIGCAN
Hands over his face as he twists in pain. He emits a
long, terrible CRY, the cry we've heard, but never
seen.
EXT. GROTESQUE FOREST - FAST TRUCKING SHOT
Pluck and the crew are coming to the rescue, running
amid the TREMORS and the flashes of light, whipped by
wind and flailing trees. As the CRY is heard THROUGH
THE WIND, they pull up, listening. The CRY AGAIN,
close by. Pluck leads them out on the run.
THE KLINGING CAMP - SERIES OF SHOTS
Faavik has returned to try to help Spork. She holds
him now, as his spasms continue.
The Sergeant comes forward, icer in hand, until he
reaches the Pigcan, held by Faavik. The Klinging stops,
mesmerized. He stares at:
YOUNG SPORK - OVER FAAVIK'S SHOULDER - (SPECIAL FX)
His features are changing before our eyes, his face
distending...
Faavik, looking back at the Klinging, clutches the ago-
nized Spork to her, trying in some way to protect him.
THE SERGEANT
He's frightened. He reflexively raises his icer...
ANGLE - THE CLEARING'S EDGE
The flash of lightning illuminates the arrival of Pluck
and the crew. Pluck, phaser leveled --
The Klinging whirls to face the new threat, whips his
icer toward Pluck --
But Pluck FIRES A STUN BLAST...
ANGLE - INCLUDING THE KLINGING - (STUNT & ILM)
The STUN WAVES zip at the Klinging, strike him with
spectacular force, cause him to somersault through the
air, and then, landing, lie still.
BACK TO SCENE
Pluck lowers his icer; he and the others stare at:
Faavik, holding the now immobile Spork.
The Duckprise family reacts; with Pluck and Furr lead-
ing, they rush to Faavik.
ANGLE AT SPORK AND FAAVIK
Pluck and the others have pulled up. Spork is now coma-
tose, breathing with labored sighs. We cannot see his
face, cradled in Faavik's comforting embrace. But Saavik
is looking up at Pluck with dazed eyes.
PLUCK
... Furr...
McMeow crosses quickly, takes the Pigcan's form from
Faavik as she rises to Pluck..
PLUCK'S POV
Unnoticed up to now, frozen in a body outline
covered in ice Mark, Pluck's fallen son.
BACK TO SCENE
He reacts. Then, with a last comforting hug to Faavik,
he breaks the embrace, and heads slowly for Mark's
body. She watches him EXIT SHOT.
ANGLE - MARK'S BODY
WIDEN to admit Pluck as he enters, kneels. He reaches
out, touches his son's brow,very cold to the touch.
Faavik has come up behind him. She hangs back. Then
Pluck rises, aware of her presence.
PLUCK
(continuing)
What happened...?
FAAVIK
He gave his life to save us.
McMeow'S VOICE
... Jim!
Pluck runs, hurries OUT OF SHOT...
FAVORING McMeow AND SPORK
With the crew gathered around, McMeow is scanning the
Pigcan's body, soothing his fevered brow. We cannot
see Spork's face, but Pluck as he enters and kneels
beside McMeow. He reacts, mesmerized by what he sees:
PLUCK
... Furr...?!
McMeow
... Rapid aging... all genetic
functions highly accelerated...
PLUCK
And his mind?
McMeow
It would seem,
Admiral, that I've got all his
snorting.
PLUCK
Well what we can do?!
FAAVIK
Only one thing, Sir... Get him off
this planet... His aging is part
of what's going on around us...
There is a lightning FLASH, and an earth TREMOR -- and
a moan from Spork. Pluck responds, rises, and crosses
OUT OF SHOT...
ANGLE WITH PLUCK
As he moves, stops, wrestling with the urgency of what
must be done. Then, deciding, he whips out his
communicator.
PLUCK
(to communicator)
Klinging Commander, this is Admiral
James T. Pluck... I am alive and
well on the planet's surface...
