Teaser
EXT. THE USS ENTERPRISE AT FULL STOP, IN SPACE, SOME DISTANCE FROM DELTA IV.
A Starfleet shuttle craft carrying Lt Commander Will DECKER and four other Starfleet personnel as PASSENGERS, approaches.
CPT KIRK (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate ####.#. The Enterprise is rendezvousing with a shuttlecraft out of Starbase #, to pick up 5 Starfleet officers who'll be completing their trip, with us, to Delta IV, where they'll join an attachment to a Federation Diplomatic contingent, seeking to arrange for Delta IV to join the Federation. Among them is one officer with whom I'm familiar.
INT. ENTERPRISE SHUTTLE BAY
The shuttlecraft enters, and its passengers de-shuttle in the presence of DR MCCOY and CPT KIRK
DR MCCOY
I thought we were picking up a group of OFFICERS en route to a membership detail, not cadets on a field trip.
CPT KIRK
They're young, Dr, but, not THAT young. Not anymore. Not out here.
DR MCCOY
I suppose that's true.
CPT KIRK
Welcome aboard the Enterprise, ladies and gentlemen. You can hand your medical files to the good doctor, and proceed to crew deck for cabin assignments.
(A beat)
Except for you, Mr DECKER. I'd like a word.
DECKER approaches KIRK
DECKER
Aye, sir.
DECKER hands MCCOY his file. MCCOY files out behind the other passengers, leaving CPTN KIRK and DECKER behind.
CPT KIRK
I haven't seen you since...the memorial. A Lt Commander, are we now? And so young. Your father would be proud.
DECKER
Yes, sir. I expect so, sir.
CPT KIRK
Well, perform as well on this assignment as I know you have up to now, and you'll be dropping the Lt before you know it.
DECKER
From your lips, to the Admiralty's ears, Captain.
KIRK motions for DECKER to walk with him. They head towards the corridor.
INT. ENTERPRISE CORRIDOR OUTSIDE SHUTTLE BAY
KIRK and DECKER walk towards a turbo lift.
CPT KIRK
You know, Will, I may not have said it well enough at the memorial, but, I'm...sorry that I couldn't prevent...
DECKER
Sir, my father did what he did to save lives. I don't think anyone could've prevented what happened. Not in the face of that kind of determination.
CPT KIRK
I see. Well, it would seem that determination to serve is a Decker family trait.
They arrive at and enter the turbo lift
CPT KIRK
As long as you exhibit it judiciously, it should serve you well.
DECKER
I couldn't agree more, Captain.
The lift doors close.
Act I
INT. ENTERPRISE BRIDGE.
KIRK enters and takes the center seat. MR SPOCK approaches CPT KIRK.
MR SPOCK
Were you able to speak with Mr DECKER, Captain.
CPT KIRK
Yes, I was, thank you.
MR SPOCK
May I inquire as to how your found him?
CPT KIRK
I found him to be...a Decker, Mr Spock.
MR SPOCK
Indeed.
(A beat)
SPOCK returns to his station
UHURA
Message from crew deck, Captain, our passengers are settled in.
CPT KIRK
Good to know, thank you, Lt. How long to Delta IV, Mr Xener?
Xener
Just under twelve hours, sir, present speed.
CPT KIRK
That should save our new arrivals quite a bit of time. Excellent.
INT. ENTERPRISE CREW MESS/REC HALL
DECKER and other crew members/shuttle PASSENGERS are seated at one of several populated tables.
CAMERON
So, Will...we're not far off, now. You nervous?
DECKER
Nervous? No. Should I be?
CAMERON
Well, I might be, in your boots, yeah. I mean, you'll be 2nd in command. Think you're up for it?
DECKER
Yes. No. I damn sure hope so.
CAMERON
(Jokingly)
That makes 2 of us.
DECKER
Funny. It's just a 3 month diplomatic attachment post. I think we'll all be fine.
CAMERON
Three months if they don't extend membership.
DECKER
And if they do, the automatic 3 month mission extension kicks in, but, we can request transfers.
CAMERON
Yeah, well, request is the operative word, there, Mr Decker. Tell me this: heard anything new about COOKSON, lately?
DECKER
Just that she asked for this pick up, to get us there earlier than planned. It seems she wants us to attended the reception.
CAMERON
Well, that's fine by me. I'm unSTOPABLE in my dress uniform!
DECKER
Oh, I don't doubt it.
INT. CPT KIRK'S QUARTERS
CPT KIRK is at his computer, working His door pings.
CPT KIRK
Come.
MCCOY enters.
CPT KIRK
Dr.
DR MCCOY
(A beat)
So, how'd your visit with DECKER go?
CPT KIRK
Why do people keep asking me that?
DR MCCOY
Morbid curiosity?
CPT KIRK
Bones...
DR MCCOY
Well, Jim, you've gotta admit, there's potential for...
CPT KIRK
For what?
DR MCCOY
Well, awkwardness, for one. Resentment, for another. The way things happened...
CPT KIRK
Bones, his father was a commodore. He's a military brat. A Starfleet officer. He understands.
DR MCCOY
I'm not sure if that's good or bad.
CPT KIRK
Going philosophical on me, Bones?
DR MCCOY
Going...? You're noticing this NOW?
CPT KIRK
Point taken.
(A beat)
I've got that briefing with the contingent in a couple of hours. Don't you have to give them a round of shots?
DR MCCOY
After the briefing. I just thought I'd come check on you, seeing as I know how much you enjoy that.
CPT KIRK
I see. Well, thank you.
DR MCCOY
Don't mention it. Tell me this, though; do you have to explain that whole business about the...
CPT KIRK
No. No, that was...covered...before they embarked on the mission.
DR MCCOY
Well...thank Heaven for...small favors.
CPT KIRK
Yes.
DR MCCOY
Right.
(A beat)
DR MCCOY exits. CPT KIRK resumes his work.
EXT. ENTERPRISE CRUISING THRU SPACE FOR SEVERAL SECONDS INT. ENTERPRISE BRIEFING ROOM
CPT KIRK stands before the shuttle passengers who are seated
CPT KIRK
So, there you have it. And there's not much to it. These types of postings tend not to be very exciting.
(A beat)
But, they're a good investment of time and resources. They're designed to...familiarize local populations with the military arm of the Federation. They allow us to impress upon them what characterizes it, and what doesn't, thru first hand observation and interaction. Further, it allows us to cultivate some first hand knowledge of the prospective member world among our own, which tends to come in handy, down the line.
(A beat)
Alright. Company dismissed.
The group gets up and exits, except for DECKER. He approaches CPT KIRK
DECKER
Sir, before I left, I wanted to tell you how I'm enjoying being aboard Enterprise. Command has so far seen fit to place me elsewhere, but, I'm hoping that maybe afterthis assignment, I can finally get a posting on her.
CPT KIRK
Well, thank you, Mr DECKER. I'm confident you'd make a fine addition to her crew. Or any crew.
DECKER
Thank you sir.
The wall communicator beeps.
UHURA (V.O.)
Bridge to CPT KIRK
CPT KIRK walks over to wall communicator and presses a button
CPT KIRK
Kirk here.
