What Lies Beneath The Raptor's Wing (Phase II episode)

What Lies Beneath The Raptor's Wing is the 9th episode of Star Trek: Phase II Phase II Season 1.
==Synopsis==
The Enterprise must battle a Romulan vessel suspected of destroying bases along the Neutral Zone.
==Script Chapter==
===Teaser===
FADE IN
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
An establishing shot of Outpost 4. 
CMDR. AL-SALAH [voice over]: Commander Al-Salah's Log Stardate 1709.1, Outpost 4 is currently awaiting the arrival of the U.S.S. Enterprise with some much needed supplies and parts to reconfigure our outpost's main sensor relay
INT-OUTPOST FOUR COMMAND CENTER
Crew are at their stations working or going on break as Commander Al-Salah walks over to his first officer. 
CMDR. AL-SALAH: What's the ETA of the Enterprise? 
FIRST OFFICER: According to Lieutenant Smith the vessels communications officer they'll arrive in a few hours at warp 9. 
CMDR. AL-SALAH: Good the sooner we get the sensors refitted the better even though the Romulans are in isolation we have to remain on guard. 
FIRST OFFICER [nods]: Aye, sir. 
COM OFFCIER: Uh, Commander I lost contact with Outposts 2, 3, and 8.
Commander Al-Salah walks over to the com officer.
CMDR. AL-SALAH: Could it be a glitch?
COM OFFICER: I'm not sure sir but I did receive a garbled transmission from outpost 8.
CMDR. AL-SALAH: Let's hear it.
The young officer inputs commands into the com station.
OUTPOST 8 COMMANDER [com voice]: Unknown----just----oh god---
Then they see a Romulan vessel decloak.
CMDR. AL-SALAH: SEND A DISTRESS CALL!
CUT TO:
EXT-WARP TUNNEL
Enterprise soars at warp towards the Neutral Zone border.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN CARGO BAY
The crew are gathering for the wedding of Commander Tomlinson and Lieutenant Martine as Captain Branson enters wearing his dress uniform, and walks over to Commander Williams who is working a camera. 
LTCMDR. WILLIAMS: The ceremony will be carried on all viewing screens, sir. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Good. 
He walk over to the stand as Doctor Carlson walks over to him.
DR. CARLSON: Call for you from the bridge.
Captain Branson walks over to the com panel and presses the com panel.
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Branson here.
CMDR. IVANOVA [com voice]: Still no answer from Earth Outpost number two, Captain, and now number three's gone silent 
John sees Lieutenant Martine wearing her wedding dress. 
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Maintain course to outpost four. Keep me informed. Branson out. 
[At the door, a young lady in wedding dress and a pretty head-dress takes Carlson's arm and is escorted into the room, to the strains of 'Here Comes The Bride'. Branson goes to the rostrum.] 
CAPT. BRANSON: Since the days of the first wooden vessels, all shipmasters have had one happy privilege. That of uniting two people in the bonds of matrimony. We are gathered here today with you, Angela Martine, and you, Robert Tomlinson, in the sight of your fellows, in accordance with our laws and our many beliefs so that you may pledge your... 
COMPUTER VOICE: Alert! Alert! All decks alert! Alert! Alert!
The crew scatters as the bride and groom kiss and goes to their duty stations as Commander Ivanova comes over the com. 
CMDR. IVANOVA [com voice]: Earth Outpost four reports they're under attack. A space vessel, identity unknown
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Acknowledged Z I'm on my way. 
Captain Branson leaves the cargo bay. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE VARIOUS DECKS [RED ALERT]
Crew heads to their battle stations. 
[END OF TEASER, FADE OUT]
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Theme song:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZqTpbTsY70
======
CAPTAIN'S OATH:
CAPT. BRANSON'S (voice over): Space. The final frontier. These are the voyages of the starship Enterprise. Its 5 year mission: to explore strange new worlds to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no one has gone before
======
STAR TREK: PHASE II
A STAR TREK FAN FILM PRODUCTION
=====
BASED ON STAR TREK CREATED BY: GENE RODDENBERRY
======
A shot of the secondary hull of the Enterprise
JARVIS DAVIDSON 
 AS
CAPT. JOHN BRANSON
The Enterprise flies by an asteroid
FELECIA LINKOUS
 AS
CMDR. ZHASA IVANOVA
The Enterprise flies by Mars 
KEVIN REGAN
 AS
LT. JACK MASON
FERNE MYERS
 AS
LTCMDR. STEPHANIE WILLIAMS
USS Enterprise is flying next to a comet
DELENA "DEE" LUSK
 AS
LT. KARA CARLSON
JACOB ELLIOT
 AS
DR. STEVEN CARLSON
The Enterprise flies under a Pioneer-Class vessel
SADIE BRICKHOUSE
 AS
LTJG. JULIA SMITH
The Enterprise flies by a planet as the sunsets 
BECKY ELLIOT
 AS
LTJG. T'LAR
The Enterprise flies by Earth and her warp nacelles power up and she leaps into warp.
CREATED BY:
JARVIS DAVIDSON & JEREMY REGAN
===Act 1===
FADE IN
FADE IN
EXT-WARP TUNNEL
[EPISODE NOTES: OPENING CREDITS FALL OVER OPENING SCENES]
Enterprise at warp.
CAPT. BRANSON'S [voice over]: Captain's Log Stardate 1709.2, Patrolling outposts guarding the neutral zone between planets Romulus and Remus and the rest of the galaxy, received emergency call from outpost 4. The U.S.S. Enterprise is moving to investigate and assist
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
[KAXLON'S BLARING]
Captain Branson walks onto the bridge and walks over to Commander Ivanova.
CAPT. BRANSON: Report?
CMDR. IVANOVA: Lieutenant Smith can brief you.
She gets up from the Captain's chair and assumes her station.
LTJG. SMITH: Outpost 4 reported under attack, sir. Then message terminates.
Captain Branson walks in front of the helm and nav stations as he listens to the report.
CAPT. BRANSON: Any word from Two or Three?
LTJG. SMITH: Two has not responded to our hails. And Three has also gone silent.
Captain Branson sits in the command chair. 
CAPT. BRANSON: What's our speed? 
Lieutenant Carlson checks and reports.
LT. CARLSON: Warp factor five sir.
Captain Branson presses the com panel.
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Bridge to engine room.
LTCMDR. WILLIAMS [com voice]: Williams here sir
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Steph, we need more speed if we're going to reach Outpost four. 
LTCMDR. WILLIAMS [com voice]: Aye, sir we'll give you all she's got and more
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Thank you Steph. 
He ends the com call.
CAPT. BRANSON: ETA to Outpost 4?
LTJG. MITCHELL: Position, eight minutes from Outpost four at this velocity, sir. 
