Lift Us Where Suffering Cannot Reach (TNG Novel)

Lift Us Where Suffering Cannot Reach is the 6th of Star Trek: The Next Generation TNG Season 1.
==Plot==
A threat to an idyllic planet reunites Captain Picard with the lost love of his life. To protect her and a scientific holy child from a conspiracy, Picard offers his help and is forced to face unresolved feelings of his past.
==Script Chapters==
===Teaser===
FADE IN
EXT-MAJALAN SYSTEM
The Enterprise is at impulse speed. 
CAPT. BRANSON'S (voice over): Captain's log, Stardate 53943.7. We have arrived at the Majalan system, a minor star cluster at the edge of Federation space
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE TURBO-LIFT CART
Captain Branson is heading to the bridge as his log continues. 
CAPT. BRANSON'S (voice over): Our mission today is a routine cartographic survey. I expect it will be a lot quieter, accompanying us is Fleet Captain Jean-Luc Picard who was in this system ten years ago he's here to help us incase we encounter the locals of this system 
The lift stops and the doors opened and Fleet Captain Picard enters. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Jean-Luc. 
FLEET CAPT. PICARD (smiles): John going to the bridge? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Yes, sir. 
He enters and the lift resumed its journey to the bridge. 
CAPT. BRANSON: It must be strange returning to this system after 10 years? 
FLEET CAPT. PICARD: Yeah it is strange but you know how it goes John when a pulsar nearly kills you, you tend not to forget. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Well with the newly enhanced deflectors you won't have to worry about any pulsars attempting to take our lives. 
FLEET CAPT. PICARD: That's good. 
John knows something is bothering his old friend but he doesn't pursue it the lift stops and the doors opened. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE
Its buzzing with life as the two Captains walk onto the bridge as the boatswain whistle sounds, then Lieutenant Mason reports.
LTJG. MASON: Captain, we're receiving a distress call from a non-Federation shuttle.
John turns to him.
CAPT. BRANSON: What's the nature of their distress call?
LTJG. MASON: They're under attack by an unknown vessel and are in urgent need of assistance.
Captain Branson sits in the Captain's chair as Commander Kal sits in the XO chair.
CAPT. BRANSON: Jamie alter our heading.
ENS. KAYE: Aye, sir.
Ensign Kaye inputs commands into the helm.
EXT-MAJALAN SYSTEM
A shuttle is fleeing from the larger vessel as its firing its weapons but it takes damage and the larger vessel fires four grapplers that latch onto the vessel, as the Enterprise approaches both vessel. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE
Transparent viewer shows this. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Jack hail them.
Lieutenant Mason inputs commands into the tactical console.
LTJG. MASON: Channel open sir.
CAPT. BRANSON: This is John Branson Captain of the Federation Starship USS Enterprise. You are committing an act of aggression. As the other vessel has appealed to us for help, I am obliged by both Federation law and my own conscience to intervene. I order you to stand down. 
The other vessel opens up on the Enterprise. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Damage? 
Lieutenant Mason checks his console and reports. 
LTJG. MASON: Negligible. Deflector integrity is only down .02%. 
Transparent viewer shows the vessel firing again. 
LTCMDR. KAL: They have to know that they can't harm us unless our deflectors were down? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Red Alert, evasive maneuvers. 
Red lights start flashing as the lights dimmed. 
ENS. KAYE: Aye, sir.
LTJG. MASON: Captain, they appear to be making an attack run at us. 
CAPT. BRANSON: It's the little dog with the most to prove. 
LTJG. MASON (confused): Sir? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Just an expression do you think you can take out their weapons without destroying them? 
LTJG. MASON: Yes, sir. 
Lieutenant Mason works on his console as Lieutenant T'Miir reports. 
LTJG. T'MIR: They are charging weapons again. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Fire. 
And just as Mason is about to fire the other vessel fires again. 
EXT-MAJALAN SYSTEM
The other vessel continues poking the Enterprise's deflectors as the Enterprise fires a single red phaser beam that struck the vessel's port side causing massive damage to it as it spins out of control. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT) 
Transparent viewer shows this. 
CAPT. BRANSON: I just asked for you to take out their weapons. 
LTJG. MASON: Apologies. Captain, I was trying to graze them, but they fired and changed course right into our weapons. 
ENS. KAYE: I think they've got the hint.
Transparent viewer shows the vessel spinning.
CAPT. BRANSON: Firing three times on a Starfleet ship. If it wasn't our business before, it is now. 
Then Lieutenant Mason reports. 
LTJG. MASON: Sir, shuttle is hailing us, requesting immediate evacuation. 
Lieutenant T'Mir reports. 
LTJG. T'MIR: Their life-support is failing. 
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Branson to transporter room chief prepare to beam them aboard let's go meet our guests Jane you've got the conn. 
Captain Branson and Fleet Captain Picard head to the turbo-lift. 
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Deck six. 
CUT TO:
INT-USS ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM
They enter the transporter room as the three Majalan passengers are beamed aboard as the third one caught the eyes of Captain Picard. 
ALORA (smiles): Lieutenant Picard. 
FLEET CAPT. PICARD(surprised): Alora? 
John turns to him. 
CAPT. BRANSON: You know her Captain or should I call you Lieutenant Picard? 
Both Pike and Alora are surprised to see each other.