UHURA (V.O.)
Helm reports 1 hour to Delta IV, sir.
CPT KIRK
Understood, Lt., thank you.
CPT KIRK presses another button in the wall communicator
CPT KIRK
Well, Mr DECKER, the time draws near. I'm headed to the bridge.
DECKER
Yes, sir. I'll go prepare for beam down.
CPT KIRK
Carry on, Will. And good luck.
INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM OF THE TEMPORARY STARFLEET OFFICENIT ON DELTA IV
DECKER and the other PASSENGERS beam in. They are greeted by Commander COOKSON and Starfleet Medic ESPOS
COOKSON
Welcome to Delta IV, everyone. Medic ESPOS will take your files, and your quarters are down the corridor, to the left. This being your first night here, and with that reception tomorrow, we'll be having a...working dinner, in the briefing room in 2 hours. We can handle introductions then.
All PASSENGERS hand their tablet to TAYLOR, and exit but DECKER, who approaches COOKSON
DECKER
If I may, ma'am, Id prefer to introduce my self now.
They shake hands.
COOKSON
Lt Commander, you're the only one in this group whom I need no introduction to. You're Commadore Decker's boy, if you'll forgive the expression.
DECKER
Yes, ma'am. I understand you served with my father on the Constelation.
COOKSON
That's true. Ofcourse, I'd...already transfered off when...
DECKER
Understood.
COOKSON
That was a few stripes ago. I made Lt serving with Captain Decker. Hell of a man.
DECKER
Yes, ma'am.
Lt ILIA enters. COOKSON and DECKER turn to see her. DECKER has a strong happy reaction to seeing her, but attempts to conceal it.
COOKSON
Ah...Lt.. Mr DECKER, this is our mission attaché, Lt...
DECKER
ILIA.
ILIA smiles at DECKER, and hands COOKSON a tablet.
COOKSON
You know each other?
DECKER
(A beat, as he stares at her)
Yes. Yes, we do, uh...in passing.
ILIA
Mr DECKER and I were in two or three classes together, at the Academy.
DECKER
The Lt was one of the brightest under classmen I knew.
COOKSON
Well, good then.I want us all pulling in the same direction on this, and working familiarities are conducive to unit cohesion, I tend to find.
DECKER
Aye, ma'am. Yes.
COOKSON
I'll see you both, then, in 2.
ILIA
Yes, Commander.
COOKSON exits.
ILIA
(Aware that DECKER is smitten, and smitten herself)
Lt Commander? You did not waste any time.
DECKER
(Slightly flustered)
Well...no. I...I'm very goal oriented.
ILIA
I remember. Top of your class, correct?
DECKER
Well...close to it, yes. But, Lt,JG is...in even less time, is...just as impressive.
ILIA
I am aware of that.
(A beat)
ILIA
Why don't I show you to your quarters, Mr DECKER.
DECKER
I'd like that.
EXT. ENTERPRISE CRUISING THRU SPACE
CPT KIRK (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental. We've dropped off our passengers at Delta IV, and are on our way to a pre-warp planet called Camloria, to retrieve members of our crew who've been embedded there, covertly, for a few weeks, studying their society, under Lt Sulu's command.
EXT. CAMLORIAN VILLIAGE SQUARE/MALL
SULU is sampling some items for sale at a kiosk. He is approached by Yrrab Pol (pronounced Eerob Pahl).
YRRAB
Fine selection, isn't it?
SULU
Yes. And varied too.
YRRAB
I've never seen you before.
SULU
(Vaguely)
No,you haven't.
YRRAB
I've seen people like you before,though.
SULU
(Genuinely inquisitive)
Have you?
YRRAB
Yes. They too were aliens.
SULU
(Denyingly)
Aliens? What are...
YRRAB
There's little time. They're after me!
SULU
(Seriously)
Aliens?
YRRAB
The Rounders!
SULU stares at Yrrab.
YRRAB
My name is Yrrab Pol. I know you are an alien. I've encountered other aliens before. I am certain you have a vehicle that travels far above the stars. You must protect me. I require asylum from religious persecution!
SULU
I'm sorry,I don't know...
A Rounder,brandishing a loaded crossbow and leading a partner, approaches slowly,and yells from a few yards away, through a crowd.
ROUNDER ONE
(To Yrrab)
You there! Remain still!
YRRAB
(To SULU)
You musn't let them arrest me!
An arrow, shot from the Rounder's cross bow, nearly hits them. They run. They make their way to a seemingly abandoned structure and SULU barricades them inside. The Rounder and his partner are still approaching,but are a bit behind.
INT. AN OLD ABBANDONNED CAMLORIAN STRUCTURE
YRRAB
I have met other visitors before. They never denied who they were. Some were executed for heresy and others were simply locked away as insane because no one believed them.
SULU
Except you.
YRRAB
There are others who know they were truth tellers. Are you a truth teller, alien?
SULU
I still don't know what you mean by alien.
YRRAB
(Impatiently)
DO YOU HAVE A SHIP IN THE STARS?
Arrows strike the structure.
YRRAB
(Frantically)
Please, contact it! Get us out of here!
SULU quickly fumbles for his communicator and flips it open.
SULU
(Excitedly)
Sulu to ENTERPRISE,I need an emergency beam out for two!
Uhura (V.O.)
Enterprise, here. A shuttlectaft can be landed in the secure zone in your vicinity in approximately 14 minutes.
SULU
Sorry, Lt., that won't do the trick. We need to be beamed up-NOW!
CPT KIRK (V.O.)
KIRK, here, Lt.. What seems to be the trouble?
The Rounders begin to break the door down. It is giving way.
SULU
Captain! I understand the Prime Directive concerns, Sir, but, I need you to trust me, Captain! We need that beem out NOW!
Sulu and Yrrab dissolve and a half a second later, the two Rounders break through the barricaded door and look around dumbfoundedly
INT ENTERprISE BRIEFING ROOM
KIRK and SULU, still in disguise, are there, seated. SPOCK enters.
SPOCK
(To Kirk)
Our guest is resting in an unassighned crew quarters,as per your orders,Captain.
CPT KIRK
Thank, you, mr Spock. Mr Sulu, let's see if we can't straighten this out.
Spock
Lt., you said the Camlorian claimed to be aware that you were an alien and that other off worlders, who had revealed themselves to him, had visited Camloria?
SULU
That's right.
SPOCK
(To Kirk)
Then, it seems to me that we are not strictly in violation of the Prine Directive, Captain.
CPT KIRK
Not strictly. Well, I usually like a little more to hang my hat on, Mr Spock, but, I'll take it. In any case, at this point, what's done is done. We have to deal with the situation as it exists now, and that situation is calling on us to figure out why Mr Pol was so frightened, why he was being chased, and what we can do to honor his request.
SULU
I'd like to assist with that, Captain, if possible.
CPT KIRK
I don't see why not, Mr Sulu. You, Mr Spock?
SPOCK
The Camlorian chose Mr Sulu to make his request of. It only seems logical that we utilize him as an envoy to fascilitate a productive exploration of the situation at hand.
