A New Command (TNG Era episode)

A New Command is the series opener of Star Trek: The Next Generation The Next Generation Season 1.
==Synopsis==
Captain Branson is awarded command of the USS Ares an Intrepid-Class vessel, but when he learns that he's ferrying his ex-wife Elizabeth Shelby to her new command. Meanwhile, a run-of-the-mill resupply mission to Epsilon 2 turns into a race to save the colony and its technology from the enemy Cardassian Union. 
==Script Chapters==
===Teaser===
FADE IN
EXT-EARTH SURFACE, SAN FRANSICO, CALIFORNIA DAY
Year: 2379
Camera shows California and a small ship approaches an apartment and it powers down and a Starfleet officer gets out and gets his stuff, and walks into his apartment. 
INT-THE BRANSON'S APARTMENT
Commander Branson puts his stuff down and looks around for his wife Elizabeth Shelby and sees that the Andorian Ambassador's robe is on the couch, he puts down his case then he hears a thud and giggling he gets out his phaser and walks to the doors and tries to listen in and then inputs his command codes into the door panel and the doors opened.
CUT TO:
INT-THE BRANSON APARTMENT, BEDROOM AREA
The doors opened and Commander Branson is standing in the doorway as he sees two figures are in the bed, as he sees Elizabeth and then the Andorian Ambassador.
LIZ [shocked]: Oh, no.
John moves and gets his bag as Elizabeth chases after him.
INT-THE BRANSON APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM
CMDR. BRANSON: Nope, nope, nope. 
She ties her robe up. 
LIZ: John, just listen to me for one second. 
JOHN: No I'm done we've tried and we're not working out.
He closes the doors and he sits in the pod disappointed by what happened.
[END OF TEASER, FADE OUT]
=====
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
A STAR TREK FAN FILM PRODUCTION
===Act 1===
FADE IN
EXT-SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
[EPISODE NOTES: OPENING CREDITS FALL OVER OPENING SCENES]
An establishing shot of the capital of the United Federation of Planets along with Earth Spacedock as its buzzing with life as ships go to and from the Starbase, along with an Excelsior-Class cruiser in orbit as well as the Orbital complex a Sigma-class base.
[TEXT NOTES: Earth Orbit Military Calendar January 5th, 2380 Time: 0900 hours.]
INT-ORBITAL COMPLEX GUEST QUARTERS, BEDROOM AREA
The sunshine's through the window as it shines on the face of Captain John Branson who's sleeping as a female hand comes into view. 
JESSICA: John? Time to get up. 
JOHN: Are you sure? 
Jessica Smith lays her head on his arm. 
JESSICA: It's a big day for you. 
He turns over and looks at her. 
JOHN [smiles]: It was a big night. 
John makes no move to get out of bed. 
JESSICA: You don't wanna be late for your big day do you? 
John turns over to face her. 
JOHN: I'm sure my father can wait. 
She gets out of bed and gets a shower as John gets up and joins her as well. 
JOHN & JESSICA [laughter] 
CUT TO:
EXT-SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
An establishing shot of the Federation Dockyards an enormous structure, capable of housing even many Galaxy-class heavy cruisers. The dockyard used a hub and spoke design with its massive central core, flanked by three main wings. These wings were capable of docking and accommodating Federation starships. with a Shuttle Bay and two prong-like extensions at which space vessels dock.
In between a Galaxy-Class cruiser and a Excelsior-class heavy cruiser is the U.S.S. Enterprise Century-class vessel.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM II
[Commodore James Branson father of John Branson is awaiting the arrival of his son as the transporter activates and Captain Branson materialized on the pad.]
COMM. BRANSON: You're late.
CAPT. BRANSON: Sorry, father I had a big night with Jessica.
COMM. BRANSON [smiles]: I understand that all too well John.
CAPT. BRANSON: Thank you Chief Mackenzie.
He hands her the PADD and they leave the transporter room.
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE DECK FIVE CORRIDOR
[Both Branson's are walking along the corridor as crewmen are still working on a few panels.]
COMM. BRANSON: There's still some work to be done, but once the sawdust clears, I think you'll be impressed. Enterprise may not be as big as a Galaxy class ship but she's quick and smart, like her Captain. 
CAPT. BRANSON [smiles]: Seven hundred thousand metric tons, twenty-two decks, and computer systems augmented with bio-neural circuitry, top cruising speed warp nine point nine eight nine. 
They enter the turbo-lift. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE TURBO-LIFT CART
They enter the lift as the doors closed. 
COMM. BRANSON [to com]: Deck 1, main bridge. 
The lift starts moving. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Of course, I expect to get that up another notch or two. 
James looks over at his son. 
COMM. BRANSON [smiles]: Sounds like you already know your ship pretty well. 