BACK TO PLUCK
PLUCK
I know this will come as a
pleasant surprise for you... But
you see our ship was the victim
of an unfortunate accident... I'm
sorry about your crew, yet it seems my hero speeched worked!
A lightning flash makes him cover his eyes... Then:
PLUCK
(continuing)
Well? I'm waiting for you!...
What is your answer?!
(only static; more
desperately)
I have what you want. I have the
secret of Dreamcast... But you'll
have to bring us up there to get
it... Do you hear me!
More STATIC. Pluck's ploy has apparently failed. He
sags a bit, starts back toward the crew, when another
series of flashes blind them all as the planet rumbles
with sound and fury and Spork moans. Then, Pluck and
crew do not see what to do:
In the near distance, amid the flashings, a figure is
revealed, lost in the confusion. It is Sluge, icer
in hand.
SLUGE
... Drop all weapons!
ANGLE - FAVORING PLUCK AND CREW, PAST SLUGE
Pluck and the others look up in shock, then rise slowly
hands in the air. Sluge moves closer, pointing.
SLUGE
Over there, All but Pluck.
The group moves to a cleared space indicated, leaving
Spork's form behind.
SLUGE
(continuing to
his comm:)
Malc. Prisoners are at beam
coordinates. Standby.
PLUCK
(easily)
You should take the Pigcan, too.
SLUGE
No.
PLUCK
But, why?
SLUGE
Because you reminded me of that dumb hero speech.
(then, in Klinging)
(Malc! Activate beam!)
FX SHOT - BEAM EFFECT - (ILM ELEMENTS)
McMeow, Flynny, Bulu, Mousov and Faavik disappear in the
beam effect and are gone.
BACK TO SCENE - PLUCK AND SLUGE
A flash of lightning! A movement of earth. The sudden
HISS of a FISSURE OF ICY MIST through the surface... And
the two men face each other, shouting above the planet
noises.
SLUGE
Dreamcast, I want it.
PLUCK
Beam the Pigcan up -- And we talk.
SLUGE
Give me what I want -- and I'll
consider it...
PLUCK
You fool -- look around you! This
planet is destroying itself!
SLUGE
Yes. Exhilarating, isn't it!
PLUCK
If we don't help each other, we'll
all freeze here!
SLUGE
Perfect! That's the way it shall
be!... I want Dreamcast!
Suddenly, the very ground on which he stands seems to
become an elevator. He is carried rapidly upward on a
craggy rock formation which bursts upward, out of the
ground. Sluge tumbles, and Pluck seizes the opportunity --
THE FIGHT - SERIES OF SHOTS
Pluck leaps upon Sluge and they roll and struggle on the
churning, erupting ground.
They are evenly matched. Pluck's opening momentum holds
until Sluge's great size begins to turn the tide. He
takes temporary command with swift vicious kicks and
punches. Pluck is down.
Sluge now looks around for his icer, starts for it,
but Pluck, in a series of ground rolls trips Sluge up
with his legs, and comes on.
The off-balance Sluge now takes a series of punches
from Pluck which make him reel backward near the edge of
the promontory. A final blow from Pluck forces Sluge
over the edge -- and he:
-- tumbles and rolls down the fifteen foot slope. Pluck
peers over the edge to see:
PLUCK'S POV - (ILM ELEMENTS)
Sluge has landed on a level precipice about fifteen
feet in diameter. Beyond that is an endless drop into
a chasm, the bottom of which has become a icey blue
river of ice and snow.
ON THE PRECIPICE - UP ANGLED (ILM ELEMENTS)
As Sluge rises to his feet, Pluck without hesitation
soars into the air from above and dives upon Sluge, the
momentum of the dive taking both men right to the edge
of the final drop. They work their way to their feet
and continue the struggle anew, pieces of the rock edge
slipping away under their feet as they scuffle. Pluck
is winning until:
With a burst of energy, Sluge shoves Pluck hard and Pluck
slams into a wall of ice, dazed. Sluge has him --
but as he starts to step forward, the edge of the rock he
is standing on starts to slip.