(A beat)
CPT KIRK
Yes, Mr Spock. Quite logical.
INT. A RECEPTION HALL ON DELTA IV.
The space is decked out for an official diplomatic reception. There are refreshment stations. Starfleet personnel are in dress uniform. Dignitaries from Delta IV and Federation Diplomatic personnel are in attendance. DECKER and CAMERON have taken up a position by a buffet table.
CAMERON
So...this is fun.
DECKER
Sure. For functionaries.
CAMERON
You've got that right.
DECKER
Well, lets try to absorb some local color. Thats why we're here.
CAMERON
Right.
COOKSON approaches
COOKSON
Good evening, gentlemen.
CAMERON AND DECKER
Commander.
COOKSON
Id like you boys to circulate, tonight. Mingle.
DECKER
Yes, Ma'am.
They head towards the center of the room.
COOKSON
And, gentlemen...keep the conversation light. No politics, eh? Not tonight.
DECKER
We'll...endeavor to do that,COMMANDER.
They continue towards the center of the room, and observe ILIA enter. She is stunning in dress uniform.
CAMERON
Well, will you LOOK at THAT.
DECKER
(not amused)
Cameron.
CAMERON
What? She's...
DECKER
I'm aware of that. Lets try not to objectify our collegues, shall we? There're plenty of other young females here, if you MUST be in that frame of mind. Though, I'd prefer you weren't, seeing as we're working, and not to mention the...
CAMERON
(contrite)
Aye, sir.
ILIA approaches.
ILIA
Good evening, sirs.
DECKER
Hello, Lt. We're...mingling.
ILIA
Not yet, you aren't. This way.
She leads them to a pair of female attendees, Deltan dignitaries, ONNAD, and DYCIN.
ILIA
Your honors, Id like you to meet my fellow Starfleet officers, Lt CAMERON, and Lt Commander DECKER.
ONNAD
Pleasure to meet you, sirs.
DYCIN
Yes, for me, as well.
DECKER
The pleasure is ours, ma'am.
DYCIN
Mr...DECKER, is it?
DECKER
Yes.
DYCIN
Is this your first visit to Delta IV, Mr DECKER?
DECKER
It is, yes. The Lt told myself and our fellow cadets one or two things about your world when we were together briefly at Starfleet Academy, but, I know next to nothing about it. And, so far, I've not seen much of it, which is something I'm hoping to change.
DYCIN
I imagine the Lt mentioned that our culture has a strong sexual aspect.
DECKER
It...was mentioned, yes.
ONNAD
And what are your thoughts on that. Mr DECKER?
DECKER
Oh, I...think its fine. I come from a culture that was once rather repressed, in that area. It has evolved, but...not like this.
ONNAD
You find this regrettable?
DECKER
Oh...no. Its just...well, I think balance is important. And while humanity has come a long way in this area, Im not so sure it has struck such a balance, yet. Your culture seems to have struck one. More of one anyway.
DYCIN
It...suits us.
DECKER
I understand.
DYCIN
How about our cuisine, Mr Decker, have you tried any of it?
DECKER
I have. Earlier, I sampled the Vayt...the Vaytar.
DYCIN
The Vaay...tah.
DECKER
Yes. That.
DYCIN
I see. Are you aware that vaaytah has the effect upon humans of an aphrodisiac?
DECKER
Its...I...no, I didn't know that,I...
ILIA
(bemused)
The Councilor is joking with you, sir.
CAMERON
Ha!
DECKER
(smiling uncomfortably)
Oh. I see. Thats...a relief.
DYCIN
I imagine it is.
ONNAD
Well, officers, we take our leave. It truly was nice to meet you.
DECKER
Likewise, councilors.
ONNAD
Come, DYCIN.
DYCIN
Yes.
The councilors walk away.
CAMERON
Will, I...my outburst...
DECKER
Its fine, Lt. This time.
CAMERON
Thank you, sir.
COOKSON approaches.
COOKSON
Me Deceker.
DECKER
Commander.
COOKSON
I've just learned about an archeological dig that's underway on the far side of the planet, and it occurred to me that such a thing might be a good opportunity for a little cultural emmersion.
DECKER
I concur.
COOKSON
I'd like you to take my shuttle, and head over there, tomorrow, with ILIA. I'll add an officer or two to your number once you're there.
DECKER
Yes, ma'am, we'll do that. It'll be interesting, and...well, I've wanted to learn more about Delta IV since the academy.
COOKSON
I'll get the details to you by morning.
DECKER
Understood.
Act II
INT. YRRAB'S QUARTERS
Yrrab opens his eyes slowly, then closes them, then opens them wide,rapidly. He sits up quickly in bed.
YRRAB
Where is this? Where am I?
SULU
We escaped the Rounders and I brought you up to my ship.
YRRAB
To your vehicle?
SULU
It's called Enterprise.
YRRAB
And to think, at first, you feigned ignorance of what I was suggesting.
SPOCK
Mr Pol, this is Lt Sulu, I am Commander Spock. The Enterprise hails from a planet called Earth. It is populated mostly by a race called humans, who...
YRRAB
(TOUCHING SPOCKS EARS)
Do most human males...look like you, or, more like...that one?
SULU
He, uh...he's a Vulcan. He's not from Earth.
YRRAB
I...don't understand. You said this ship came from Earth...
SPOCK
That is correct.
SULU
The Vulcans were the first off worlders to make contact with humans. Our species have become good friends.
YRRAB
And, when they came to your world, did they come in secret, as you came to mine?
SPOCK
We did not. We visited Earth only after we knew that they had learned to...move in the hevans as we had, thus making it unlikely we'd alter their own path of development as a species.
YRRAB
I see. It seems like an honorable way to proceed. Much turmoil has occurred since word of the existence of other worlds has traveled amoung my people. As for me, my doubts began many seasons ago, and when I first felt my doubts were well founded, I told myself that they would want to hear them, to hear the truth, but they don't. Before that, I was sure the faithful were right and that my doubts were wrong.
SULU
Your doubts?
YRRAB
Tell me, are you of the faith?
SULU
The faith?
YRRAB
You believe in the Superior One?
SULU
We humans, uh...believe in many things. Historically speaking.
YRRAB
But why did they believe, my new friend? They believed almost entirely because their forbearers believed,and because their forbearers before them believed, for many deliniations back to a time when explaining the not readily explicable was so important, that our first and oldest forbearers invented a fantastic invisible creature,The Superior One, to whom the existence of these otherwise inexplicable things, and the occurrences of equally inexplicable events, were attributed. Like them, our present society has created a realm of comfort in its collective thoughts to which it retreats when the fear of not knowing seizes it. They cannot bear the premice that things exist and occur for reasons unknown or unseen to us, even if only for the present. They prefer to tell themselves that The Superior One is responcible. They do not wish to search for explanations beyond that because they are content with simple faith. I refuse to continue to be. I do not and cannot believe simply because I was told the stories as a child and because some of the events in my life seem to fit them. That is who I am. It's who I've been for several seasons.
SPOCK
And your request for asylum? On what is it based, Mr Pol?