John turns to face his father. 
CAPT. BRANSON: I've been buried in Century-Class's schematics for the past three months. I could walk the corridors blindfolded. 
COMM. BRANSON: I wouldn't shut your eyes just yet son. 
The lift stops. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE
Doors opened as they walked out of the lift. 
COMM. BRANSON: Captain on the bridge. 
The crew stands at attention. 
CAPT. BRANSON: As you were. It's bigger than I expected. 
COMM. BRANSON: Schematics never fully prepare you for the real thing. 
[John walks over to the Captain's chair.] 
COMM. BRANSON: Try it on. 
John sits in the Captain's chair. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Comfy. 
COMM. BRANSON [smiles]: Don't get too comfortable, I have more to show you. 
[John gets up from his chair and follows his father into the ready room.] 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM
[Doors opened as they walked into the office.]
COMM. BRANSON: Your home away from home son. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Tea? 
COMM. BRANSON: Ah, no thanks. 
He walks over to the replicator. 
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Tea, Earl Grey hot. 
[The cup materialized on the replicator as John picks it up and takes a sip.] 
COMM. BRANSON: I'm surprised that Jean-Luc introduced you to that stuff. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Same here.
He sits at the desk.
COMM. BRANSON: Your mission is pretty straight forward deliver supplies to the Epsilon 2 outpost.
CAPT. BRANSON: Very well as soon as my senior staff is aboard we'll make haste to Starbase 375 to pick up the supplies as well as my new first officer.
COMM. BRANSON: And you're also picking up a VIP that you need to deliver to Station Bravo.
CAPT. BRANSON: I read before I beamed over but no one will tell me who it is.
COMM. BRANSON: I'll forward it to you once you get underway.
CAPT. BRANSON [sighs]: Very well then.
They hug each other.
JAMES: Good luck son.
JOHN: Thanks dad.
Commodore Branson leaves his ready room.
EXT-SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
Enterprise is set to depart.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE
Captain Branson walks out of the ready room as he walks over to the two chairs and sits in the Captain's chair.
CAPT. BRANSON: Report?
LT. MASON: Tactical systems are ready.
LT. SITO: Sensors and communications are in the green.
LT. KAYE: Warp and impulse are in the green as well sir.
CAPT. BRANSON: Very well then Lieutenant Sito hail ops and request permission to depart.
LT. SITO: Aye, sir Ops has cleared us for departure. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Ready thrusters. 
LT. SITO: Thrusters ready. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Take us out helm. 
LT. KAYE: Aye, sir.
Lieutenant Kaye engages the thrusters.
EXT-SPACE
The Enterprise departs from the dockyard.
[END OF ACT 1, FADE OUT]
===Act 2===
FADE IN
EXT-WARP TUNNEL
Enterprise is on course for Epsilon II outpost.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE
Captain Branson sits in the command chair. 
CAPT. BRANSON: What's our ETA to Epsilon 2? 
Lieutenant Kaye inputs commands into the helm station and reports. 
LT. KAYE: ETA is 19 hours and 31 minutes sir I never been to Epsilon 2. 
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Epsilon 2 is an outpost devoted exclusively to scientific inquiry. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Researchers from all over the galaxy petition to work there. 
Then Lieutenant Sito reports.
LT. SITO: Sir we just received a hail from Commodore Austin there's also an engineer that we need to pick up at Starbase Two hundred eleven as well as our new first officer and the VIP. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Who is it? 
She looks at him. 
LT. SITO: Lieutenant Commander Kyle Clarkson and Lieutenant Commander Jane Kal.
CAPT. BRANSON: What about the VIP.
She looks at him.
LT. SITO: He wants me to forward it to you privately.
CAPT. BRANSON: Alright, send it to my station.
John looks at the right arm rest console and activates it.
CAPT. BRANSON: No. No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no T'Mir you've got the bridge Sito send my dad a transmission.
LT. SITO: Aye, sir.
Captain Branson quickly rushes to his ready room as Commander T'Mir walks from the science station and sits in the Captain's chair.
LT. KAYE [confused]: What's up with the Captain?
Commander T'Mir looks at the arm rest console.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: It would appear that the Captain has been shocked by our VIP guest Commodore Elizabeth Shelby.
LT. SITO: I remember her she was aboard the U.S.S. Sutherland when I was rescued.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM
COMM. BRANSON [monitor]: Calm down, John, and be professional about this
CAPT. BRANSON: Oh, please, there is nothing at all professional about this situation. Okay, this is my ex-wife, who I have not seen since my divorce 13 years ago after I walked in on her banging the Andorian Ambassador!
John is pacing about freaking out.