FULL - THE PRECIPICE - (ILM ELEMENTS)
Pluck on the left against the wall, Sluge on the right,
on the edge. Sluge is dropping lower. The rock forma-
tion he is on now breaks away, carrying him outward.
Sluge does jump forward at the last possible instant as
the rock falls away. He leaps to:
THE NEW EDGE OF THE PRECIPICE (ILM ELEMENTS)
Where Sluge lands precariously, hanging on almost by
his handclaws. He's holding on as best as he can, his
legs flailing, unable to gain any purchase to boost him
up.
Pluck, recovering his own strength, sees Sluge in this
helpless situation. He comes forward to the edge,
kneels over the Klinging.
PLUCK
Give me your paw!
Sluge looks down, measuring the terror below as if
considering, then with sudden and explosive strength,
vaults upward making a desperate grab for Pluck. He has
a leg! Suddenly, Pluck is fighting not to be pulled
over the edge. He is losing that fight. Till he
lashes out with a blow. The Klinging's grip slips, yet
he hangs on tenaciously, until -- with a cry of rage --
PLUCK
(continuing)
This is...for you not...listening to my hero speech!!
Pluck turns and kicks Sluge mightily -- and the Klinging
begins his fall...
WIDE DOWN ANGLED SHOT - (ILM ELEMENTS)
Pluck in f.g. watches as Sluge tumbles endlessly toward
the steaming blue icey cold snowy frozen river below...
ON PLUCK
He turns now to his ultimate problem: the planet is
caving in around him. He starts to scramble up the
steep slope, back to the promontory where --
THE PROMONTORY - SPORK
His inert body lies, surrounded by new bursts of steam
from the cracking earth...
ANGLE - PLUCK (ILM ELEMENT)
Behind him we see the first signs of a fast rising
icey big snowball. He claws his way back to the top level
and races to Spork's fallen form. He kneels and turns
the body over to see:
PAST PLUCK TO SPORK
We see the face at last: it is Spock, at the age he
died.
But he is also a haggard, ravaged shell of a being,
almost again dead from the agonies of change -- and
even now, with soft frightening sounds, giving
indications of the final changes that lie just ahead.
PLUCKK - SNOWBALL LARGER BEHIND HIM (ILM ELEMENTS)
Amid the death knell of this place, Pluck knows it is
now or never. A desperate idea forms. With
determination, he picks Spork up and shoulders him.
Then drawing his communicator, he flips it open and
takes his best shot:
PLUCK
(in guttural Klinging)
(Malc... Activate beam!...)
There is a moment of uncertainty. Pluck is about to try
again when the Klinging beam SOUND begins and...
BEAM UP EFFECT - (ILM ELEMENTS)
Amid the groans, flashes, the HISSES OF ICY MIST, BLIZZARD and
falling debris, Pluck, carrying Spork dematerializes in
the KLINGING BEAM, even as the snowball appears to be coming
closer...
MASTER - THE DESERTED PLANET (ILM SHOT)
... and closer still, casting clear white light over
the frozen collasping surface...
INT. CATT OF PREY
The doors WHOOSH open, and Pluck, carrying the inert
Spork, steps out, icer at the ready!
REVERSE - INCLUDING PLUCK
Malc on the Captain's deck, the Duckprise prisoners
below. Malc turns, expecting Sluge, and is clearly
astonished; as he raises his hands, Pluck steps forward.
PLUCK
How many more?
FLYNNY
Just him, sir!
PLUCK
Furr, help Spork! Everyone else,
find a station!
A flurry of activity as the crew moves into position in
the strange -- yet familiar bridge. McMeow takes Spork
from Pluck, guides him OUT OF SCENE, and Faavik takes
Malc' phaser and steps back. To Malc:
PLUCK
(continuing)
Ok Malc, gonna cooperate with us?
MALC
It seems I have no choice.
PLUCK
Good. Maybe Burrow will have more leincency on you then us.
Let's get out of here.