John gets up from the command chair and walks over to the com station.
CAPT. BRANSON: Julia, did Outpost 4 mention anything else about the intruder?
LTJG. SMITH: No identification, sir.
LTJG. MITCHELL: I'm guessing it's the same attackers, sir. The Romulans. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Let's not make guesses just yet. I'd like to avoid a war if I can. Maintain course. Alert me when we're two minutes out. Z you've got the bridge. 
CMDR. IVANOVA: Aye, sir. 
[Captain Branson gets up from the command chair and enters the ready room, as Commander Ivanova sits in the command chair worried about her friend.]
EXT-WARP TUNNEL
Enterprise continue towards Outpost Four.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM [RED ALERT]
[Captain Branson is reviewing past encounters with the Romulans from the 22nd century Coalition of Planets information during the Earth-Romulan War and what they were able to gain from President Archer's encounters with the Star Empire in 2152 and 2154 when the com activates.]
CMDR. IVANOVA [com voice]: Captain Branson report to the bridge
Captain Branson leaves his ready room.
CUT TO:
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
Enterprise emerges from warp approaching the damaged outpost as debris is floating around the outpost and fires are plumping.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
Doors to the ready room opened and Captain Branson walks onto the bridge as Transparent viewer shows the damaged outpost as T'Lar reports.
LTJG. T'LAR: Detecting a fair amount of debris, but no sign of any attacking ship. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Let's triple check. Julia, see if there are any other Federation ships in the vicinity, in case we need backup.
Lieutenant Smith inputs commands into the coms console and reports.
LTJG. SMITH: The Farragut is the closest a couple of hours away.
John remains silent.
LTJG. SMITH: That's Sarah's vessel.
CAPT. BRANSON: Ah, yes I had forgotten.
Then Lieutenant Smith reports.
LTJG. SMITH: Sir, regaining contact with Outpost four. Switching to speakers.
She inputs commands into the tactical console and then Commander Al-Salah's voice comes over the com.
CMDR. AL-SALAH (com voice, static): Outpost four. Do you read me, Enterprise? This is Commander Hansen Al-Salah
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Commander, this is Captain John Branson what's your status?
CMDR. AL-SALAH (com voice, static): Outposts two, three, and eight are gone
John closes his eyes to say a silent prayer for those who were killed on those three outposts.
CMDR. AL-SALAH (com voice, static): Unknown weapon. Completely destroyed, even though we were alerted. Had our deflector shield on maximum. Hit by enormous power. First attack blew our deflector shield. If they hit us again with our deflector shield gone. Do you read me, Enterprise?
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Al-Salah What hit you, Commander? What vessel? Can you identify? 
CMDR. AL-SALAH (com voice, static): Negative. It all happened so fast. And it seems to have disappeared somehow. Switching to visual. Enterprise, can you see? 
(The viewscreen shows a man in a wrecked room, surrounded by fires and debris, as Captain Branson slowly gets up from his command chair shocked at what's he seeing.)
CUT TO:
INT-OUTPOST FOUR COMMAND CENTER [RED ALERT, BATTLE DAMAGED]
[ALARMS BLARING] 
CMDR. AL-SALAH: Enterprise, can you see it? My command post here. We're a mile deep on an asteroid. Almost solid iron. And even through our deflectors, it did this. Can you see? 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
Captain Branson still standing.
CAPT. BRANSON: We see it Commander was your son with you?
INT-OUTPOST FOUR, COMMAND POST (RED ALERT)
CMDR. AL-SALAH: No, thank god no.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Everyone is shocked at seeing the battle damaged outpost.
CAPT. BRANSON: Commander what do you have on the intruder?
CUT TO:
INT-OUTPOST FOUR COMMAND POST (RED ALERT, BATTLE DAMAGED)
CMDR. AL-SALAH: No identification. No answer to our challenge. Only a glimpse of it. Then they fired something at us, some form of high-energy plasma. Fantastic power. And then the whole vessel disappeared. But it's out there somewhere. Our sensors show that much. Enterprise, something coming on our viewing screen, coming at us fast. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: Tie us in.
CMDR. AL-SALAH (viewer): Tying in now
(A ship appears from nowhere on the screen) 
CAPT. BRANSON: Jack do we have phasers?
LT. MASON: The Romulan vessel is out of range sir.
CAPT. BRANSON: Photon torpedoes then full spread fire when ready.
Lieutenant Mason works at his console and presses the firing button.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
Enterprise's forward launcher unleashes a spread of photons that slam against the deflectors of the new Romulan warbird as it flickers not even causing the vessel to flinch.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
Everyone is shocked at the result.
LTJG. T'LAR: PICKING UP A POWER INCREASE!
CAPT. BRANSON (tenses up): Commander do you have phasers. 
CMDR. AL-SALAH (viewer): Negative phasers gone weapon crew are dead 
[Transparent viewer shows the forward section of the warbird as it powers something up and sends it out, as the viewscreen switches to Hansen as the outpost is hit, then just bright light.]
CUT TO:
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Enterprise is facing Outpost four as it erupts into a fiery explosion. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
[KLAXONS BLARE]
[Back to the attacking ship, which then vanishes.]
LTJG. T'LAR: Interesting how they became visible for just a moment. Perhaps necessary to use weapons. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: I've lost all sensor contact switching to metaphasic scans nothing still sir whatever vessel that is I can't seem to detect them.
[Captain Branson still standing shocked by what just happened.]
LTJG. MITCHELL: Sir we've got to take them out.
CAPT. BRANSON: We have to have visual in order to engage the enemy Lieutenant you know that.
Then Mitchell reports.
LTJG. MITCHELL: Sir? Incoming warp signature. 
Lieutenant Smith turns to Captain Branson with two fingers on her ear piece. 
LTJG. SMITH: We're being hailed. It's one of ours. The Farragut.
CAPT. BRANSON: Sarah's ship who's hailing us?
LTJG. SMITH: Their captain. James Kirk.
[Star Trek fanfare music starts playing as Captain Branson turns to Julia surprised.]
CAPT. BRANSON: Sam's brother?
She nods.
CAPT. BRANSON: Uh, I mean uh on screen.
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
FLT CAPT. KIRK: Enterprise, this is Captain James T. Kirk of the USS Farragut, offering assistance.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
[Captain Branson is standing in front of the viewer with his hands behind his back.] 
CAPT. BRANSON: John Branson. Good to see you, Captain.
FLT CAPT. KIRK [viewer]: We received Outpost Four's distress signal and pushed warp eight for as long as we safely could we have any idea who did this?
LTJG. MITCHELL: We may have an idea of who it is. 
CAPT. BRANSON: We're trying to determine, conclusively. 