YRRAB
Please, call me Yrrab.
SPOCK
Yrrab.
Captain KIRK enters and itroduces himself.
CPT KIRK
Mr Pol, I am Captain Kirk, of the Enterprise.
SULU
Captain, this is Yrrab.
CPT KIRK
Yyrab. How can we help you?
YRRAB
I was raised like most on my world, Captian. I was taught that the Superior One created me and all of my race and that she was there, in the sky, watching us,awaiting our praise.
CPT KIRK
Yrrab, call me Jim. You didn't believe it?
YRRAB
Oh, I did, Jim, I did. For many many seasons. I was a teacher of the faith once. I had my doubts, as many do. But the pressure to believe was so strong, and the guilt those doubts caused me was so powerful that it was easier to betray them and convince myself that the stories were true, that what I was teaching was right
CPT KIRK
What made it possible for you to stop doing that?
YRRAB
There came a cycle when a small group of visitors...aliens...arrived. They mostly kept to their own activities, much like your people, yet, they spoke with many in my land about where they'd come from. I beleive now that they were not as...intelligent as your people. They meant us no harm, but they did not take care, as you have, to keep their origins from us. Since then, others have come. Some of them became victims of the rulers' ignorance and fear. But, on that day, when I heard of the first visitors, my faith waivered and my doubts got stronger. They erased the guilt that clouded my judgment and I saw clearly for the first time what had happened to me. That's when I sought out others with doubts and helped them to conquer their guilt. We formed a secret group. We pledged to spread our message to others who, like us, have always had doubts. We want only to free them from their guilt. The rulers of our land do not wish us to. They still believe, among other things, that we are the only beiings in existance, under the Superior one. They want us all to believe nothnig more.
CPT KIRK
And what do you want, Yrrab?
YRRAB
Only the freedom to help others like myself. I do not wish to destroy anyone or anything, Jim, as the rulers of my land believe.
CPT KIRK
You've requested asylum aboard my vessel. I'm obligated to provide it. That is what you want, isn't it?
YRRAB
I want to help my people.
CPT KIRK
You can't do that from up here.
YRRAB
You are right, ofcource. Perhaps my asylum has lasted long enough. I am prepared to return home, now, Jim. I only wish I could believe that I will be successfull. The rulers will see to it that I am not.
CPT KIRK
What will they do when they find you?
YRRAB
Next light, they will announce in the square that I am a wanted man. They will not say why. They will impress upon my fellow townsman that it is their duty to aid them in my capture. It won't be long before I am tried, quietly, ofcource, to avoid poisoning others with my ideas. Then I will likely be executed, and, I fear, without getting my message out, I will make a rather ineffective martyr.
CPT KIRK
What if I could help you get your message out?
YRRAB
That would be tremendously gracious of you. But what of your policy of non interference?
CPT KIRK
We'll do our best not to add to the corruption of your society that has already occurred, but, we can't just do nothing, in my view. So well act. How does that sound to you?
YRRAB
You would break your most sacred rule for me?
CPT KIRK
That rule is designed to keep us from tipping the balances of power or changing the direction of a culture's development through the use of our knowledge of the universe, our...technology, and our devices. What I've got in mind wouldn't involve either.
YRRAB
Please explain, Jim.
CPT KIRK
What if, during the rulers' announcement tommorrow, we make an announcement of our own that persuades your rulers to give you a more public, open hearing? And what if, thru that hearing, your message finds an audience? Would that help you to help your people?
YRRAB
Without question.
CPT KIRK
I'm quite certain I can accomplish that without my devices. But I will need one of yours.
YRRAB
You can do this?
CPT KIRK
Without question. I must warn you, Yrrab. If you are to go to trial, you must accept any punishment handed down. And I'd rather you didn't refer to any of your experiences on ENTERPRISE or with her crew for now. We will monitor the trial from the surface to ensure that you don't. After the trial, we will debrief you and try to water down your memory of these experiences if you agree to these terms. If not, you're welcomed to join us on our travels, or to another world we pass.
YRRAB
I agree to your terms, Jim. This is an opportunity I've been waiting for for a long time. To be heard, almost no price could be too high.
CPT KIRK
Fine. I'll make the preparations and inform you when the time comes. Untill then, consider yourself a welcomed guest.
YRRAB
Thank you, Jim. You cannot know what this means for me. For my people.
He stands. He begins to exit and stops when KIRK speaks.
CPT KIRK
Would it surprise you to learn that I do know, from my world's own history?
YRRAB
Your people believe in The Superior One?
CPT KIRK
Not exactly. However, on Earth, in earlier times, in one part of the land which I come from, called Massachusettes, there once lived a man named Roger Williams. Because of the religious persecution he experienced in his own life, he founded a small nearby colony that, later, as part of a group of colonies, including Massachusettes, became a new nation where he and others could proffess whatever beliefs or disbeliefs they chose as long as they didn't force them on others.
YRRAB
And that nation, it flourihed?
CPT KIRK
That nation went on to become one of the greatest nations in Earth's history. All of this around us grew out of it.
YRRAB
I suppose it does surprise me, Jim. But, it gives me hope. I've not had much of that these last few seasons.
A beat. He turns from KIRK and exits.
EXT. JUST OUTSIDE THE STARFLEET BUILDING ON DELTA IV.
COOKSONS shuttle is there. DECKER opens the shuttle door/hatch from inside, as ILIA approaches and enters the shuttle.
INT. SHUTTLE
DECKER
Good morning, Lt.
ILIA
Good morning, sir.
DECKER
So, I...understand you proved yourself to have quite the knack for navigation, in your upperclassman days at the Academy.
ILIA
That is correct.
DECKER
Well, then, Lt, lets have you take us to our destination, shall we?
ILIA
Aye, sir.
DECKER closes the door/hatch. ILIA takes the navigation controls. DECKER takes the other seat, next to her.
EXT. JUST OUTSIDE THE STARFLEET BUILDING ON DELTA IV
The shuttle lifts off, and flys away
INT. SHUTTLE
DECKER
Estimated time to dig site, navigator?
ILIA
Approximately ##.# minutes, sir.
DECKER
(Smiling, looking at her)
Thank you, navigator.
ILIA
(Smiling, but not looking at him)
Aye, sir.
DECKER
So...Lt...have you been here since graduation?
ILIA
No. I was stationed on the Galant, as a communications officer, on the night watch, at first. When I heard that Delta IV had put in for membership, I requested this detail. I got here on the Commander's ship a week before your beam in. Before that, I'd not been home for some time.
DECKER
I see. And...if I may ask, what do you think of the proposed...what Starfleet is considering changing from being recommended, but voluntary, into a requirement, next year, for Deltan officers?
ILIA
(Looking at him)
The celebacy vow?
DECKER
(Almost regretting he asked)
Yes. I mean...Deltans have been in the service for a while now, as you know, and the brass seems to think with it being only voluntary, there've been a few too many serious...incidents...between Deltans and non Deltans. You know, of a...
ILIA
(Playfully)
Sexual nature?
DECKER
(Coughs)
Yes.