And so saying, he dashes OUT OF SHOT, followed by
Faavik. The Klinging can only stare in confusion.
SPACE - THE DREAMCAST PLANET - (ILM)
We are near her now collasped snowy surface; snow covers around
Beyond, the ice waits, former friend, now ready
to accept the planet in death.
BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY
Pluck in command, Bulu and Faavik on nearby station.
They are confronted by familiar tools, but baffling
zymology.
ENGINEERING PANEL
Flynny hunched over the console, Mousov hunched over
him...
FLYNNY
Where's the darn anti-
matter inducer?
MOUSOV
I think it might be this one!
FLYNNY
Let me try that one, lad.
Flynny makes several adjustments, presses some buttons,
then, with a deep breath, moves a sliding handle for-
ward. A HIGH WHINE STARTS, WAVERS, THEN GROWS ROBUST.
BRIDGE
Bulu responds to the panel indicator.
BULU
I think I can operate these controls, sir.
PLUCK
Then get us out of here, Bulu!
Bulu impels the throttle device -
SPACE - CATT OF PREY - (ILM)
Turning gracefully, she gains speed, PASSES CAMERA, and
heads for the stars with increasing velocity breaking
to Warp Speed as -
SPACE - DREAMCAST AND HER SNOWBALL - (ILM)
The planet is now heading toward the snowball. We watch
in wonder as she gains speed and becomes a glazing
iced snow, plummeting spectacularly to her own
destruction.
BRIDGE - CATT OF PREY
The mood is subdued, somber..
PLUCK
(a whisper)
Goodbye, Mark.
BULU
Everything is smooth sailing, sir.
PLUCK
Course plot to Pigcan, Bulu.
Mousov, send Malc below and don't sneeze on him.
MOUSOV
Aye, sir. But I'm allergic to Spider-Man Wannabes.
Malc puts his finger under Mousov's nose
INT. CATT OF PREY SICK BAY - CLOSE - SPORK
He is pale, comatose, fragile looking. WIDEN as Furr
passes a scanner over the form; the scanner's sound is
feeble. McMeow stops in frustration, checks Spork's
eyes; then turns back, wearily. Softly, as CAMERA
begins to ARC around them.
McMEOW
(wearily)
Spork. Remember me! That's what you said
when you put this thing in me, for catnip's sake,
tell me what to do with it!
(a pause, then)
I'm gonna admit something
to you. but don't you dare repeat it
anyone! I've was worried about you.
And it was bad not having you around.
He lowers his head in helpless grief on the form of the
unmoving Spork.
SPACE - THE PLANET PIGCAN - (ILM)
HOLD. The ROAR of an unseen spaceship is heard, and,
the Catt of Prey ENTERS SHOT, heading toward Pigcan.
EXT. THE PIGCAN TEMPLE AREA - HIGH FULL ANGLE - DUSK
(ILM)
LOOKING DOWN on the awesome mountainous landscape with
a temple complex on a high forbidding peak. SLOW ZOOM
IN TO MATCH:
EXT. TEMPLE AREA - UP ANGLED - CLOSE - SARDEK - DUSK
Zooming at comparable speed, to a CLOSE UP of Spork's
father.
MUHURA
Yo Pops. My crew wants to know if they can park.
SARDEK
Granted. Inform Pluck
all is ready.
CAMERA PANS now from Sardek to reveal Muhura, in uniform.
MUHURA
I'll give them the go ahead, sir.
EXT. PIGCAN - CATT OF PREY - ILM)
at impulse power, approach speed. Her "wings" config-
urate into atmospheric lift generating airfolis; she
glides...
INT. CATT OF PREY
PLUCK
OK Bulu, you've got manual.
BULU
It's been a few years, sir. Hope those
video games still paided off... Retrothrusters!
EXT. PIGCAN - CATT OF PREY - DUSK - (ILM)
As the ship descends slowly and gracefully to a soft
landing in the Temple area, retro's kicking dust.
