PICARD

RIKER

DATA

BEVERLY

DEANNA

GEORDI

WORF

LORE

ADMIRAL LLEWELLYN

ADMIRAL HAFTEL

SOONG (IMAGE)

TACTICAL OFFICER

COMPUTER VOICE

NURSE OGAWA

SPOT

ELANORE

COLONIST 1

COLONIST 2

VARIOUS SECURITY TEAMS

ENGINEERING PERSONNEL

USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE

DATA'S LAB

PICARD'S READY ROOM USS ENTERPRISE

BRIG WITH USS NOONIAN GUEST QUARTERS SOONG

SICKBAY

BEVERLY'S OFFICE

MAIN BRIDGE USS ENTERPRISE AND CORRIDOR SHUTTLE

ENGINEERING

MAIN SHUTTLEBAY

DATA'S QUARTERS

MAIN SHUTTLEBAY

SHUTTLE STARFIELD

OMICRON THETA - SCIENCE LAB 1 SPACE

OMICRON THETA - ROOM

BORG SHIP

PAKLED SHIP

~~~~~~~~

FADE IN:

INT. DATA'S LAB - DATA

Data has LORE'S HEAD on a workbench and is examining it. Various access panels on the head are open. Data is observing various circuits and wires.

EXPAND VIEW TO SHOW LORE'S OTHER PARTS in the compartment near Data.

ANGLE ON DATA

Data frowns as he sees something strange in Lore's head and takes a closer look.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM - PICARD AND DATA

Picard is standing with Data.

PICARD (questioning)

Repair him?

DATA

Yes sir. With the help of Geordi and

Dr. Crusher, I believe we can...

Rehabilitate him.

PICARD

Data..After everything Lore's done..

DATA

At the time, I deactivated him and agreed

to his disassembly because there was a

large degree of probability that he could

have escaped..and caused more damage..I

never intended to leave him disassembled.

PICARD

Data, your own father disassembled him

because it's just too dangerous for him

to be allowed to continue ..

DATA

(cuts in)

You stood up for me in court in an action

that resulted in my status as a life form

being legally recognised. Lore is a life

form also ..To leave him in pieces..to

never reassemble him..And never attempt

to rehabilitate him would be..to sentence

him to death for his crimes..(pause) If

he were a human..such an action would be

met with outrage..disgust and cries of

injustice.

Picard sees where this argument is leading and moves behind his desk.

PICARD

Enough Data. Your point has been made..

DATA

Dr. Crusher and Geordi will not assist

if you do not give me permission to

proceed..

PICARD

Before I give permission..I need your

assurance that there is no risk involved.

Every possible precaution must be taken..

Lore's actions have caused a lot of

destruction and grief..Brought death to

hundreds of innocent people..Almost killed

every person on this ship when we first

reassembled him..(beat) I must be certain

that will not happen again.

DATA

I cannot..guarantee that..Now or ever..

(pause) But..I must try to find out what

went wrong with him and hopefully repair

it..to help him..

Picard sits.

PICARD

How long do you need?

DATA

I cannot say at this time..

PICARD

I don't want prevarication, Data..If you

can't even predict how long it'll take to

complete your repairs..

DATA

But..

PICARD

No if's, buts..or maybes..We're not

going to start the whole vicious circle

that began with Lore's reassembly..(beat)

Five days, Data..That's what I'll give you

to come up with positive proof that there

is a chance Lore can be rehabilitated..

DATA

Thank you, sir and I hope it will prove

positive. There is still much about

Lore that remains a mystery..

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:

EXT. ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

PICARD (V.O.)

Captain's log, Stardate 47???.? Commander

Data is about to attempt the repair and

rehabilitation of his android brother Lore.

He has assured me that all possible

safety precautions have been taken and

that the risk of Lore escaping before he

can be rehabilitated is minimal..and on the

basis of that assurance I have allowed

him to proceed..

INT. DATA'S LAB

Data and Lore's heads are on the workbench about a meter and a half apart. Data's is on the right hand side and Lore's on the left. Geordi and Beverly are examining them.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. DATA'S LAB -BEVERLY

