STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Code of Honor" #40271-104 Written by Katharyn Powers & Michael Baron Copyright 1987 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights Reserved. This script is not for publication or reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department. REVISED FINAL DRAFT July 2, 1987 STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Code Of Honor" CAST PICARD TRANSPORTER CHIEF RIKER LUTAN DATA HAGON TROI YAREENA BEVERLY SPECTATOR TASHA TASHA GEORDI GEORDI WESLEY WESLEY STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/8/87 STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Code Of Honor" SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS ENTERPRISE ON LIGON Main Bridge Lutan's Centerplace and Corridor Banquet Area Cargo Deck Lounge Holodeck Captain's Ready Room Geordi's Quarters Transporter Room Turbolift ON LIGON Tasha's Quarters Picard's Quarters Corridor Centerplace STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Code of Honor" TEASER FADE IN: 1 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The great ship moving into orbit of planet Ligon. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, stardate 41235.25. Our location planet Ligon II, source of a rare vaccine needed on Federation planet Styris IV. Starfleet has instructed me... 2 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE Full complement of crew at stations, DATA at OPS, GEORDI at CONN. RIKER and TROI are flanking PICARD. PICARD (V.O.) (continuing) ... to engage in a friendly visit and open treaty negotiations to acquire this medicinal substance. GEORDI Standard orbit, sir. RIKER Lieutenant Yar is calling from Cargo Bay One, sir. Standing by to beam Ligonian welcoming party aboard. PICARD (rising) On our way. You have the helm, Mister Data. Picard leads Riker and Troi into FORWARD Turbolift. 3 INT. TURBOLIFT as Picard, Riker and Troi ENTER and the door HISSES closed behind them. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 2. 3 CONTINUED: PICARD (continuing; toward controls) Cargo One. (to Riker and Troi) Should be an interesting experience. RIKER Agreed. Not only are they closely humanoid but their history has remarkable similarities to ours. TROI But a highly structured society and they're exceedingly proud. 4 INT. CARGO DECK (OPTICAL) Picard, Riker and Troi ENTER. Tasha is waiting there with a pair of SECURITY GUARDS -- one with a tricorder. TASHA They've insisted on using their own transporter device, sir... PICARD (nods) It's their way, Lieutenant. Do they have our coordinates? Tasha indicates cleared area ahead of them on the Cargo Bay deck. TASHA They have, sir. Precisely. And they're standing by for your signal. PICARD This is Captain Picard of the Starfleet vessel Enterprise. Please... (looks to Troi; she nods) ... please do us the honor of visiting our vessel. After only a moment, a slightly different kind of TRANSPORTER EFFECT materializes five people. There are four extremely tall, elegant Black Guards who form a square. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 3. 4 CONTINUED: They are bare-waisted with metal collars -- each with a centered jewel -- and each wears a hakama (starched, baggy trousers pulled between the legs). Each has at least one major scar, and each carries a bo (a bojutsu fighting staff). Each wears as headgear a red, braided rope in a circular crown. One carries a rolled carpet. They face forward at attention, but their eyes take in everything. The fifth person materializing is HAGON, who carries a dull metallic box. He bends down and kicks the carpet so that it unrolls towards Picard. Then, LUTAN beams into view. He stands a moment, tall, magnificent and with flashing eyes. His dress is more elegant, his jewel more resplendent. The Security Guard with the tricorder scans the party quickly, then nods to Tasha. TASHA (quietly to Picard) Nothing concealed, sir. Lutan steps forward. He looks about him for a moment. LUTAN I am Lutan. Picard moves to greet him, raising both hands in the customary Ligonian greeting to show one is not holding a weapon. Lutan nods, satisfied, and smiles. Without touching, he holds his hands up in a like manner. PICARD Captain Jean-Luc Picard. Welcome aboard. These are my officers. Second in command, Commander William Riker; Ship's Counselor Deanna Troi; my security officer, Lieutenant Tasha Yar. LUTAN A woman? Your Chief of Security? PICARD Yes, Lutan: that is her expertise. Lutan and Hagon exchange a near-amused look. Then Lutan turns to Picard. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 4. 4 CONTINUED: (2) LUTAN I am honored to meet your officers. (indicates Hagon) And this is my Secondary, Hagon. (indicates) A sample of the vaccine. Hagon steps forward with the metal box, extending it to Picard. But Tasha steps forward to take it. TASHA My duty, Lutan. Almost before the words are out of Tasha's mouth, Hagon grabs for the box. TASHA (continuing) Sorry, I am required to inspect... HAGON Aside, little one... Hagon whirls toward Picard forcing Picard to step back to avoid contact, but Tasha reacts protecting her Captain, with it ending in Hagon being flipped onto his back. Lutan's guards step forward menacingly but are stopped by a gesture from Lutan. Hagon looks up from his prone position, more puzzled than anything else. HAGON (continuing) This... this is a woman? LUTAN (inspecting Tasha) How interesting! (then, to Picard) May we prove as surprising to you. FADE OUT. END OF TEASER STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 5. ACT ONE FADE IN: 5 INT. CARGO DECK - FULL SHOT Same principals in approximately the same positions as last SCENE. TROI (low voice) If I may suggest, sir... She indicates for the Enterprise people to move back and give Lutan and his people room and also time to recover. In just above a whisper: TROI (continuing) No apology. In their view, it would weaken us. 6 EMPHASIZING LUTAN Unlike Hagon and the Guards, he's beginning to enjoy this as Riker picks up the container Hagon had been holding, examines it and extends it to Picard. RIKER Nothing concealed, Captain. (extends it) Do you care to accept it? HAGON Yes, yes, please do. LUTAN (to Tasha) Unless you care to examine it further. 7 CLOSER GROUP SHOT Picard seeing it is time to turn on the charm. PICARD Absolutely not. This vaccine sample is a gift of life and we are honored at receiving it. (indicates way into vessel) Will you do us the honor of letting us entertain you now? STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/10/87 6. 7 CONTINUED: LUTAN (nodding) You may prepare it. We will join you shortly. With nothing else to do, the Enterprise group LEAVES the immediate area. They're not fools -- security people remain in sight. Lutan and Hagon move closer together, speak in low tones. HAGON I ask forgiveness.... LUTAN (cuts him off) They are strange alien things. You bear no fault... HAGON But the female... LUTAN May be exactly what I've needed. 8 INT. LOUNGE - FULL SHOT Data, BEVERLY and Troi are seen ENTERING, Data carrying a magnificent bronze horse. Picard stands next to Lutan. PICARD Lutan, we're aware of many of your planet's achievements, and its unique similarity to an ancient Earth culture, which we all admire. On behalf of the Federation, therefore, I am proud to present to you this token of gratitude and friendship. From China's Sung Dynasty, Fourteenth Century. DATA (to Picard) Thirteenth Century, sir. PICARD Indeed? STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/10/87 6A. 8 CONTINUED: LUTAN (accepting and admiring it) It is a most thoughtful gift. We are grateful. Lutan hands the horse to Hagon. Then, while watching Tasha with interest: STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/10/87 7. 