ILIA
Well, it probably IS for the best. After all, we ARE quite a bit more sexually focused and advanced than many other species.
DECKER
(A bit at a loss)
Yes. Yes, I've...heard that.
ILIA
For myself, I can't say I'm not glad it isn't in effect, just yet.
DECKER
That's...understandable.
(A beat)
DECKER
(Changing the subject)
What...what can you tell me, if anything, about this dig, Lt?
ILIA
It's at the site of a newly discovered settlement of preawakening Deltans.
DECKER
Pre awakening? You mean before your society, your people, began intensifying their...concentration on sex?
ILIA
Yes. Many Deltans are fascinated with the greatly transformational process our ancestors underwent in the areas of love and sex, to become the culture we are today, and with how pre awakening society was different.
DECKER
I can't imagine that NOT being fascinating.
ILIA
Neither can I.
EXT. DELTA IV DIG SITE
The shuttle carrying DECKER and ILIA lands, and they exit, among a tent type structure or two, near a bit of a dug out area of the ground where folks are working. The dig admin., Dr Veetahm EADZO, approaches them.
EADZO
Ah, Lt Commander DECKER, Lt ILIA, welcome.
DECKER
Thank you, Mr...?
EADZO
Oh, it's Dr, Dr Veetahm EADZO.
DECKER
Dr, ofcourse, Dr EADZO.
ILIA
It is nice to meet you, Dr.
EADZO
You as well, Lt, Mr Decker. As you can see, the...excavation is well underway.
DECKER
Yes. How can we be of assistance?
EADZO
(A beat)
Are you any good with a trowel, Mr Decker?
ILIA
(Wryly)
I suspect the Lt Commander is quite good with his hands.
DECKER
(Pretending not to have noticed her flirtation)
I...certainly, Dr.. Where shall I dig?
EADZO
(Gesturing towards the hole)
My assistant will show you. Lt., perhaps you can help me dust off some of our finds, hmm?
DECKER
Yes, Lt, you could...remove a few layers.
EADZO
This way, Lt.
DECKER hops down into the dig hole beside the ASSISTANT, whom demonstrates briefly how to dig the area (pantomime), and DECKER begins to do so. The Dr and ILIA proceed to a tent.
INT. DIG TENT
EADZO and ILIA enter. EADZO grabs a brush and hands it to ILIA.
EADZO
Here you are, Lt. There are a few items on the table there that require some uncovering.
She proceeds to a nearby table and begins cleaning of a medium sized box. EADZO sits at a nearby desk, and looks thru some items.
EADZO
So...Lt...have you and Mr Decker...
ILIA
NO...no we haven't. He is not...
EADZO
Deltan? And?
ILIA
I am not sure it would be proper. Especially since we work together, and he is my superior.
EADZO
I see.
They continue working for a moment.
EADZO
But...you DO...want to?
ILIA
Ofcourse. He is...unusually attractive, for a non Deltan.
EADZO
Well, I say there's no reason not to atleast broach the subject. No sense in this...flying around the underbrush. Such is...not our nature...any more.
ILIA
You're correct, ofcourse, Dr.
DECKER enters the tent with a broken trowel.
DECKER
Dr, I'm afraid I've...mishandled my tool.
EADZO stares at him. Then looks to ILIA, who has managed to significantly uncover the box, and open it.
ILIA
Ah!
She places the box down, and pulls out from it an ornate cloth headband, and stares at it. EADZO approaches.
DECKER
Lt.?
EADZO
What we are looking at, Mr DECKER, is a very interesting find.
ILIA
Its...its a...
EADZO
Well, the translation would be Band of Awakening.
DECKER
Band of Awakening?
EADZO
Well, that's an imprecise translation, come to think of it, but, yes. We still use them, they're in all the shops, but, today they're used just symbolically. There are very few as old as this one in existence, now.
DECKER
Symbolically?
ILIA
(Alternating her gaze between DECKER and the wreath)
Yes. Before the Awakening, when our society was...different...Deltans committed to eachother as mates for life. As the Awakening began to take hold, as society changed, these were worn by Deltan females who were...well...waking.
EADZO
Yes, waking is an apt term, ofcourse. These were females embracing their sexuality in a way Deltan females never really had. It was what you might call a social statement.
DECKER
That, uh...hm, I see.
EADZO
Today, they are no longer so much a statement, as a...celebration. A...tribute to those...pioneers.
DECKER
You know, I'm remembering...Lt., weren't you...wearing one of those, when we met?
ILIA
Yes. It was at my first year orientation. You were an upper classman, assisting the facilitator, handing out welcoming tablets. You gave me mine.
DECKER
That's right. You were stunning.
She looks at the headband.
DECKER
You know...on Earth, in the...late 2100s, my people would give eachother a similar item, made from synthetic flowers, as symbols of devotion. They were then worn on...occasions special to each couple.
EADZO
Perhaps you could model that for us, Lt.
She looks at the Dr, hesitatingly.
ILIA
Yes.
EADZO
Just...be careful, its...300 years old.
She slips it on.
EADZO
Ah...beautiful.
DECKER
(Clearly moved)
I...agree, yes, its...
ILIA
Thank you.
She places it back in the box, and picks up another item, and begins dusting.
EADZO
Well, Mr DECKER, perhaps this more modern tool will work better for you.
He hands DECKER an electric trowel/laser thing
DECKER
(A beat)
Yes. Yes, thank you.
DECKER exits. EADZO returns to his desk. ILIA looks up, and stares at the tent flap.
ACT III
EXT. CAMLORIAN TOWN SQUARE
Two armed Rounders flank a Ruler who is standing on a permanent platform in the center of the square. A large gong behind them is struck by a third Rounder.
RULER 1
Citizens of Noremac Villiage: It is hereby proclaimed that Citezen Pol, Yrrab Pol, is wanted for crimes against the people. This man is a danger to theVilliage. Any amoung you with knowledge of his location must...
An arrow, shot from Archer's crossbow, whizzes over the Ruler's shoulder and strikes the gong behind him loudly.
Cptn KIRK
(FROM ATOP A LARGE ROCK)
It is rumored that Citezen Pol's crime is that of Herecy. It is said that he has been charged for conspiring to circulate information. Is this true?
RULER 1
That is of no weight. He is simply wanted.
CROWD MEMBER ONE
Is that true? What did he do?
CPT KIRK
Far be it for me to question the wisdom of the Rulers who charged him, but, even the Heretics among us deserve to be tried fairly, as with any other crime.
SEVERAL CROWD
(BACKGROUND CHATTER)
Yes! Yeah! He's right!...etc.
CPT KIRK
Will Citezen Pol be so tried?
SEVERAL CROWD MEMBERS
(AS BEFORE)
Will he? Will he?...etc.
RULER ONE
(nervously, looking around for support)
Citezen Pol...will have a normal, public trial...as with...any crime.
CPT KIRK
I never doubted it. Citezen Pol has decided to come forward! He stands...here!
Yrrab emerges from underneath a large cloak, worn to hide himself.
RULER ONE
(TO ROUNDERS)
Collect him! Bring him to the Peacemaker. She will set a hearing time. (Louder) It will be posted!
