STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Peak Performance" #40272-147 Written by David Kemper Directed by Robert Scheerer THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT. Copyright 1989 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 This script is not for publication or reproduction.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. 2ND REVISED FINAL DRAFT APRIL 17, 1989 STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - CAST STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Peak Performance" CAST PICARD SIRNA KOLRAMI RIKER DATA PULASKI FERENGI-TSA TROI BRACTOR GEORDI TACTICIAN WORF WESLEY ENSIGN BURKE ENSIGN NAGEL N.D. CREWMEMBERS STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - SETS STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Peak Performance" SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE OBSERVATION LOUNGE USS HATHAWAY MAIN ENGINEERING KREECHTA CORRIDOR WORF'S QUARTERS BRASLOTA IV DATA'S QUARTERS CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM TEN-FORWARD USS HATHAWAY BRIDGE ENGINE ROOM KREECHTA (VIEWSCREEN P.O.V. ONLY) STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - PRONUNCIATION STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Peak Performance" PRONUNCIATION GUIDE KOLRAMI cole-ROM-ee ZAKDORN ZACK-dorn KREECHTA CREECH-tah NAGEL NAY-gull BRASLOTA brass-LOW-tah TARLOW tar-low YAROOPA yah-RUE-pah KUMEH koo-mah STRATEGEMA strata-JAY-mah GRENTHEMEN grenth-ah-men STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Peak Performance" TEASER FADE IN: 1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) Shuttle coming in. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, Stardate 42923.7. We are en route to the Braslota System, site of the first Starfleet battle simulation. Joining the Enterprise as observer and mediator is the Zakdorn Master Strategist, Sirna Kolrami. Despite misgivings, I have agreed to Starfleet's request that we take part in these wargame exercises. 2 OMITTED 3 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE DATA is at Command, supernumeraries at Conn and OPS, and WORF and ENSIGN BURKE confer at Tactical. All heads turn as the forward turbolift opens and RIKER and KOLRAMI, a slender weasel-like creature, ENTER and cross to the Observation Lounge. 3A INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE PICARD (rising, extending his hand) Mister Kolrami -- Captain Jean-Luc Picard. Welcome aboard. KOLRAMI Captain. I bring greetings from those at Starfleet Command. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - TEASER 2. 3A CONTINUED: PICARD Would you care to be shown to your quarters? KOLRAMI I require little rest, Captain. I would prefer to commence our mission. Picard and Riker share a glance -- "pushy little guy, isn't he?" 3B INT. BRIDGE Worf crosses to Data. WORF Despite their reputations, this Zakdorn does not appear to be a very formidable warrior. DATA In the game of military brinksmanship, individual physical prowess is less important than the perception of a species as a whole. For over nine millennia potential foes have regarded the Zakdorns as having the greatest innately strategic minds in the galaxy. WORF And no one is willing to test that perception in combat. DATA Exactly. WORF Then the reputation means nothing. 4 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE A magnificent view of the galaxy surrounds them as they take their seats at one end of the table. Kolrami keys the screen, and the DIAGRAM of a solar system appears. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/18/89 - TEASER 3. 4 CONTINUED: KOLRAMI The Braslota System. In orbit around the second planet is the eighty-year old Starcruiser, Hathaway. (nodding at Riker) He is still your choice? PICARD Commander Riker will captain the Hathaway. KOLRAMI (to Riker) You will have forty-eight hours to ready the vessel before the Enterprise attacks. RIKER And we'll be experiencing actual battle conditions? KOLRAMI Correct. Engineering will disconnect the Enterprise's weapons and link the system with the modified laser-pulse beam. All "hits" will be recorded electronically. If the computer registers "damage," it will react accordingly -- shutting down the affected areas for the appropriate "repair" time. Additional questions? Riker and Picard share a look and shake their heads. KOLRAMI Captain Picard, I understand that you initially resisted Starfleet's request for this simulation. PICARD Yes. KOLRAMI May I know why? STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - TEASER 3A. 4 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Starfleet is not a military organization. Our purpose is exploration. KOLRAMI Then why am I here? PICARD Because with the Borg threat, I have decided that my officers and I need to hone our tactical skills. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - TEASER 4. 4 CONTINUED: (3) PICARD (Cont'd) In a crisis situation, it is prudent to have several options. RIKER I still prefer brains over brawn. (to Kolrami) I think it's a waste of effort to test our combat skills -- it's a minor province in the make-up of a starship captain. KOLRAMI Your objection is noted. Let us hope your distaste for the exercise will not affect your strategic abilities. There is a moment as Riker absorbs the words and the underlying contempt with which they were delivered. RIKER Mister Kolrami, when I agree to do a thing. I do it. (to Picard, lighter) Care to surrender now, Captain? Picard gives Riker a warm, small smile, then looks to Kolrami as if to say, "see what a hell of a fellow he is?" Off their various expressions -- FADE OUT. END OF TEASER STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT ONE 5. ACT ONE FADE IN: 5 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) Plying deep space at impulse. 6 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE Picard, Riker, Data, PULASKI, and Kolrami are present. Supernumeraries at Conn and Ops. Burke at Tactical. PICARD Well, Number One, you are allowed a complement of forty. Select whom you will. Save Data, who will serve as my first officer in your absence. Before Riker can respond, Kolrami jumps in -- leaving Pulaski slightly taken aback by his rudeness. KOLRAMI (to Picard) I had envisioned you defining the crew. PICARD On my ship, the leader of an away team has total control of the mission. If you want to judge "leadership" -- why not start at the beginning? Kolrami sagaciously nods his assent, eyeing Picard as if he, too, were under scrutiny. KOLRAMI Very well, Captain. With a curt bow, he glides to the turbolift and disappears. PULASKI My, what a charmer. PICARD (admonishingly) Now, Doctor... STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT ONE 6. 6 CONTINUED: PULASKI Captain, he needs an attitude adjustment. DATA The Zakdornian culture is replete with self-assuredness and confidence. It is seldom undeserved. For example, Kolrami is a third level grand master at the game of Strategema. Fine, but it doesn't make Pulaski feel any better. 