8 CONTINUED: (2) LUTAN (continuing) We from Ligon have always been apprehensive about strangers. We are not as technologically advanced as you; yet we possess something you do not -- a vaccine which has been found to be an effective antidote to your deadly Anchilles fever. If your conduct toward us is worthy -- if you respect our customs -- and if we see this respect -- we will become friends. Then, we will make the vaccine available to all who need it. Everyone APPLAUDS. Lutan is proud and dignified. He sweeps the gathering with his eyes, which hold on Tasha. 9 CLOSE SHOT - TASHA She meets his gaze with confidence. 10 BACK TO FULL SHOT The room quiets down as Picard rises. PICARD If you require respect from us, I'm certain you will see it. LUTAN Surrounded by such friendship, I have no need of my guards. (to guards) I will return shortly. Prepare to transport me then. The Guards signal obedience, begin EXITING. Picard and the others are puzzled by this. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 8. 10 CONTINUED: PICARD If there is something else, any final courtesy... LUTAN Is it possible to see one of your wondrous holodecks? We have heard how they are used to train your officers. Picard exchanges a quick, concerned look with Riker and Troi. PICARD And used for many other things too. (turning) Commander Riker, perhaps you and Counselor Troi can demonstrate. LUTAN Is it possible for Lieutenant Yar to do so Captain? Some demonstration of defense training? RIKER We've noticed you are intrigued by her having security responsibilities. But such things are not at all unusual with us. HAGON With us, it is the duty of women only to own the land, and the duty of men to protect and rule it. TROI (amused) Much the same has happened in human history too. Picard smiles, then turns to Tasha questioningly. She nods. TASHA I'd like to do it, sir. (to Lutan) As a sign of respect, perhaps. PICARD (nods agreement) Very well. Tasha beckons to Lutan and Hagon. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 9. 10 CONTINUED: (2) TASHA This way, please. A couple of Enterprise Security Guards follow. 11 INT. HOLODECK - FULL SHOT - OPTICAL (SPLIT SCREEN) Tasha, followed by Lutan and Hagon, plus the two security team members, who stay in the b.g. Tasha moves to the wall controls. She punches in some commands, reaches for an aikido jacket from a peg, then walks to a bare area. She gives a CODED COMMAND. TASHA (continuing) Aikido. One. An Aikido Opponent MATERIALIZES (DISSOLVES IN) ON A MAT. The IMAGE remains rigid, immobile. The visitors are much impressed. TASHA (continuing; amicably) It won't move until my actions activate it. 12 CLOSER ON GROUP Lutan stepping in to examine the Aikido Opponent, amazed. LUTAN You can create people? Without a soul? TASHA It's not a real person, Lutan. It has no life. Everything it does is controlled by computer. She moves close to the image. TASHA (continuing; to the image) Who am I? Do you hear me? The image doesn't move. But when Tasha suddenly feints, the image instantly blocks the blow. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 10. 12 CONTINUED: TASHA (continuing) But it will feel real when it hits you. She crouches and the IMAGE crouches, and they begin to fight. After rapid and savage exchange, she throws the IMAGE. 13 EMPHASIZING LUTAN His eyes begin to glow as he evaluates what he sees, watching with growing interest. HAGON A force like that cannot possibly come from an image, Lutan. LUTAN Then you will show me, Hagon. Hagon hesitates, but he has his order. He moves to the mat as Tasha steps aside. 14 ACTION ANGLE Hagon crouches, the image crouches. Hagon deftly makes two feints, and then a move and is promptly dumped hard. There's no doubt about the pain he feels. HAGON (trying to breathe) Oh. . . . Oh... LUTAN (to Tasha) Thank you, Lieutenant. How very enlightening. 15 CLOSER ANGLE (OPTICAL) Behind Tasha the IMAGE RISES and stands, remaining quiet. TASHA (into the air) Aikido, vanish. The IMAGE DISSOLVES. Tasha goes to the panel, shuts down the controls, takes a towel from the wall, wipes off, and removes her jacket. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 11. 15 CONTINUED: TASHA (continuing) I could create two -- even three, but one is really enough. As you fight with it, it learns, and before long it knows exactly how to defeat you. LUTAN (a smile) Even the extraordinary Lieutenant Yar? TASHA (also a smile) It forces us to keep improving. Lutan's eyes are glowing as he nods. LUTAN Your skill impresses me. I like you. Lutan shows a definite reaction to Tasha, and she reacts to him similarly. Picard notices both reactions. 16 INT. CARGO DECK - FULL SHOT (OPTICAL) Our Enterprise participants are all present with Lutan and Hagon. Good-byes are being exchanged. LUTAN (continuing) Farewell, my new friends of the noble Enterprise. PICARD Understanding has made friends of many different people. We've had a good beginning, Lutan. LUTAN May I also extend a personal farewell to Lieutenant Yar? Picard nods. Tasha moves forward. Lutan extends his hand to her. LUTAN In your Federation terms. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 12. 16 CONTINUED: Tasha takes his hand and shakes it. Lutan puts an arm around her as if to hug her. Releasing his first hand, but still holding her, he reaches up and touches the jewel at the center of his necklace. In an instant their images SHIMMER, and they are gone. PICARD Picard to bridge. Red alert! FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/7/87 13. ACT TWO FADE IN: 17 INT. MAIN BRIDGE The KLAXON is sounding. Turbolift opens and Riker ENTERS bridge immediately, crossing to man the Security Station. RIKER Shields up; activate photon torpedoes! Picard and Troi have come out of the turbolift right after him, CROSSING to their own positions. PICARD What com contact have we had with them? Data makes a move at his panel, the KLAXON ceases. DATA With their orbital control station, sir. PICARD (reaches his position) Make contact there and on all hailing frequencies. (touches control panel) Enterprise to Lutan and Ligonian government. You have committed an unfriendly act. You will reply immediately. RIKER Photon torpedoes ready, Captain. PICARD Set for a display blast, a thousand meters short of planet surface. Fire! RIKER Display blast away! 18 EXT. ENTERPRISE IN ORBIT (OPTICAL) as a spread of photon torpedoes are sent downward toward the planet below. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 14. 18A ANGLE DOWN TOWARD PLANET (OPTICAL) as the torpedo spread travels down toward the planet surface, then detonates in a SPECTACULAR DISPLAY. 19 INT. MAIN BRIDGE as all wait for some communication from the planet. RIKER (to Geordi) Do we know the source of their transporter beam? GEORDI Our own transporter people tried to trace it, sir, but without effect. DATA It reads similar to Starfleet's early efforts but uses the Heglenian shift to convert matter and energy in different... (stops; seeing Picard's expression) ... which is actually not important at this time. PICARD (touching panel com) This is Captain Picard of the Enterprise with a message to Lutan whom I have so far acknowledged as a friend. But you have now committed what our laws regard as an attack upon us, Lutan. And having visited us here, Lutan, you must certainly understand the power of our vessel. We have so far fired only a warning burst at you. We insist you reply to this message. They again wait. Finally Picard turns to Troi: PICARD (continuing) Opinion, Counselor. Will they injure Tasha? STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 15. 19 CONTINUED: TROI I believe not, sir. In fact, they seem mainly curious. But in the case of Lutan I did feel other needs. RIKER What kind of needs? TROI Some sexual attraction from all the males. Lieutenant Yar is physically very attractive. But I felt something else in the case of Lutan... something more like... avarice or ambition. All puzzle at this. PICARD Other comments? Data turns to Picard. DATA If I may, sir... one of the things about them in the briefing studies was their respect for patience. RIKER (nods) Strongly emphasized. And you can see it in the precise, ritualistic way they do things. I'm worried about Lieutenant Yar too, sir, but maybe we should sit and wait them out. Picard considers this, then nods. He turns to Troi and Data: PICARD Analysis, the two of you. Everything we know about them and how these happenings fit into that. 20 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE IN ORBIT (OPTICAL) Planet Ligon II below. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/16/87 16. 20 CONTINUED: PICARD (V.O.) Stardate 41235.32. I am concerned. Over a full day of waiting with no response from... 21 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - FULL SHOT Only Geordi on duty with a couple of upper-deck Technicians. During the following, BEVERLY CRUSHER will ENTER Bridge and CROSS toward the Captain's Ready Room. WE SEE WESLEY too; he waits in the Turbolift cab. PICARD (V.O.) (continuing) ... Lutan. We are now testing whether they are aware of our sensors probing them. So far, we believe we have pinpointed Lutan's government compound. 22 INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM Beverly ENTERS, joins Picard waiting inside. She's very upset. BEVERLY The vaccine, sir... PICARD (rises) Yes, Doctor? BEVERLY The vaccine... (stops; shudders) I'm a... physician; I've seen death. But not on the scale this could mean. PICARD Meanwhile, you were testing whether we can replicate the vaccine... BEVERLY And we can't! Their sample works fine when used as an injection, but it becomes unstable when we try to replicate it. You must get vaccine from the planet, Captain. As much as you can. Immediately! STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/16/87 17. 22 CONTINUED: PICARD I'm aware of that, Doctor. BEVERLY You've never had to watch a patient die from this disease. PICARD That's true. But I've seen my share of death. BEVERLY Damn! (weak smile; shakes her head) Where are the calluses we doctors are supposed to grow over our feelings? PICARD Perhaps the good ones never get them. Beverly moves toward the exit, then stops and turns, eyes him for a long moment. PICARD (continuing; hopeful) Yes, Doctor? BEVERLY (hesitates; then) May I speak about my son Wesley? PICARD (startled) What? (recovers) Well, yes. Yes, of course. BEVERLY He's so interested in starship operations. And... (smiles) ... speaking as a mother, of course, he seems quite knowledgeable. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/16/87 17A. 22 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Well, yes... speaking as a mother... BEVERLY (indicates; interrupting) He's on the turbolift. You'll remember you ordered him to stay off the bridge. The whole subject upsets Picard but he feels trapped now. And Beverly is remarkably lovely. He finally motions for her to follow him toward the bridge. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 18. 23 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - WIDE ANGLE Picard ENTERS from the Ready Room and CROSSES toward his position. Beverly stays half concealed in the Ready Room entry. In the b.g. at the turbolift, WE'LL SEE Wesley quickly flatten himself almost out of sight. But Picard keeps looking in that direction and this fact finally forces Wesley SOMEWHAT INTO SIGHT. 24 ANGLE ON TURBOLIFT Wesley finally comes more fully INTO VIEW and meets Picard's eyes. WESLEY (weakly) I haven't stepped one foot on your bridge, Captain... 25 WIDER ANGLE As the other turbolift arrives, from which Riker, Data, and Troi ENTER to see Picard in an apparent confrontation with Wesley. Riker moves in first, speaking rapidly. RIKER It's all right, sir, I'll see he leaves immediately... WE SEE Picard throw a fast glance toward the Ready Room where Beverly HAS APPEARED in the doorway. PICARD No. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 19. 25 CONTINUED: RIKER (halts) No? PICARD (to Wesley) Why don't you sit at Ops? Next to Lieutenant La Forge. WESLEY Sir? GEORDI Sir? PICARD Is the whole ship deaf?! (indicates) Sit down over there, young man! (beat) Temporarily. 26 ANGLE ON WESLEY CROSSING to sit next to Geordi, eyeing the Bridge, the vessel's controls. Heaven! 27 BACK TO SHOT TROI Captain, we have more information from the briefing studies on Ligon... PICARD Excuse me. (calls) Doctor Crusher, some of this may interest you. 28 ANOTHER ANGLE to include Beverly STEPPING INTO VIEW, CROSSING to join the group at the command position. Except for Troi, all feel a moment of discomfort with Beverly appearing from the Ready Room and Wesley at the Ops position. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 20. 28 CONTINUED: PICARD (continuing) Proceed with your analysis. DATA It is a highly structured society in which people live by strict codes of honor. For example, what Lutan has done is similar to what certain American Indians once did, called "counting coup." That's from an obscure language called French -- PICARD A language which for centuries on Earth represented civilization, Mister Data. DATA Indeed? RIKER I suggest you drop it, Mister Data. A puzzled Data shrugs, goes on. DATA Yes sir. Counting coup could be as simple as touching an enemy with a stick in battle, or taking something from him and escaping. It was considered extremely heroic. RIKER And under these circumstances Lutan considers himself heroic, risking literally everything in the face of our superior power. TROI And it fits Lutan's personality profile as well. He has an abnormally high need for achievement -- I've sensed it in him, very strongly. Picard nods. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 21. 28 CONTINUED: (2) TROI (continuing) We should establish clearly also, that Lutan is dangerous. Self image for him is a function of how much he THINKS he's achieved. Those who set their standards too high can kill to meet them. BEVERLY Why Tasha? TROI As a Starfleet security officer, she may have represented his riskiest prize. 29 ANGLE EMPHASIZING DATA responding to a signal panel, then: DATA (to Picard) Transmission from the planet surface, sir... Main viewer on. 30 ANGLE TO INCLUDE MAIN VIEWER (OPTICAL) where an image of Lutan replaces the orbit planet SHOT. PICARD Yes, Lutan? What do you wish? Lutan is squinting, his screen apparently without Picard's image there. LUTAN You will display your image, please. PICARD What is required is an image of Lieutenant Yar, well and... LUTAN (interrupting) Are you making demands, Captain? STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 22. 30 CONTINUED: TROI Sir... She motions; Picard cuts off his transmission. TROI (continuing) According to the Ligon Code of Honor, Lutan has done what he set out to do -- achieve recognition for being daring and bold. RIKER We've studied this in some depth now, sir. The proper thing for you to do now is to ask to get Tasha back. PICARD (astonished) Ask for her? DATA Politely, Captain. PICARD (touches com button) And now, Lutan... (swallows irritation) You have boldly taken the lieutenant from us and I ask that you... now please return her. LUTAN Then come visit us, Captain, and we will return her to you. FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 23. ACT THREE FADE IN: 31 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - EMPHASIZING RIKER as he activates his panel com. Troi watches, expressionless as: RIKER First Officer to Transporter Chief... TROI (interrupts) Forgive me but can you delay calling him? DATA (nods agreement) Please. We must discuss the away party. PICARD Am I included? 32 ANGLE ON WESLEY at Ops position but distracted by what is going on. DATA (O.S.) It concerns you directly, Captain. BEVERLY (O.S.) Wesley. It's time we left. 33 WIDER ANGLE - TO INCLUDE BEVERLY moving to the turbolift which she is indicating to Wesley. He stands, disappointed that it's over. Picard sees this. PICARD Wesley... thanks for taking a turn at the controls. WESLEY Yes sir. That has changed everything. A bouyant Wesley leaves the bridge with his mother. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 24. 