COMM. BRANSON [monitor]: John, I know how you feel son you loved her and she hurt you but that doesn't mean that you have to freak out like this, and if you make a stink about escorting a high ranking officer on your first day of command it's not going to look good for you
CAPT. BRANSON: And you're telling me she's okay with this?
COMM. BRANSON [monitor]: John, she requested it
EXT-FEDERATION-CARDASSIAN BORDER
Enterprise emerges from warp and approaches Starbase 211 along the Federation-Cardassian Border, and parks right next to the Starbase as a Class-11 shuttle flies out of the shuttle bay and approaches the Enterprise.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE
John sits at the Captain's chair tapping his finger on the arm rest as he's frustrated about having to ferry his ex-wife to her new posting.
LT. MASON: Supplies have been brought aboard and stored in Cargo Bay 2 and Commander Clarkson, Commodore Shelby, and Commander Kal are being shown their quarters.
CAPT. BRANSON: I'm sure the Commodore wants to speak to me have her escorted to my ready room resume our previous course Jamie.
LT. KAYE: Aye, sir.
EXT-WARP TUNNEL
Enterprise resumes her course to Epsilon 2.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM
John is working on several reports when the doors chimed he knows he doesn't want to confront his ex-wife but he knows he has no choice at this moment.
CAPT. BRANSON: Come.
The doors opened and Commodore Elizabeth Shelby enters.
COMM. SHELBY: Hey.
CAPT. BRANSON: Hi. 
She looks around. 
COMM. SHELBY: Can I come in?
He motions her to enter and she walks in looking around the ready room. 
ELIZABETH: Did you pick out the furniture? 
John turns off the desktop monitor and leans back in his chair. 
JOHN: You know, I didn't, but if you're really interested in the furniture, I'd be happy to get all the information I can about it. I could have somebody compile a full report and have it sent to your quarters this afternoon. Maybe you'd find something nice for your new apartment. 
Elizabeth crosses her arms.
ELIZABETH: Are you finished?
JOHN: Well, you know, I thought I was, but, apparently, you're not.
ELIZABETH: John I can't apologize enough. I know it doesn't matter to you, but I-I am sorrier for what I did to you than anything I've ever done in my entire life. 
JOHN (sighs): You know, I've done a pretty good job getting over all this in the past year, and I'm over it, so why don't you tell me what the hell you're doing here?
ELIZABETH: Well I heard about your promotion and I wanted to personally congratulate you, and the base needed to be inspected so I volunteered to do it.
JOHN: Well you voluntarily bailed on a marriage so that must of been easy for you to do.
ELIZABETH [rolls her eyes]: John, look, I'm not saying what I did wasn't disgraceful, but I only did it because me and our daughters didn't have you. 
JOHN There it is. How long did that take you? How many minutes into this conversation?
ELIZABETH: You were working nonstop. Okay, there were entire days - I wouldn't see you. - 
JOHN: Yeah, I was working for us, Liz, for you the girls and me. You know this. 
ELIZABETH: I didn't ask you to do that. Okay? Y-You just shut off from our relationship. I-I didn't know how to handle it. 
JOHN: So you banged Papa Smurf in our bed. 
Elizabeth paces about.
ELIZABETH: That's one way to handle it. - Thy'lek was there when you weren't. And you know how many times I tried to talk to you, but you just kept putting me off? 
JOHN: Whe-When did you try to talk to me? 
ELIZABETH: So many times. 
JOHN: Where it wasn't, like, an insidious, - subtle, sarcastic 
ELIZABETH: Either you weren't hearing me or you weren't around at all, but I did try. I was the one who suggested couples counseling. 
JOHN: Couples counseling? The therapist was your brother-in-law. Look, this okay this ship is what I've been waiting for my entire career. My entire life. So why are you doing this to me? 
Elizabeth adjusts her uniform.
ELIZABETH [sighs]: As soon as this mission is over I'll request another vessel pick me up and deliver me Station Bravo. 
She leaves his ready room as John sits back in the chair. 
[END OF ACT 2, FADE OUT]
===Act 3===
FADE IN
EXT-WARP TUNNEL
Enterprise resumes her course.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CARGO BAY II
Commander James is inspecting the engineering parts as Commander Clarkson enters.
LTCMDR. JAMES: Oh Commander Clarkson I didn't know that you would be in here.
LTCMDR. CLARKSON [smiles]: It's alright Commander James I am just here inspecting the supplies as well.
Then the com activates.
LT. MASON [to com]: Mason to James
She tapped her combadge.
LTCMDR. JAMES [to com]: James here go ahead.
LT. MASON [com voice]: I'm in the storage room on deck seven and I am having some issues finding the plasma conduits for the phaser banks
LTCMDR. JAMES [to com]: I'm on my way.
She leaves as Kyle is inspecting the supplies still.