7 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN ENGINEERING Geordi and an ASSISTANT toil at aligning the warp engine's dilithium chamber. GEORDI (giving directions) Another millimeter... little more... there! Excellent. RIKER (O.S.) Lieutenant. Geordi straightens to find Riker looking on. GEORDI Commander. RIKER You've heard of the simulation aboard the Hathaway? As they talk, Goerdi takes Riker on a walking tour of Engineering, checking "this" here, tweaking "that" there. GEORDI Yes, sir, and the best of luck to you. I've researched the old Avidyne engines -- archaic by our standards, very touchy. RIKER Anticipating the worst, do you think it can be whipped into shape in forty-eight hours? STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/18/89 - ACT ONE 7. 7 CONTINUED: Geordi stops walking and hefts a tool kit. GEORDI (smiling broadly) I've taken the liberty of packing a few necessities. At this, Riker breaks into a grin, also. 8 INT. ENTERPRISE - WORF'S QUARTERS The room has been modified into a Klingon haven. The lighting is subdued with a ruddy overtones. There is a powerful scupture of a Klingon man, bare to the waist taming a horse-like beast with a long snaking neck, and two twisted horns springing from above each eye. Worf is seated at his desk working on a model of an antique Klingon sailing vessel. A CHIME signals someone is at the door. It startles Worf, and he breaks the masts on his ship. A rumble of fury. WORF Enter! The door opens and Riker steps in, looking around curiously. This is his first time in here. RIKER Am I disturbing you? WORF Just finishing, Commander. Worf opens a drawer, and sweeps the ship into it. Shuts it firmly. RIKER "Interesting" quarters. WORF Thank you. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT ONE 8. 8 CONTINUED: RIKER You know of the simulation. What do you think? WORF Waste of time. RIKER It's just designed to be an exercise. WORF Useless. If there is nothing to lose -- no sacrifice -- then there is nothing to gain. RIKER (playing him) You mean -- besides "pride." (caught his attention) Well, it's a good thing in this case, because I probably don't have a chance. WORF (alien concept) There is always a chance. RIKER Slim. The Hathaway's most sophisticated weapon-systems -- even in a computer mock-up -- can't hope to defeat the Enterprise. WORF Still... RIKER Worf... when you're out-gunned, out-manned, and out-equipped -- what else do you have left? WORF (long beat) Guile. RIKER Join me. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT ONE 9. 8 CONTINUED: (2) WORF The honor is to serve. Riker allows himself another smile -- this crew is pulling together nicely. 9 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) Zooming along at impulse. 10 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE Riker ENTERS to find Picard in the Command Chair, Data to his right, Pulaski on his left, Wesley at Conn, Burke at Tactical, and Kolrami examining Science One. PICARD Begin long-range scanning of all sectors within three light years of Braslota. (seeing Riker) How is your crew shaping up? RIKER It's complete, but I would like to request an addition. PICARD (playing along) Anyone in mind? RIKER With your permission, I would like Acting Ensign Crusher aboard for educational observation. Picard nods. Riker, in turn, gives Wesley a "c'mon" head move. Wesley's enthusiasm can hardly be muted as he leaps from the Conn -- to be quickly replaced by a CREWPERSON. RIKER (as if an afterthought) Oh... since we have some time before reaching Braslota -- (deferentially to Kolrami) I was hoping that you would agree to play me in a game of Strategema. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/24/89 - ACT ONE 10. 10 CONTINUED: KOLRAMI Although I am intrigued by the audacity of your request, I can't fathom why you wish the encounter. RIKER I enjoy a challenge. KOLRAMI Very well, an opponent of "limited dimensions" can often be quite diverting. RIKER Thank you. 11 INT. ENTERPRISE - CORRIDOR - TRACKING Geordi and Riker on their way to Ten-Forward. GEORDI So you're going to beat him? RIKER Nope. GEORDI Oh, then it's going to be a close one. RIKER No. GEORDI But you have got a chance? RIKER Nah. GEORDI (a little sarcastic) Are you planning to show up? RIKER Sure, Kolrami is the best at Strategema. To even get to play him is a privilege. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT ONE 11. 11 CONTINUED: GEORDI Other than you being privileged, is there anything else I can look forward to? RIKER Nope. GEORDI This is going to be exciting. 12 INT. ENTERPRISE - TEN-FORWARD Riker and Kolrami are seated at opposite ends of a large table. Worf helps Riker prepare for the game while Troi performs the same function for the Zakdorn. 13 ANGLE - GEORDI, DATA AND PULASKI PULASKI Against an opponent of approximate skill -- Strategema can last well over one thousand moves. GEORDI I wouldn't bet on us being here that long. 13A ANGLE ON WORF AND RIKER WORF (confiding to Riker) I have wagered heavily in the ship's pool that you will take him past the sixth plateau. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT ONE 12. 13A CONTINUED: RIKER What if I don't? WORF I will be... irritated. During the above, each contestant inserts his fingertips into METALLIC RECEPTACLES (think overly-long thimbles). 14 DATA, GEORDI AND PULASKI - TROI JOINS THEM DATA Forever curious, this urge to "compete." PULASKI It's a human response, that inborn craving to gauge your capabilities through conflict. DATA Doctor, there are other ways to challenge oneself. PULASKI Perhaps... but they all lack a certain -- thrill! TROI Data, sometimes humans find it helpful to have an outsider set the standard by which they're judged. DATA (catching on) To avoid deceiving oneself. PULASKI Maybe you should challenge Kolrami to Strategema. DATA (surprised) Why? STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT ONE 13. 14 CONTINUED: PULASKI Because when someone is that smug, you occasionally have to deflate them just a little. GEORDI Yeah, Data, I'd like to see your neural-flecks tear him down a peg. DATA To what end? Reactions from the humans. Once again the toaster isn't "getting" it. 15 WORF (OPTICAL) presiding over the contest. WORF Computer -- actuation positions for Strategema. A base containing the digital counter sits on the table. WORF Ready? Riker nods. Kolrami nods. WORF (continuing) Begin! Wow! "Thimble"-encased fingers twitch and goggled-eyes shift. Correspondingly, the holographic cone springs to incredible life. Breathtaking! Impossible to follow or explain, Strategema nonetheless presents an awesome spectacle even to those who have seen it before. Wondrous! Gases swirl, pinpoints move, grids bend and sway, sparks and "lightning" streaks fly! And above, the counter begins to register: 001, 002, 003, 004, 005... VARIOUS ANGLES show the crew reacting to the unfolding marvel... 016, 017, 018, 019... STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT ONE 14. 15 CONTINUED: ... 