33 CONTINUED: TROI Commander.... RIKER "Commander?" That's quite formal... TROI So is this request, sir. We believe it would be preferable if the captain led this away party. DATA Agreed, sir. Their customs concerning guests make it much preferable. RIKER (to Picard) And I'm very much against it. Lutan is clearly a liar, and devious. Counselor Troi has admitted she believes him capable of killing. It is my duty to keep the captain out of danger, sir. DATA Except that Ligonian custom makes it clear that a visiting leader becomes an honored guest. (indicates) Not us, not second in command... him. TROI And the custom requires Lutan to die rather than violate that. Picard says nothing, waits for Riker to absorb all this. Then: RIKER Yes... it does sound reasonable put that way. (to Picard) I warn you, Captain... if you get hurt, I'll put you on report! This gets smiles from everyone. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 25. 34 EXT. LUTAN'S CENTERPLACE ON LIGON - ESTABLISHING (OPTICAL) This enclosed, sanded area, walled in black, has an ascetic, Zen-garden feeling with a pebbled center enclosing a small, off-center fountain. A single, simple, brilliant banner identifies this an important place, and whatever design elements are visible reveal an interest in the abstract, perhaps a Mondrian-ish feeling. Two sentries are posted beside a doorway. Picard and Troi BEAM INTO SHOT. Lutan and Hagon come from inside the doorway and exchange the "empty hands" ritual greeting with Picard. LUTAN Welcome to my Centerplace, Captain Picard. Consider yourselves my honored guests. YAREENA (O.S.) Every hospitality will be accorded you. ADJUST ANGLE to include YAREENA, who has just joined them. She is petite by Ligonian standards and quite radiant, a woman of visible nobility and keen intelligence. Her only flaw being her passionate, unreasoning love for Lutan. LUTAN This is my First One, Yareena. PICARD Lutan is a fortunate man. She smiles graciously, but remains a bit behind him, according to custom. PICARD (continuing) You've met Counselor Troi. LUTAN Yes. (to Picard) As on your vessel, you have only to name whatever courtesy we can provide. PICARD Then, sir... the courtesy of seeing Lieutenant Yar. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 26. 34 CONTINUED: LUTAN Lieutenant Yar will be returned to you tonight at a banquet I have arranged in your honor. PICARD I would like to see her now. LUTAN (thinks; then, to a sentry) Bring Lieutenant Yar. (to Picard) I find it odd, Captain, that a man of your experience has such difficulty in understanding ordinary politeness. PICARD Such as saying "please" when abducting someone? LUTAN The expression "please" is used only when requesting the person back. PICARD Yours is a different world. LUTAN With clear and simple ways deeply rooted in our culture. If you are willing to ask for Lieutenant Yar's release tonight in front of all, honor will be satisfied. TROI (to Picard) One can see the importance of "honor" here. LUTAN Honor is everything. Picard and Troi exchange looks. HAGON There will be gifts for each of you, to absolve the abduction. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 27. 34 CONTINUED: (2) Tasha is brought to the doorway between four guards, with every sign she would break free at the slightest opportunity. One of the guards limps, a leg bandaged. When Tasha sees Picard she calms down. PICARD Lieutenant, have you been treated well? TASHA Fine, Captain... (indicates bandaged guard; smiles) ... but they're showing some signs of wear. YAREENA There isn't any need to be concerned, Captain. She's being well cared for. Picard looks Tasha over, then turns to Lutan. PICARD My ship's company and I are certain of your gentle wisdom in that. Lutan hesitates, takes another look at Picard. Then: LUTAN I thought for a moment I heard a threat implied. (shrugs) But that would be foolishness. PICARD Something to be carefully avoided I agree. LUTAN The festivities for her return to you are in preparation. Shall we retire until then? Lutan gestures to the guards, who move to take Tasha OFF, without resistance. CAMERA PUSHES IN on Picard as he replies and considers what is ahead. PICARD Until tonight, Lutan. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 28. 35 EXT. CENTERPLACE - ESTABLISHING - NIGHT Under a canopy, a juggler performs. Guests sit on floor mats or cushions. All carry hand-held, delicately carved ivory-like sticks which they tap together to signal applause or approval. Tables are low and food is plentiful. ESTABLISH Lutan and Yareena sitting on a slightly raised dais, with Hagon next to him on floor level, and Lutan's Supporters close around them. The juggler drops something and suddenly stops. He has committed an act of dishonor. 36 ANGLE ON PICARD AND TROI Picard and Troi scan the room, hoping to see Tasha. A sudden SCREAM from the direction where the juggler had performed. 37 FULL SHOT Picard and Troi whirl to look in that direction but their line of sight is quickly blocked by gift bearers who APPEAR, with Ligonian silks, works of precious metal, and fine large gems. Picard is troubled by what may have happened to the juggler but is distracted by the gift bearers making presentations. Then the room falls SILENT. LUTAN We present you gifts! 38 CLOSER SHOT as Tasha is escorted in to approving IVORY-TAPPING sounds from the Ligonians who face Lutan. Tasha is seated next to Lutan and Yareena on an empty cushion. She smiles at Picard and Troi. At FULL SILENCE Lutan turns and fixes his gaze on Picard. The moment has arrived. Picard rises and faces Lutan with great dignity. PICARD Lutan, you have granted us hospitality and the safety of your Centerplace. The gifts you give us are rare and precious. We thank you. In accordance with the customs of your ancestors, which I honor and respect, I am here in peace to ask for the return of Lieutenant Yar. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 29. 38 CONTINUED: The Guests CHIME WILDLY now, nodding in enthusiastic approval. Yareena is especially proud and pleased. CAMERA TO LUTAN, who smiles and rises, CAMERA MOVING SLOWLY BACK. LUTAN Well spoken. There are some among my equals in this gathering who were wary of my approaching the Federation. I am proud to have taken this first step towards a treaty -- and proud we have something of great value to offer you -- a priceless life-giving vaccine. (beat) The abduction I have done according to our custom, for all to see. (great applause) Your conduct in this matter has been beyond exemplary, Captain Picard -- (glances at Tasha) -- but now that the moment has come, I find I cannot part with her. A ripple of astonishment flows through the crowd in the room. Picard takes a step forward. Tension. PICARD You speak of a code of honor... but what you are now saying is called under our customs... an act of war. LUTAN No, no, Captain! You do not understand. PICARD Correct! I am now beyond understanding! LUTAN This is not an act of war, but of love. I want Lieutenant Yar to become my First One. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 30. 38 CONTINUED: (2) There is general astonishment. Yareena is as shocked and outraged as Picard and Troi. Hagon is also disturbed. Yareena jumps to her feet. YAREENA I challenge your right of supercedence! The Guests in the room are stunned. HAGON (at Yareena) No woman has challenged supercedence for over two-hundred years! YAREENA The right is mine -- and I will have it! (then to Tasha, furious) Natasha Yar -- I challenge you! A struggle to the death! ZOOM IN and PAN to include QUICK REACTION SHOTS from Tasha and Troi. Then, ZOOM BACK as Picard jumps to his feet. PICARD (strongly) NO! The challenge is unequivocally refused! There is a stunned SILENCE. Lutan rises to his feet, eyes blazing. LUTAN Then you shall have no treaty -- no vaccine -- and no Lieutenant Yar! 39 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) It maintains orbit around Ligon. RIKER (V.O.) Ship's log, First Officer Riker reporting. We have been informed of the challenge to Lieutenant Yar... STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/15/87 31. 