[END OF TEASER, FADE OUT]
=====
CAPTAIN'S OATH:
CAPT. BRANSON'S [voice over]: Space. The final frontier. These are the voyages of the starship Enterprise. Its continuing mission: to explore strange new worlds to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no one has gone before
=====
Theme Song:
======
A shot of Starbase 1 and the USS Enterprise as she slowly departs from the base, as her warp engines powered up and leaps into warp.
======
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
A STAR TREK FAN FILM PRODUCTION
======
'BASED UPON STAR TREK CREATED BY:
GENE RODDENBERRY'''
=====
JARVIS DAVIDSON 
 AS
CAPT. JOHN BRANSON
The Enterprise flies by an asteroid
FELECIA LINKOUS
 AS
LTCMDR. JANE KAL
The Enterprise flies by Mars 
KEVIN REGAN
 AS
LTJG. JACK MASON
FERNE MYERS
 AS
LTCMDR. STEPHANIE WILLIAMS
USS Enterprise is flying next to a comet
DELENA "DEE" LUSK
 AS
ENS. JAMIE KAYE
JACOB ELLIOT
 AS
DR. PETER LANGFORD
The Enterprise flies under a Pioneer-Class vessel
SADIE BRICKHOUSE
 AS
ENS. SITO JAXA
The Enterprise flies by a planet as the sunsets 
BECKY ELLIOT
 AS
LTJG. T'MIR
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
EXT-MAJALAN SYSTEM, MAJALUS ORBIT
Enterprise is in orbit.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM
'[EPISODE NOTES: OPENING CREDITS FALL OVER OPENING CREDITS]
Picard is still awestruck at seeing Alora as John looks at him for answers. 
FLEET CAPT. PICARD: Alora and I met years ago. 
ALORA: He rescued me from another shuttle. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Well it seems that you have some very bad luck with shuttles there Alora, I'm John Branson Captain of this vessel and I'd like to welcome you three to Enterprise. 
Alora steps down from the transporter. 
ALORA: Or good, depending on how you look at it. 
Fleet Captain Picard is still acting like a young boy with his first crush, as John is remaining professional due to him being married and loyal to his marriage. 
FLEET CAPT. PICARD: Yeah well I-I'm glad that you're safe its been too long we should catch up. 
ALORA [smiles seductively]: I'd like that. 
CAPT. BRANSON [clears throat]: Allow me to us escort you to the briefing room for a full debrief.
Then a male Majalan chimes in. 
GAMAL: But first, I must insist you take us to your medical facility. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Yes of course Chief Mackenzie will escort you to our sickbay are you the boy's father? 
GAMAL: Strictly in a biological sense. 
Both Picard and Branson are confused by that as Gamal and his son are being escorted to sickbay by chief Mackenzie. 
EXT-MAJALAN SYSTEM, MAJALIS ORBIT
Enterprise is in orbit of the planet.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM
[The senior staff are around the table as Alora explains what they were doing.]
ALORA: First Servant is a very special child. A holy figure. Chosen at birth by lottery to embody our maxim: science, service, sacrifice. He's forsworn his own family because everyone on Majalis is his family. 
The senior staff are surprised by that as Fleet Captain Picard is also there. 
FLEET CAPT. PICARD: What were you doing on that moon before you were attacked? 
ALORA: On that moon is an ancient retreat for the First Servant's studies. Elder Gamal and I were returning him to Majalis when the ship attacked us and demanded we surrender the child. 
CAPT. BRANSON: And you have no idea why they attacked you? 
Alora thinks. 
ALORA: The closest inhabitable planet is occupied by descendants of a long-abandoned alien colony. Still, our two worlds have coexisted peacefully for centuries. I believe it is possible they were after a ransom. In two days, I will be overseeing the First Servant's ascension to the throne. It's a sacred ceremony. If outsiders knew about that, they would also know Majalis would pay anything for the child's safe return. 
LTCMDR. KAL: Captain I suggest that we send down a landing party to investigate the wreckage it might provide clues as to why they attacked and why they were determined to stop that shuttle. 
ALORA: An investigation won't be necessary. All I ask is you return us peacefully to Majalis. 
LTCMDR. KAL: An investigation is not only necessary, it is required. 
ALORA: Captain Branson. My people didn't join the Federation. We've always handled things for ourselves. Please, let us handle this. 
Captain Branson looks at her. 
CAPT. BRANSON: I'm sorry Alora but Starfleet regulations requires us to investigate any vessel that attacks us, with or without your cooperation, I'm afraid. 
LTJG. MASON: Might I suggest a well armed landing party the attackers could still be alive and armed. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Good plan Jack dismissed and Alora you can be taken to guest quarters Jamie see to it. 
Fleet Captain Picard chimes. 
FLEET CAPT. PICARD: That's not necessary John I'll take her to guest quarters. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Alright then. 
Captain Picard escorts Alora out of the ready room as Jane remains before she joins the landing party. 
LTCMDR. KAL: He is acting like a schoolboy with his first crush. 
CAPT. BRANSON: I know Jane but she knows something my gut is telling this but what I'm not sure good luck. 
Commander Kal leaves the ready room as John is confused why Captain Pike is acting like this. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE TURBO-LIFT CART
Picard and Alora are in the lift as Pike toggles the lever.
FLT CAPT. PICARD [to com]: Deck 8, guest quarters.
Lift starts moving.
JEAN-LUC: Its been ten years since I've seen you Alora. 
ALORA: And you've not forgotten about the good times we spent with each other? 
JEAN-LUC (smiles): No I haven't but John is right we have to investigate who attacked you and why they wanted the First Servant. 
She looks at him. 