021, 022, 023, ... Suddenly, startlingly abrupt, the images freeze! It's as if Strategema died. No one moves, no one breathes, no one reacts. Stunned silence. PULASKI That's it? Riker slowly removes the goggles from his head. RIKER (numb admiration) I'm afraid so. PULASKI But... but you only made twenty-three moves. RIKER Yes. (to Kolrami) Congratulations. Off Kolrami's smug smile and Riker's expression -- FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT TWO 15. ACT TWO FADE IN: 16 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) Moving in synchronous orbit with an unlit, eighty year-old starship around a dusty orange planet. 17 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) The dark, lifeless Hathaway dominates the Main Viewer. Picard, Riker, Data, Burke at Tactical, supernumeraries at all other stations, and Kolrami are in attendance. The Zakdorn periodically makes notes on a PADD. PICARD (keeping it light) Commander Riker -- (re: Hathaway) There is your next challenge. WORF'S COM VOICE Away team assembled and ready to transport, Commander. PICARD (playful) Until we test our mettle on the field of honor. He extends a hand, and Picard and Riker shake. RIKER (with a grin) I may get over there and want to come right home. Kolrami sniffs at this display of levity. PICARD (chuckles) Good luck, Number One... Captain. KOLRAMI The simulation will commence in forty-eight hours. As Riker EXITS. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT TWO 16. 18 INT. U.S.S. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE - DARK As Riker, Worf, Geordi, Wesley, and Ensign Nagel (female) ENTER. They take a moment to familiarize themselves with the surroundings as Geordi moves to an old style panel, studies it for a moment, and presses. AUXILIARY LIGHTS snap on, revealing -- 19 AN UNHOLY MESS Panels have been ripped out, science stations gutted, etc. This ship does not look like it will fly. Riker steps down to the captain's chair in the DIM LIGHT as the others move to check out various stations. WORF Not good. RIKER Oh, Mister Worf, you're wrong. It's fantastic... and it's ours -- Riker sits and indicates the seat beside him. RIKER (continuing) Mister Worf. Worf reacts and glances at Geordi. WORF Sir, Lieutenant La Forge is a superior officer. The honor should be his. RIKER Worf, this is a battle simulation, and you're our tactical officer. Mister La Forge and I agreed, you need to be at my side. GEORDI And if the engine room is anything like the bridge, I'm going to have my hands full. Worf nods and sits. Riker scans the instrument arm of his chair for the proper panel. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/25/89 - ACT TWO 16A. 19 CONTINUED: RIKER Attention crew of the USS Hathaway -- this is your captain. (boy, he likes the sound of that) I can promise you that two days from now we will have missed a lot of sleep. But with your skill and your stamina, we'll have this old lady ready to fly. (hard beat) I want hourly progress reports from every station. Riker out. 20 INT. HATHAWAY - POV - ENGINE ROOM - DIM LIGHTING A disaster area of proportions as to make the bridge look comfy. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT TWO 17. 20 CONTINUED: The impulse engines have several main pieces disconnected, and the warp drives are virtually terminal -- having been raped of dilithium crystals. 21 REVERSE of the open-mouthed Wesley, and the deeply concerned Geordi, who slowly lowers his tool-carrier to the floor. 21A INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE GEORDI'S COM VOICE It's a real mess down here, but we'll get to work on it. RIKER I'm sure you'll perform your usual miracle. 22 thru OMITTED 24 25 INT. HATHAWAY - ENGINE ROOM - DIM LIGHTING - CONTINUOUS Wesley toils in the empty dilithium crystal chamber, Geordi puts the finishing touches on the patched-together impulse engines. Geordi presses a panel and the impulse engines SPRING TO LIFE, filling the ship with a healthy HUMM and THROB. CUT TO: 25A EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE AND THE HATHAWAY (OPTICAL) establishing the two in proximity. Suddenly the Hathaway's lights come up. 26 INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE (INTERCUT AS NEEDED) RIKER (continuing) Nice work, Geordi, now what's the possibility for warp drive? STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT TWO 18. 26A INT. HATHAWAY - ENGINEERING (INTERCUT AS NECESSARY) GEORDI There are only minute dilithium fragments left in the holding clamps. And even if we had intact crystals, there's no anti-matter to fuel the drive. RIKER Any recommendations? GEORDI No, sir. WESLEY We don't have a prayer. RIKER (thoughtful beat) Would you care to transfer back to the Enterprise, Mister Crusher? WESLEY (quickly) No, Sir! RIKER (gentler) Remember Wes, the purpose here is to improvise. It's the effort that counts. Geordi gives Wesley a playful "have you learned your lesson" look. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT TWO 18A. 27 OMITTED 28 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE Picard and Data are seated. Pulaski ENTERS from the aft turbolift. Burke is at Tactical, supernumeraries at Conn and Ops. PICARD Open. 29 THE MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) Switches from an exterior of the Hathaway to Riker on the bridge of the Hathaway. Worf and Nagel are effecting repairs in the background. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT TWO 19. 29 CONTINUED: KOLRAMI (to Picard and Riker) I believe the rules are understood by all. PICARD The weapons conversion, Lieutenant Burke? BURKE (pressing a panel) Complete, Captain. WORF (on viewer) Signal received... locked on. RIKER She's really been stripped down, Captain. KOLRAMI The only offensive systems you need will be simulated by computer. RIKER What's the Zakdornian word for "mismatch?" KOLRAMI Challenge! We do not whine about the inequities of life. (off taken-aback looks) And how you perform in a "mismatch" is precisely what interests Starfleet. After all -- (a look to Picard) -- when one is in the superior position, one is expected to win. PICARD Screen off. Data, you have the bridge. Picard EXITS to his Ready Room as Kolrami moves to Data. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/18/89 - ACT TWO 20. 29 CONTINUED: (2) KOLRAMI Lieutenant Commander Data -- I am intrigued by your challenge. Data turns, puzzled. KOLRAMI (continuing) Doctor Pulaski informed me of your desire to play a game of Strategema. Data becomes aware of all other eyes on the bridge waiting for his reaction. DATA But I have expressed no such interest. Pulaski hurries down to join them. She knows that Data's honesty is about to blow her beautiful plan. PULASKI What Commander Data means is that he would never have had the nerve to ask you himself, but I know he is very interested in pitting his skill against yours. Data has learned enough about humans to know this is a moment to keep his mouth shut. KOLRAMI Play a machine? Why should I wish to? PULASKI I don't blame you. It's no fun going into a game when you know you're going to lose. KOLRAMI But I wouldn't lose, and now you're no doubt going to make me prove it to you. She turns to Data who is standing like he's been stuffed. PULASKI Come on, Data, you can't let that pass. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT TWO 21. 