Then T'Lar reports. 
LTJG. T'LAR: I may have a lead, sir. The ship in question appears to have a kind of cloaking device. But they still have a detectable gravitational presence.
INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
CAPT. KIRK: Does that mean we can track them Lieutenant?
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
LTJG. T'LAR: T'Lar, theoretically, yes. By detecting the micro-lensing of background stars we can determine an approximate location.
INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
FLT CAPT. KIRK: Impressive Lieutenant.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
CAPT. BRANSON: Where's the intruder now?
Lieutenant T'Lar inputs commands into her console and reports.
LTJG. T'LAR: He has changed heading. At a very leisurely maneuver. They may not be aware of us.
CAPT. BRANSON: How can that be true? 
LTJG. T'LAR: They had to decloak to fire. Their device may work both ways: it makes them invisible to our sensors, but requires a massive amount of energy. They are likely flying blind, without enough power to run their scanners. 
CUT TO:
INT-USS FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
FLT CAPT. KIRK: So, we can't see them but they can't see us? 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
LTJG. T'LAR: Yes. 
She then checks her console. 
LTJG. T'LAR: His heading is now 1-1-1, mark 1-4. The exact heading a Romulan vessel would take toward the Neutral Zone and home. 
Then Lieutenant Mitchell looks at Captain Branson. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Sir, it's the Romulans. We have to take them out. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Ty, We can't enter the Neutral Zone. Starfleet is clear on this. We do, that's 
considered an act of war. 
LTJG. MITCHELL [annoyed]: They've destroyed three of our outposts. That's not an act of war? 
CAPT. BRANSON: We attack the Romulans without authorization, the Federation will consider us expendable. 
CAPT. KIRK [viewer]: We do have another option. We can shadow the ship. Follow a parallel course, to buy us some time
LTJG. MITCHELL: Not an intercept course sir?
FLT CAPT. KIRK [viewer]: No
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
FLT CAPT. KIRK: The Captain is right That would be a declaration of war. But if Enterprise and Farragut match course and speed with the enemy ship, exactly, move for move, they might think we're just a reflection. Echoes on their sensors. That way we won't lose them while we wait to hear back from Starfleet. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
CAPT. BRANSON: Let's start shadowing them. Julia, send a message to Starfleet. Ask for permission to engage the Romulans. Captain Kirk, we'll be talking.
FLT CAPT. KIRK [viewer]: I look forward to it Kirk out
Transmission ends.
CAPT. BRANSON: Get Sam Kirk up here, ASAP.
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM [YELLOW ALERT]
Both John and Sam are in his office.
LT. KIRK: Am I off the record here, sir?
CAPT. BRANSON: Yeah.
LT. KIRK: Jim was always at the top of his class. He's smart and highly skilled, obviously, but he's not above relying on charm or even luck.
CAPT. BRANSON: Sounds like a wild card.
LT. KIRK: A whole deck of them he doesn't like to take the path everyone else does. And he doesn't like to lose.
John leans forward.
CAPT. BRANSON: Should I be worried that Jim is going to start a war?
SAM: Look, John I'm not gonna say that Jim isn't a pain in the ass. He is. He's a huge pain in the ass. But the truth is, he's as fine a captain as Starfleet has.
JOHN [smiles]: Good to know.
SAM: Like I said, he does like to bend the rules sometimes. No, more like all the time.
CMDR. IVANOVA [com voice]: Captain Branson report to the bridge there's something you should see
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
The monitor at communications shows an EM signal. 
LTJG. SMITH: There's a comet ahead, and its trail is reflecting a signal on an unused EM frequency. It is encoded. T'Lar is trying to decipher. But we think it might be from the enemy ship. 
LTJG. T'LAR: They cut off transmission, but we managed to make a copy. I think it's the feed from their bridge, sir. 
Lieutenant Mitchell turns. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: So we finally get to see what they look like. 
CAPT. BRANSON: T'Lar put it on the viewer. 
Transparent viewer shows the bridge of the Romulan vessel finally revealing the look of the Romulans, much to the shock of everyone as the camera pushes in on T'Lar who raises an eyebrow. 
[END OF ACT 1, FADE OUT]
===Act 2===
FADE IN
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
Enterprise is next to the Farragut.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM
Captain Kirk materialized on the pad.
CAPT. BRANSON [smiles]: Captain Kirk, welcome aboard the Enterprise.
FLT CAPT. KIRK [smiles]: Thank you John, Sam.
The two brother's hug each other.
FLT CAPT. KIRK: Quite the ship you've got here.
LT. KIRK: He's jealous.
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM [YELLOW ALERT]
Captain Branson, Commander Ivanova, Lieutenant T'Lar, Lieutenant Junior Grade Mitchell, Lieutenant Carlson, and Doctor Carlson along with Captain Kirk are at the large table. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Well, we're not gonna get out of this problem by not talking about it. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: I'd like to hear what T'Lar has to say for herself. 
T'Lar has her arms folded. 
LTJG. T'LAR: I assure you Mister Mitchell I had no idea of the similarities between my people and the Romulans. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK: It does seem suspicious. Not the similarity itself, but that we should discover it right now. 
CAPT. BRANSON: What are you suggesting? 
FLT CAPT. KIRK: Well, it's no secret that the Vulcans and the humans are in alliance. Perhaps the Romulans allowed us to see that transmission in hopes that it would sow discord among us.
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: It is possible.
LTJG. MITCHELL: Even if we ignore the pointy-eared elephant in the room, we have another problem to worry about. We're going to lose our prey. 
LTJG. CARLSON: The Romulan vessel will cross the Neutral Zone in about an hour. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK: I don't think we can wait, we have a choice to make here. 
LTJG. T'LAR: Say we do make that choice. Their plasma weapon can still slice through our deflectors. That, in conjunction with their cloaking device, gives them a tactical advantage. Even against our ships working in tandem. 
DR. CARLSON: Working in tandem for what? To destroy them? Say we're lucky enough to do that. Isn't that, technically, an act of war? 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Hate to say it Doc but they started this fight by attacking our outposts. 
DR. CARLSON: This isn't a schoolyard Ty. Billions of lives are at stake here. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Which is why I want to hear everyone's opinion on the subject. 
DR. CARLSON: I vote against war. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: So do I. I just think that means killing Romulans. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Captain your thoughts? 
FLT CAPT. KIRK: What happens when they return to Romulus and tell their leaders that the Federation won't even fight back? I'm starting to lean toward attack. If we allow them to destroy our outposts with no repercussions, we run the risk of war. 
CAPT. BRANSON: I have to believe there's another way. 
LTJG. T'LAR: I think we should attack. 
Everyone turns to T'Lar. 
CAPT. BRANSON: T'Lar? 