ALORA: I know you are a Starfleet officer but you could of at least allow me to go with the landing party? 
JEAN-LUC: Whoever is after the first servant you three will be safer here on Enterprise. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE SICKBAY
Doctor Langford is scanning the First Servant's injuries. 
DR. LANGFORD: It's showing a slight reduction in cerebral blood flow. Consistent with head trauma. Next time the hull falls on you, try not to block it with your head. Deal. 
FIRST SERVANT: Do you have anything to eat? 
Chapel smiles. 
DR. LANGFORD: Does this look like a mess hall? 
Nurse Chapel gets a subdermal scalpel but Gamal stops her. 
GAMAL: Ah. Please keep that butcher's knife away from the First Servant. 
NURSE CHAPEL: Its a subdermal scalpel completely harmless. 
GAMAL: I know what it is. All I needed was for you to scan him, that's all. 
They look at each other when he extends his hand for the tricorder. 
GAMAL: May I? 
DR. LANGFORD: Its ok Christine. 
She hands him the tricorder. 
NURSE CHAPEL: Have at it. 
He scans his son. 
GAMAL: There. Just wanted to check that his quantum-bio implants are functioning. Thank you. 
NURSE CHAPEL: Quantum-bio implants? 
DR. LANGFORD: They didn't show up on my scan. 
GAMAL: Not surprising considering the state of this abattoir. 
DR. LANGFORD (annoyed): Excuse me this is a state-of the art medical facility you're lucky that I took an oath to heal your son or I would knock you on your ass! 
GAMAL: Maybe to you. In my clinic, healing begins at a subatomic level. It's true. My implants rebuild biological functions using quantum mechanics. 
NURSE CHAPEL: Impressive. 
DR. LANGFORD: I'd still like to keep him here for observation. So, in theory, your implants might re-align peptide bonds within any degraded protein? 
GAMAL: At the bare minimum. 
NURSE CHAPEL: If this is true, disease and suffering would be things of the past. 
GAMAL: On Majalis, we have a saying. "Let the tree that grows from the roots of sacrifice lift us where suffering cannot reach." We have no disease of any kind. 
EXT-PLANET SURFACE, MID-DAY
The vessel is banged up and fire plumps from where the phaser beam hit and the crash site. 
INT-MAJALAN VESSEL CORRIDOR (BATTLE DAMAGED)
Sparks rain down as lights are flickering and then sparks emit from a phaser cutting through the bulkhead as it falls down Lieutenant Mason and Ensign Sito enter wearing tactical vests as Jack has his type-3 particle rifle ready as he and Sito enter and exam the area Sito sees a computer terminal. 
LTJG. MASON: Don't touch it Lieutenant you don't know if it could be rigged to explode. 
Sito scans it.
ENS. SITO [re: Tricorder]: Nope we're not blowing up anytime soon. . They wiped their data banks. 
LTJG. MASON: Next time be more careful Lieutenant or you will blow us up, crash site is secure Commander. 
Both Commander Kal and Lieutenant T'Mir enter.
LTCMDR. KAL: Report?
ENS. SITO: They wipe their database clean of information. 
They look around the place as Commander Kal sees something. 
LTCMDR. KAL: What's this? 
T'Mir examines it. 
LTJG. T'MIR [re: tricorder]: looks like it goes to something I'll take it back to the ship for investigation. 
Then she sees a coin. 
LTCMDR. KAL: This looks like a coin of some sort. 
[END OF ACT 1, FADE OUT]
===Act 2===
FADE IN
EXT-MAJALAN SYSTEM, MAJALIS ORBIT
Enterprise is in orbit of Alora's world.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM
John is looking at the coin. 
LTCMDR. KAL: I found it while we were investigating the wreckage so far we found no sign of the attackers it looked like they beamed out but not before they wiped the database clean. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Ok so we have three Majalans one who is an old lover of Captain Pike's and a father and son who has to ascend to the throne or bad things happen to Majalis (sighs with frustration) This just keeps getting weirder and weirder. 
Then the doors chimed. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Come. 
Doors opened and Alora comes in along with Fleet Captain Picard. 
ALORA: Jean-Luc told me you found something? 
John looks at her. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Yeah we found this what is it? 
ALORA: An oath coin. Linnarean Guards are given one when they swear to protect the life of the First Servant. It's the highest of our military honors. Look. To deface a sacred symbol, it's forbidden. I have to entertain the possibility that one of our guards has betrayed his oath and joined forces with the alien colonists in trying to kidnap the First Servant. The boy is in great danger. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: You can all stay on the Enterprise for as long as you need. 
John and Jane look at each other then back at the two. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Uh, Jean-Luc we still have a survey to get to work on as well? 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: I know John. 
ALORA (smiles): I have duties on Majalis. Peaceful transition of power, it's the cornerstone of our society. Any disruption now would create widespread panic. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: Then I'll have armed guards escort you Alora. 
John crosses his arms. 
CAPT. BRANSON: My armed security force is not to be loaned out to someone I just met. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: Alora can you and the Commander give me a minute with John. 
The two girls leave as Jean-Luc looks at him. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: What's up John? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Oh let's see everything we came here to do a survey on a pulsar not play detective to a people who aren't apart of the Federation, let alone someone who I just met and you haven't seen in 10 years. 
JEAN-LUC: I understand that John but Starfleet regs compels us to assist people. 
JOHN: I am well aware of that Jean-Luc but I am also well aware that you are acting like a love sick schoolboy who hasn't seen his long lost love in 10 years. 