29 CONTINUED: (3) DATA Indeed I... He eyes Pulaski's expression. He also hasn't lived among humans this long, and not developed a strong sense of self-preservation. DATA (continuing lamely) ...Cannot. KOLRAMI Then you will play for the honor of your ship. Kolrami EXITS. PULASKI Honor of the ship. It's your reputation that's on the line. HOLD ON Data's expression. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/25/89 - ACT TWO 22. 30 thru OMITTED 31 32 INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE Riker and Worf confer. Nagel works in the b.g. WORF With my knowledge of the Enterprise's security override, we may be able to convince the sensors that an enemy ship is approaching. Their instruments would "lie" to them. RIKER If you can pull that off, Mister Worf, it might just give us the edge we're looking for. NAGEL But what about the viewscreen? WORF If I am successful, the computer will project a false image of the enemy ship on the main viewscreen. RIKER And unless they run to a window and look out.... NAGEL (jovially) ... They're going to fall for it! 33 thru OMITTED 34 35 INT. HATHAWAY - ENGINEERING Wesley and Geordi are on their stomachs, peering into the currently empty anti-matter warp drive chamber. WESLEY The lining is still smooth, and we ought to be able to do something with the dilithium chips we scavenged. (looks at Geordi) STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT TWO 22A. 35 CONTINUED: GEORDI Sure the system is functional, but without antimatter what difference does it make? STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/25/89 - ACT TWO 23. 35 CONTINUED: (2) Wesley's face goes tight with concentration. WESLEY (continuing) Geordi, I have to return to the Enterprise. GEORDI Wes, we've only got thirty-two hours. WESLEY (as he exits) This is important. GEORDI This isn't? (re the engines) 36 INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE Wesley ENTERS from the turbolift, Worf is pointing out a section of science station to Nagel. WORF Attempt the routing bypass here! If it works, they will be surprised. NAGEL Where'm I gonna get the opti-cable? Worf reaches a giant hand upwards and grabs several fiber-wires dangling from the ceiling. With a mighty YANK, they come free amidst showering dust and material. WORF Anywhere. Wes crosses to Riker at the command chair. WESLEY Sir, I left an experiment running on the Enterprise. May I go back and shut it down? RIKER (a little distracted) It's that important? STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT TWO 24. 36 CONTINUED: WESLEY It has to be monitored. And it is my final grade in plasma physics. Off Riker's frown, and Wesley's too casual expression: 37 INT. ENTERPRISE - TEN-FORWARD (OPTICAL) Troi helps Data prepare for Strategema. Opposite, Kolrami is set, waiting. Pulaski smiles with match-maker satisfaction while other CREWMEMBERS look on. DATA (re: Pulaski) In the present context, what did she mean by, "Bust him up?" TROI Doctor Pulaski, in her own way, is instructing you to take the shortest route to victory. DATA As opposed to what? Lieutenant Burke stands before the participants, who both signal their readiness. BURKE Begin! As before, Strategema unfolds in shimmering glory! The counter registers 001, 002, 003, 004, 005 -- Troi, Pulaski and the others watch with interest as the pace accelerates -- Data and Kolrami build to a furious crescendo of jerking fingers and head feints. 096, 097, 098, 099, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114115116117118119 120121122123124125126127128129130131132133 -- The counter suddenly stalls at 133! Without a word being spoken, it quickly becomes unambiguous to all that Data has been defeated! STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/18/89 - ACT TWO 25. 37 CONTINUED: PULASKI (stepping forward, awed) I can't believe it. The "computer" was beaten by flesh and blood. TROI (delicate) You advanced quite far against such a worthy opponent. KOLRAMI (overly gracious) Thoroughly enjoyable, Mister Data. I am at your disposal for a rematch. Data rises and shakes his outstretched hand. DATA Thank you, but there would be no point. PULASKI How can you lose? You're supposed to be infallible! DATA Obviously I am not. Off Data's expression -- FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT THREE 26. ACT THREE FADE IN: 38 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Picard is in the Command Chair, while Kolrami sits to his left. Burke is at Tactical, supernumeraries at Conn and Ops. Data is conspicuously absent. BURKE Message from the Hathaway, sir. PICARD On screen. The Main Viewer reveals Riker on the older ship's bridge. RIKER I'd like to request permission for Ensign Crusher to reboard the Enterprise, Captain. PICARD Why? RIKER Apparently he was in such a hurry to be part of the away team, he left several critical experiments unattended. Picard looks to Kolrami, since this concerns the simulation. PICARD Have you any objection? KOLRAMI He should be escorted, and have no contact with anything save his research. PICARD (to Riker) Permission granted. (to Burke) Mister Burke, handle that. Burke EXITS -- STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT THREE 27. 38 CONTINUED: KOLRAMI (an aside to himself, but loud enough for Picard to hear) I saw no sense in Riker choosing him anyway -- he is just a non-commissioned child. Though irritated, Picard holds his tongue -- 39 INT. ENTERPRISE - ENGINEERING - TIGHT ON ANTI-MATTER CONTAINMENT DEVICE The magnetic chamber is round, about the size of a human head -- a clear orb with a snowball-sized piece of anti-matter suspended in the center. Long, intricately-cabled pieces of clear tubing extend out from opposite sides of the orb -- generating the force which keeps the anti-matter from escaping and wreaking havoc. Attached to the end of the tubes are finger-friendly handles. TWO VERY CAREFUL HANDS now wrap themselves around these grips. WIDEN to reveal Wesley -- in the company of Ensign Burke -- delicately maneuvering the orb from his personal experimental station. Throughout this scene Wesley is talking just a little too much. Nervous chatter as he tries to cover that he's doing a naughty. Burke is equally anxious to be back on the bridge. WESLEY I can't believe I forgot about this. Good lesson not to let excitement cloud your thinking. BURKE Yeah. WESLEY This is really delicate ... I spent six weeks setting it up. BURKE Lot of work. A beat as Wes studies the gizmo. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT THREE 28. 39 CONTINUED: WESLEY Oh, no. It's ruined. BURKE That's too bad. Look, is this going to take much longer? WESLEY I have to dispose of it safely... This is really volatile... I better beam it off the Enterprise and leave it particalized. BURKE Fine, let's just do it. Wesley crosses to a panel WESLEY I'll transfer the coordinates to the Transporter Room. Off Wesley's secret little smile as we CUT TO: 39A INT. HATHAWAY - ENGINEERING (OPTICAL) Geordi is hard at work with his back to the gizmo as it MATERIALIZES. It falls onto its side with a CLUNK. Geordi looks over his shoulder and gapes at the gizmo. 