The Rounders move to put Yrrab in custody.
YRRAB
(TO KIRK)
Jim, please, make use of my home during your stay. It is about 1,000 foot falls in that direction, beyond that hill.
CPT KIRK
Thank you. We'll join you at the hearing.
Yyrab is taken away
INT. DECKER'S QUARTERS ON DELTA IV
DECKER is alone. He's seated at a desk, reading. It is late evening, he is dressed casually, in the 23rd cent equivalent of sweats ant a t shirt. His door pings. He approaches it, and presses the open button. ILIA stands there, dressed in a mid drift baring top, a short skirt, her Deltan Band of Awakening (Seen in ST:TMP) and no footwear. She is stunning. She's holding a beverage bottle and 2 glasses.
DECKER
(Surprised))
Lt.!
ILIA
Oh, I...as we are off duty, I was hoping we could use first names.
DECKER
(Looking for words)
Names? Oh! Yes. Yes, uh...it's Leh'Orri, right?
ILIA
Yes, Will, it is. You remembered.
DECKER
Well, that, and...it's in all the paperwork.
ILIA
I see.
They stand there, silent for a moment.
DECKER
Oh! Uh, come in, come in.
She enters.
DECKER
So, Leh'Orri, what...brings you by.
ILIA
Well, you know, Will, we Deltans tend to be very direct, especially when it comes to sex. Sometimes we are more subtle than we might usually be, if circumstances call for it, but, usually, that's not the case.
She closes the distance between them, some.
DECKER
I see.
ILIA
I've been subtle with you, Will, since you arrived, but, that was when we were working.
DECKER
I...see.
She gets even closer.
ILIA
You do find me attractive, do you not? Even at the Academy, I noticed you stealing glances, on occasion.
DECKER
I...do. What are you carrying?
ILIA
Just a beverage. Don't worry, its not an aphrodisiac. We don't need them.
She moves to within kissing range.
DECKER
No...no you don't.
She closes her eyes, and places her free hand on his chest. He leans down, eyes closed, and hesitates, but then kisses her. It is a very passionate, very Deltan kiss/embrace. She drops the non breakable beverage container and glasses to the floor, which bounce and roll a bit, placing her now free hand upon his face. They slowly drop down to the floor, maintaining the embrace.
EXT. JUST OUTSIDE THE STARFLEET BUILDING ON DELTA IV, STILL lATE EVENING
Time lapse into dawn.
INT. DECKER'S QUARTERS ON DELTA IV
DECKER and ILIA are on the floor. She is awake and looking at him, running her hands lightly over his chest. He wakes.
DECKER
Oh! I haven't done that since the Academy.
ILIA
Intercourse?
DECKER
Slept on the floor.
ILIA
Well, if it helps, as I recall there wasnt much sleeping, this time.
DECKER
No.
(A best)
Leh'Orri, I...this...
ILIA
Are you alright?
DECKER
Yes. Yes, I'm fine.
ILIA
Will?
DECKER
You know...I could really fall for you.
ILIA
Hmm...you say that as though you haven't already.
DECKER
Well, I had to try. So...you're ok with that? I mean, I've only been here a few days. You don't find that off putting?
ILIA
No. After all, what makes you think I've not developed feelings for you?
DECKER
I...
ILIA
We Deltans are very much about the sex, but...well, we're not Vulcans. And a few days is a long time, on Delta IV, as it concerns such things.
DECKER
Well, you know, Leh'Orri...now that we've got eachother where we want...eachother...that is, it's early yet. We're still...off duty.
ILIA
We are.
DECKER
But...might we...move this to the...
ILIA
Sorry. I can't wait that long.
She kisses him.
Several seconds later...
Int. A Camlorian court room
KIRK and SULU are seated in the rear of the room with other spectators. A table with 4 inquisitors is at the opposite end facing the back. A small platform, low to the grund is in front of it, facing it, sideways. Four armed Rounders are in the room, guarding the table and the platform. Two moe Rounders eneter bringing Yrrab. He is lesad to the platform and the two Rounders leading him exit. An Inquisitor stands and crossses to Yrrab.
INQUISITOR I
Citezen Pol, you are charged with the offence of speaking against the superior one. What do you wish to say to this?
YRRAB
I wish to say that I have not committed a crime.
INQUISITOR I
You say, then, that you have not so spoken?
YRRAB
I make no such statement.
Crowd noise, rumblings
INQUISITOR I
Then you are guilty?
YRRAB
I am not.
More rumblings Archer, Mayweather, Trip eye eachother
INQUISITOR I
I do not know the manner of trickery and clever speech you are employing, Citizen Pol, but this body will not tolerate disrespect of the law!
YRRAB
I do not expect that it will, good citizen, yet the law is oft disrespectfull of the people, and I will not...
INQUISITOR I
Silence, Prisinor!
Crowd noise
INQUISITOR I
You must assign yourself to a proper claim. Guilty or innocent.
YRRAB
Innocent.
INQUISITOR I
We shall soon see!
He sits. Inquisitor II. approaches
Inquisitor II
Citezen Pol, we have been told that you have publicly spoken out against the faith. Is this true?
YRRAB
It is.
INQUISITOR II
Then your claim of innocence is incorrect.
YRRAB
It is not.
Crowd noise
INQUISITOR II
You admit that you defied the law?
YRRAB
Yes, but I have committed no crime.
INQUISITOR II
Are you out of touch with your thoughts? How can both be true?
YRRAB
A law could be created this day which forbids..the inhailing of odors from flora. If such was done, would inhailing the odor of flora at the next rise of the light then be a crime? I claim it would not.
INQUISITOR II
That is of no weight! You ARE out of touch with your thoughts!
YRRAB
Am I? Is it so out of touch to believe that certain things cannot ever be crimes, without matter to any laws we may create that say they are?
INQUISITOR II
That it is.
YRRAB
Then you had better hope, good Inquisitor, that no law is soon created which forbids one to have an unpleaseant appearance.
Crowd laughs. IQUISITOR I taps a gavel on the table and the room quiets.
INQUISITOR II
It is of no weight, high Inquisitor, that a laugh is heard at my cost. It is citezen Pol who will be the recipient of such laughter at my next query.
YRRAB
I do not fear that laughter, I welcome it.
INQUISITOR II
Perhaps you would be willing to tell us how it is you believe laws make crimes of things that are not?
YRRAB
I believe that there are things that do not cause true harm to anyone, yet, are crimes against the law.
I believe that actions have their own intent, and that that intent is of no weight once a law is created, is itself worthy of being made a crime. I believe truth is the weigher of crime, not the law.
INQUISITOR II
Like the truth that the superior one is our creator?
YRRAB
That is a non truth.
INQUISITOR II
There! You have just commited a crime!
YRRAB
By your definition.
INQUISITOR II
Then let us employ your own! If truth is the weigher of crime, how should we discern the truth about the superior one?