JEAN-LUC: Look John I understand that you don't trust her but I do. 
John paces about. 
JOHN: So we're just going to loan out my security force to her and hope they come back alive, Jean-Luc the Romulans making a comeback we've got an empire who's waking up and we don't need our high ranking officer playing Romeo with Juliet. 
JEAN-LUC: Then I'll beam down with her. 
JOHN: You are a high ranking officer under my protection till we get back to the nearest Starbase. 
JEAN-LUC: John I need to do this if there's away that we can avoid open war I am going to explore it. 
Jean-Luc leaves as John looks on. 
CUT TO:
EXT-MAJALIS SURFACE, DAY
An establishing shot of Majalis. 
INT-MAJALIS PALACE MAIN HALL
Both Captain Picard and Alora are walking down the stairs as her aide is laying out her schedule. 
AIDE: After your speech at the opening ceremony, you have the tree-planting at the sky garden, and then you have the Festival of Gratitude all evening. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD (surprised): That's quite a schedule. 
ALORA (smiles): See why I couldn't stay away? I need to add something to the agenda. Please bring in the guards. 
The aide leaves as Captain Picard turns to her. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: Ready to shake the tree and see what falls out? 
ALORA (nods): Am I here we go. 
She goes to see the guards as Captain Picard powers up his hand phaser. 
EXT-MAJALAN SYSTEM, MAJALIS ORBIT
Enterprise is above the planet.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE SICKBAY
Elder Gamal is packing some medical supplies as Lieutenant T'Mir walks over to him holding the device that the landing party found in the wreckage. 
LTJG. T'MIR: Elder Gamal, a word in private? Do you recognize this? 
Gamal looks at it. 
ELDER GAMAL: No. 
LTJG. T'MIR: My analysis indicates it is a kind of neural dampener, designed to reduce the brain's electrical activity. We found it in the wreckage of the ship. 
ELDER GAMAL: As I said I've never seen it before. 
LTJG. T'MIR: Based on its size, suggests your attackers may have intended to use it on the boy. 
Overhearing, the First Servant turns to Gamal and T'Mir. 
FIRST SERVANT: Can I see it? 
And Gamal hurriedly puts it back in the box. 
ELDER GAMAL: I'd rather you didn't. 
FIRST SERVANT: You must be the science officer. 
LTJG. T'MIR: I am. 
FIRST SERVANT: Do you know the speed of propagation of subspace radio signals in long-range communications? 
LTJG. T'MIR: I believe it is roughly 52,000 times the speed of light. 
FIRST SERVANT: Really? Wow, that's super slow. No wonder you have to use subspace relays. At those distances, the signals would degrade long before they were received, even when radially polarized. 
They look at each other as T'Mir raises an eyebrow. 
LTJG. T'MIR: I do not know many your age who grasp radial polarization. 
FIRST SERVANT: I'm interested in it because I thought it would be fun to have a friend across the galaxy. I once worked on my own subspace frequency. I bet I could generate one by rewiring this biobed. 
LTJG. T'MIR: That would be an impressive feat, though I do not think that my husband would be impressed by it. 
ELDER GAMAL: Pardon me, Lieutenant T'Mir but the First Servant needs his rest he has a big day ahead of him. 
LTJG. T'MIR: Of course your highness Elder Gamal. 
T'Mir leaves sickbay. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM
John is pacing about as the doors chimed.
CAPT. BRANSON: Come.
Doors opened and Commander Kal enters.
LTCMDR. KAL: What's up with you?
John turns to her.
CAPT. BRANSON: Captain Picard is down on the surface.
LTCMDR. KAL [surprised]: What?
CAPT. BRANSON: I tried to stop him but he said it would be in the best interest that he beams down to see what we can do to protect Alora and her world.
LTCMDR. KAL: Does he know that's a clear violation of the Prime Directive?
CAPT. BRANSON: I don't know if he cares or not it seems like this Alora has some sort of control on him that it's overriding his judgement.
LTCMDR. KAL: Then you can have him submit for a full bio-scan.
CAPT. BRANSON: I know but he's on the surface at the moment.
Commander Kal is worried.
INT-MAJALIS PALACE 
The Linnarean Guards are side by side as Alora addresses them. 
ALORA: It is the eve of the First Servant's ascension to the throne. In our most sacred time, it is important to remind ourselves of the sanctity of our calling, so I ask that you renew your vows. Present your coins. 
The Linnarean Guards kneel as Alora inspects their coins. 
ALORA: Will you uphold your covenant to Majalis and faithfully defend the life of the First Servant? You hold your oath, your bond, in your hand. Kier, the case is damaged. Your coin what happened? 
KIER: It's nothing. An accident. 
Kier sees Captain Picard observe. 
ALORA: May I take a closer look? 
KIER: As you wish. 
Kier pushes Alora aside, and uses his weapon to vaporize one of the other guards trying to stop him before fleeing. 
EXT-OUTSIDE THE PALACE
The other guards fire at him; as Picard prepares to follow them. 
ALORA: No this way. 
Alora shows Picard a different route, The guards pursue Kier into the gardens, and he is able to fight them off with relative ease. As he seems to escape his pursuers, however, he is tackled by Picard, who has cut ahead of him. As both rise, Kier moving to regain his weapon, Picard is faster and draws his phaser as it powers up. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: Its not on stun. 
Alora steps between Picard and the other guards as Picard keeps his phaser trained on Kier. 
ALORA: Kier, we just want to talk. 
Kier raises his hands in a submissive gesture. 