40 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - FEATURING SCIENCE AND TACTICAL Riker tours the stations checking readouts, while continuing his log. A FULL CREW is on station. RIKER (continuing) ... and are maintaining combat readiness round-the-clock. We are probing Lutan's compound deeply with our sensors now, still unnoticed. 41 INT. TASHA'S QUARTERS - NIGHT Tasha, doing exercises, straightens up as Picard and Troi ENTER SHOT. During the following scene Troi does nothing except listen intently. A Ligon Guard patrols. TASHA Captain. Deanna. PICARD Did you have any idea, Lieutenant, that Lutan would suddenly announce he wanted you for his First One? What do you know of this? TASHA Nothing, sir. TROI (as if to herself) But it was a thrill. Lutan is such... such a basic male image and having him say he wants you... TASHA (nods) Yes, of course it made me feel good... Then she becomes aware that Picard is watching this closely. She turns on Troi: TASHA (continuing) Troi! I'm your friend and you tricked me! TROI Only so you'll think about it completely and clearly. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 32. 41 CONTINUED: PICARD (to Tasha) We're all being manipulated, Lieutenant, and most of all myself. TROI (scrutinizing Picard) How simple all this would be without the Prime Directive. PICARD (nods; half-amused) That thought has passed thorugh my mind, Counselor. 42 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ANGLE ON RIKER at the command position, looking toward his panel communications. The turbolift doors open, Beverly HURRIES onto the bridge. RIKER What's this message from Starbase Fourteen? 43 WIDER ANGLE Beverly hurries to indicate Riker's viewer. BEVERLY It's showing infection rates, percentage illness increases... (looks up) The plague on Styris IV has flared up out of control. Riker takes another moment to study the information received. RIKER Oh, no! STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 33. 43 CONTINUED: GEORDI (studying his own viewer) They're estimating deaths in the millions, sir. RIKER (hits com control) Captain Picard, come in. 44 INT. TASHA'S QUARTERS - NIGHT The lighting in the room low, Troi trying to nap but with Tasha disturbing this. TASHA I know I could win. Not that I'd take her life, of course, but I'd be glad to embarrass her. The idea of accusing me... Interrupted by Picard ENTERING with guards still in b.g. Troi is immediately alert at the captain's presence. TROI The plague? PICARD If anything, worse than we heard. TASHA Which means they desperately need the vaccine, sir. And I know I can win this challenge... PICARD You do not have to prove anything here, Lieutenant. TROI But the vaccine is important in this case, sir... ? PICARD Counselor, I would consider you the last person to argue for Lieutenant Yar to accept that challenge. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 34. 44 CONTINUED: TROI Betazoid blood is also practical, Captain. (indicates Tasha) The odds are very good she'd defeat Lutan's wife easily and you would win all the bargaining points you need. PICARD "The odds are... ?" TROI As you have pointed out yourself, we are all at risk every day of every mission. Picard gives her a searching look, glancing at Tasha. PICARD I'll want some explanations from Lutan. TROI But why not let him volunteer them, Captain? His needs for approval are immense. I'm sure if you found something you liked about him, he'd be anxious to agree with it. TASHA (laughs) Yes, he would indeed. He's almost crippled with needs, the poor handsome dear. Picard considers this, then EXITS. 45 INT. CENTERPLACE BANQUET AREA - NIGHT Lutan and Hagon are still in the empty Banquet Hall, talking and finishing a drink. Picard ENTERS. PICARD I should tell you I do admire the hospitality you offer here, Lutan. A pity you began by abducting my security officer. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/10/87 35. 45 CONTINUED: LUTAN I am in the grip of forces you do not understand. PICARD (hesitates; nods) Some of it I do understand. She is a rather lovely female... LUTAN You surprise me, Captain. What do you know of needs and feelings? PICARD Nothing. (pretends to hesitate; smiles) Well, almost nothing in my position of ship's captain. HAGON (chuckles) Aha, I see. PICARD (smiles now) But it puzzles me; if you feel that way about Tasha, why have you challenged her to a fight to the death? LUTAN Not I, Yareena! I am merely a spectator. PICARD But you are also a man of great importance and wealth. HAGON Great importance, perhaps... Lutan has tried to stop what Hagon has said, but moves too slowly. Picard then chuckles. PICARD Aha, I see. Then you too understand the proper value of women? STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/10/87 36. 45 CONTINUED: (2) LUTAN We understand they are highly pleasant things... but after all, unimportant, except for the land they own. PICARD You're a truly clever person, Lutan. You have nothing to lose either way the challenge goes. 46 CLOSER TWO SHOT as Lutan smiles. LUTAN A code of honor, Captain, protects one like a magic cloak. PICARD (a long pause; then) I will order Lieutenant Yar to fight. (rises) And may your cloak bring you all you deserve, Lutan. FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 37. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 47 INT. ENTERPRISE - GEORDI'S QUARTERS Geordi is standing alone in his room, his glasses on a table. Without his VISOR his eyes are dead grey. He holds a glowing 2-inch blue cube in his hand which he moves up, down and across his face an inch or so away from the skin. He is shaving. There is a CHIME from his door. GEORDI Come in. Data ENTERS, stops short as he sees the razor Geordi is using. DATA Why that razor, my friend? Why not the one I adjusted into perfect efficiency? GEORDI Shaving is a human art form, Data. Technological perfection can shave too close. DATA Puzzling. How can anything be too efficient? GEORDI Tens of thousands of things. Maybe hundreds. DATA (puzzles over it; then) We always go back to the human equation. GEORDI Exactly. Have you kept working on it? DATA Constantly, my friend. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 38. 47 CONTINUED: DATA (Cont'd) (nods) Particularly human humor. For example, a man goes to a store to buy some kidneys. He says to the shopkeeper, "I'd like a pound of kiddillies, please." The shopkeeper says to him, "You mean kidneys, don't you?" The man says, "I said kiddillies, diddle I?" Long silence. GEORDI It's too old. And you didn't tell it very well. DATA ... How do you know when something's funny? GEORDI It's not explainable. You just do. DATA Perhaps it is you, Geordi. Includling the kiddillies, I've learned six hundred sixty-two jokes, and you haven't... Data stops, realizing Geordi is laughing. GEORDI (still chuckling) "Includling the kiddillies!" Now that's funny. DATA It was not meant as a joke! The tongue slipped! Geordi CHUCKLES even more at this. He puts away his razor, begins to fit his VISOR in place. RIKER'S COM VOICE Riker to Commander Data, Lieutenant La Forge. Report to the Transporter Room for away party duty. Both men move out quickly. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/15/87 39. 48 INT. WEAPONS ROOM ON LIGON - DAY (OPTICAL) Picard and Troi are examining weapons exhibited in the room. Unusual looking pikes, daggers, spiked gloves, unusual looking blast guns, nets, scythes, all bizarre and unfamiliar types. RIKER'S COM VOICE First officer to captain. Ready with the away personnel. PICARD (touches insignia) Lock in on this location. TRANSPORTER CHIEF'S COM VOICE Transporter locked in, sir. PICARD Energize! A short delay, then Data and Geordi BEAM IN. Data carries a large tricorder. PICARD (continuing) You've both seen the message about the plague? GEORDI (nods) And how badly the vaccine is needed. Yes sir. PICARD We need to know as much as possible about Ligonian arms and armaments. Data, especially important will be an analysis of their combat capabilities. Geordi, concentrate on their cutting edges where applicable, durability, composition, weaknesses of material. GEORDI Aye, sir. DATA From any particular point of view, sir? TROI From the perspective of Lieutenant Yar's using them in combat with Lutan's wife. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 40. 48 CONTINUED: Geordi is stunned; Data is curious. GEORDI Are you... (begins again) You, you're serious, I can see that. DATA Most interesting. (to Geordi) Could this be human joke number six hundred sixty-three? GEORDI Negative, Data! It's a captain's order! DATA Which makes it important to know... (indicates) ... which of these weapons are to be used. PICARD That fact isn't known until the combat begins. Data and Geordi turn to the weapons to begin examining them. Picard turns toward the exit with Troi, then stops and turns back to Data. PICARD (continuing) You're right, Data. It does sound like a joke. With the power of the Enterprise, we could overwhelm this place easily. Take what we want. DATA I may not understand human humor, sir, but I am a Starfleet Academy graduate. PICARD Which means, of course... DATA ... understanding the Prime Directive, sir. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/15/87 41. 48 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Which is, unfortunately, what this is about. By our standards, the customs here and code of honor are the same kind of pompous, strutting charades that endangered our own species a few centuries ago. We evolved out of it because no one else imposed their own... (stops; shakes head ruefully) Sorry, that became a speech. TROI You're the captain, sir. You're entitled... PICARD (smiles) I am not entitled to bore you with what you already know. Carry on! The others have returned his smile as he and Troi EXIT. 49 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) in orbit around Ligon. RIKER (V.O.) Ship's log, Commander William Riker reporting. Stardate 41235.4. 50 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Riker walks past the rear readouts, taking a moment to study them. RIKER (V.O.) (continuing) Continuing our appraisal of Ligonian technology. The Captain has made it clear... STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/15/87 42. 50 CONTINUED: RIKER (V.O.) (continuing) ... he wants Lieutenant Yar beamed immediately to safety if her life should become endangered... and I fervently hope the rules of that contest make it possible. RIKER Riker to Transporter Room. Do you have our people on the sensors yet? TRANSPORTER CHIEF (V.O.) Their general area, sir. Visual on screen now. Riker presses a button on a nearby console and looks. 51 OMITTED 52 CLOSE ON COMPUTER SCREEN (INSERT) (OPTICAL) The screen lists every name in the away party. Alongside each name triangulation coordinates APPEAR. They change as those who move change location. TRANSPORTER CHIEF (V.O.) (continuing) As you see, we're still doing some fine tuning. 53 INT. TASHA'S QUARTERS - NIGHT Tasha is alone as Yareena ENTERS. YAREENA I agreed to this meeting, but I see no point to it. You have accepted the challenge; there is nothing further to say. TASHA I think you should know that there is no physical training anywhere that matches Starfleet, especially its security people. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/7/87 43. 53 CONTINUED: YAREENA And you should know that even though these contests are rare, we have a tradition of making ourselves capable of them. TASHA Yareena, my acceptance had nothing to do with Lutan. YAREENA It has everything to do with Lutan. Lutan wants you to be his First One. TASHA Impossible, Yareena. I am a career Starfleet officer... YAREENA How could you not love him? Every woman loves him! TASHA Yareena, I fight for the vaccine... That's the truth. YAREENA The truth is I will kill you if I can. And believe me, I can. There is nothing else to say. TASHA In my world it's a greater honor to refuse to ... YAREENA (interrupting) You are on our world! Yareena whirls, EXITS. 54 INT. PICARD'S QUARTERS - NIGHT The room is similar to Tasha's, but less elegant and much smaller. Picard paces. TROI Captain, I'm your counselor. You brought me with you to Ligon to be of help. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/10/87 44. 54 CONTINUED: PICARD Then help me, please. What is a way out of this? TROI With the vaccine? (shakes head) None. Not under the rules we believe in. There is a KNOCK. A Guard opens the door to admit Data and Geordi. GEORDI The weapons in that room are surprisingly durable and flexible... and deadly. DATA And light, as if they're made for women to use. GEORDI Some of them still have traces of blood -- and poison. PICARD (reacting) Poison? GEORDI Alkaloid base. Deadly. DATA But we found no indication it is invariably used, sir. Or ever, in contests like this. PICARD A theory, Data. What would be the best defense against weapons like these? DATA Undiminished attack because of the possibility of poison, sir. PICARD What about those lengths of metal in the yard outside? STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 45. 54 CONTINUED: (2) DATA Uncertain, sir. However, joined together they would make a rectangle or square enclosing one hundred twenty-one square meters. If put end-to-end vertically, they would make a pole forty-four meters high, or two of twenty-two meters, or... PICARD Thank you, Data. DATA You are welcome, sir. A KNOCK on the door. Tasha is ushered in by the guard. TASHA She won't budge. She loves him -- without reservation. (to them all) And she thinks I love him too. DATA Most interesting. Do you? TASHA Of course I don't, Data! As Troi pointed out to me, I'm attracted to him but that is entirely different. DATA How so? Picard is becoming amused at this. PICARD I'll agree it is puzzling, Data, but since it involves Tasha's very intimate and personal... TASHA It involves nothing I'm ashamed of! (to Data) In fact, you may discover that the very worst move of your life was when you threw in with flesh and blood humans. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 46. 54 CONTINUED: (3) DATA (nodding gravely) But certainly the most interesting. TASHA Interesting? Data, I grew up on a failed colony, completely lawless, mad, where people took what they wanted. This meant males for the reason they're bigger, stronger... (to Troi) And that's why I chose Starfleet security, I guess. TROI (nods) For reasons you should be very proud of. TASHA (to Data) Those were my early interests... strength, daring, dominant males... and that's why Lutan attracts me. To me, he's like a Federation Olympic Games hero. But do I want to become his so-called "First One," marry him? That would be nonsense! 55 ANGLE EMPHASIZING PICARD A pause, then Picard draws himself up into a pose resembling Data, and: PICARD Most interesting. DATA (turning, nodding) Ah! You feel that also! Smiles from all present. Picard now turns to Tasha, very serious. PICARD And having laid all that out, Lieut... (corrects self) Tasha... we come to a most serious question... STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/8/87 47. 