INT. CATT OF PREY
The energizers wind down
EXT. PIGCAN LANDING AREA - CLOSE IN - CATT OF PREY
as a RAMP section of the plane HISSES and lowers to the
ground. Spork is carried down on a litter borne by his
friends. As they reach the bottom, Pluck is in f.g.,
and looks in amazement to see:
POV - (ILM ELEMENTS)
The great hill to the Temple is lined with hundreds of
Pigcans, many with torches. It is most impressive.
BACK TO PLUCK - McMeow - FAAVIK
Then Pluck sees something else, reacts as:
MUHURA
Crosses to the crew -- is hugged by Pluck. Her eyes are
moist with emotion as:
MUHURA
Sardek is on stand-by. Ads.
Pluck nods, and Muhura falls in place behind him, helping
to carry Spork's form with the others. They now carry
Spork OUT OF SCENE as we begin to hear RITUAL CHANTS
and MUSIC in the distance.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. PIGCAN HILL - SERIES OF SHOTS - NIGHT
The procession is in progress through a path lined on
both sides by simply-robed Pigcans of all ages.
Spork's form makes passage to stately MUSIC.
VARIOUS SHOTS
Pigcans responding to Spork's passage.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. PIGCAN - UPPER LEVEL OF TEMPLE AREA - SERIES OF
SHOTS
Sardek, some DIGNITARIES, and SIX PIGCAN WOMEN, tall and
stately, are waiting. MUSICIANS are close by now. As
the Duckprise group reaches Sardek, he steps forward to
meet them. Now a silence falls.
Sardek stands at his son's head and gently places his
two hands on Spork's face. When he is done, he looks
at Pluck and McMeow. They search his face for some
indication of hope, but Sardek is expressionless. He
steps back now, gestures. The Pigcan women come
forward, and take Spork from his friends.
As the transfer is completed, the procession begins
again toward the temple entry. Sardek falls in behind
the body; Pluck and his group follow him.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. PIGCAN TEMPLE - SERIES OF SHOTS
The Temple of Ancient Hogs, lined with massive heads
of stone. DOLLY with the procession as an amazing
thing takes place:
As Spork's body moves, now seen -- now blocked by
passing forms, we realize the bearers' hands are
no longer under the body, but are ON TOP OF IT.
The magic of this moment is not lost on Pluck, Furr and
the others as we --
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. PIGCAN ALTAR AREA - SERIES OF SHOTS (ILM ELEMENTS)
A great saucer-shaped platform under the Pigcan sky,
with an altar at the far end. The dramatic figure of a
PIGCAN PRIESTESS stands there. Rising into the air
behind her is an elegant version of the Pigcan hand
salute shaped in gleaming metal.
The bearers continue with Spork toward the altar, but
Sardek stops here on the threshold, and stops Pluck and
group.
Sardek turns to face the altar. Spock's body is
deposited there to ritual MUSIC. Then, the powerful
CHANT of the HIGH PRIESTESS begins.
Pluck and McMeow and the others stare in awe at what is
happening, as the Priestess' chant flows over them.
Then, the CHANT ENDS. Sardek steps forward. A HORN..
..SOUNDS. Then:
PRIESTESS
Sardek... Child of Pappyon... Child of
Suie. The body of your son
sqeuals still. What is your
wish?
SARDEK
I ask for Hog-Boar-Pin, the
reunion.
PRIESTESS
What you seek has not been done
since ages past -- and then, only
in legend. Your request is not
logical.
SARDEK
Forgive me, S'Lar. My logic
grunts where my son is
concerned.
She looks at him for a long moment. Then:
PRIESTESS
Who is the Keeper of the Katra?
As Sardek's nod and Pluck's urgent look, Furr replies
uncertainly:
McMeow
I am... McMeow... George F.
(adding)
Son of Derrick...
PRIESTESS
(deep, ominous)
McMeow... Son of Derrick. Since
thou art earthling feline, we cannot expect
thee to understand fully what
Sardek has requested. The
circumstances are extraordinary:
Spork's body lives... With your
approval, we shall use all our
powers to return to his body that
which you possess: his essence.