ALORA: Good, now why were on that ship? 
KIER: To fulfill my oath, and to renounce everything this floating hell stands for. 
He draws a knife and holds it to Alora's throat as Picard resumes having his phaser trained on Kier. 
KIER: Long live the First Servant. 
Just as Alora elbows him and tackles him to the ground, stabbing him with his own blade must to their own shock. 
EXT-MAJALIS ORBIT 
Enterprise flies above the surface. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE SICKBAY, SURGICAL BAY
Doctor Langford and his medical staff are working on treating Kier's wound.
EMH: His metabolic system is failing.
DR. LANGFORD: 10ccs of inapproveline.
The EMH gets the hypo and hands it to Langford who injects Kier with the meds.
EMH: His metabolic systems are stabilizing.
Captain Branson and Commander Kal enter sickbay.
CAPT. BRANSON: Report?
The EMH walks through the force field.
EMH: Doctor Langford is currently busy so I'll give it to you the blade missed his heart by 3 inches another inch and he would be a dead man right now, but thanks to Doctor M'Benga's encounter with a Majlan I was able to make sure that he lived.
CAPT. BRANSON: Will be well enough for questions?
EMH: I'm not sure his injures were serious.
CAPT. BRANSON: Doc it's important that he is well for questioning it's important.
EMH nods and Captain Branson walks over to the bay.
CAPT. BRANSON: I'm John Branson commanding officer of this vessel we're treating your injuries.
KIER: Please don't send me back to that floating hell hole.
CAPT. BRANSON: But it's your home.
KIER: No its a prison.
Both Captain Branson and Commander Kal are surprised.
INT-ALORA'S BEDROOM 
Jean-Luc and Alora are together as he's check her neck. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: Sure you don't want to get checked out by a doctor? 
ALORA: I'm fine Jean-Luc really, I just I knew him. Kier. For years. 
JEAN-LUC: He would've killed you Alora. 
ALORA: He almost did. That's exactly it. 
Jean-Luc sits next to her. 
JEAN-LUC: I mean, what if there are others who feel the same way he did? 
ALORA: That I thought I knew. I feel like there's no one I can trust. 
JEAN-LUC: I'm having John assign guards to protect you. 
ALORA: You don't have to do that. 
JEAN-LUC: I didn't save you from a pulsar just to let you get killed. 
ALORA (smiles): I meant you could come in with me instead. I have a confession to make. That first time we met I may have been hitting on you, just a little. 
JEAN-LUC: Oh, you definitely were. Got to admit it's pretty crazy we met again. It does seem unlikely. I did think about you every now and then. 
ALORA (smiles): Yeah, me too. I thought 
They kiss. 
(END OF ACT 2, FADE OUT)
===Act 3===
FADE IN
EXT-MAJALAN SYSTEM, MAJALIS ORBIT
The U.S.S. Harrison emerges from warp and parks next to the Enterprise.
INT-U.S.S. HARRISON TRANSPORTER ROOM
Captain Branson beams aboard as Captain Towe and Commander Clarkson greets him. 
CAPT. TOWE: Captain Branson welcome aboard the Harrison. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Its great to be aboard the Harrison haven't been onboard a Excelsior-Class vessel since my days on the California. 
LTCMDR. CLARKSON: Yeah you prefer those cruisers and frigates. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Kyle good to see you again man. 
CAPT. TOWE: So what do I owe the pleasure of your visit? 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. HARRISON MAIN ENGINEERING
Captain Branson shows them the device. 
CAPT. BRANSON: This was onboard the cruiser that attacked three Majalans and I am investigating why they were attacked. 
LTCMDR. CARVUS: Hmm this is something that could be used to have people fly a starship. 
CAPT. BRANSON: How long will it take for you guys to work on it? 
LTCMDR. CARVUS: Give me and my team a few hours. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Use a secure channel to inform me of it. 
LTCMDR. CARVUS: Aye, sir. 
Kyle looks at him. 
KYLE: You're not going to inform Fleet Captain Picard? 
John turns to him. 
JOHN: No he's been distracted by one of the Majalans a woman named Alora he met her 10 years ago when he was a Lieutenant, so if I bring it to him he'll want to ask her the questions so I am not going to do that. 
JAMIE: Wait he doesn't know that you contacted us does he? 
JOHN: Nope. 
Then the com activates.
LTCMDR. KAL [com voice]: Enterprise to Branson
John tapped his combadge.
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: Branson here.
LTCMDR. KAL [com voice]: Captain can you return to the Enterprise there's something that Sito has discovered that you may want to see 
CAPT. BRANSON [to com]: I'm on my way Jane.
He tapped his combadge twice to turn it off.
CAPT. BRANSON: Inform me of what you guys find out. 
He leaves to head back to the Enterprise. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE
The turbo-lift doors opened and Captain Branson walks onto the bridge as the boatswain whistle sounds off. 
CAPT. BRANSON: What do you have to show? 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: We're awaiting the other person. 
Then Fleet Captain Picard enters a bit pissed off. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: I beamed up. Someone want to explain to me why I had to hear this extremely urgent report in person? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Good enough for you to join us sir we found some information has come to light that we thought you might want to discuss without the risk of Minister Alora overhearing. 
FLEET CAPT. PICARD: And what could that possibly be? 
LTCMDR. KAL: Ensign?. 
ENS. SITO: We matched the language spoken by the kidnappers to a non-Federation colony. Prospect 7. (monitor shows the planet as Sito continues) That's an L-Class planet a couple light years away. Very barren, harsh climate. The colony is barely above a subsistence level. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: Yes, Alora told us about them. 