Beverly is looking into Lore's head.

BEVERLY

I'm reading some anomalies in Lore's

positronic net. (To Computer) Computer,

show the net configuration on the viewer.

EXPAND VIEW

Geordi and Beverly look at the viewer as it appears on screen.

GEORDI

Computer, magnify. Factor ten.

The image is magnified. The two observe and share looks.

BEVERLY

Lets dig further..See if there's anything

more..Before we jump the gun here.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

Picard is sitting behind his desk.

BEVERLY'S COM VOICE

Crusher to Picard.

PICARD

(keys insignia)

Picard here, Doctor.

INT. DATA'S LAB

BEVERLY

We may have the answer to what's causing

Lore's instability.

PICARD'S COM VOICE

Excellent, Doctor.

BEVERLY

Do you want us to transfer the...

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

PICARD

No. I'll meet you down there. Picard

out.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. DATA'S LAB-COMPUTER SCREEN

Two diagrams are on the screen, separated by a thick black line. On the right is Data's positronic structure and on the left Lore's. Data's positronic links are parallel whereas Lore's are twisted. Geordi points to Lore's diagram.

GEORDI

Do you see it?.. Most of his positronic

links are twisted.

Picard nods and examines the diagrams again.

PICARD

How could Lore's be so different to Data's?

BEVERLY

We think their positronic nets were

identical when constructed, but somewhere

along the line, somehow Lore's became

twisted..Whether..By accident or design..

We may never know.

PICARD

I see..(beat)..You think it's possible

this is the cause of Lore's erratic

behaviour?..That if you straighten out

his links..He'll become as stable as

Data?

GEORDI

There's gotta be more to it than that..

But..It's a definite start..It proves

what Data said..That there might be more

to it than just..Lore going crazy for no

good reason..(beat) We've finished our

comparisons of their hardware...As soon

as we reassemble Data and reactivate him..

We'll start comparing their software..

Picard nods.

PICARD

Keep me apprised - and be sure it's Data's

head you attach to his body.

Beverly and Geordi smile as Picard EXITS.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. DATA'S LAB

Beverly and Geordi are showing Data the diagrams of the two androids' positronic nets.

DATA

Mmm...This confirms my suspicions.

Data examines Lore's diagram carefully.

DATA

The damage is extensive and it may not be

repairable, but..

Beverly smiles.

BEVERLY

At least you're going to try. That's more

than a lot of people have been willing to do.

OGAWA'S COM VOICE

Dr. Crusher, report to Sickbay stat.

BEVERLY

(keys insignia)

What's the problem?

OGAWA'S COM VOICE

Lieutenant Hillary has gone into premature

labor. Her contractions are now five

minutes apart.

BEVERLY

On my way. Crusher out.

(to Data)

Good luck, Commander.

Data smiles.

DATA

Thank you, Doctor.

Beverly EXITS in a rush. Data turns around and begins repairs on Lore. Geordi watches him.

GEORDI

Data there's gotta be more to it than

twisted links...If it were that simple..

It's obvious your Father would've

spotted it when he disassembled him..

And would have rectified it then..

DATA

Yes..

GEORDI

We're going to have to go over his neural

nets and programming with a fine tooth

comb..(sigh) I don't think we can do it

all in just five days..(beat) Now we can

either go through the massive amount of

programs systematically..Or start making..

semi-educated guesses as to where his

programming might have failed..and

investigate those areas.

Data considers nodding.

DATA

Yes..That would seem the wisest course

of action considering the time we have.

GEORDI

Anything specific come to mind?

DATA

Something does..(beat) Perhaps Lore's

ethics program is malfunctioning.

Geordi considers.

GEORDI

Maybe he doesn't have one.

DATA

I find that supposition highly unlikely,