But McMeow...
(a pause)
You must now be warned! the
danger to thyself is as grave as
the danger to Spork.
(this impacts on
McMeow and Pluck)
You must make the choice.
McMeow
(pause, then...)
I choose to get this thing out of me.
(then, aside to
Pluck)
Certainly a bad time to ask.
As Sardek leads Furr toward the altar, we HOLD on
Pluck's new apprehension.
THE ALTAR - (INTERCUT WITH PLUCK AND CREW) - SERIES OF
SHOTS
Sardek and McMeow reach the altar, and Sardek departs.
The Priestess in tones another short CHANT, punctuated
by GONGS and MUSICAL emphatics. Then chant and music
stop and we hear only the gentle SOUND OF THE WIND, and
far-off TEMPLE CHIMES. She places a hand on Furr'
face, another on Spork's. Then, eerily:
SOFT MUSIC now. She begins drifting into a trance like
mind meld, chanting softly, almost inaudibly.
CLOSE on McMeow... And Spork... Their eyes are closed.
A sense of kinetic energy somehow passing between
them...
The crew of the Duckprise, each and all... Waiting...
FULL SHOT - FROM ABOVE
The great altar area, the land and valley beyond.
Lightning streaks the sky.
CLOSE - PLUCK - SLOW MOVE IN
The lightning flashes are reflected in his face as we
MOVE SLOWLY IN on his concerned face... and VERY SLOWLY --
LONG DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. PIGCAN TEMPLE AREA - HIGH FULL SHOT - SUNRISE -
(ILM)
The early morning sun casts a different, long-shadowed
hot look on the altar and threshold.
OUTSIDE THE ALTAR - PLUCK, THE CREW
From where they had watched from last night, here they have
waited, lain down. They are beginning to stir when the
SOUND OF A GONG brings them fully awake. They rise,
bleary eyed to see:
THEIR POV - TOWARD THE ALTAR
The High Priestess, exhausted, is being carried out of
the altar area on a sedan chair. As she leaves, Sardek,
supporting a weary McMeow, heads a procession of hooded
robed priests. Among them we now see a HOODED ROBED
FIGURE all in WHITE.
The procession is passing Pluck's party, while Pluck and
the crew can only stare in uncertainty. Then, Sardek
signals the others to continue while he, with McMeow,
breaks off and comes to Pluck.
KIRK AND CREW
They wait now as Furr, leaning on Sardek, ENTERS SHOT.
McMeow
That was quite a ride, Jim.
PLUCK
Yeah, maybe next time, I'll go on it.
Bulu and Flynny reach for him, help support him. He is
weakened, but otherwise all right. Pluck gestures
toward the white-robed figure walking slowly away.
PLUCK
How is Spork, Sardek?
SARDEK
In time, he will regain his logic.
(then)
Pluck. I am grateful. What you have
done is --
PLUCK
What I did is, what I had to do.
SARDEK
But at what sacrifices? Your ship...
Your son.
PLUCK
I guess in the end..Mark would of wanted to go
down with his planet. As for my ship, they'll give
me another one.
Sardek looks at him with deep admiration, then turns
and heads back to the group of priests. The wind
blows, and --
PLUCK AND GROUP
They are now looking into the low sun, shading their
eyes for a last look at the white-robed figure.
POV - SARDEK AND GROUP - LONG LENS
They are moving slowly away when, suddenly, the white-
robed figure stops, turns toward the Duckprise group.
CLOSE - THE WHITE HOOD
We cannot see the features beneath, but we know the
figure is staring. After a moment, the figure starts
back to the Duckprise group. As two priests reach to
stop him, they are stayed by Sardek, who now watches
with interest.
PLUCK AND GROUP
watching with held breath as the white-robed figure
walks steadily to them, reaches them.
THE FIGURE
Back lit. The wind whips his garment. Now he lowers
his hood. We see Spork: a radiant, gentled Spork.