ENS. SITO: Here's the surprising part. This language has common roots with the dialect spoken on Majalis. Linguistically speaking, it's impossible. This colony isn't alien, Captain. It has to be an offshoot off Majalis. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD; What are you getting at? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Jean-Luc, these people are Majlans that left their world for no reason what so ever. 
LTCMDR. KAL: At the end of the day, we have to ask ourselves: why would anyone leave paradise for Prospect 7? 
CAPT. BRANSON: There has to be a reason. And if the colony is connected to Majalis, why would Elder Gamal and Minister Alora tell us otherwise? 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: Majalans aren't trusting of outsiders. That's how Alora and I met. Her shuttle failed. It led to an invitation to join the Federation. If that accident had never happened, I'm not sure our two peoples would have ever met. There must be a reasonable explanation for this. 
CAPT. BRANSON: If you think for one minute without mentioning your old girlfriend and focus on this? 
Then the com activates. 
DR. LANGFORD (com voice): Langford to bridge Elder Gamal just walked out with the First Servant. I couldn't stop them. They said they were going back to the planet
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM
CHIEF MACKENZIE: I am sorry sir but I can't beam anyone down without the Captain's permission. 
Then both Captain Branson and Lieutenant Mason enter. 
ELDER GAMAL: Ah, yes Captain thank god you're here I would like for you to have your transporter chief to beam us back to the surface. 
CAPT. BRANSON: We agreed that the First Servant was safer here. 
LTJG. MASON: If I could ask you to step down. 
ELDER GAMAL: I will have decline that request Lieutenant and I believe that you are incapable of protecting him. 
Suddenly, both Gamal and the First Servant are beamed off the ship. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Who gave you the order to beam them down? 
CHIEF MACKENZIE: It wasn't me sir. 
She checks her console read out and reports. 
CHIEF MACKENZIE: Someone else must have locked onto their signals while our deflectors were down. 
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Branson to Bridge Jane scan the area to see where the transporter signals went. 
LTCMDR. KAL (com voice): Reading one, Captain. A combat cruiser attempting to flee 
The Elder Gamal is returned to the ship as he looks for his son. 
ELDER GAMAL: Where's the First Servant? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Red Alert! 
Lights change to red as they leave the transporter room. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
They walk onto the bridge as Commander Kal vacates the chair. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Report? 
ENS. KAYE: The cruiser is attempting to flee. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Kara pursuit course. 
ENS. KAYE: Aye, sir. 
EXT-MAJALAN SYSTEM
The rogue Majalan vessel flies from the planet as the Enterprise gives chase. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
LTJG. T'MIR: Sensors are reading the First Servant's bio-signs onboard but their deflectors are preventing us from beaming him back. 
LTJG. MASON: Should I fire? 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: No your weapons will destroy the vessel. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Fire warning shots a cross their bow. 
LTJG. MASON: Aye, sir. 
EXT-MAJALAN SYSTEM
The Enterprise fires a spread of photons across the bow of the Majalan vessel. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
ENS. KAYE: They're still fleeing. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Remind them we're bigger then them Ty deploy tractor beam. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Aye, sir. 
Lieutenant Mitchell inputs commands into the console. 
EXT-MAJALAN SPACE 
The Enterprise locks onto the vessel with her tractor beam. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE [RED ALERT]
Transparent viewer shows this. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Got them. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Reel them in and standby to beam over a well armed boarding party. 
Then Lieutenant Mitchell reports. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Sir, they're going to warp anyway. 
ENS. KAYE: They really want to play tug of war with us. 
Transparent viewer shows the cruiser still attempting to go warp. 
WHUMPH! 
LTJG. MITCHELL: The stress is creating a catastrophic strain imbalance. I have to increase our structural integrity field. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Do it.
He works on his console to increase Enterprise's structural integrity fields as T'Mir reports. 
LTJG. T'MIR: If they still try to go to warp, it could destroy the cruiser. 
CAPT. BRANSON: We can't risk harming them. Disengage. Now, Mitchell. 
Lieutenant Mitchell works on his console but its too late the vessel was destroyed as everyone on the bridge is in utter shock. 
[END OF ACT 3, FADE OUT]
===Act 4===
FADE IN
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE
The bridge crew are standing at ease as Captain Branson and Fleet Captain Pike are standing in front of the transparent viewer. 
MINISTER ALORA (viewer): How could this of happened Jean-Luc? 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: It's an unimaginable loss. If the Federation can be of any assistance guiding your people through it... 
MINISTER ALORA (viewer): There's nothing to guide us through. It means our world is over
CAPT. BRANSON: Minister Alora on behalf of me and my crew I want to express my deepest condolence to the people of Majalan. 
MINISTER ALORA (viewer): Thank Captain Branson but that won't bring him back
FLT CAPT. PICARD: Alora, it's a tragedy, and I understand the symbolic significance, but 
MINISTER ALORA (viewer): You don't understand. If the First Servant doesn't ascend, Majalis will fall out of the sky. The surface of our planet is nothing but rivers of lava and lakes of acid. We'll be destroyed
FLT CAPT. PICARD: How can any of that rest on the fate of one child? 
The transmission ends. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: Damn it. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Should of let me handle it now how in the world was that kid able to be beamed off my ship? 
ENS. SITO: I think I can, Captain. 
She looks over at Elder Gamal. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM
Captain Branson is sitting behind his desk as Elder Gamal, Lieutenant Mason, and Ensign Sito. 