40 OMITTED 41 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE The crew is hard at work, watched over by Picard and Kolrami. PICARD Where is Commander Data? BURKE He has temporarily removed himself from bridge duty, sir. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT THREE 28A. 41 CONTINUED: KOLRAMI (admiration) Your crew is excellently trained, Captain. A tribute to your leadership. Though I doubt their extensive preparation will be needed. PICARD How so? KOLRAMI I do not expect "Captain" Riker to present much of a challenge. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT THREE 29. 41 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Mister Kolrami -- may I speak with you in private? Kolrami's look is of acquiescence and genuine innocence. 42 INT. ENTERPRISE - PICARD'S READY ROOM No sooner has the door closed behind Kolrami when -- PICARD I would like to know the root of your prejudice for my second-in-command. KOLRAMI Captain, I don't -- Picard's upraised hand ends that bit of bull-stuff. PICARD Mister Kolrami -- you have been nothing but denigrating and abusive of Commander Riker since boarding this ship. I should like an explanation. KOLRAMI Having studied William Riker's file prior to this assignment -- I have found him wanting. PICARD In what regard? KOLRAMI His record is exemplary, but as you well know, a starship captain is not manufactured -- he, or she, is born from inside -- from the character of the individual. (beat) My interviews have revealed a man who displays circumstantially inappropriate joviality, belying the seriousness of his station. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT THREE 30. 42 CONTINUED: PICARD (ice frosting the words) Don't confuse style with intent. Only a fool would question Commander Riker's dedication to Starfleet and the men and women under his command. Riker is the finest officer I have ever served with. KOLRAMI We shall see if your faith is well founded. PICARD The test is if a crew will follow where Commander Riker leads. His joviality is the way he creates that loyalty. And I'll match his command style against your statistics anytime. Off their cold stares -- 42A INT. ENTERPRISE - DATA'S QUARTERS (FROM SCENE 47) Data is viewing the wall monitor on which incalculable amounts of technical information fly by at incredible rates of speed. There is a CHIME. DATA Come in, please. Troi ENTERS. TROI (softly) Data? Data freezes the computer screens. DATA Counselor. Is something wrong? TROI That was going to be my question. There is a moment of silence. If he were human, Data would try and wriggle off the hook. But he's not. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT THREE 30A. 42A CONTINUED: DATA With my repository of knowledge, I expected to perform better against a humanoid life-form. TROI Some of our greatest advances have come from analyzing failure. While it can be ego-bruising -- DATA Counselor -- I do not have an "ego." Troi is floundering. She uses her empathy to counsel, and she can read nothing of Data, and she knows intellectually that he doesn't really "feel" anything. She tries again. TROI Yes... well, a loss... can be disheartening -- DATA Counselor -- I do not have a -- TROI Data! There are two ways to handle defeat. You can lose confidence or you can learn from your mistakes. DATA That is what troubles me. I made no mistakes. (beat; very matter of fact) Hence, I have conducted a diagnostic check of all of my programs, and now I am cross-checking with the ship's computer. TROI Is all of that necessary? STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT THREE 30B. 42A CONTINUED: (2) DATA I believe so. I have proven to be vulnerable, and at the present time, skepticism must be awarded my deductions. TROI That is why you haven't been on the bridge. DATA Yes, the captain would be ill advised to rely upon my judgement. TROI Data, I think you're really overreacting. I'm sure you're all right. DATA I, however, am not sure. He resumes his research and Troi EXITS. 43 OMITTED 44 INT. HATHAWAY - ENGINEERING Riker ENTERS to find Geordi and Wesley hard at work installing the orb in the anti-matter chamber. RIKER What's that? WESLEY My experiment from the Enterprise. RIKER (a little suspicious) Wes? WESLEY It dealt with high-energy plasma reactions -- (points to the globe) -- with anti-matter. It's clicked for Riker. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT THREE 31. 44 CONTINUED: RIKER You went back to the Enterprise just to get this... Wes, you cheated. WESLEY No, sir. You told me to improvise. Riker struggles to hold the stern fatherly mien, but it cracks, and he breaks into a broad grin. GEORDI (grinning) The hard part's gonna be calibrating the thermal curve required to start a controlled reaction. RIKER Assuming you can -- can you regulate the reaction? Wesley steps over to -- 45 INSERT - DILITHIUM CRYSTAL CLAMPS Just barely visible -- wedged into the fingers of the clamps -- are MINUTE CHIPS of the valuable mineral. WESLEY (O.S.) There's just enough crystal to do it. 46 BACK TO SCENE WESLEY We plan to channel the reaction through the chips. GEORDI (smiling broadly) Are we good? RIKER (impressed) Better than good. Great. Brilliant. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT THREE 32. 46 CONTINUED: RIKER (Cont'd) (almost to himself) This is going to be fun. (back to business) Carry on. Riker EXITS. 47 OMITTED 47A INT. ENTERPRISE - DATA'S QUARTERS Data is still viewing the wall monitor. There is a chime. DATA Come in, please. Pulaski ENTERS. PULASKI All right, Data, enough of this. DATA Doctor? PULASKI How long are you going to sit sulking like Achilles in his tent? DATA I am running diagnostic -- STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT THREE 33-34. 47A CONTINUED: PULASKI You might be able to sell Troi with that story, but not me. You're smarting because you got beat. Well, it happens. DATA No, Doctor, this is not ego. I am concerned about giving the captain unsound advice. Pulaski looks at his earnest expression, and softens. She realizes he really is deeply confused. PULASKI I wish I'd never maneuvered you into playing that damn game. I'm sorry. DATA For what? It is done, and perhaps just as well. This has indicated that I am damaged in some fashion. I must find the malfunction. He returns to his analysis, and Pulaski, after a last look at him, EXITS. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT THREE 35. 48 OMITTED 49 INT. HATHAWAY - ENGINEERING - CONTINUOUS Geordi, Wesley and their TEAM are hard at work. Riker ENTERS. RIKER The simulation begins in one hour. GEORDI You'll have warp drive, Captain, though it may not be what you expected. RIKER I'd say that calls for an explanation. GEORDI Sir, we'll be able to give you warp one... (a glance to Wesley) WESLEY -- for just under two seconds. RIKER (making the best) Well, not enough for an escape but used as a surprise, sufficient for gaining a strategic advantage. GEORDI Sir, all of this is "theoretical." RIKER And if the theory fails to pay off? STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT THREE 36. 