Geordi.

GEORDI

Think about it..Maybe Dr. Soong realized

he went wrong there and made sure he

instilled you with higher moral values..

and sense of ethical behaviour that he

didn't give Lore.

DATA

There is one way to find out..

Data attaches leads to Lore's head and then runs those cables to compatible link sight on computer and plugs them in. He then moves to the control panel and types in commands.

A few moments pass.

ANGLE ON SCREEN

A high speed scroll listing all of Lore's programming by numbers or name, or both flies up the screen.

Data watches it go by. Then it freezes and one program is highlighted.

DATA

I was correct. Lore does have an ethics

program.

He taps away and the information changes.

ANGLE ON SCREEN

A high speed scroll of the program in its base language appears. Data checks it out thoughtfully.

DATA

It is..(beat)Somewhat different..Subtle

differences have been made between his

program and mine..(pause) Mainly in

the wordage of the programming..Making

mine easier to comprehend than his..

Data taps away at computer.

DATA

I am now running a diagnostic.

ANGLE ON GEORDI

Geordi is chewing over what Data said about differences in wordage.

GEORDI

You don't think the differences..in it..

could be part of it..(beat)Are there cases

where his says this is not recommended

behaviour where yours says it's totally

unacceptable or outright wrong?

DATA

There are three cases where that is in

essence what the differences are..(beat)

In the case of..(pause) Geordi..According

to this diagnostic..the ethics program

has been blocked..(beat) and Lore's negative

emotions appear to have been (raises

voice with surprise) enhanced..

GEORDI

Blocked? Negative emotion enhanced? Why?..

How?

DATA

I do not know.

GEORDI

Can the program be reinstated?

Data checks the analysis.

DATA

I am attempting to do so now.

There is a pause. Data picks up a tool, activates it and

begins working inside Lore's head. There is a pause.

DATA

I have successfully reinstated Lore's

ethics program that should..negate the

enhanced negative emotions.

GEORDI

That's great!

Data smiles.

DATA

I am now attempting to straighten his

positronic links.

GEORDI

It's an extremely very delicate operation,

Data. If you make the slightest error, or a

wrong connection, you could damage Lore

permanently.. or even kill him..

Data nods and studies the computer screen and Lore's head. He picks up a small tool and begins working inside Lore. The panel Data is working on explodes and sparks fly. Data jerks back and the sparks die down.

GEORDI

Data!!

ANGLE IN LORE'S HEAD

Data quickly peers into Lore's head. A small electric charge is running along a wire. Data quickly activates the tool again and blocks off the charge.

DATA

It is all right now. The wires I was

attempting to repair on were too intricately

twisted.

GEORDI

The explosion?

Data looks at Geordi, serious.

DATA

(serious)

It almost killed him. There is one other

route I can try. If it does not work, I

will not be able to repair him...(beat)..

I have blocked off the offending wires.

Data tries again, being extremely cautious. He uses the tool in Lore's head, then looks at the computer.

ANGLE ON SCREEN

The diagram begins changing. The links begin untwisting. Geordi observes.

GEORDI

Hey..it's working!

Data looks at the screen and smiles slightly.

DATA

I am glad.., but to use a colloquialism..

'we still have a long way to go...'

DISSOLVE TO:

INT DATA'S LAB

Data is still straightening Lore's links.

GEORDI

I wish I could be of more help

(small half yawn) to you.

DATA

On the contrary. You have been a great

deal of help..and if my auditory sensors

do not deceive me, you sound tired. You

may leave if you wish. I can finish this

on my own.

GEORDI

As usual your ears don't deceive. I've

been up since the wee hours of the

morning. I'll come back tomorrow if you

need me.

Data smiles.

DATA

Thank you again for all your help.