LTJG. T'LAR: Sir, if the Romulans are an offshoot of my Vulcan blood, which I believe, then attack is indeed the only option. Vulcan, like Earth, had its aggressive colonizing period. Savage, even by human standards. If the Romulans retain this martial philosophy, then weakness is something we dare not show. 
LTJG. MITCHELL (smirks): Well, if T'Lar and I can agree, then there's hope for all of us. 
CAPT. BRANSON: We don't all agree. 
Then Jim comes up with an idea. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK: Hold a moment. Captain Branson, that comet we're approaching might just be the alternative that you've been looking for. T'Lar, can you put up the trajectory on screen, please? 
T'Lar inputs commands into the PADD as the monitor changes to shows the comet. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK: Currently, the Romulan ship is headed for the comet's tail. Now, I know that they're invisible and we can't lock on to their exact position. But the second they go through that, particle distortion will reveal their location. 
CAPT. BRANSON: We'll be boxing them in. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK: They'll be pendent and we'll be able to get weapons locked. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Good plan Captain. 
CUT TO:
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
Both the Enterprise and Farragut are approaching the comet. 
CAPT. BRANSON'S [voice over]: Captain's personal log, Stardate 1709.2. Per Captain Kirk's plan, we are mounting a pincer move. Our two ships will slowly drift closer as the Romulans remain unaware. When they pass through the comet's tail giving us their exact location, we will be in weapons range Kirk, however, has agreed to my plan to neutralize, not destroy,
the Bird-of-Prey, leaving open the possibility of dialogue''
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
Captain Branson is sitting in the Captain's chair deep in thought.
CAPT. BRANSON [voice over, continuing]: And yet I remain concerned this brash, young Starfleet captain follows his own rules
CAPT. BRANSON: Kara maintain present course and speed but be ready.
LT. CARLSON: I've got my foot on the gas just incase.
EXT-COMET DUST TRAIL
Enterprise proceeds in.
LTJG. T'LAR [O.S]: Still tracking the gravitational presence of the Romulans. Their trajectory remains unchanged.
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
CAPT. KIRK [to com]: Holding position, Enterprise just let us know when you see them. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
ENS. CARLSON: We're passing though the tail now sir. 
Captain Branson turns in his command chair to face the viewer. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Any second now. 
Transparent viewer shows the debris then just open space as everyone is a bit confused. 
INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
FLT CAPT. KIRK [confused]: Something isn't right?
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
LTJG. T'LAR: The Captain is right we should of seen them by now. 
T'Lar turns to her scanner.
FLT CAPT. KIRK [com voice]: Enterprise
INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
FLT CAPT. KIRK [to com]: I don't like this.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
T'Lar's monitor shows the Romulan signature. 
LTJG. T'LAR: Reading gravitational signature again. It's behind the Farragut. 
John quickly gets up from his command chair. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Kirk, get out of there!
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
FLT CAPT. KIRK: Red Alert!
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
CAPT. BRANSON: Red Alert, Kara get us there as quick as you can.
Lieutenant Carlson works at her console.
INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
FLT CAPT. KIRK: Attack pattern Tiberius 4.
EXT-SPACE
The Farragut quickly maneuvers as the Romulan fires its disruptors a few hits the ship's deflectors, as the ship moves quickly far off in the distances is the Enterprise moving to assist.
INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
FLT CAPT. KIRK: Get behind them.
EXT-SPACE
The Farragut goes for an L-4.
'INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
FLT CAPT. KIRK: FIRE!
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
As the Farragut fires her weapons she attempts to get behind the Romulan warbird it fires off its plasma torpedo and it struck the forward section of the Farragut causing massive damage to the Farragut-Class vessel. 
INT-U.S.S FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
Huge shower of sparks erupt from the ceiling as the crew are thrown from their stations, and Captain Kirk is thrown from his command chair. 
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Romulan vessel flies off as the Farragut is drifting as explosions erupt from where the vessel took the bad hit as debris floats from the vessel.
[END OF ACT 2, FADE OUT]
===Act 3===
FADE IN
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Farragut took a bad hit as debris is floating and explosions plump.
INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
Klaxons blare as coolant spews from the ceiling as console screens flicker and lights flicker as Captain Kirk gets to his chair.
FLT CAPT. KIRK [to com]: Fire Phasers Captain.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: We're out of range. We're just as likely to hit you as them.
INT-U.S.S. FARRAGUT MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
FLT CAPT. KIRK [to com]: Maybe you'll draw their fire.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
CAPT. BRANSON: Jack full phasers.
Lieutenant Mason inputs commands into the tactical console and presses the firing button. 
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER 
The Enterprise fires off a spread of phaser bolts as the Romulan vessel flies by the damaged Farragut, as one of the blots scores a hit. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
LT. MASON [smiles]: Holy We actually clipped them.
CAPT. BRANSON: Good shooting Jack, Julia hail them I want them focused on us. 
LTJG. SMITH: Aye, sir hailing now. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Keep firing. 
LT. MASON: Gladly sir.
Lieutenant T'Lar turns from her station.
LTJG. T'LAR: Sensors are detecting a power increase from their forward weapons port.
CAPT. BRANSON: Divert power to the forward deflectors but keep firing.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
 
The Enterprise continues its barrage of phaser blots as the forward section of the Romulan vessel powers up and a red/orange energy cloud plums and lances towards the Enterprise. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
Transparent viewer shows this. 
CAPT. BRANSON: ALL HANDS BRACE FOR IMPACT! 
Everyone on the bridge braces.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The plasma torpedo struck the underside of the saucer section causing the deflectors to flicker. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
WHUMPH! Shower of sparks erupts from the ceiling and one of the consoles, as John lost his balance but grabs the rail. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Damage report? 
Jack's tactical console shows the underside of the Enterprise and the deflector percentage as he reports.
LT. MASON: Ventral saucer section deflectors down to forty-seven percent. 
Lieutenant Mitchell reports as well.
LTJG. MITCHELL: Damage to Decks Six, Seven, and Nine. And weapon control is down. 
CAPT. BRANSON (confused): That should have destroyed us. How are we still standing? 
LTJG. T'LAR: They were shooting at a distance. Perhaps their plasma weapon is less effective when fired long range. 
CMDR. IVANOVA: So the greater the distance the less energy it has to destroy its target. 
Captain Branson turns to T'Lar. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Status of Farragut?
Screen shows the damage to the Farragut WARNING LIFE SUPPORT FAILURE IMMINENT as T'Lar reports. 
LTJG. T'LAR: They have sustained heavy damage their life support is failing. 
LT. CARLSON: I can get us there in 30 seconds.
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Branson to transporter. Get the pads warmed up, Chief. We're about to test their upper limits. 