49 CONTINUED: GEORDI Ever driven a Grenthemen Water Hopper? RIKER Yes. GEORDI Ever popped the clutch? RIKER You're telling me we'll stall the Hathaway. WESLEY ... and the Enterprise will waltz over and pulverize us. FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT FOUR 37. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 50 OMITTED 50A INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM Picard, seated at his desk, stares in frowning amazement at Troi and Pulaski. Their expressions are serious and intent. PICARD Now, let me see if I fully understand this. You're suggesting that Commander Data is suffering from a profound loss of confidence, and you feel that only I can restore the balance. TROI Yes, sir. PULASKI Both Deanna and I have tried, Captain, and we're not getting through to him. PICARD Don't you think you both might be overreacting? Data is not capable of the emotions you are assigning to him. PULASKI The effect is the same whether it's caused by human emotions or android algorithms. Data's not on the bridge, and I don't think he's going to be on the bridge until we find some way to address his problem. PICARD I am less than an hour away from a battle simulation, and I must handhold an android? PULASKI The burdens of command. Off Picard's expression as we CUT TO: STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FOUR 37A. 50B INT. DATA'S QUARTERS As before -- Data hard at work. There is a CHIME. DATA Come in, please. Picard ENTERS. PICARD Commander, I require your presence on the bridge. DATA Captain, with all due respect, perhaps it would be better if you choose another to serve as your first -- PICARD (interrupting) Data, you are my first officer. DATA I have not been able to isolate the problem. I might make a mistake. PICARD Yes, you might. But that does not alter your duty -- to this ship, and to me. (a beat) Do you know how to formulate a premise? DATA Yes. PICARD Then formulate one now: How do I handle Riker and the Hathaway? I'll await your answer on the bridge. Picard starts to exit then looks back. PICARD (continuing) Commander, it is possible to commit no mistakes -- and still lose. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT FOUR 37B. 50B CONTINUED: PICARD (Cont'd) (strong beat) That is not a weakness. That is "life". DATA Thank you, Captain, I believe I understand. PICARD And Data, leave the hesitation and self-doubt in your quarters. Data shuts off the monitor, rises, and follows Picard as they EXIT. 50BA EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) 50C INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE Troi and Data. DATA I have several examples of Commander Riker's battle technique. At the Academy, he calculated a sensory blind spot on a Tholian vessel and hid within it during a battle simulation. And as a lieutenant aboard the Potemkin, his solution to a crisis was to shut down all power, and hang over a planet's magnetic pole, thus confusing his opponent's sensors. TROI And from these specifics, what general conclusion can you extrapolate? DATA Only twenty-one percent of the time does he rely upon traditional tactics. Data is up, pacing slowly. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/25/89 - ACT FOUR 37C. 50C CONTINUED: DATA (continuing) So the captain must be prepared for extreme cunning. (pausing as a new thought intrudes) Counselor, Commander Riker will assume that we have made this analysis, and knowing that we know his methods, he will alter them. (a new equally bad thought) But knowing that we know that he knows that we know he might choose to return to his usual pattern. TROI You're over-analyzing. Human nature cannot be denied. (a beat) What kind of man is Commander Riker? DATA He is a fighter. TROI Yes. DATA The weaker his position, the more aggressive will be his posture. TROI And he won't give up. DATA Then despite whatever logical choices he is offered, he must be -- TROI -- The man that he is. Yes. DATA Is that a failing in humans? TROI (rising) You'll have to decide that for yourself. They EXIT. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/25/89 - ACT FOUR 37D. 51 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) Picard stands in front of his chair, Data seated at his side, Kolrami hovering nearby. Burke is at Tactical, supernumeraries at Conn, Ops, and other stations. PICARD Screen on. The Main Viewer shows Riker resplendent on his bridge. PICARD The hunt begins, Number One. RIKER (playful bravado) We're ready -- just remember, Enterprise -- Captain Riker has never lost. The two leaders smile and nod affectionately as Kolrami presses a button on his computer. KOLRAMI Begin! PICARD (to Conn) Screen off. Set course two-two-three mark two-five-seven, full impulse power. Initiate Kumeh maneuver. 51A thru OMITTED 53 54 INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE (OPTICAL) as they monitor, on a screen, a graphic simulation of the Enterprise moving behind a planet. GEORDI The Kumeh maneuver -- why are they starting out with such a recognizable ploy? RIKER He's teasing -- wants us to reveal our tactics on his terms. Worf? STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT FOUR 38. 54 CONTINUED: WORF Counter with Talupian stratagem on instrument sighting. RIKER Agreed. Three-quarters impulse, full on my command. Ensign Nagel, maximum shields. (to Worf) Mister Worf, prepare your little surprise. Worf moves swiftly to join Nagel at the rear station. 55 thru OMITTED 57 58 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS PICARD Course three-one-seven mark seven-three. Present minimal aspect. Ready warp one, optimal spread on simulated torpedoes. The Hathaway is on the main screen. BURKE (urgent alarm) Captain -- Romulan warship approaching fast from astern! PICARD What the -- ?! BURKE He came from nowhere, sir! PICARD (standing; to Conn) Bring us about, Ensign -- maximum shields! DATA Disengage modified beams. We go to Red Alert. As we swing around, a ROMULAN WARSHIP fills the viewscreen. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FOUR 39. 58 CONTINUED: PICARD Weapon-systems full -- lock on! Open a hailing frequency. BURKE I can't, sir. (chagrined) There's nothing there. In that instant, we hear the incessant SQUEAL of electronic "hit" after electronic "hit." 59 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS The Hathaway (spatially "behind" Enterprise) is firing beam after beam at the bigger ship. 60 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS Picard realizes he's been had! Picard presses a button and Red Alert is cancelled. PICARD Warp three, evasive! (the "scores" stop) Disengage weapons, re-engage modified beam. KOLRAMI He is quite good. PICARD He is the best! DATA Computer reports simulated damage to several aft decks. Repair time three-point-six days. BURKE How did he do that? PICARD Mister Worf must have overridden our sensor codes and played some holographic games. Data, input a new code. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FOUR 40. 60 CONTINUED: PICARD (Cont'd) (beat) Attack posture, circumvental attitude. Prepare beams for photon mode. BURKE (to himself) Bye-bye, Hathaway. 