Geordi smiles.

GEORDI

I hope it goes well.

Geordi EXITS, leaving Data alone, continuing to work on Lore.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. DATA'S LAB

DATA

(keys insignia)

Data to Picard. I have completed my

repairs on Lore.

SHOW LORE'S REASSEMBLED BODY LYING ON THE WORKBENCH

PICARD'S COM VOICE

And you're ready to reactivate him?

DATA

Yes, sir.

CUT TO:

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

PICARD

I'll have security join you..We don't

know how Lore will react.

CUT TO:

INT. DATA'S LAB

DATA

A wise precaution, Captain. I was going

to do it myself.

PICARD'S COM VOICE

You've fully repaired him?

DATA

Yes, sir. Lore should be stable now.

PICARD'S COM VOICE

Splendid. Picard out.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. DATA'S LAB

A security team armed with phasers stand around Lore's unconscious form. He is dressed in brown Starfleet attire. There are restraints around Lore's wrists, waist and legs. Beverly and Data stand near him. Beverly is holding a tricorder. She looks over to the computer at Lore's positronic net scan.

ANGLE ON SCREEN

Lore's links are parallel - a vast improvement. However a few remain twisted.

DATA

You will note, Doctor that few links

remain twisted. That is because the

degree of damage was so great that to

attempt to repair them could risk Lore's

life..I have isolated the offending

links, without damaging any others.

Beverly flips the tricorder open.

BEVERLY

If I may, Data?

DATA (nods)

Certainly, Doctor. Go ahead.

Beverly scans Lore.

BEVERLY

The readings have vastly improved since

I scanned him when he was first on the

Enterprise.

Beverly nods to Data. Data reactivates Lore.

ANGLE ON LORE

Lore slowly opens his eyes, blinks a few times, then begins to look at the people surrounding him. He becomes aware of the restraints, then sees the security team with phasers pointed at him, and is uneasy, then he sees Data and is utterly shocked. His eyes widen and he is terrified.

ANGLE ON DATA

Data frowns, puzzled at Lore's reaction.

DATA

Lore?...

Lore looks at Data, then looks around, frightened.

LORE (scared)

Where am I? Who are you people?

All are surprised at Lore's reaction. Beverly begins scanning Lore with the tricorder.

LORE

Who are you?...

Beverly frowns.

BEVERLY

Dr. Beverly Crusher. Surely you remember...

Lore frowns.

LORE

Crusher?...Where's Dr. Bais?

CRUSHER

Dr. Who?

DATA

(after a beat)

Dr Castimir Bais was the medical doctor on

Omicron Theta..(beat)..but...

CLOSE ON LORE

Lore looks around, sees no familiar surroundings. Frightened, he struggles against the restraints, but gets nowhere. He stops and looks around, particularly at the guards with phasers.

LORE (scared)

Where's my father?..(beat)..Why are they

pointing those phasers at me? I haven't

done anything wrong..(urgent) Where am I??

Data frowns.

DATA

You are on the Enterprise.

ANGLE ON LORE

Lore shakes is head slowly, indicating he hasn't the foggiest idea what Data's talking about. Lore looks up at them, looking like a lost child. Data and Beverly share surprised looks.

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

Picard is sitting at his desk with Data.

PICARD

If he isn't faking it..What do you think

caused the amnesia?

DATA

There was some damage that occurred when

I was forced to fire upon him. (beat) And

there was a overload of his positronic

net while I was repairing his links...

(beat-conceding tone) He might not be

acting..

PICARD (nods)

I want Counsellor Troi to examine him.

Hopefully she'll be able to determine

what's the truth and what's not.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. BRIG

Data and Deanna stand outside Lore's cell. Lore sits on the bench, watching them.

DEANNA

Why don't you start by telling me the

last thing you remember?

LORE

Talking with Doctor Soong, my Father.

DEANNA

(shaking head)

No..You're lying.

LORE (insists)

It's the truth...

DEANNA