John leaves the bridge as Commander Ivanova sits in the Captain's chair. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM [RED ALERT]
Doors opened as Captain Branson enters as the transporter can be heard as the transporter pad shows the Farragut survivors.
CMDR. BRANSON: Clear the pads. There's one more group behind us.
She sees her father and walks over to him.
CMDR. S BRANSON: Am I glad to see you father.
CAPT. BRANSON: Is everyone alright?
CMDR. S BRANSON: Yes, we're a bit shaken up but glad the Enterprise was around.
Then Kirk and the senior staff materialized.
FLT CAPT. KIRK [frustrated]: Captain Branson we need to talk now.
He leaves the transporter room as John follows him.
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S QUARTER [YELLOW ALERT]
They enter.
JIM: You flinched. You deliberated and we lost.
JOHN: We fired, Jim. And we were fired upon. That's why you're still here.
JIM: From the start, you wanted to cripple them, not take them out.
JOHN: We may have different points of view, but do not question my combat readiness, Captain.
JIM: I'm saying caution means you're not going to put everything you have into the punch. And that's a good way to lose, because your enemy will see that and act accordingly.
JOHN: All of this because of a seconds delay.
JIM: Tell me I am wrong and I will back down.
JOHN: If you're saying you're more willing to take risks than I am, I don't disagree And let me remind you that you're saying that on my ship, after yours has been disabled.
Kirk backs up with his hands up.
JIM: Fair, I'm just saying I underestimated him. I'm not going to do it again.
Com activates. 
CMDR. IVANOVA [com voice]: Captains Branson and Kirk please report to the bridge
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
[TURBO-LIFT DOORS WHOOSHED OPENED] 
CAPT. BRANSON: Report? 
Lieutenant T'Lar looks at them and reports. 
LTJG. T'LAR: Before they cloaked, I was able to scan the Bird-of-Prey. They are trailing trilithium fragments. Their power supply is damaged. I do not believe they have enough to make it back to Romulus. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK: Do we know their course. 
LTJG. T'LAR: They are still on course for the Neutral Zone. 
CMDR. IVANOVA: We could overtake them before they reach Romulan Space. 
CAPT. BRANSON: What's our weapons status? 
CMDR. IVANOVA [sighs]: Our offensive capabilities are limited. Phasers are down. And torpedo launch tubes sustained damage in the attack. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK: The Romulans don't know that. 
CAPT. BRANSON: They will if we pull up on their six and can't fire. Lieutenant Smith, open a channel to the Romulan ship. 
LTJG. SMITH [confused]: Sir? They haven't responded to any of our hails before. 
CAPT. BRANSON: I know. Open a channel. We're going to send them a message. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK [confused]: What are you doing John? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Taking a risk. This is Captain John Branson of the Federation Starship U.S.S. Enterprise. Our two cultures have been at war for 100 years. Long enough that we don't even question it. But I believe we can make another choice. Right now. I'm offering you a temporary cease-fire, so that we can talk. For the first time in 100 years. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK: That was unexpected. 
CAPT. BRANSON: They want to destroy us, but they also want to get home. Knowing what your opponent wants is key to a successful negotiation. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK: Assuming they want to speak to you. 
Captain Branson looks at him as Lieutenant Smith report. 
LTJG. SMITH: Captain Branson the Romulans are hailing us. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Looks like we're about to find out. On screen, please, Julia. 
CUT TO:
INT-ROMULAN WARBIRD MAIN BRIDGE
CMDR. R'LOK: Captain Branson, it is good to make your acquaintance. 
[END OF ACT 3, FADE OUT]
===Act 4===
FADE IN
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Captain Branson still facing the viewer.
CAPT. BRANSON: Commander. I know your ships attacked our outposts on the edge of the Neutral Zone. But I also know that our two cultures have been at war for generations without ever having been face-to-face. 
INT-ROMULAN BIRD OF PREY MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON (viewer): But I also know that our two worlds have been at war for over a decade, and we're both still paying the bills that they had piled up for decades long before you and me were even born
ROMULAN COMMANDER: Are peoples are indeed different Captain not sure if your words are a show of force or weakness or.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
The Romulan Commander is on the viewer as the bridge crew are tensed up wondering what the Romulan Commander is going to do. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER (viewer): A way of distracting us in time to make repairs and destroy my vessel, but I am interested in what you have to propose 
CAPT. BRANSON: Well your cloak is unstable that will leave you wide open to our weapons, and we'd blow you out of the sky and return to our side of the border before your people appear and blow us out of the water. 
INT-ROMULAN MAIN BRIDGE 
Transparent viewer shows the bridge of the Enterprise and Captain Branson. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER: Or? 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: Or, A cease-fire both our ships are damaged and our weapons are off-line, now we can sit here and allow you to return to the Romulan side of the zone and make fun of our people calling them weak and not ready for a war with the Star Empire. 
Sarah has her arms crossed. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER (viewer): A cease-fire?
CAPT. BRANSON: We both know that we're damaged and we can barely fight each other, you've already showed us what you can do with your brand new plasma torpedo launchers. 
INT-ROMULAN MAIN BRIDGE 
The Romulan Commander thinks. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER: Very well then two hours. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT) 
CAPT. BRANSON (nods): Two hours and Commander I'm glad we had a chance to chat. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER (viewer): Same here 
Transmission ends as Kirk looks at him.
as Captain Branson goes to the command chair as Lieutenant Mitchell turns to him. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Captain. They are lying. Romulans can't be trusted. They shot Farragut right in front of us. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Stand down Ty. 
He pushes more. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: YOU CAN'T LET THEM GET AWAY WITH THAT! 
CAPT. BRANSON (frustrated): STAND DOWN LIEUTENANT! Or I will have you removed from the bridge am I clear. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Crystal sir. 
He turns back to his station as Captain Branson sits in the Captain's chair as T'Lar reports.
LTJG. T'LAR: Sensor readings suggest the Romulans have stopped forward movement.
CAPT. KIRK: I wonder what they're doing over there.
CAPT. BRANSON: Hopefully the same thing we're doing.
CUT TO:
INT-ROMULAN WARBIRD MAIN BRIDGE
The Romulan crew are at their stations as the Sub-Lieutenant is a bit annoyed. 
SUB-COMMANDER: A cease-fire? This is Federation weakness. Is it not the Romulan way to attack when we are given advantage like this? 
CMDR. R'LOK: We are engaged in a cease-fire, Sub-commander. We have two hours. Put all hands to repair our engines. If we do not, we will not make it back to Romulus. 
SUB-COMMANDER (annoyed): Sir, we should commit all hands to weapons repair. The Federation has given us the advantage. We can strike before this ridiculous cease-fire is completed. 