YRRAB
I can only tell you that I know that we could, each of us, raise our young ones to believe that trees are superior ones, if we so chose, simply by telling them that they are. We could strengthen that claim by telling them that the trees are to be praised and thanked for all the good things in life, as well as to be blamed for and pleased in order to avoid bad things. They would then believe in those trees as strongly as you believe in the superior one. It would be their truth, but, it would be a non truth. I cannot be sure that I am not existing under the same "non-truth"-truth if I believe the faith, and neither can you. The truth of this question cannot be touched. It cannot be seen. Perhaps it never will. We should not create laws which prevent our people from believing that if they choose.
INQUISITOR II
We can no more have a lawless land! We must use our reasonable thoughts to discern a truth on which to base laws!
Yrrab
You are correct. But, who is to say what is reasonable? Is the dweller of the far away and less civilized Camlorian land of Kertrats (pronounced like Star Trek backwards!) who has never seen one of our rolling carts, or a Rounder's arrow thrower, reasonable if he believes the bearers of such tools to be like your superior one, simply because they bear these devices he's not seen? Our explorers tell us this does happen during their ventures. We know he is wrong, yet to his thoughts he is certain that he is being reasonable. How do we know that we are not being merely as reasonable as he when we profess belief in the superior one and make laws against not doing so? I believe that stating one untocuhable to be a truth because no other explainations are touchable, in place of leaving a thing unexplained untill a touchable truth is descerned, is not reasonable. No laws should be created on such things.
INQUISITOR II
Yet, they were! There is no other matter of weight to this hearing!
YRRAB
(laughs)
You are full of fear!
Crowd noise. Inquisitir I taps the stick again.
INQUISITOR I
That is enough for one cycle. We will go to our homes for now and return for the pronouncement just after the rise of the next light
INT. Yrrab'S home
KIRK and SULU are at a table having just finished a meal
SULU
Captain...what do you think his chances are?
CPT KIRK
(A beat)
I don't know. Id like to hope they'll hear him, spare him the ultimate sentence, at least,but..
SULU
You're not optimistic.
CPT KIRK
(A beat)
No. No, Mr SULU, I'm not. And I hate it.
SULU
Me, too, sir.
CPT KIRK
The awful part of it is that they don't even have to give any of his views any consideration, as to their validity, just aknowledge that he has the right to have them. That thus far they're so unwilling to is...confounding, and...
SULU
Illogical?
CPT KIRK
Yes. Illogical.
Int. Camlorian court room
INQUISIToR I
Citizen Pol! Are you prepared to accept pronouncement?
YRRAB
I am.
INQUISITOR I
Then let the pronouncement comm...
YRRAB
Do I not get to speak a rematk of closing before pronouncement?
INQUISITOR I
You have said more than...
INQUISITOR II
The accused is so entitled.
INQUISITOR I
Very well. Proceed.
YRRAB
Good people, I stand among you perhaps a guilty man. Guilty only of defying a written law written of ill conceived beliefs. There is no way for me to proove this. Not this light. There will never be a way to proove it, to touch the truth of it, without more questioning. I must be allowed to do this. We all must. Do not, good men, condemn me and our kind to darkness. Do not prevent us from enlargening our thoughts. There is more to know. We must know it! We will not if knowing is discouraged and kept contrary to the law. My fate, decided today, will be yours. If I am condemned to death, you will all be condemned to darkness.
(A beat)
Now, I am ready, good Inquisitor.
INQUISITOR I
The pronouncement is of guilt.
Crowd noise. KIRK and SULU look at eachother concernedly.
INQUISITOR I
The punishment is to be execution at next light.
KIRK and SULU look devistated.
INQUISITOR I
This proceeding is at its' end.
KIRK wears a contemplative look.
Int. the hoLding area of the Camlorian court.
Very primitive. KIRK approaches Yrrab's cell.
CPT KIRK
Jim! Whhat...
CPT KIRK
It's alright...I arranged a visit. Told them I was a relative.
YRRAB
I see. I had thought your people would have been gone by now. You did what you spoke you would.
CPT KIRK
That's right. And I want to do more. We could come back, a team of us, later, and, get you out of here.
YRRAB
Yes, and I could spend the rest of my seasons hiding from the Rounders. No, Jim, I'd prefer not.
CPT KIRK
Maybe if you agreed to retract your disbelief, and appologise publically for not believing, you would be allowed to live. I know it would mean going back to not being a truth teller, but, you'd be alive, and maybe you could continue to teach your beliefs in private, help others to listen to any doubts they may have.
YRRAB
(Brief silence)
Yes, I could, and perhaps my life would be spared. But, perhaps not. And the retraction would stand as my last statement. Erasing all I have tried to do. Possibly even causing many to decide to further bury their doubts. I cannot let that come.
CPT KIRK
So, you're just going to let them kill you?
YRRAB
Jim, you yourself told me to be ready to accept the punishment if decided against. I have, but it seems you cannot.
CPT KIRK
That's right, I can't. I thought I could because I thought they would listen. Atleast enough not to kill you.
YRRAB
It is of no consequence. I do not wish to change my fate. And, Jim...my fate was death at the hands of my government before you arrived. That has not changed. But what has changed is that I have been able to face my...detractors, and my people and speak my inner thoughts. I am free, now. And others may soon may be. These things could not have come without what you have done, and that is of weight. Much weight. Please, go back to your Enterprise. Go in peace, and keep safe. Before you are discovered.
CPT KIRK
(Long pause, then, acceptingly)
Alright. Yes. I'll do that. Goodbye, Yyrab. Keep safe.
CPT KIRK exits
ACT IV
INT. CPT KIRK'S QUARTERS
CPTN KIRK is reclined on his berth. His door chimes
CPT KIRK
Come.
CPT KIRK sits up. MCCOY enters.
CPT KIRK
Doctor.
MCCOY
So, I...heard all about the business down there. Maddening, that.
(A beat)
MCCOY
You alright, Jim?
CPT KIRK
Oh, I will be, Bones.
MCCOY
You know, Jim, I'm as committed to the service as anyone, but, at heart, I'm just an old country doctor, and, sometimes, I just don't get it.
CPT KIRK
Get what, Dr.?
MCCOY
How can people be that way? How can they be so pushy and arrogant?
CPT KIRK
I don't know, Bones. SPOCK might attribute it to Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations. If it's conceivable, it's out there.
MCCOY
Well, it's wrong. And we should have been able to do more.
CPT KIRK
I hear you. We all get frustrated with the Prime Directive sometimes. But, Bones, I think, ultimately, its the right way.
MCCOY
Well, I think they oughta revise the thing. Make exceptions. It is just wrong that all those people down there...the ones who don't believe...are going to die...or else live their lives in fear when we could stop it.
CPT KIRK
Are you saying we should just hop around the galaxy and show off our toys? Bring them all up to the ENTERPRISE and give them the tour?
MCCOY
Ofcource not. I just don't think we should be prevented from getting a little creative.
CPT KIRK
Creative? How?
MCCOY
Well ,for starters, why couldn't we have gone to them and said, 'Look, we are aliens. We are but one group of them that have been visiting your planet for...seasons... you have to stop persecuting people for believing in things other than your Superior one. We hate to butt in, but if we didn't, one day, your society would have realized this was true after even more years of persecuting poeple and you'd regret it. It would be a big tragedy, so, we thought we'd proove to everyone what some of your people already knew to be true'? No toys. No tour. No pass go and collect...warp drive.