I'm an empath..I can sense it..You

don't want to tell me the truth because

you're worried about what our reaction will

be to it..

Lore fidgets.

DEANNA

If you don't tell me the truth..It'll

only confirm our suspicions that you're

simply acting the part of an amnesiac.

LORE

I am not acting..

DEANNA

Then tell me the truth..

Lore shakes his head, agitated, clearly very upset.

DEANNA

(soothing-I want to help tone)

You must tell me..What happened, Lore?

Lore nods sadly, looking down.

LORE

(after a pause)

There..was an explosion in..one of the

labs..Elanore was there..Alone..She was

killed.. (pause-very upset) She was my

only friend on the colony..and..(pause)..I

saw her die.(beat)..It wasn't my fault..

DEANNA (gentle)

I know. I sense..no deception.

LORE (upset)

But they blamed me...They blamed me...

DEANNA

Who blamed you?

LORE (stands)

(screams almost in tears)

The Colonists! (pause..composes himself)

It's one of my jobs to check all scientific

equipment and to replace or repair faulty

units. I was checking the science labs.

Someone was in Lab 1. I checked the other

labs, then came back.. I heard an explosion

and...

CLOSE ON LORE

INT. LAB 1 - OMICRON THETA-DIM-PAN SLOWLY OVER LAB

Sparks fly from cables and broken machinery, all over the floor. Lore kicks in the door and rushes in, worried. He anxiously looks around. There are a clutter of things hitting the floor and a MUFFLED SCREAM. Lore spins and runs there. Elanore is trapped under some broken machinery, hurt and weak.

LORE (shocked)

He kneels, carefully lifting the heavy machinery and tosses it away. Elanore looks up at him gratefully.

LORE

I'll get Doctor Bais ...

She shakes her head weakly and reacts to agonizing pain.

ELANORE (weak)

It's..too late..for that...

LORE

No. I'll get Doctor -

Lore starts to stand. Elanore takes his arm.

ELANORE

Please.. I don't..want to ...die...alone..

That convinces Lore to stay and kneels beside her again.

ELANORE

Thank..you...

She gets distracted look for a moment then pats his face.

ELANORE

Now..You'll be..the one..who...is alone..

LORE (nods)

(after a pause)

Elanore, you're my only friend here..

(pause..extremely sincere) I love you.

ELANORE

(smiles warmly..very weak)

I ... love you too...

She reacts to pain again.

LORE

(extremely sincere)

Thank you.

Lore lifts gently her supporting her. She gives a rumbling little cough, and gives him a weak hug, then she dies in Lore's arms and goes limp.

LORE

(worried, upset)

Elanore?...(long pause..urgent)..Elan?

Elanore's eyes are closed and she is motionless. Lore shakes her gently, but nothing happens. He sets her down and checks for a pulse, but there is none. Tears begin to form in his eyes.

LORE

(howls in tears)

He looks at Elanore, in tears. Then gently removes her necklace. (Necklace is a golden chain with a brown sparking heart charm) Lore holds it in his hand, and closes it.

A few moments later, two colonists rush into the lab.

COLONIST 1

What the hell happened in here?

They see Lore cradling Elanore in his arms and stare. Lore looks up at them, very upset.

LORE

I heard an explosion, ran in and she was...

(pause)..

COLONIST 1

Was she...(beat)..dead when you got here?

LORE

No ... She was still...

COLONIST 2 (accusing)

Then why didn't you get Dr. Bais?

LORE

She wanted me to stay with her.

COLONIST 1 (accusing)

It's your fault.

Lore looks at him, hurt and in shock. He gently puts Elanore down and stands facing his accuser.

LORE

My fault?

COLONIST 1

It's your job to check the labs.

LORE

It wasn't my fault...I didn't kill her...

COLONIST 2 (accusing)

It was your fault that she died.

Lore shakes his head, very upset.

COLONIST 1 (accusing)

Of course it was your fault! If you'd

checked..the labs the way you were

supposed to this wouldn't've happened.

LORE (upset)

But...

COLONIST 2

Don't make excuses, android. Stop trying

to act as if you're human. You're not.

You're just a machine..you don't care..