ELDER GAMAL: The girl is deluded. 
ENS. SITO: I am not. 
LTJG. MASON: She is just summarizing facts and drawing the logical conclusion. Isn't that right, Sito? 
ENS. SITO: Yes, sir thank you. 
John turns to her. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Walk me through it Sito. 
ENS. SITO: Alright, to beam someone off the Enterprise without us knowing about it, you'd have to lock on to that signal really fast. Which means you'd need full bio-patterns like the ones we keep on file in sickbay. So, I checked our records, and it turns out Elder Gamal accessed them right before he took the First Servant to the transporter room. 
ELDER GAMAL: I'm his doctor. I'm entitled to his medical records. 
ENS. SITO: Then why do a complete scan of yourself then? 
Gamal feels like he's back into a corner. 
CAPT. BRANSON: What aren't you telling us, Gamal? Now's the time. 
Then the com activates. 
LTJG. T'MIR (com voice): TMir to Branson Captain can you join me on deck seventeen I think there is something you should see
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): On my way T'Mir Mister Mason escort Elder Gamal to the brig. 
LTJG. MASON: Aye, sir. 
Elder Gamal leaves the ready room under escort. 
CUT TO:
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE DECK SEVENTEEN CORRIDOR
Lieutenant T'Mir is scanning the area with her tricorder when John shows up. 
LTJG. T'MIR: Ah Captain, the First Servant was a rather ingenious child, Captain. He devised a method of generating his own subspace channel on an unused frequency. I thought there might be some utility in monitoring it. 
John crosses his arms. 
CAPT. BRANSON: And I assume that's why you dragged me down here? 
LTJG. T'MIR: This is a distress signal from him. 
CAPT. BRANSON (confused): How? No one on that combat cruiser could of survived. 
LTJG. T'MIR: Perhaps he was never on that combat cruiser. I believe his kidnappers transported him to where the signal originates: here, on Enterprise. To be precise right here, Captain. 
They see the First Servant as John kneels down. 
JOHN: Its alright you're safe now. 
He helps him get out of the container. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Let's get you to sickbay to see Doctor Carlson. 
FIRST SERVANT: I need to get to the ascension. 
CAPT. BRANSON: They'll be plenty of time for that. 
FIRST SERVANT: No its starting right now I have to get to Majalis my people need me. 
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Bridge inform Minister Alora of some good news. 
CUT TO:
INT-MAJALAN PALACE, PLAZA
the ascension ceremony is in full swing, as cheering crowds greet the First Servant. Picard stands with Alora, witnessing it… but he has some pointed questions. 
ALORA: As the First Servant dedicates himself to Majalis, all of Majalis dedicates itself to him. It's, uh, it's beautiful. It wouldn't have happened without you, Jean-Luc. You saved us. 
JEAN-LUC (smiles): It wasn't just me it was the crew of the Enterprise and their quick thinking that saved you and your people but Y-you've not told me how the fate of this world rests on one boy. 
ALORA: It's complicated. Sacrosanct. 
JEAN-LUC: Or why Elder Gamal would kidnap his own son and put the fate of his planet at risk. 
ALORA: I can't speak to the motives of one. 
JEAN-LUC: Or why you failed to mention that the kidnapping plot started on a colony of your people: Prospect 7. 
Alora holds his hand. 
ALORA (smiles): We begin the procession. Rejoice. 
EXT-MAJALAN SYSTEM, MAJALIS ORBIT
Enterprise is next to the Harrison.
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE DECK NINE BRIG AREA, BRIG CELL NINE
Elder Gamal sits on the cot as Captain Branson enters he walks to the cell doors that has a force field. 
ELDER GAMAL: I shouldn't be in here. I'm not a Federation citizen. I've done nothing wrong. 
CAPT. BRANSON: You tampered with the Enterprise's transporter, using it to illegally transport a minor, whom you then hid on our ship. A violation of multiple Federation laws. 
Then Doctor Jona Feris chief medical officer from the USS Harrison enters holding the device, as he sees Captain Branson chatting with Gamal. 
ELDER GAMAL: I took my own child for his safety. 
Doctor Feris chimes in. 
DR. FERIS: Is that why your associates had a neural dampening device? 
ELDER GAMAL: Yes. 
CAPT. BRANSON: For his safety? 
ELDER GAMAL: Yes. 
DR. FERIS: What is its function? 
ELDER GAMAL (sighs): Its purpose is to make him unable to fulfil his duties as the First Servant. I want to talk to Captain Picard. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Fleet Captain Picard is on Majalis. with the First Servant, so I'm afraid you're stuck with me. 
ELDER GAMAL: You returned him. 
CAPT. BRANSON: It was the right thing to do. 
Gamal leans back on the wall sits on the cot. 
ELDER GAMAL: So it has begun? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Yeah by now yes. 
GAMAL: I was wrong. I deserve to be in here, Captain, I know that. I didn't just violate the law of my planet, I violated my own principles. My most deeply held beliefs. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Why? 
GAMAL: For him. For my son. It was unthinkable, and I-I just needed to save him. 
Both Captain Branson and Doctor Feris are confused as they look at him. 
CAPT. BRANSON: From what? What is so bad on that planet that you as a father who risk your own world's life for? 
GAMAL: Captain you're a father if I am not mistaken? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Yeah two girls both in Starfleet. 
GAMAL: What would you do to protect them? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Anything and everything I could do even if it meant my last breath so why would you do what you did to save your own son? 