EXT-EPSILON SYSTEM
Enterprise emerges from warp and approaching the second planet in the system.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE
LT. KAYE: Approaching Epsilon II now sir.
CAPT. BRANSON: Standard orbit Lieutenant.
LT. KAYE: Aye, sir.
CAPT. BRANSON: Jack, hail the outpost.
Lieutenant Mason looks at his tactical console and reports.
LT. MASON: Captain we're being hailed.
DR. ARONOV [com voice]: Enterprise, this is Dr. Aronov. I am chief of this facility. May I speak to your captain?
CAPT. BRANSON: Jack on main viewer. 
Transparent viewer changes to the office of Doctor Aronov as Captain Branson gets up from the Captain's chair. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Doctor Aronov I'm John Branson Captain of the Starship Enterprise if you send the transport coordinates to our transporter room we can start beaming down supplies to you now as well as the engineer you requested. 
DR. ARONOV [viewer]: Actually, Captain, we-we don't need any supplies 
John looks over at Commander Kal who's also confused as Captain Branson turns to the viewer.
CAPT. BRANSON [confused]: I-I don't understand you requested supplies as well as the engineer. 
DR. ARONOV (viewer): Yes I did please if you come down I'll explain everything
CAPT. BRANSON: Alright we'll beam down soon. 
Transmission ends. 
LTCMDR. KAL: This is very strange.
CAPT. BRANSON: Very strange have Mister Clarkson as well as Commodore Shelby meet us in Transporter room 2 you've got the bridge T'Mir.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Aye, sir.
Captain Branson, Commander Kal, and Lieutenant Mason leave the bridge as Commander T'Mir sits in the Captain's chair.
CUT TO:
EXT-EPSILON II SURFACE, DAY
The landing party materializes on the surface as Doctor Aronov walks over to them. 
DR. ARONOV (smiles): Captain Branson. Welcome to Epsilon 2. - Thank you for coming. 
CAPT. BRANSON (smiles): Thanks for inviting us this is my chief of security Lieutenant Jack Mason. 
DR. ARONOV: Hello. 
CAPT. BRANSON: My chief medical officer Doctor Peter Langford. 
DR. LANGFORD: Doctor Aronov. 
DR. ARONOV: Hi. 
CAPT. BRANSON: My first officer Lieutenant Commander Jane Kal. 
LTCMDR. KAL: Greetings. 
DR. ARONOV: Nice to meet you. 
CAPT. BRANSON: The engineer you requested Lieutenant Commander Kyle Clarkson.
LTCMDR. CLARKSON: Doctor.
DR. ARONOV: Hello Commander.
CAPT. BRANSON: And my ex-wife who's inspecting the base.
COMM. SHELBY: I'm Commodore Elizabeth Shelby and yes I am here to inspect the base.
CAPT. BRANSON: But if any of your research team needs an artless, jabby-nail shoulder massage, she's the best there is. 
LTCMDR. KAL: Doctor, you want to tell us why you falsely diverted a starship on active duty? You know you could do time for that. 
DR. ARONOV: Yes please forgive me but they never would of sent a Federation vessel if I didn't request supplies. 
CAPT. BRANSON: So why are we here? 
DR. ARONOV: We need protection. 
LTJG. MASON: From who? 
DR. ARONOV: The Cardassians. 
CAPT. BRANSON: There's been no reports of Cardassian vessels sighted in this sector since the Dominion War.
ARONOV: Please follow me and I'll show you. 
They follow him into the outpost. 
INT-EPSILON 2 RESEARCH OUTPOST MAIN CORRIDOR
(indistinct voice over P.A. system) 
DR. LANGFORD (amazed): Wow. 
DR. ARONOV: Surprised? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Its incredible. 
DR. ARONOV: Follow me to our botany area. 
INT-EPSILON 2 RESEARCH OUTPOST, BOTANY LAB
They're walking through it to one of the tables. 
DR. LANGFORD: What's this? 
DR. ARONOV: What sort of research are you doing here? Oh, well, uh this is a redwood seed. Looks pretty ordinary, yes? 
LTCMDR. CLARKSON: Sure. 
DR. ARONOV: Well, this seed has been genetically engineered with tardigrade DNA, which means it can survive and grow in anything. Rock, metal, sand. It can exist a hundred years without water. You can toss this seed in the middle of the Sahara, and in a century you'll have a towering redwood. That's really impressive. And as a bonus, a healthy snack. Here, try some. 
CAPT. BRANSON [sighs]: Yeah, it's very tasty. Listen, Dr. Aronov, why are we here? 
DR. ARONOV: I couldn't tell you the real reason we needed a Starfleet ship because I couldn't risk divulging the information over open communications. This way. 