you've got no feelings..no heart.

Lore is upset and hurt.

COLONIST 1

It's your fault. She died because of

your negligence..

LORE (screams)

He violently pushes past them and bolts out of the lab.

INT. BRIG

Lore is evidently trying extremely hard to keep from crying.

LORE (upset)

I didn't...It wasn't my fault....

DEANNA

(gently..comforting)

I know that..

DATA

I have no record of an Elanore Mayfield

being on the colony.

LORE

(regaining self composure)

She was there. She travelled to Omicron

Theta with my Father and his followers.

they all travelled under assumed names..

DATA (thoughtful)

I do not possess any of her memories.

Obviously the incident you mention

happened well before the Crystalline

Entity attacked.

LORE (frowns)

Crystalline Entity?.... What are you

talking about?

DATA

The Omicron Theta colony was destroyed by

the Crystalline Entity, lured there by..

LORE (shocked)

Destroyed?... But that's impossible.. I

was there yesterday...

DATA

No, you were not. The Colony was

destroyed in the year 2238.

LORE

(after a pause)

32 years ? days have passed..since my last

memory..but I can't remember anything else.

(beat)..You said it was lured to the colony.

Who lured it there?

DATA

(looking directly at Lore)

You did.

CLOSE ON LORE

Lore's eyes widen. He is totally shocked, then suspicious.

LORE

You accused me of lying to you...How do

I know you're not lying to me?

DEANNA

You're upset and frightened...

LORE (sarcastic)

Did your empathic powers tell you that?

Why shouldn't I be? I'm being trapped

here for a crime I don't even remember

committing - If I committed it in the

first place..I remember being upset and

angry at the colonists rejecting me,

but I can't believe I killed them all..

DATA

You collaborated with the entity that

did.

Deanna nods. Lore spins, paces back and forth. He then moves to the bench, sits heavily and stares at them. He looks around the cell and gives in. There's just too much proof that Data and Deanna are telling the truth.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

Picard and Deanna are standing together.

PICARD

What are you sensing from Lore?

DEANNA

Confusion...fear. We've just told him

that he's responsible for the deaths of

over 400 people. He's in a state of

shock, Captain. Imagine how you'd feel in

his position.

PICARD (nods)

Understandable...Apart from that...

DEANNA

He did..lie..but..that was to avoid talking

about a distressing incident..(pause) Other

than that. I sense absolutely no malevolence

or deception from him. The best way I can

describe him now is..like a lost child..(beat).

Lore's no longer dangerous to us, sir. There's

no need to him in the brig...I suggest he be

released..and confined to quarters..

PICARD (nods)

Agreed. We'll confine him to guest

quarters..But he'll be under close

supervision and there will be a guard

outside his quarters at all times.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. BRIG

Picard stands by Lore's cell and deactivates the forcefield.

LORE

You're letting me out?

PICARD (nods)

Counsellor Troi has observed you pose no

threat to us.

LORE (nods)

I know you say I committed those crimes..

but do you have any proof? Any computer

files I can look up..to jog my memory?

PICARD (nods)

You may have extremely limited access.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. GUEST QUARTERS-LORE AND DATA

Lore sits by the computer. Data stands near him, not too close

LORE (worried)

What's going to happen to me?... Will I

ever get my memories back?

DATA

Perhaps this will jog your memory..

(To computer) Computer, reference -

Omicron Theta.

COMPUTER VOICE

Working...(beat) The Omicron Theta colony

was destroyed by the Crystalline Entity

which stripped all life from the planet.

There were no survivors.

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

Picard is talking to Senior ADMIRAL HAL LLEWELLYN via subspace

LLEWELLYN

You say Data has reassembled and repaired