His age is as we have known it; his hair, his face, the
same; he would look at peace except for the eyes, which
remain hollow, filled with questions and uncertainties.
SCENE - VARIOUS ANGLES
The Duckprise crew, each of them stares back at Spork
as SUBJECTIVE CAMERA PANS PAST them SLOWLY. Each makes his
own effort to be remembered, but --
Spork remains churning, but uncertain. Then he looks
hardest at all at:
Pluck. The wind whips his hair.
Something triggers in Spork. He steps forward, and
then in an odd, rusty voice:
SPORK
My father tells me you have been my
friend... You returned for me.
PLUCK
Hey, you are my Science Officer, I need you
around.
SPORK
(searching)
Why would you do this...?
PLUCK
(grasping to make
a connection)
Because... you outweighed
the needs of the many.
Spork stares at him. A vague connection has been made
-- but not enough. Spork turns away in uncertainty,
begins walking back to the group he left. Pluck raises
his helpless hand after Pluck, wondering what he might
have said, should have said -- when suddenly:
Spork stops, back to Pluck. He closes his eyes, looks
to the sky. And like someone who has found a piece of
a puzzle, he says:
SPORK
I have been... and ever shall
be... your friend.
Pluck steps forward a few steps -- hushed, encouraging --
PLUCK
Yes, Spork...
SPORK
(half turns)
The ship... Out of danger...from Fran?
PLUCK
(deeply)
You saved the ship, Spork. You
saved us all. Fran is history.
Don't you remember "me"?!
There is an odd moment after Pluck's impassioned speech:
Spork cocks his head as if some vital piece of informa-
tion had just clicked into place.
SPORK
(softly)
... Jim... Your name is Jim.
Pluck smiles, very content. He nods his head.
PLUCK
... Yes.
Their eyes are locked together. Spork gives a little
nod of satisfaction, as if knowing he has taken the
first of many steps. He turns to share this with
McMeow... And then with them all. We have the feeling
that Spork has come back to his family... and to us...
ON DUCKPRISE FAMILY
They have gathered round Pluck now, beaming at Spork
through their tears and their joy, knowing they all
have a future together. As the CAMERA PULLS UP AND
BACK from this, we ROLL END CREDITS and --
FADE OUT.
THE END
Cast (in credits order) verified as complete
Joe Alaskey .... Admiral James T. Pluck
Hadley Kay .... Captain Spork
Rob Paulsen .... Dr. Leonard "Furr" McMeow
Joesph C. Miller Jr. .... Cmdr./Capt. Alabama O'Flynn
Jon Kassir .... Commander Bikaru Bulu
Kath Soucie .... Commander Savel Mousov
Cree Summer .... Commander Mary Muhura
Tom Kenny .... Dr. Mark Duckus
Gary Le Roi.... Mr. Virtual-Lieutenant Duncan
Kath Soucie .... Lieutenant Faavik
Greg Burson .... Admiral Burrow
Maurcie LaMarche .... Captain of Traitor Ship
Tress MacNeille .... Penelope
Joe Alaskey .... Commander Sluge
Chris Benoit .... Troy
Christopher Daniel Barnes .... Malc
Ian James Corlett .... Klinging sergeant
Brian Drummond .... Gunner #2
Greg Burson .... Captain J.F. Elmerstan
Sherri Stoner .... Helm Slappy
Rob Paulsen .... Trainee Yakko
Brian Cummings .... Klinging Gunner #1
Jess Harnel .... Communications Wakko
Frank Welker .... Gogo
Candi Milo .... Waitress Sweetie
Maurcie LaMarche .... Civilian Agent Sam
Greg Burson.... Captain Steghorn
Rob Paulsen .... First Officer Mouth
Johnathan Winters .... Ambassador Sardek
Tress MacNeille .... S'Lar
Jon Kassir .... Prison Guard #1
Jim Cummings .... Prison Guard #2
Frank Welker .... Spork Screams (voice)