61 INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS Their delight is infectious, it leaps off the screen. WORF Computers report heavy damage to Enterprise, sir. WESLEY They're moving off. Why not go after them? RIKER (not buying it) Because they're not through coming after us! Geordi, Wesley -- prepare warp jump. GEORDI (nervous) There are no guarantees here, sir. RIKER There never are, Lieutenant. I'm going to trust your expertise. Geordi and Wesley glance at one another -- what the hell! RIKER (continuing; a true captain) Secure your stations, gentlemen. Stand by for my signal. 62 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS PICARD Ready photon torpedoes. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FOUR 41. 62 CONTINUED: BURKE Captain, sensors picking up a Ferengi warship closing at warp five. PICARD Did you input that new code? BURKE Yes, sir! PICARD Mister Worf -- I didn't give you enough credit, continue the simulation. ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE! Wham! Wham! Wham! Wham! The Enterprise is jolted off her gyroscope by massive hits from the real Ferengi craft. The INTERCOM EXPLODES in a tangle of crosstalk as the ship goes to Red Alert. PICARD Divert all power to shields! DATA Sever modified beams, engage phasers and target! PICARD Stay between the Hathaway and the Ferengi! 63 INT. HATHAWAY - BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS Incredible tension. NAGEL That's no ghost attacking the Enterprise. That's real! WORF We must assist, sir! RIKER With what?! We have no offensive weapons! STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FOUR 42. 63 CONTINUED: The chilling reality of their situation is reflected in the faces of the crew. 64 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS On viewer, a vicious Ferengi warship hurls attack after attack at our perspective. Picard tries to maintain order while the Red Alert continues. The pace quickens, overlaps! PICARD Where are my weapons? BURKE (taut) Unavailable, sir! We cannot disengage the modified beams -- the connections have been fused! KOLRAMI We must retreat! PICARD Unacceptable! I have crew on the Hathaway. On the Main Viewer, the Ferengi have stopped firing. DATA Captain, the Ferengi have broken off their attack. (to Burke) Drop shields. Transport the away team aboard. BURKE Transporter functions gone, sir! DATA Shields reduced to one-fifth intensity. KOLRAMI Use their moment of indecision to escape! PICARD I have forty crewmembers -- STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FOUR 43. 64 CONTINUED: KOLRAMI -- Who should be sacrificed to save a thousand! Acceptable tactical losses, considering the circumstances. PICARD Not to me! (to Burke) Notify Starfleet -- priority. Hail Ferengi on my command. (to Data) Formulate alternatives. KOLRAMI (objecting) As the Starfleet observer I am ordering you to withdraw! PICARD (thundering) I am the captain of this vessel! Your order is nullified! Stunned by the force of Picard's directive, Kolrami falls silent and moves away. PICARD (continuing) Ferengi on Main Viewer. 65 MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The image of the looming Ferengi craft is replaced by the visage of TWO ENEMY OFFICERS. PICARD I am Jean-Luc Picard, Captain of the Federation Starship, USS Enterprise. Why have you attacked my ship? STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FOUR 44. 65 CONTINUED: BRACTOR Why was your ship combative with another Federation vessel of "lesser" design? Why do you now protect your former target? What is its value to you? TACTICIAN Our probes indicate you were aware of our approach, yet took no action. BRACTOR Your answers will dictate our response. PICARD I have refrained from launching a counter-attack in the hope that we can resolve this peacefully. BRACTOR ("liar") Our probes indicate that you are crippled, and the ship you protect has no weaponry, no light-speed drive, and only scarce crew. TACTICIAN This makes no sense to us. (a beat) Unless it contains something very valuable? BRACTOR I am Bractor, leader of the Ferengi attack vessel Kreechta. I shall have the secret of the other Federation ship. If you surrender it to me, I will allow your Enterprise to leave unharmed. (beat) You have ten of your minutes. The screen returns to exterior of Ferengi ship. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/17/89 - ACT FOUR 45. 65 CONTINUED: (2) BURKE Sir, they're massing a surge of power. We're being scanned... they've locked on! PICARD Data? DATA Our shields will not withstand another assault. The tension is palpable. KOLRAMI Then there are no options. Retreat or die. FADE OUT. END OF ACT FOUR STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FIVE 46. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 66 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS showing the relationship of the three ships -- the Enterprise between the Hathaway and the Ferengi craft. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, supplemental. Due to a grave miscalculation on my part, the Enterprise has been subjected to a withering attack by the Ferengi. I find myself with little time to decide the fate of forty of my crew stranded aboard the derelict Hathaway. 67 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS (FROM SCENE 68) Picking up where we left off -- incredible tension. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT FIVE 47. 67 CONTINUED: PICARD I'm open to suggestions. BURKE Captain, we are now capable of launching a limited number of photon torpedoes. KOLRAMI I have given you my advice, Captain. The Hathaway is expendable. BURKE Commander Riker is hailing, sir. PICARD On screen. Have you been monitoring communications, Number One? The Main Viewer switches from the other ships to Riker on the Hathaway bridge. RIKER Yes, sir. And Kolrami's right. You must save the Enterprise. PICARD You will be left defenseless. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FIVE 48. 67 CONTINUED: (2) RIKER When Bractor closes in, we'll hit our warp drive and take our chances. PICARD Your what?! RIKER (with pride) We have a limited, two-second warp capability. KOLRAMI (stunned) Impossible! That ship was rendered warp inactive! PICARD (formulating an idea) I told you he was the best. (to Riker) I should wish to hear about this later, but now I need to work something out with Data. CUT TO: 68 OMITTED 69 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE (INTERUCT AS NEEDED) Picard, Data, and Kolrami -- STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FIVE 49. 69 CONTINUED: DATA Premise: The Ferengi wish to capture the Hathaway believing it to be of value. Therefore, we must remove the ship from their field of interest. KOLRAMI (scornful) They will soon relocate it after a two-second warp and -- PICARD (cutting him off) There is a way. Are you with us, Number One? RIKER Yes, sir. We're all here -- anxiously waiting for you to pull another rabbit out of your hat. PICARD Data. DATA At the captain's signal, we will fire four photon torpedoes directly at the Hathaway. A millisecond before detonation, the computer will trigger your warp jump. GEORDI (lightly) I think I hate this plan. (sobering) Data, we don't even know for sure if our warp jump will work. DATA If the warp engines should fail to function, the result could be... unfortunate. WORF Very unfortunate... we will be dead. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT FIVE 50-50A. 69 CONTINUED: (2) PICARD Captain Riker, I can't order you to do this... RIKER (a beat) What the hell. Nobody said life was safe. PICARD The advantage is that it will appear from the Kreechta's perspective -- as though you were destroyed in the explosion. WORF That will only deceive them for a few minutes. Their sensors will soon locate us. RIKER A few minutes is all we need, Mister Worf, because you're going to prepare a surprise for them. PICARD Then we are agreed; on my mark in four minutes. DATA Remember, Geordi, if the implementation is off by a millisecond, the Hathaway will not survive. GEORDI Data, that's the one part of this plan that we're all absolutely sure about. Linger for a moment on the concerned faces. 70 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) As the three ships continue to hold position. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FIVE 51. 71 OMITTED 72 OMITTED 73 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) (INTERCUT AS NECESSARY) Everybody has settled down into their positions. PICARD Are we ready, Number One? Both Data, to Picard's right, and Riker respond. DATA RIKER'S COM VOICE Ready, Captain. Ready, Captain. Everybody pauses to smile. PICARD Good luck to both of you. (beat; to Burke) Bractor. The viewscreen fills with the sneering Bractor and tactician. BRACTOR I will wait no longer, Picard. PICARD You needn't, Bractor. The answer -- is "no." (beat) Your actions have been wholly criminal, and you will not profit by them. BRACTOR You are a fool. TACTICIAN How can you stop us? PICARD You feel the Hathaway has value? Well, I deny you your prize. (MORE) STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FIVE 52. 73 CONTINUED: PICARD (Cont'd) (to Burke) Fire! 74 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS The Enterprise fires FOUR PHOTON TORPEDOES directly at the Hathaway. The torpedoes EXPLODE violently. 75 INT. ENTERPRISE - MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS - (INTERCUT AS NECESSARY) Bractor is barely-controlled raw fury on the viewer. TACTICIAN Destroy your own rather than endure the ignominy of defeat and capture? BRACTOR I did not think the Federation had such iron. PICARD You had no claim to that ship -- it was ours to destroy. BRACTOR As you are ours to destroy! PICARD (unperturbed) You can try. TACTICIAN Enterprise targeted, Leader. (a long beat then with stunned alarm) Leader! There is another Federation ship closing -- a starship! BRACTOR Maximum shields! We've been outmaneuvered. Retreat! The image of Bractor on the Main Viewer is replaced by the Kreechta, which almost instantly bolts into the Ferengi version of warp nine, and is absolutely gone! STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/21/89 - ACT FIVE 53. 75 CONTINUED: BURKE Captain, our sensors show no Federation starship nearby. RIKER'S COM VOICE Of course not, Mister Burke. That was Klingon guile. Great relief as the Main Viewer reveals Riker on the Hathaway bridge. PICARD You made it, Number One. Smooth ride? On the screen, Riker, Worf, Geordi, Wesley and Nagel share a look -- it was obviously a bitch! RIKER (wryly) Different! PICARD We'll lock on and pick you up. RIKER With pleasure. The viewscreen returns to the Hathaway in space. Picard turns to Kolrami. KOLRAMI (begrudgingly) I must admit -- your Commander Riker has acquitted himself quite... admirably. Picard's look and silence is all "I-told-you-so." STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FIVE 53A. 75 CONTINUED: (2) KOLRAMI (continuing) And Captain... so have you. My report to Starfleet will be quite favorable. PICARD Thank you, Mister Kolrami. (to the crew) Initiate recovery procedures, continue repairs, plot a course for the nearest starbase. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - REV. 4/20/89 - ACT FIVE 54. 75 CONTINUED: (3) With a self-satisfied smile, Picard ENTERS the turbolift. 76 thru OMITTED 78 79 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL) with the now dark Hathaway IN TOW VIA TRACTOR-BEAM. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's log, supplemental. With the transporter repaired and my crew safely back aboard, we have officially ended the first Starfleet battle simulation. 80 OMITTED 81 RIKER AND PULASKI AS THEY ENTER TEN-FORWARD where the atmosphere is anything but relaxed -- the place is near bedlam. It takes Riker and Pulaski a moment to absorb what is happening. 82 DATA AND KOLRAMI (OPTICAL) are once again playing Strategema surrounded by a surging VOCAL CROWD -- including Worf, Geordi, Wesley, Troi and Burke. Riker does a double-take as he gapes at the -- 83 DIGITAL COUNTER (OPTICAL) which now rips through the 26,000 mark! Before Riker can blink, 27,000 rolls over! Even Pulaski can sense the magic of the moment. 84 THE ANDROID AND THE ALIEN (OPTICAL) sit ramrod-straight as their fingers and heads twitch and rock with incredible speed. 33,000. 34,000. 35,000. The counter stops at 35,693! Kolrami tears his fingers free and goggles off. STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FIVE 55. 85 SCENE DATA Why have you suspended the game? Kolrami is beside himself with anger, humiliation, self-doubt and confusion. He doesn't know whether to drop dead or order pizza. KOLRAMI (shaking with rage) Because this is not a rematch -- you have made a mockery of me. He storms out of Ten-Forward with an urgency that could only be borne of public disgrace. 86 DATA is swarmed by the CHEERING CREW. Riker and Pulaski push their way through to join Worf, Geordi, Wesley and Troi in the inner-circle. RIKER Data, you beat him! DATA No, sir -- it is a stalemate. WORF No game of Strategema has ever gone this high. GEORDI What did you do? DATA I simply altered my "premise" for playing. RIKER Explain. DATA Working under the assumption that Kolrami is attempting to win, it is reasonable to assume that he expects me to play for the same goal. WESLEY You weren't? STAR TREK: "Peak Performance" - 4/19/89 - ACT FIVE 56. 86 CONTINUED: DATA No. I was playing only for a standoff -- a "draw." While Kolrami was dedicated to winning, I was able to pass up obvious avenues of advancement and settle for a balance. (android pride) Theoretically, I should be able to challenge him indefinitely. PULASKI Then you have beaten him. Data demurring, but with a little preen. DATA A matter of perspective. In the strictest sense I did not win. Troi and Pulaski lean in close with a "Come on, cut the bull-stuff" attitude. TROI/PULASKI Data! DATA I busted him up. The CROWDED ROOM ERUPTS once again, and amidst the congratulatory noise and the outstretched hands of patting approval, PUSH IN on Data's satisfied expression as he absorbs this new sensation, and -- FADE OUT. END OF ACT FIVE THE END