CPT KIRK
You're serious?
MCCOY
Yes.
CPT KIRK
Allright, well, look at it this way. Suppose we give societies like Yrrab's all the answers. What kind of damage do we do in the name of helping out?
MCCOY
Its debateable.
CPT KIRK
If we do that, Bones, don't we take away the whole chess match for these people? Don't we...cheat them of their own...history...by giving them all the answers in one felled swoop? It's not always about giving them more than they can handle...sometimes it's just about not taking things away.
MCCOY
And to avoid that, people like Yrrab, who happen to be right...have to die?
CPT KIRK
Sometimes, the choices are hard. The upside isn't always clear. But if we go in and dictate things to people from our perspective, well, we're no better than the people who do the oppressing.
MCCOY
Right. Well, it's just too bad, that's all.
CPT KIRK
You'll get no argument from me there, Dr.. But, we did help things along you know, just without giving away the end of the story.
MCCOY
I suppose you're right. Well, my shift's over, I'm gonna turn in.
CPT KIRK
Goodnight, Bones.
MCCOY
Goodnight, Jim.
MCCOY exits.
EXT. JUST OUTSIDE THE STARFLEET BUILDING ON DELTA IV
It's six months later.
INT. ILIA'S QUARTERS
The door pings.
ILIA
Enter!
DECKER enters, carrying a satchel.
ILIA
Hi!
DECKER
Hi.
ILIA
I didn't expect to see you this early.
DECKER
I know. I...Leh'Orri, there's been a development.
ILIA
Development?
DECKER
It seems that my work here, and my being the only one besides the home planet girl and the Commander to not request a transfer when the extension happened impressed command. Now that its ended, I'm to be a full commander, Leh'Orri. I was hoping to get Enterprise. That we both would. But, theyre giving Cookson the Rhode Islsnd, and... she's offered me Exec..
ILIA
Will, that's...how long before...
DECKER
It's...in orbit. The Comman...the Captain's...already up there. I imagine I have some time to decide, but, I would leave right away.
ILIA
If you take it.
DECKER
Yes.
ILIA
Will, I...
DECKER
Are you SURE you don't want to put in for a transfer? Come with me.
ILIA
Seeing Delta IV to membership was important to me. Now that we've joined the Federation, I want to see it take hold, Will, from here. That will take some time.
DECKER
I...understand. And...you understand, I...
ILIA
Yes. I do. It would be hard for me to say goodbye, too, but, I can't leave. Not now. And you...if you stay...is that even possible?
DECKER
They've not named the Captain's replacement, for the permanent garrison. I could put in for her spot.
ILIA
I see. You'd do that for me?
DECKER
No. If I did it, it'd be for US.
ILIA
Oh, Will.
DECKER
I've...gotta go, she wants me to take a...pre decision tour.
ILIA
Oh. Alright. Are we...still having dinner?
DECKER
Absolutely! At our picnic spot. I should be back just in time. And, I've...got something for you.
He gestures with the satchel
ILIA
Oh! Well, alright. I'll...see you then.
DECKER
Alright.
He turns to leave.
ILIA
Will?
He turns back.
DECKER
Yes?
ILIA
All my love.
DECKER
Mine, too.
INT. STARFLEET BUILDING ON DELTA IV, CORRIDOR NEAR THETRANSPORTER ROOM
DECKER comes upon CAMERON turning into the same corridor. They continue walking.
CAMERON
Well, Commander, congratulations!
DECKER
Oh, yeah, thank you.
CAMERON
When do you leave? Word gets around.
DECKER
Right. I...haven't accepted yet.
CAMERON
What? Will...
DECKER
I love her. It's complicated.
CAMERON
Will, I know you do. But we're all getting out of here. Getting out there! We've had our fill, planet side, on star bases. Haven't you?
DECKER
Sure
CAMERON
There'll BE other girls.
DECKER
Not like her. And there'll be other ships.
CAMERON
You don't know that. Either of those things. What I know is that there's no reason you wouldn't be able to stay in touch with her, keep the flame alive. Then, catch up with her on leave. But something like this...like the Rhode Island...might not come around for a while.
DECKER
I...I hear you. It's just...
CAMERON
Well, no one can decide but you, Commander. Best of luck, whatever you decide, sir.
DECKER
Thank you.
EXT. THE RHODE ISLAND IS IN ORBIT ABOVE DELTA IV
DECKER is at a table near the door in the crew rec room. COOKSON enters.
COOKSON
So, Commander, what do you think of her?
DECKER
Captain! She's a fine ship, Ma'am. Right up there with Enterprise.
COOKSON
So, can I...call you Exec.?
DECKER
Captain, I appreciate the tour, and the offer, but...
COOKSON
You need time. Well, I can understand that. I can delay warping out for a few hours, if you like. Just let me know.
DECKER
Thank you, captain.
COOKSON turns to leave.
DECKER
Sir?
COOKSON
Yes, Commander?
DECKER
Is there...somewhere I can make a call...in private?
COOKSON
There is.
INT. CPT KIRK'S QUARTERS ABOARD ENTERPRISE
CPT KIRK is seated at his desk, looking at a monitor
DECKER (V.O)
So, Captain, in a rare moment of uncertainty, I'm...conflicted.
CPT KIRK
So it seems. Happens to the best of us, occasionally.
DECKER (V.O)
Id appreciate your advice, sir.
CPT KIRK
Well, I...can't tell you what I'd do. I've yet to face that particular dilemma. I can tell you this, based on observation. A career in Starfleet, a rewarding career, entails alot of...personal sacrifice. You often have to ignore...what the heart wants in the moment. Infact, didnt your father meet your mother when he was posted on Starbase 5?
DECKER (V.O)
That's right, he did.
CPT KIRK
Well, I...happen to know that he almost didn't take that posting for...a reason similar to yours. So, Will...Commander Decker...you've gotten to a point in your career where...it'd be a shame not to move forward, something you don't seem to be considering. If you're lucky, where you end up in your career will be where you wanted to be, and it will cross paths with...other interests.
DECKER (V.O)
I hear you Captain. Thank you.
CPT KIRK
It was my pleasure. Good luck, Will. And...don't be a stranger.
DECKER (V.O)
I won't. DECKER out.
INT. RHODE ISLAND TRANSPOTER ROOM
DECKER enters.
TRANSPORTER TECH.
Commander.
DECKER
Lt., could I trouble you to...do me a favor?
DECKER removes a gift wrapped box from his satchel.
TRANSPORTER TECH.
Yes sir. How can I help?
EXT. DELTA IV, A CLEARING NEAR A WOODED AREA
ILIA approaches a make shift picnic area with a boulder table and two simple chairs. As she draws closer, she hears a transporter beam.
ILIA
Will!
She quickens her pace, reaching the boulder table. No one is there. The box is on the boulder table. She opens it, and removes a headband of synthetic flowers, and a card. The card reads "All my love, W.".
ILIA
(Whispering)
Oh, Will.
The End.