They walk away from ear shot. 
CMDR. R'LOK: This is your fourth mission, is it not, Sub-commander? 
SUB-COMMANDER: Third sir. 
CMDR. R'LOK: I served with your Uncle Tarqan during the Reman campaign, did you know that, Sub-commander? 
SUB-COMMANDER: I did. 
CMDR. R'LOK: His death was a great victory for Romulus. Yes, he was brave. His commander, however, was a fool. He forced him to fight after we'd lost weapons, and the only logical choice was retreat. He did not have to die. 
SUB-COMMANDER: Sir? 
CMDR. R'LOK: His death was a waste. And it was stupid. It left us weaker. Now, I can say that because I'm old enough and I don't care what people think of me. Pride is not something we can afford. We look at the world clearly on my ship. We do not make choices based on ego. Engines first. Then, weapons. That is my order. Or are you so arrogant you think you know better than your Commander? 
SUB-COMMANDER: No, sir. 
CMDR. R'LOK: Good. 
He walks away as the Sub-Commander can't believe that his commanding officer isn't going to destroy the Enterprise. 
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Enterprise remains at station keeping. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM [RED ALERT]
Captain Branson is thinking when the doors chimed. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Come. 
Doors opened and Commander Ivanova enters holding a PADD. 
CMDR. IVANOVA (re: PADD): A repair report from Lieutenant Williams. 
She hands it to him and reviews it. 
CAPT. BRANSON (re: PADD): How long till we have tactical systems? 
CMDR. IVANOVA: She estimates that we'll have phasers in a few hours but she's having issues with the primary couplings that control the phasers. 
Captain Branson puts the PADD down as he is worried. 
CAPT. BRANSON: He gave us one hour for both vessels to complete our repairs. 
CMDR. IVANOVA: You took a bold move to hail them John. 
He looks at his xo. 
CAPT. BRANSON: History 101 Z know your enemy and how to talk to him both me and Kyle learned that at the Academy, I've made it a point to remember that course even in this situation. 
CMDR. IVANOVA: I hope we get back up soon. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Me too Z, me too. 
John tenses up a bit then the doors opened and Captain Kirk enters.
CMDR. IVANOVA: If you'll excuse me I'm going to give Steph a hand repairing the phasers. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Keep me posted. 
She nods and leaves as Kirk sits down in the chair in front of the desk.
CAPT. BRANSON: I know you want me to change tack, but pride is just not something we can afford.
CAPT. KIRK: You want me to tell you that I wouldn't have tried to blow those Romulans out of the sky? Well, I would have. But it wasn't my call.
CAPT. BRANSON: No it wasn't your call.
CAPT. KIRK: Well, we're here, now. And the truth is I don't know these Romulans can't be trusted. But I also don't know if they can. And neither do you.
CAPT. BRANSON: No, I don't trust them but we have 2 hours.
CAPT. KIRK: I'd like to explore a backup plan. If you'll give me the resources.
JOHN: I'm listening. 
JIM: Look, the Romulans just bought themselves some time. Sure, they can use that time to make repairs. But remember, they're on the edge of the Neutral Zone. They could also use it to call for reinforcements. 
John looks at him.
JOHN: True, they could but the Romulan Commander gave his word that we'd have a two hour cease-fire. 
JIM: John, I'd like to suggest that we call for reinforcements as well. 
JOHN: Jim, we're on the far edge of Federation space. It takes days to get a message to Starfleet. We're weeks away from help getting to us, even at maximum warp. 
JIM: Yeah, but the Romulans don't know that. 
JOHN: What are you suggesting? 
JIM: Captain Branson is it ok if I borrow a shuttle. 
CUT TO:
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Star Trek fanfare music plays as the shuttle flies out of the shuttle bay and leaps into warp. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE WEAPONS CONTROL ROOM [RED ALERT]
Commander Ivanova and Lieutenant Commander Williams are helping Lieutenant Commander Tomlinson and his staff get the weapons back on-line. 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: Try it now. 
Commander Williams works at one of the consoles. 
LTCMDR. WILLIAMS: That's the one. This is where the auto repair was getting hung up. She's very fused. 
Commander Ivanova gets up from underneath one of the consoles just wearing her vest while her gold uniform jacket is on the console. 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: I don't need to remind you that we have less than two hours to restore phaser control to working order. 
LTCMDR. WILLIAMS (sighs): I'm an engineer not a miracle worker Commander. 
Then Commander Tomlinson comes up with an idea. 
LTCMDR. TOMLINSON: Then we should try a bypass of the severed relays then Martine see if you can get a bypass to the secondary phaser couplings. 
LT. MARTINE (nods): Aye, sir. 
Lieutenant Martine gets to work. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [YELLOW ALERT]
Captain Branson sits in the Captain's chair.
LTJG. SMITH: Two minutes Captain. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Status? 
LTJG. MASON: Weapons are still down sir. 
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Branson to Weapons Control Room Status report? 
LTCMDR. TOMLINSON (com voice): Working on it Captain, working on it
LTJG. SMITH: Two hours, Captain. And mark. 
Captain Branson gets up from the Captain's chair and walks over to the viewer. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Julia, hail the Romulans. 
Transparent viewer changed to the bridge of the Romulan vessel. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Have you repaired your ship, Commander? 
INT-ROMULAN VESSEL MAIN BRIDGE
CMDR. R'LOK: Have you repaired yours, Captain? 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: Conventional wisdom suggests that our next move is to resume hostilities. To fight. You yourself told me that in your culture to do anything else would be a sign of weakness. But let me tell you a way in which humans are not weak. Our strength comes from our willingness to see a partner instead of an enemy. In our culture, that is an act of faith and strength, not a failure of character. Do Romulans have that kind of strength? 
INT-ROMULAN WARBIRD MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CMDR. R'LOK: I too tire of endless war. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT) 
[INTERMITTENT BEEPING] 
[ALARM BLARING] 
[Everyone starts working on their console as the aft monitor shows: PERIMETER ALERT and shows a bunch of Romulan symbols.] 
LTJG. T'LAR: Massive warp signatures all Romulans.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER 
The camera pushes back from the Enterprise as it shows the entire Romulan battlegroup emerge from warp one at a time. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Transparent viewer shows the entire Romulan battlegroup as the crew is tensed up and Captain Branson is shocked seeing this. 
CUT TO:
INT-ROMULAN BIRD OF PREY MAIN BRIDGE
 
Screens show the Romulan battlegroup around the bird of prey as the Commander R'Lok is shocked by this. 
CMDR. R'LOK (shocked & surprised): Why is the fleet here? I did not call for them. 
ROMULAN SUB-COMMANDER: I alerted them of our situation, Commander. The Federation showed weakness. It is the Romulan way to strike. You were not going to. I took matters into my own hands. 