55 CONTINUED: RIKER'S COM VOICE Riker to captain. Picard touches his insignia. PICARD Go ahead. We're alone. RIKER'S COM VOICE We're fine tuned enough to see your hosts gathering in the open area outside with a number of them now headed for your location. PICARD Thank you, Number One. (turning to Tasha) I was about to ask if considering that background, your apprehension by Lutan, all of that... do you still feel ready to undergo this challenge? Do you judge your condition good? From the door a LOUD KNOCK. TASHA I judge it excellent, sir. Another KNOCK, insistent. Picard nods to Geordi who opens the door. It REVEALS Hagon with TWO GUARDS who carry two lacquered boxes each. The four boxes (the SIZE OF HAT-BOXES) are labeled one through four by ornate dot patterns. The boxes are placed on a low table. HAGON Your weapons, Lieutenant Yar. You may pick your size. They EXIT. Tasha goes slowly to the boxes, and opens first one and then the others. She picks one glavin up and holds it for the others to see. They look at it with awe. It is a gauntlet-length oversized glove, the bulbous and almost basketball size. On the inside of the wrist a down-curved claw projects. Out of the glove itself stick a profusion of slender eight-inch long needles, as if from a porcupine. A thin transparent shield covers them. Tasha removes the cover. 56 CLOSE SHOT - THE GLAVIN IN TASHA'S HANDS revealing the above details, but without any poison demarcation. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 48. 56 CONTINUED: GEORDI (V.O.) Don't touch the spines! They're poisoned. 57 OMITTED 58 BACK TO SHOT Tasha looks at the glavin carefully, hefts it, touches it, estimating it. Geordi comes over and looks at it with her. GEORDI If you're not careful you could kill yourself. TASHA (looks at spines; shakes head) These I understand. From outside, they HEAR a metallic CLANGING. They stop, and go to the window. 59 THEIR POV OUTSIDE - NIGHT Outside, in the CENTERPLACE, the sharpened lengths of steel have been vertically attached within a multi-level rectangle. A number of these poles have horizontal segments connecting them. Yareena, wearing workout clothing, is maneuvering quickly from level to level, carefully avoiding the sharpened spikes. She wears the glavin on her left hand only, and uses the claw to give her leverage while swinging over and under the horizontal bars. It's obvious, as she climbs and jabs and slashes out, that she's very good at this. She never makes a mistake; the projecting needles never touch a pole, and she never makes a misstep. Below her, eight metallic objects outline the boundary of the arena. Between each of these, perhaps twenty inches off the ground, a brilliant green LIGHT BEAM defines the outer limit of the rectangle. As a workman puts the finishing touches on this apparatus, four additional green LIGHT BEAMS suddenly appear, emanating straight upward, from the four corners of the centermost section. To check them, he interrupts one of the beams with a stick of wood. It SIZZLES and begins to BURN. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 48A. 60 BACK TO SHOT They look at one another. FADE OUT. END OF ACT FOUR STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/7/87 49. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 61 EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) The starship steady in her orbit. RIKER (V.O.) First Officer's log, supplemental. Captain Picard, faced with a critical need for a vaccine produced on this planet... 62 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - ESTABLISHING, THEN PANNING RIKER during which, he leaves his command position, CROSSES toward the turbolift. A crewman is at Conn, rear stations are manned. RIKER (V.O.) (continuing) ... has permitted Lieutenant Natasha Yar to engage in a fight to the death. I have yet to understand his reasoning or his plan. Reaching the turbolift, Riker discovers Wesley standing half out of sight inside -- off the bridge. He stops; they eye each other. Then, gesturing: RIKER Care to lend a hand? WESLEY Yes sir! He bounds onto the Bridge as Riker EXITS by Turbolift. 63 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL) as Data BEAMS IN. When fully arrived he turns to the Transporter Chief who is monitoring his viewer... DATA Was I seen leaving? STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/10/87 50. 63 CONTINUED: TRANSPORTER CHIEF (shakes head) They've got eyes only for the program. Riker ENTERS, Data nods at him. Then he includes Transporter Chief, saying: DATA Captain Picard wanted no risk of our communications being overheard. You're to proceed now, as he indicated. Beverly Crusher ENTERS over the last of this. She carries a medical tricorder and a couple of instruments including a contact hypo. She indicates these to Riker. BEVERLY Captain's orders here, too. RIKER (to Data) Does the Captain understand what you and Geordi reported about those weapons? They're razor sharp, split-second lethal... DATA (nods) I am here to brief you on what he plans. 64 INT. CENTERPLACE - NIGHT The Centerplace is alive with a gathering group of official spectators, who are seating themselves around Lutan and Hagon. Picard, Troi, Geordi, followed by Tasha and a guard, ENTER SHOT. Tasha wears the glavin with its protective covering. We begin to HEAR A RATTLE of ivory-like sticks from the Spectators. TASHA (to Picard) Any last minute instructions, sir? STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/10/87 51. 64 CONTINUED: PICARD (nods; then) Stay alive. We'll hope to do the rest. 65 ANGLE TO INCLUDE YAREENA as she ENTERS with a Female Aide. LOUDER LIGONIAN RATTLING. A Guard motions Yareena and Tasha into the combat area. A worker prepares to activate the light-beam boundary. When it's quiet, Hagon rises and addresses the gathering. HAGON I speak for Lutan. The rules are known; let combat continue until there is a victor. It will not be interrupted. (looks at combatants) Proceed. Again a RATTLING OF STICKS as Tasha and Yareena ENTER the structure at opposite sides. The worker ACTIVATES the LIGHT-BEAM boundary. Then SILENCE from the Spectators as Tasha and Yareena immediately begin working their way through the structure. 66 CLOSER ON THE COMBAT - NIGHT - (INTERCUT WITH SPECTATOR REACTION) Tasha goes quickly for the center to defend from there, not sure exactly what to expect. Yareena, very sure of herself, climbs with agility. The glavin never gets too near her body. The glavins CLANG as each of the women climbs. 67 CLOSE ON YAREENA Her eyes bright, her expression cold. She appears to always figure at least one move ahead. 68 CLOSE ON TASHA learning as she goes. She makes her moves without flare, steadily and carefully feeling her way. At the moment, it looks as if she's no match for Yareena. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 52. 69 ON THEM BOTH - COMBAT SQUARE ONLY Yareena suddenly speeds up, agily climbing higher than Tasha. Gracefully, she also circles to get behind her. Tasha turns barely quickly enough to defend herself. Stopping, darting away, and coming from unexpected angles, Yareena forces Tasha to change position. Tasha at first clambers horizontally, then, aware of what's happening, climbs higher to get away from her, but can't do it without turning her back. Yareena jabs out at her, managing to drive and corner her on the highest level of the arena. Again she jabs with her glavin, just missing. There's a GASP from the audience. Yareena inches closer, leaning out and continuing to jab. 70 ANGLE ON LUTAN Not at all as unconcerned as he indicates to Picard. 71 CLOSE ON TASHA Tasha folds her arms and dives beneath the horizontal pole, landing on her feet -- but loses her balance, and falls within the innermost section. 72 BACK TO SHOT Instantly, Yareena climbs toward her for the kill. As she raises her glavin to strike the final blow, her arm extends too far back, causing a metallic section of the glavin to brush against one of the brightly glowing vertical LIGHT BEAMS. This results in a shower of SPARKS and a reactive force so strong that it throws Yareena's arm forward with such speed that the glavin is hurled out of the arena and into the first row of spectators. 73 ANGLE ON LUTAN Lutan rises, shouting. LUTAN Combatants, hold your positions! (he turns to a guard) Return the weapon! STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/9/87 53. 