CUT TO:
INT-EPSILON II RESEARCH OUTPOST, MAIN LAB AREA
They enter as Doctor Aronov introduces Doctor Janice Lee. 
DR. ARONOV: This is Janice Lee, one of our most brilliant young physicists. 
DR. LEE: Hello. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Hi. 
DR. ARONOV: Janice has been experimenting with temporal fields and has made well, a breakthrough would be an understatement. 
CAPT. BRANSON: So, it's an anti-banana ray? 
LTCMDR. CLARKSON: It's really interesting. 
CAPT. BRANSON: We need no longer fear the banana. 
LTCMDR. CLARKSON: Does it work on all fruit? 
CAPT. BRANSON: What about salads? 
DR. ARONOV: Do you understand what happened to this banana? It's rotten because a month has passed. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Since we got here? Yeah, that's what it feels like. 
DR. LEE: Captain Branson, this banana is suspended in a quantum bubble that can be adjusted to accelerate time. Out here only a few moments have passed. Inside the bubble, it's a month in the future. 
CAPT. BRANSON: So why do you need us here then? 
DR. ARONOV: We fear that being this close to the Cardassian border they'll be here before you could. 
LTCMDR. CLARKSON: John, I've read about this hypothetical. Quantum field manipulation of the flow of time is theoretically possible. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Wait, so-so you're serious?
LTCMDR. KAL: My God. 
DR. ARONOV: Think of the benefits. Entire crops grown in the blink of an eye. Starving populations supplied with limitless amounts of food overnight. Life-threatening wounds healed (snaps fingers) instantly. 
COMM. SHELBY: Or entire armies reduced to frail elders instantly. 
LTJG. MASON: You do realize this could also be used as a weapon. 
DR. ARONOV: That's why you're here. We couldn't risk sending word to Starfleet Command about what we'd discovered. If the Cardassians intercepted it, they could've been here long before you. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Well, we're only one ship and not a big one, so we better get help. 
DR. LANGFORD: How fast does the field of acceleration go? 
DR. ARONOV: How would you like to see a 100-year-old banana? Watch this.
John tapped his combadge.
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Away Team to Enterprise.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE
LTCMDR. T'MIR [to com]: T'Mir here go ahead sir.
INT-EPSILON 2 RESEARCH OUTPOST, MAIN LAB AREA
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): T'Mir contact Starfleet Command that Epsilon 2 is in possession of a.. 
DEREK: Don't move, Captain. 
They turn to face him. 
[END OF ACT 3, FADE OUT]
===Act 4===
FADE IN
INT-EPSILON 2 RESEARCH OUTPOST, MAIN LAB AREA
away team is being held at gunpoint by a scientist as their shocked by this, Captain Branson walks towards him. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Whoa, whoa, whoa. What is this? What's going on? 
DEREK: Remove your communicator and drop all your weapons now. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Listen, I don't know what you're trying to 
He fires the weapon and it shorts out a computer screen. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Okay, okay, relax. 
DEREK: Move. 
DR. ARONOV: Derek, what the hell are you doing? 
CAPT. BRANSON (whispering): Oh, of course it's a Derek. 
LTCMDR. KAL: Who is this man? 
DR. ARONOV: Derek Ashton, he's a lab technician. He's been here over a year. I don't understand this. Explain yourself. 
DEREK (to com): Doctor the Cardassian Union will like having this in their hands they'll be able to prep for an attack on the Federation, and they'll rule the Alpha Quadrant, Ashton to Cardassian vessel sending coordinates for the device to you now. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE
Lieutenant Sito looks at the ops console and reports.
LT. SITO: Commander, sensors are detecting something bearing 2-3-4 mark 2-2-9 it's a Cardassian warship Galor-Class. 
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Let's see it.
Transparent viewer shows the Cardassian warship approaching the Enterprise.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: How come we didn't detect them? 
LT. SITO: They must of been hiding behind the limb of Epsilon's Moon shielding them from our sensors. 
LT. KAYE: They're forward weapons arrays are powered up.
LTCMDR. T'MIR [tenses up]: RED ALERT, DEFLECTORS TO FULL POWER! 
Lights dimmed and klaxons are blaring. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE VARIOUS DECK [RED ALERT]
The crew heads to their battle stations.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
LT. SITO: All battle stations manned and ready Commander.
Then Lieutenant Kaye reports.
LT. KAYE: Ma'am two Cardassian shuttles are heading down to the surface. 
LTCMDR. T'MIR (to com): Captain, there are Cardassian soldiers heading down to you. 
Nothing over the com.
LTCMDR. T'MIR [to com]: Captain. 
CUT TO:
INT-EPSILON II RESEARCH OUTPOST MAIN LAB AREA
LTCMDR. T'MIR [com voice]: Captain. Do you read?