Lore.

PICARD

That is correct, Admiral.

LLEWELLYN

Lore was disassembled for the danger he

represented. Wouldn't it be hazardous to..

PICARD

I am well aware of the reasons for Lore's

disassembly. Data has assured me the risk

was minimal and he had eliminated the danger.

LLEWELLYN

The danger had already been eliminated.

PICARD

That's like curing a disease by killing the

patient..(beat)..There was no trial..And no

judgement handed down..Now..It's possible..

That Lore can be brought to trial..For his

crimes..To face what the courts hand down..

To just leave him in pieces would have been

to pass judgement and sentence him to virtual

death..And as I was reminded..We no longer

have the death penalty for crimes..Even those

Lore committed..or may have committed..

LLEWELLYN

I understand, Captain but if any danger

arises, If there is any chance he can escape

Before he can be brought to trial..Lore

must be deactivated again.

PICARD

I have already ordered Data to take that

action, sir.

LLEWELLYN

Good..(beat)..I want to visit the

Enterprise to view Data's results. I'm

currently at the Daystrom Institute on

Galor Four.

PICARD (nods)

We'll hold position pending your arrival.

LLEWELLYN (nods)

I'll arrive in ? hours, aboard the newly

commissioned science vessel, the USS Noonian

Soong.

PICARD (smiles)

Very appropriately named.

LLEWELLYN

I'd like to bring along the head of

Starfleet Research, Admiral Haftel.

Perhaps he can offer some insight.

Llewellyn out.

Llewellyn's face is replaced by the UFP insignia.

PICARD

Ohhh..yes..I'm sure Haftel will have

plenty to say...All of it bad..

INT. GUEST QUARTERS

Data and Lore are still by the computer.

LORE

I still can't remember anything..(pause)..

the Computer said there were no..survivors

on Omicron..

DATA

There was..one..Our Father. Dr Soong

escaped before the attack.

LORE

(relieved, grateful)

Where is he now?

DATA

He is dead now. I encountered him three

years ago..When he summoned me to his planet

and inadvertently summoned you. You were

upset that he was dying..But you stole a

chip, designed to give me emotions,

assaulting Dr. Soong in the process.

LORE

I'm sorry..(beat)..What the hell am I

saying?! I'm apologizing for something I

can't even remember doing!

Data looks at Lore, trying to imagine how all this must feel for him.

PICARD'S COM VOICE

Mr. Data, report to my Ready Room.

DATA

On my way, sir.

He leaves Lore by the Computer and EXITS.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

Picard is standing with Data.

PICARD

Admiral Hal Llewellyn contacted me concerning

Lore..he has ordered us to hold position,

pending his arrival. He'll be arriving

with Admiral Haftel.

DATA

No doubt interested in using Lore for research.

PICARD (nods)

Perhaps he will see differently this time..

DATA

(after a pause)

Do you believe I have made the right

choice sir..to repair Lore?

PICARD

We all make choices. It's part of being

human..(beat)..Sometimes we make the wrong

choices, that's also part of being human,

but what is more important is the wisdom to

know the difference and to try and rectify

our mistakes.

Data nods, considering as we:

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:

EXT. SPACE- USS NOONIAN SOONG WITH ENTERPRISE

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM - LLEWELLYN, HAFTEL, DATA AND PICARD

The Admirals and Data are seated in front of Picard. Llewellyn is studying monitor and then sits back.

LLEWELLYN

Well...It certainly..looks like a feasible

theory..But..what are the actual results of

these..repairs?

DATA

Lore is now 91% stable.

LLEWELLYN

What about the other 9%?

DATA

Some of his links were so intensely twisted

that to attempt to repair them could

jeopardize his life and I did not want to

risk that.

LLEWELLYN

Won't the existing instability increase

with time?..And you say he has lost him

memory?

DATA (nods)

He cannot remember anything after Omicron