He looks at him. 
CUT TO:
INT-MAJALAIS PALACE CORRIDOR
The First Servant proceeds through the crowd to the "Sacred Chamber" as both Picard and Alora are following them. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: Where are they taking him? 
ALORA: The Ascension Chamber. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: Are you sure I am allowed to see this? 
ALORA (smiles): Normally no but the Ruling Council has made an exception for you and you only. 
FIRST SERVANT: Come on Captain Pike I want you to see this. 
Jean-Luc follows him but unknown to them John is in disguise with a hood up as he follows them as well. 
INT-U.S.S. ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE
LTJG. MASON: I've tried everything but nothing seems to be cutting through the interference. 
LTCMDR. KAL: So the Captain and Fleet Captain are on their own. 
LTJG. MASON: Looks that way. 
[END OF ACT 4, FADE OUT]
===Act 5===
FADE IN
INT-MAJALAN ASCENSION CHAMBER
Picard stands in the background as they approach the throne, attached to a number of power generators within. Alora kneels before the First Servant. 
MINISTER ALORA: Do you freely offer this gift of self to the people of Majalis? 
FIRST SERVANT: With joy and gratitude, I do. 
MINISTER ALORA: Do you freely choose your fate? 
A pair of Linnarean Guards are carrying a bundle on a stretcher. 
FIRST SERVANT: With joy and gratitude I.... 
the First Servant sees the bundle being carried on a stretcher by the Linnarean Guards, and falters, Picard approaches but is barred by the two guards on both sides of him. 
MINISTER ALORA: It's alright he can see. 
They back off as Picard sees what it is and he's shocked by what he is looking at. 
FLT CAPT. PICARD: My god its a child. 
Jean-Luc tires to stop it but the two guards grab him but then their shot in the back by two blue energy blots, John removes his hood and cape and aims the particle rifle at Alora. 
CAPT. BRANSON: RELEASE HIM NOW! 
MINISTER ALORA: Captain you are in direct violation of Majalans sacred laws. 
CAPT. BRANSON: I don't give a damn about your laws I am exercising my right as a father of two kids of my own, and I would never act like this Minister. 
John shot the other two guards and then the weird looking chair as it powers down. 
MINISTER ALORA: NO! YOU JUST CONDEMNED MY PEOPLE TO A SLOW AND PAINFUL DEATH! 
CAPT. BRANSON: This isn't the way to live Alora you can join the Federation we'd help you find another planet to live on that's not a molten rock. 
John lowers his particle rifle and walks over to Alora and kneels next to her. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Alora your people have a wonderful home something I have never seen before it reminds me so much of my own home on Earth, I will talk to some of my friends in Starfleet to see if they can find a world that you and your people can live on. 
Jean-Luc walks over to Alora and she hugs him and cries as Chris comforts her. 
EXT-MAJALIS ORBIT
The Enterprise is in orbit as three colony ships emerge from warp. 
CAPT. BRANSON'S (voice over): Captain's Log Supplemental, Starfleet has sent three convoys of colony ships to evacuate the Majalans from Majalis I can only hope that they find a world to prosper on the right way 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE SICKBAY, DOCTOR LANGFORD'S OFFICE 
Doctor Langford is looking at a few medical files when Elder Gamal enters. 
GAMAL: I hope I am not interrupting anything? 
DR. LANGFORD: No, I am just working on a few medical information for the virus. 
GAMAL: Which is why I'm here. That hypothetical patient with cygnokemia his case stuck with me. I thought perhaps if I could take a look at the file, I could walk you through the theory behind the treatment. It's not a cure, but-But it could be the first step to one. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE GUEST QUARTERS
Picard looks out at Majalis as the doors chimed. 
JEAN-LUC: Come. 
Doors opened and John enters holding a bottle and two cups. 
JOHN: Hope I am not interrupting anything? 
JEAN-LUC (smiles): No just deep in thought. 
He walks over to the table and puts the bottle and two cups down. 
JEAN-LUC: Is that the bourbon I gave you for your wedding gift? 
JOHN: Yeah it is Jessica didn't care much for it so I brought it with me from home. 
He pours the liquid into the two cups and hands Jean-Luc the cup. 
JOHN: To the new future for Majalis. 
They drink the liquid. 
JEAN-LUC: How did you know that I needed back up? 
JOHN: Elder Gamal pleaded to my fatherly side so before the EM pulse went up I had Chief Mackenzie beam me down, and I knocked out one of the male guards and took his outfit and I had T'Mir reconfigure the particle rifle to flitter out the EM pulse just incase. 
JEAN-LUC: Impressive and thanks. 
JOHN: Anytime Jean-Luc. 
They continue drinking. 
EXT-SPACE
The Enterprise departs from planet orbit onto its next adventure. 
(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 Junior Grade Jack Mason
*Ferne Myers as Lieutenant Commander Stephanie Williams
*Jacob Elliot as Doctor Peter Langford
*Delena "Dee" Lusk as Ensign Jamie Kaye
*Sadie Brickhouse as Ensign Sito Jaxa
*Becky Elliot as Lieutenant Junior Grade T'Mir
===Guest Stars===
*TBA as Nurse Christine Chapel
*TBA as Transporter Chief Kayla Mackenzie
*TBA as Lieutenant Samuel Kirk
*TBA as Alora
===Special Guest Stars===
*Joshua Irwin as Fleet Captain Jean-Luc Picard
*TBA as First Servant
*TBA as Elder Gamal
==Trivia Notes==
===Background Information===