DR. ASHTON: Answer her. Tell her the Cardassians come in peace and to stand down all weapons. 
CAPT. BRANSON: They won't believe me. 
He grabs Commander Kal and holds the weapon at her neck. 
DR. ASHTON: Do it! 
CAPT. BRANSON: Alright, I'll do it. 
John tapped his combadge. 
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Branson to Enterprise.
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
CAPT. BRANSON (com voice): The Cardassians are here in peace
INT-EPSILON RESEARCH OUTPOST MAIN LAB AREA
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Uh They just came down for. 
COMM. SHELBY [to com]: The lab is having a pizza party and the Cardassians are invited. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
LTCMDR. T'MIR (to com): Did you say a pizza party? 
INT-EPSILON RESEARCH OUTPOST MAIN LAB AREA
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): It's for office birthdays. 
COMM. SHELBY: Lot of September birthdays down here. 
Lieutenant Mason gets behind him and subdues him and disarms him. 
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Jack, good work. 
LT. MASON: Thank you sir. 
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): T'Mir, the Cardassians are here to attack. Keep the weapons charged and the deflectors up until we can get to you. There is no pizza party. I repeat, there is no pizza party. 
LTCMDR. KAL: Doc we've got to get this device back to the Enterprise how do we do that? 
DR. ARONOV: Detach the main generator and grab the controller device. 
They get to work on disconnecting the device and take it with them.
EXT-EPSILON II SURFACE, DAY
Two Cardassian dropships land and Cardassian soldiers pile out of them. 
INT-EPSILON II RESEARCH OUTPOST MAIN AREA
People are running for their lives as the Cardassian troopers enter.
CARDASSIAN SOLDIER [Speaking Cardassian]: Find the device and kill the Starfleet officers. 
EXT-EPSILON SYSTEM, EPSILON II ORBIT
Enterprise face to face with a Cardassian vessel.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
LTCMDR. T'MIR (to com): Enterprise to Cardassian vessel break off your attack on the surface or we will respond in force. 
LT. SITO: They're charging weapons! 
EXT-EPSILON 2 ORBIT
The Cardassian vessel fires at the Ares hitting her forward and starboard deflectors making them flicker. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
WHUMPH!
WHUMPH!
LT. SITO: Deflectors are at two-thirds power. 
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Return fire evasive maneuvers.
EXT-EPSILON SYSTEM, EPSILON II ORBIT
Enterprise moves to port and fires her phasers at the Cardassian cruiser hitting her port and starboard deflectors.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
WHUMPH!
WHUMPH!
LT. SITO: Minor damage to their port and starboard deflectors.
WHUMPH! Showers of sparks erupts from the ceiling and MSD.
LT. SITO: Deflectors are down to 54%!
CUT TO:
INT-EPSILON TWO RESEARCH OUTPOST MAIN CORRIDOR 
A squadron of Cardassian soldiers, are having a fire fight with Captain Branson and his away team as he tries to get ahold of the Enterprise. 
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Enterprise come in, Enterprise do you read me? 
LTCMDR. CLARKSON: Still nothing? 
CAPT. BRANSON: No I think they're com system might of been hit we've got to get out of here and to a shuttle. 
DR. LEE: There's one in the main hanger bay. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Where. 
DR. ARONOV: Across the main corridor. 
LTCMDR. KAL: That's a wide open area for them to shoot us. 
CAPT. BRANSON: I'll laydown cover fire take the others to the hanger bay. 
LTCMDR. KAL (nods): Aye, sir. 
Captain Branson fires his phaser at the soldiers as their crossing to the otherside Doctor Lee is struck by a energy blot and falls down as Doctor Langford grabs her and drags her to the otherside as Captain Branson fires his phaser at the soldiers as he's firing at them taking five of the down and he rejoins the team as they carry Doctor Lee to the hanger. 
INT-EPSILON 2 RESEARCH OUTPOST HANGER BAY
The doors close and Captain Branson shoots the panel, they head to one of the Danbue-class runabouts.
CAPT. BRANSON: Come on.
They head to one of the Runabouts.
INT-RUNABOUT CANOPY
Doctor Langford takes Doctor Lee to the aft compartment to treat her injuries, as Captain Branson, Commander Kal are at the pilot and co-pilot stations as Commander Clarkson sits at the engineering station.
CAPT. BRANSON: We'll skip the pre-flight checks.
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
WHUMPH!
LT. SITO: Deflectors at half power and we've only managed to scratch their deflectors. 
WHUMPH!
LT. KAYE: Seems they've improved their deflectors.
WHUMPH!
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Seems like it.
WHUMPH! Sparks erupt from the ceiling.
LT. KAYE: Ma'am I think I might have an idea that can keep us out of their firing arc.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Proceed.