Commander R'Lok looks at his officer. 
CMDR. R'LOK (frustrated & angry): You disobeyed a direct order. 
ROMULAN SUB-COMMANDER: Had you not negotiated with the Federation, I would not have needed to. We undertook this mission to test the strength of the Federation. They showed us they lack it. We should have destroyed them the moment they did. 
CMDR. R'LOK: You don't remember a time without war. But I do. Who wins an endless war with the Federation? 
ROMULAN SUB-COMMANDER: We will, Commander. 
CMDR. R'LOK: An endless war, by definition, can never be won. Captain Branson will not trust my word now. 
ROMULAN SUB-COMMANDER: What does that matter? He will be dead soon. 
Commander R'Lok gets out his disruptor and shot the Sub-Commander vaporizing him in front of the entire crew as the Commander R'Lok is worried. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
Captain Branson remains standing facing the viewer as Lieutenant Smith reports.
LTJG. SMITH: Sir we're being hailed its the Romulan flagship. 
CAPT. BRANSON: On screen. 
Transparent viewer shows the bridge of the Romulan flagship as a female Romulan wearing the robes of a Romulan Praetor. 
ROMULAN PRAETOR (viewer): Human I'm here to demand your surrender 
CAPT. BRANSON: Well hello to you as well I'm Captain John Branson of the Federation Starship USS Enterprise and I didn't catch your name? 
INT-ROMULAN FLAGSHIP BRIDGE
ROMULAN PRAETOR: You may address me as Praetor and it is customary to bow before your Praetor. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: Seeing how we're not Romulans and this isn't a Romulan vessel you'll forgive us if we don't, and also we're holding to our side of the zone as are you and yet you demand my surrender? 
INT-ROMULAN FLAGSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
ROMULAN PRAETOR (scoff): Typical human arrogates as always even though we almost defeated you in the last war. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: Praetor if I remember correctly we won that war because of the arrogates of the last Romulan Praetor and his lust for power. 
INT-ROMULAN FLAGSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
ROMULAN PRAETOR: Captain we've have you surrounded and you will surrender or we will destroy you have one minute to comply. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)'
Transmission ends as Captain Branson turns to face the bridge crew. 
CAPT. BRANSON: You know I don't like her. 
Then sensors beep as T'Lar reports. 
LTJG. T'LAR: Perimeter alert. We have ships incoming, sir. Dozens. 
Captain Branson turns to her. 
CAPT. BRANSON: More Romulans? 
T'Lar checks her console read out. 
LTJG. T'LAR: No, they look like ours? 
John turns back to the viewer. 
CUT TO:
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The small shuttle exits warp along with what appears to be older vessels. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
Captain Branson is surprised by this. 
LTJG. SMITH: I've got a secure channel from the lead ship, sir. It's Captain Kirk.
CAPT. BRANSON: On screen.
Transparent viewer shows the shuttle canopy. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK [viewer]: John, the reinforcements you ordered? Been 100 years since the Federation has seen the Romulans. We didn't know what their ships looked like, and so I figured they don't know what ours look like, either
LTJG. SMITH [confused]: All robotic mining craft? 
CUT TO:
INT-SHUTTLE CANOPY
FLT CAPT. KIRK: Mining, hauling. Not one of them manned. But to the Romulans, who's to say we aren't a Federation armada? 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT] 
CAPT. BRANSON [smiles]: Nice work Jim. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK [viewer]: It's enough to bluff with, I hope. Try not to get us in a real fight
CAPT. BRANSON: I'll try to do my best thanks Jim, Bridge to Weapons control Mister Tomlinson we need weapons. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE WEAPONS CONTROL ROOM [RED ALERT]
LTCMDR. TOMLINSON [to com]: We're making progress. The conduits are severely damaged we're attempting to bypass the damaged relays but it may take sometime. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Work faster, Commander. We're going to need weapons soon or we're not going to need them at all. 
Then Lieutenant Smith reports. 
LTJG. SMITH: Sir we're being hailed by the Romulan Praetor. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Keep a secure channel open for Captain Kirk to listen on. 
LTJG. SMITH: Aye, sir. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Jim you ready to sell this. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK [viewer]: As I'll ever be John 
Captain Branson walks back to the main viewer as the image of Kirk shrinks a bit and the Romulan Praetor appears again. 
CAPT. BRANSON: What can I do for you now? 
ROMULAN PRAETOR (viewer): A Federation battlegroup?
CAPT. BRANSON: Well you didn't like my idea. 
INT-ROMULAN FLAGSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
ROMULAN PRAETOR (frustrated): This is an act of unwanted aggression on the border of our territory Captain. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: No, just a standard training maneuver that happened to land our fleet here the same time as yours. You want to know what actually is an act of unparalleled aggression? A Romulan Bird-of-Prey using cloaking technology destroying our Neutral Zone outposts. 
INT-ROMULAN FLAGSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
The Romulan Praetor thinks then smirks. 
ROMULAN PRAETOR: I know nothing of which you speak of. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: We'll send you a recording of it de-cloaking right before destroying Outpost Four. 
He turns to Lieutenant Smith and nods she transmits the recording. 
INT-ROMULAN PRAETOR FLAGSHIP
She sees the recording and smirks. 
ROMULAN PRAETOR: I see. 
She then wordlessly issuing an order to the tactical officer. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Lieutenant Carlson reports. 
LTJG. CARLSON: Romulan ship is de-cloaking and breaking formation. Heading our way. 
Captain Branson turns to the viewer. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Praetor what is this? 
INT-ROMULAN PRAETOR FLAGSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
ROMULAN PRAETOR: This is a culling, Captain. That commander should not have allowed himself to be caught. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
LTJG. CARLSON: Sir, its the bird of prey we've been chasing. 
Captain Branson turns to Lieutenant Smith. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Julia get me the Romulan Commander. 
She inputs commands into the communications console. 
CUT TO:
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
CMDR. R'LOK: Captain. So, we see each other once again, after all. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: What are you doing? 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
CMDR. R'LOK: I never called for that armada. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: We can beam you and your crew to the Enterprise, you don't need to do this. 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE 
CMDR. R'LOK: It is not our way. I regret that we meet in this way. You and I are of a kind. In a different reality, I could've called you friend. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: What purpose would it serve to die? 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
CMDR. R'LOK: We are creatures of duty, you and I. Just one more duty to perform. Do not be upset. I have accepted my fate. Perhaps, someday, my sacrifice will lead to an end to this conflict between us. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
The bridge crew can't believe this. 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
Returning to his station, the commander and his bridge crew brace themselves. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
LTJG. MASON: They're powering weapons. 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
The Romulan Commander closes his eyes. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
The Romulan armada opens fire. 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
[EXPLOSIONS ERUPT] 
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Romulan warship explodes into a thousand pieces. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
The crew is shocked by what they just saw as Lieutenant Smith reports. 