73 CONTINUED: Yareena and Tasha remain stationary as a smiling spectator, into whose lap the glavin has fallen, gingerly hands it to the guard. His smile quickly turns to a grimace of horror as he notices a thin line of blood on his thigh. His face contorts as the poison instantly takes effect. As the glavin is carefully returned to Yareena, WE SEE two sentries removing the spectator's body. 74 CLOSE ON THEM BOTH With Yareena re-armed, Tasha aggressively advances toward her. 75 ANGLE ON HAGON Very concerned now. HAGON Yareena! Careful! 76 ANGLE ON ARENA Tasha moves rapidly to the outside, drawing Yareena up to follow her, then simulates losing her balance and fake-falls, flailing, toward the ground. She appears to be caught on the lower rungs without being able to free herself. Yareena drops deftly to her feet alongside her, stands over her and is about to shove the deadly spines of the glavin into her when Tasha kicks out with her foot, catching Yareena's leg. Yareena stumbles. Tasha gets to her feet and hurls herself at Yareena, getting on top of her. Her claw grazes Yareena's shoulder, ripping her garment and causing blood to flow. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 54. 77 ANGLE EMPHASIZING YAREENA staring in horror at the thin TRAIL of blood. She starts slowly to rise up. The spectators gasp, waiting for Yareena to die. 78 ANGLE EMPHASIZING TASHA (OPTICAL) as she suddenly throws herself bodily across Yareena and both of them begin to SHIMMER -- and then are BEAMED AWAY. 79 FULL SHOT The crowd rises to its feet in surprise, then anger and SHOUTING. They begin to throw their ivory-like sticks toward the arena, then at our Away Party which quickly moves to one side, standing close. 80 INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL) Security -- and Beverly, Data, and Riker -- are waiting as the supine bodies of Tasha and Yareena appear on the transporter pads. RIKER Move! Tasha rises as security people grab Yareena and very carefully remove her glavin. She appears to be almost dead -- perhaps completely so. Tasha removes her own. Beverly moves forward to administer a hypo to Yareena. TASHA We're too late; she's growing cold. BEVERLY Sorry that clashes with my instructions... The hypo administered, Beverly begins monitoring Yareena on the medical tricorder. 81 CLOSE ON YAREENA Not a pretty angle since she indeed looks dead. 82 CLOSE ON TASHA Horror stricken at what she has done. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 55. 82 CONTINUED: TASHA On no, no... 83 INT. CENTERPLACE - EMPHASIZING PICARD AND LUTAN with Troi, Geordi and Hagon looking on. Still angry spectators in b.g. PICARD Exactly what do you find unfair, Lutan? They fought to the death; you saw the final blow; you know the effects of your poison... LUTAN But what of your Lieutenant Yar? She is to become my First One now. PICARD I certainly won't stop her -- if she cares to claim that honor. Lutan looks closely at Picard, beginning to realize that Tasha may not want to be his First One. Hagon moves in, comforting: HAGON But remember, you now have all Yareena's lands and wealth, Lutan. LUTAN (with a wry smile at Hagon) At least, all has not been lost. Over which we have HEARD the COMMUNICATOR SOUND, and Picard touches his insignia. PICARD Picard here. This amazes Lutan and Hagon too -- it is the first they've known of this communication system. RIKER'S COM VOICE Since you've fulfilled your agreement, Captain, can we now beam the vaccine aboard? LUTAN Ah, yes... of course. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/10/87 56. 83 CONTINUED: PICARD No problem, Number One. Send down someone from medical. RIKER'S COM VOICE And to complete our business here, we are locked onto you. PICARD Five to beam up. Energize. This startles Lutan and Hagon. They are in the act of protesting as the TRANSPORTER EFFECT begins. 84 EXT. SPACE - ORBITAL ANGLE (OPTICAL) The starship Enterprise. RIKER (V.O.) First Officer's log, Stardate 41235.6. I am returning the conn to Captain Picard... 85 INT. MAIN BRIDGE - FULL SHOT Riker still at Command Center as: RIKER (V.O.) (continuing) ... as we begin loading the vaccine supply aboard. Shortly, we hope to signal "mission complete." During which Picard, Lutan, Hagon and Troi ENTER from a turbolift. Riker sees them, rises, and indicates in the proper direction. Wesley makes himself small in the bridge position he occupies. RIKER Welcome back, Captain, and you're wanted in the lounge. PICARD (to his guests) This way, gentlemen. They MOVE ON as indicated. Troi remains on the bridge. 86 INT. LOUNGE - ANGLE ON SIDE OF DOORS as they OPEN, REVEALING Picard with Lutan and Hagon who react in surprise at what they see inside. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 57. 87 WIDE ANGLE - EMPHASIZING LOUNGE OCCUPANTS which are Tasha, Beverly... and Yareena, looking very alive. On the table there is the fateful glavin, medical tricorder and instruments. Accepting what he sees, Lutan reacts angrily. LUTAN She is not dead! There was no death combat; you have violated our agreement. There will be no treaty, no vaccine... ! PICARD The challenge was carried out. She died, Lutan. LUTAN There was no challenge! She is alive. Beverly picks up the glavin, moves to Lutan, holding it very close to him. BEVERLY I am a physician and saw her die. If you doubt this poison, why not test it on yourself? Lutan has flinched away from it. Picard moves in. PICARD Lutan, we can provide you with the medical records to prove her death and how Doctor Crusher brought her back. Yareena is enjoying this as she makes eye contact with Tasha who nods approvingly. YAREENA And at the instant of death, Lutan, a mating agreement dissolves. Yareena moves toward Lutan. LUTAN But this is witchcraft, Yareena. To discard a mate in that manner... YAREENA ... is less painful than the one you selected for me. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - REV. 7/10/87 58. 87 CONTINUED: She reaches out and takes the ornate red-stone necklace from his neck. LUTAN No, Yareena... But he stands unresistingly as she turns with it, faces Hagon. YAREENA Even as I battled, Hagon, I heard you calling out for me. She raises the necklace. Hagon nods. HAGON Be my First One, Yareena. She places it around his neck. YAREENA All my land, all my goods, all I have... is yours to rule. A low SOB from Tasha, drawing startled looks from Picard. TASHA That's so beautiful. (to Lutan) And so sad for you. You've lost everything. LUTAN I have my honor. And it is true that Lutan still has his head held proudly high. Tasha looks at him, then to Yareena. TASHA It's such a... a waste! YAREENA Do you want him? Tasha is startled, looks to the Captain, then back. TASHA No, there would be... complications. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 59. 87 CONTINUED: (2) YAREENA (to Lutan) Then I will have you as my Number Two. (indicates) Take your place accordingly. Lutan moves to stand slightly behind Hagon. HAGON As you see, Captain, you may excel in technology... but not in civilized behavior. 88 EXT. SPACE - THE U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) still in orbit of Ligon II. 89 INT. MAIN BRIDGE Fully manned... in fact, too fully. Picard ENTERS, then senses something awry. He looks around, puzzled at this. Then he looks toward the Ops station where Wesley has been hoping to pass unnoticed. PICARD What the... ! (starts again) Ah yes, Wesley. RIKER (overlap) Wesley! (quickly to Picard) He'd been manning that station for me. I forgot. Wesley has come up out of the seat, looking apprehensive as he stands somewhat at attention. PICARD Well! (beat) Thank you again for manning one of our bridge stations. We'll see you get another chance. WESLEY Yes sir! Again, those words are an elixir which sends Wesley happily on his way. STAR TREK: "Code of Honor" - 7/2/87 60. 89 CONTINUED: PICARD What's the delay, Number One? Why aren't we warping out of here? RIKER Set course for Styris IV, Warp three. GEORDI Course laid in for Styris IV, sir. RIKER Engage! 90 EXT. SPACE - THE U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) moving off from Ligon II, then WARP SPEED OPTICAL. FADE OUT. END ACT FIVE THE END