Lieutenant Kaye works at the helm station.
EXT-EPSILON SYSTEM, EPSILON II ORBIT
The Enterprise moves to port and starboard as the Cardassian vessel fires her disruptors.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Fire phasers.
EXT-SPACE
Enterprise flies towards the Cardassan vessel and then under the vessel and flips over, as the Enterprise unleashes a volley of phasers and photons punching through the vessel ventral deflectors disabling it.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Impressive shooting Mister Sheridan.
Then Lieutenant Sito reports.
LT. SITO: Commander, we're being hailed by the Captain he's onboard a runabout.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Open channel.
Lieutenant Sito inputs commands into the console.
CAPT. BRANSON [com voice]: Branson to Ares do you read
LTCMDR. T'MIR [to com]: Captain, we read you we've encountered a Cardassian battle cruiser.
CUT TO:
INT-EPSILON TWO SHUTTLE CANOPY
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Good. 
Unknown to them a Cardassian soldier is on the shuttle. 
CARDASSIAN SOLDIER: Give me the device. 
The landing party is shocked to see him. 
[END OF ACT FOUR, FADE OUT]
===Act 5===
FADE IN
INT-EPSILON TWO SHUTTLE CANOPY
The Cardassian soldier is holding them at disruptor point. 
CARDASSIAN SOLDIER: Give me the device, and perhaps I will not harm you. 
CAPT. BRANSON (quietly): All right, he's got a gun. But we have something better. 
COMM. SHELBY: What?
CAPT. BRANSON: Seat belts.
Captain Branson presses the emergency stop button. 
EXT-EPSILON TWO ORBIT
The shuttle stops. 
INT-EPSILON TWO SHUTTLE CANOPY
The Cardassian soldier hits the console and is knocked out cold as Lieutenant Mason kicks the disruptor pistol away from the fallen Cardassian soldier.
CAPT. BRANSON: Let's get back to the ship. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
LTCMDR.. T'MIR (to com): Shuttle bay prepare to receive shuttle. 
SHUTTLE CONTROL OFFICER [com voice]: Aye, Commander
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN SHUTTLE BAY [RED ALERT]
The Runabout lands as the away team heads to the doors.
LT. MASON: SECURE THAT CARDASSIAN!
The two guards go to the runabout.
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
Captain Branson, Lieutenant Commander Kal, Lieutenant Commander Clarkson and Commodore Shelby walk onto the bridge as Lieutenant Mason takes the tactical console.
CAPT. BRANSON: Report?
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Deflectors have failed and we've got a hull breach on deck seven.
CAPT. BRANSON: At least we're still here T'Mir that's all that counts.
LT. SITO: Sir, we're being hailed by the Cardassian vessel.
CAPT. BRANSON: On screen.
Transparent viewer shows the bridge of the Cardassian vessel. 
CAPT. BRANSON: This is Captain John Branson Captain of this vessel what do you want? 
CARDASSIAN GUL (viewer): Give us the device and we'll allow you to leave the system peacefully
DR. ARONOV: You mustn't give them the device Captain they'll use it as a weapon against the Federation, The Romulan Star Empire, or the Klingon Empire. 
LT. SITO: Or Bajor. 
Captain Branson tapped his combadge. 
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Bridge to Engineering Commander what's the status of warp? 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN ENGINEERING [RED ALERT]
LTCMDR. JAMES [to com]: We're working on it sir but the port nacelle took heavy damage. 
CAPT. BRANSON [com voice]: Keep me posted Branson out
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
Then Commodore Shelby turns to Doctor Aronov.
COMM. SHELBY: Dr. Aronov, can you preset the field to fire up at a specific intensity the moment the Cardassians activate it? 
DR. ARONOV: I think so, but why? 
COMM. SHELBY: And the field can accelerate time a hundred years. 
DR. ARONOV: Correct? Yes, it can. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Commodore what are you getting at?
COMM. SHELBY: About how long it takes a redwood to grow. 
John sees that he still has the seeds. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Sito, put him back on.
LT. SITO [nods]: Aye, sir.
CARDASSIAN GUL [viewer]: What will it be Branson?
CAPT. BRANSON: Alright, Commander you win we'll send over the time device to you via remote shuttle since you damaged our transporter systems. 
CARDASSIAN GUL [viewer]: Very well then Captain we'll be waiting but no tricks
CAPT. BRANSON: Agreed. 
Transmission ends. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Jane you've got the conn Commodore you're with me.
They enter the lift.
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN SHUTTLE BAY [RED ALERT]
Captain Branson and Commodore Shelby are with the device as he uses a hot glue gun. 
CAPT. BRANSON: State-of-the-art weaponry on this ship and we're using glue. 
COMM. SHELBY: My favorite part of being a fleet officer. The arts and crafts. 