LTJG. SMITH: The Praetor is hailing us. 
Captain Branson walks back to his command chair as he sits in it. 
CAPT. BRANSON: On screen. 
Transparent viewer shows the bridge of the Praetor appears on the viewer. 
ROMULAN PRAETOR (Viewer): Our fleet is stronger now. And I am ready to accept your surrender
CAPT. BRANSON: This is really how you want to end 100 years of peace? 
ROMULAN PRAETOR (viewer): What do Romulans care of peace? It means nothing to us. And your apparent affinity for it has sealed your fate. Thank you, Captain Branson. If not for your weakness, we would never have known what easy targets your Federation would be. Goodbye 
Transmission ends as Lieutenant Mason reports. 
LT. MASON: They're powering weapons again. 
Everyone is tensed up. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Evasive pattern Kara Zeta seven. 
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER 
The Romulan fleet begins opening fire on the automated drone fleet as the Enterprise is dodging weapons fire but takes a few hits as a plasma torpedo streaks by the ship destroying one of the drone freighters. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT] 
A bright flash on the viewer. 
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Jim, get back here. We're about to warp out. 
INT-SHUTTLE CANOPY [RED ALERT]
Reflection of the hail of disruptor fire and the Enterprise moving to port and starboard. 
FLT CAPT. KIRK [to com]: Acknowledged. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
LT. CARLSON: Sir, warp drive will not engage. 
CAPT. BRANSON: What? 
LTJG. CARLSON: I'm not sure sir. 
He toggles the com button. 
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Branson to Engineering Steph what's going on with warp drive? 
CUT TO:
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN ENGINEERING (RED ALERT)
LTCMDR. WILLIAMS (to com): We've got a bit of a power surge going on down here sir we're fixing it now. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
LTJG. T'LAR: Sir, 14 starships are moving in around us. 
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Jim, what are you doing? 
INT-SHUTTLE CANOPY [RED ALERT]
FLT CAPT. KIRK [to com]: Covering your escape. Get those engines fixed. 
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The drones are between the Romulans and the Enterprise. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT] 
Transparent viewer shows the drones gathering around the Enterprise. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: He's using the drones as a wall. 
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER 
The Romulan flagship fires its plasma torpedo as one of the drone freighters is between the plasma torpedo and the Enterprise, as the torpedo strikes the vessel destroying it the wave rocks the Enterprise as her deflectors took the brunt of it. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
WHUMPH! Huge shower of sparks erupt from the ceiling and one of the consoles as the bridge crew are thrown from their consoles as Captain Branson is flung from his command chair as klaxons blare and they get up as power hums back on as Lieutenant Carlson reports. 
LTJG. CARLSON: We've got engines back. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Captain Kirk has beamed aboard. 
LTJG. T'LAR: Picking up another power increase! 
CAPT. BRANSON: Hit it! 
Lieutenant Carlson activates the warp drive. 
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Enterprise starts to wake up as debris floats around her as the Romulan flagship powers up another plasma torpedo and launches it but the Enterprise was able to enter warp. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Smoke is everywhere around the bridge as Captain Branson stands up. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Damage report? 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Reports coming from all decks. 
LTJG. MASON: Sickbay is reporting heavy causalities sir. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Kara, set course for Starbase Medical Outpost 14 best speed. 
LTJG. CARLSON: Aye, sir. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Decks 5, 11, 12, and 22 are all reporting hull breaches. Weapons systems took a direct hit. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Z, T'Lar you've got the bridge. 
John gets up from the command chair and enters the lift and toggles the lever. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Medical. 
CUT TO:
INT-USS ENTERPRISE SICKBAY (RED ALERT) 
Doors opened as wounded are being rushed to bio-beds or to surgery as Captain Branson looks around surveying the injured among his crew, he walks over to one of the bio-beds and sees Lieutenant Martine who is next to the bio-bed as her fiancée lies there dead. 
DR. CARLSON: A plasma conduit explodes caught him right in the face there was nothing I could of done to save him. 
Doctor Carlson pats the young woman on her shoulder as she's holding her husband's lifeless hand crying as John turns to Steven. 
CAPT. BRANSON: What about Commander Ivanova? 
He leads him to her bio-bed. 
DR. CARLSON: She's got a severe concussion some broken ribs when we took the brunt of that plasma torpedo, but she'll make a full recovery. 
EXT-FEDERATION SPACE
Enterprise approaches Starbase medical outpost 14. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE DECK NINE CORRIDOR, AIRLOCK
Several wounded officers are being off-loaded for further treatment. 
CUT TO:
INT-STARBASE MEDICAL 14 MESS HALL
Jessica is wearing a nice dress as John walks over to her and she hugs him and they kiss.
JESSICA: I heard what happened but we were on the other side of Federation Space.
JOHN [smiles]: I'm alright Jess a bit shaken up but I am alright.
JESSICA: I was so worried.
He smiles. 
EXT-FEDERATION SPACE 
An established shot of Starbase Medical Outpost 14. 
[END OF ACT 4, FADE OUT, ENDING CREDITS]
==Cast==
===Starring===
*Jarvis Davidson as Captain John Branson
*TBA as Lieutenant Commander Zhasa Ivanova
===Also Starring===
*Kevin Regan as Lieutenant Jack Mason
*Ferne Myers as Lieutenant Commander Stephanie Williams
*Blake Waymire as Lieutenant Junior Grade Tyson Mitchell
*Sadie Brickhouse as Lieutenant Junior Grade Julia Smith
*Jacob Elliot as Doctor Steven Carlson
*Delena "Dee" Lusk as Lieutenant Kara Carlson
*Becky Elliot as Lieutenant Junior Grade T'Lar
===Guest Stars===
*TBA as Nurse Christine Chapel
*TBA as Transporter Chief Kayla Mackenzie
*TBA as Lieutenant Samuel Kirk
*TBA as Lieutenant Lindsey Tanner
*TBA as Lieutenant Commander Robert Tomlinson
*TBA as Lieutenant Junior Grade Angela Martine
*TBA as Commander Hansen Al-Salah
===Special Guest Stars===
*TBA as Fleet Captain James T. Kirk
*TBA as Commander Sarah Branson
*TBA as Farragut Crewmen
*TBA as Commander R'Lok
*TBA as Romulan Sub-Commander
*TBA as Romulan Praetor
==Trivia Notes==
===Background Information===
*This episode was inspired by the TOS episode Balance of Terror and the Strange New Worlds season 1 finale episode A Quality of Mercy.