CAPT. BRANSON: You know, if we had time, I'd make a macaroni man to put on here. 
COMM. SHELBY: You can make a macaroni man? 
CAPT. BRANSON: I make really good macaroni men. Alright, let's get her out of here. 
They put the device on the shuttle and leave the shuttle bay. 
EXT-SPACE
A class-8 shuttle approaches the Cardassian vessel.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
They walk onto the bridge.
LT. SITO: We're being hailed.
CAPT. BRANSON: On screen.
Transparent viewer shows the bridge of the Cardassian vessel.
CARDASSIAN GUL [viewer]: Send us the activation code now Captain or we'll destroy your ship
CAPT. BRANSON (re: PADD): The activation code is six, alpha, nine, three, seven, alpha, three, zero, zero. Happy Arbor Day end transmission. 
Channel closes. 
CUT TO:
INT-CARDASSIAN VESSEL VARIOUS DECKS
The tree grows and punches a hole through the ship and destroys it. 
EXT-SPACE
The Cardassian splits in two.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
LT. KAYE: What's Arbor Day? 
CAPT. BRANSON: It's the holiday where you plant the trees. 
LT. SITO: I wouldn't have got that. 
LTCMDR. KAL: Oh, yeah. No, I didn't get that, either. 
CAPT. BRANSON: You knew what Arbor Day was, right? 
COMM. SHELBY: I mean, actually, I had to think a second. Kind of confusing. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Nobody knows what Arbor Day is. 
LTCMDR. T'MIR: No. 
LT. MASON: Not really. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Good lord most of you live on Earth and you don't know what Arbor Day is? 
He turns to Shelby.
CAPT. BRANSON: What would you of said?
COMM. SHELBY: I would've said, "You got wood." 
(laughter) 
LT. KAYE: Yeah. Yes. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Yeah, that is better, isn't it? 
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Sir, sensors are detected a Federation convoy led by the U.S.S. Korolev.
Transparent viewer shows the U.S.S. Korolev.
LT. SITO: Commodore Branson is wondering if we need assistance.
CAPT. BRANSON: Inform him that we need it.
CUT TO:
EXT-SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
U.S.S. Enterprise is docked at the Federation Dockyards.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM
John is reviewing the status reports when the doors chimed.
CAPT. BRANSON: Come.
Doors opened as Commodore Shelby enters.
COMM. SHELBY: Hey.
CAPT. BRANSON: Hey.
COMM. SHELBY: I hope I'm not interrupting anything?
CAPT. BRANSON: Nah, I was just reviewing status reports.
ELIZABETH: That's great you should always stay on top of that.
JOHN: Look, I know being on here hasn't been good for you but it was great that you were onboard you bailed us out of a situation that would of seen this ship destroyed and her crew killed.
ELIZABETH [smiles]: Your welcome and if you need someone to talk to about anything don't hesitate to call. 
JOHN: Same to you. 
Elizabeth leaves the ready room as Kyle enters.
LTCMDR. CLARKSON: Permission to disembark sir. 
CAPT. BRANSON [smiles]: Granted, it was great seeing you buddy. 
LTCMDR. CLARKSON: Same here and stay out of trouble. 
They shook hands and Kyle leaves. 
EXT-SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
An establishing shot of the Ares docked at the Federation Dockyard.
[END OF ACT FIVE, FADE OUT, ENDING CREDITS]
==Cast==
===Starring===
*Jarvis Davidson as Captain John Branson
*Felecia Linkous as Lieutenant Commander Jane Kal
===Also Starring===
*Kevin Regan as Lieutenant Jack Mason
*Ferne Myers as Lieutenant Commander Courtney James
*Jacob Elliot as Doctor Peter Langford
*Sadie Brickhouse as Lieutenant Sito Jaxa
*Delena "Dee" Lusk as Lieutenant Jamie Kaye
*Becky Elliot as Lieutenant Commander T'Mir
===Guest Stars===
*TBA as Transporter Chief Kayla Mackenzie 
*TBA as Lieutenant Junior Grade Harris Payne
===Special Guest Stars===
*TBA as Commodore Elizabeth Shelby
*Ashley M. Kalfas as Captain Jessica Smith
*Jeremy Regan as Lieutenant Commander Kyle Clarkson
*Michael L. King as Commodore James Branson
*TBA as Doctor Aaron Aronov
*TBA as Dr. Janice Lee
*TBA as Dr. Derek Ashton
*TBA as Cardassian Gul
==Trivia Notes==
===Background Information===
*Inspired by Challengers Pilot expect John doesn't have severe PTSD from a past mission.
*Jean-Luc Picard is a Fleet Captain instead of going to the rank Admiral.
*Worf was reassigned to Deep Space Nine as the XO.