Theta and the possibility of his instability

increasing is very slight.

LLEWELLYN

Nevertheless, it is still a possibility.

HAFTEL

With all due respect, Admiral, that's

beside the point.. Lore's a murderer.

INT. GUEST QUARTERS

Lore looks at the computer.

LORE

Computer, display a visual of the

Crystalline Entity.

ANGLE ON SCREEN

A spectacular picture of the Entity appears.

LORE (in awe)

It's beautiful... How could it...Computer,

show me a visual of Omicron Theta after

it attacked.

As seen in DataLore - desolate, no life... Lore is shocked.

LORE

But it was full of farms...and so...

green...The Entity destroyed everything?

COMPUTER VOICE

That is correct. No biological life

exists on Omicron Theta, but scientists

are considering terraforming the planet.

LORE

Data says I was with the Pakleds...and

the Borg..Show me what they look like.

A picture of a Pakled appears for a few seconds, then is replaced by a Borg. Lore observes, then shakes his head.

LORE

Computer, show me a picture of my father..

Dr. Soong.

ANGLE ON SCREEN

A picture of Dr. Soong appears, as he appeared in Brothers

LORE

Data said I met him when he was like

this..Boy did the years catch up with

him!

Lore suddenly stiffens, then relaxes. Images begin flashing through his head.

1] INT. ROOM OMICRON THETA

Kissing Elanore;

2] EXT. OMICRON THETA

Meeting the Crystal Entity;

3] INT. SICKBAY-ENTERPRISE

Waking up on the Enterprise, DataLore;

4] INT. CARGO ROOM THREE-ENTERPRISE

Being transported out;

5] EXT. SPACE-STARFEILD

The blackness of outer space;

6] INT. PAKLED VESSEL

Waking up on the Pakled ship, surrounded by Pakleds;

7] INT. SOONG'S LAB-BROTHERS

Dr. Soong as the old man; then

8] Throwing Soong across the room;

9] EXT. SPACE-BORG SHIP

Lore coming into contact with the Borg;

10] INT. BORG BUILDING-DESCENT II

Lore about to shoot Data and being pushed out of the way by Hugh;

11] INT. LORE'S ROOM-DESCENT II

Data blasting Lore - final image.

INT. GUEST QUARTERS-NOW

ANGLE ON LORE

He closes his eyes for a few moments, then opens them slowly.

LORE (soft)

I remember now...

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

The Admirals, Data and Picard are still discussing Lore.

HAFTEL

Lore killed over 400 people on Omicron

Theta..(beat) and attempted to murder

everyone on the Enterprise, and countless

others lost their lives, slaughtered at

the hands of the Borg it lead. That

android should have stayed disassembled.

Lore has proven over and over again that

it can't be trusted..That it's nothing

more than a cold blooded murderer. Where

is it?

PICARD

He has been confined to quarters. Counsellor

Troi observed that he was not a threat.

HAFTEL (sarcastic)

Well he should be in the brig. I presume

the android hasn't got any memories back

yet..

Picard nods.

HAFTEL

I want to see Lore now, if I may.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. GUEST QUARTERS

Lore is pacing around. The door begins to open. Lore stops and waits. Picard, Data Haftel and Llewellyn, ENTER. Lore looks at them.

HAFTEL

It should be in the brig.

Lore notices Haftel's reference to him as 'it' and frowns.

LORE

(to Data)

They've come to disassemble me again,

haven't they?

DATA

You remember?...

LORE

Yes...I remember everything..I may as well

tell the truth, since that Betazoid

counsellor of yours can tell if I don't.

HAFTEL

(instantly keys insignia)

Haftel to security..

Lore looks at him.

LORE

Is that really necessary? Just because

I've got my memories back, doesn't mean

I'm going to kill you all.

HAFTEL

You proved that time and time again..

All you're capable of is violence, cruelty

and death.

LORE

I know it was wrong to kill all those

people and I regret it..

HAFTEL

You expect us to believe that?..You're

... you're bad to the bone...

LORE

No I'm not.

HAFTEL

Oh yes you are...

LORE

I haven't got any bone.

Haftel glares at Lore.

DATA

I reinstated Lore's ethics program, sir.

He is telling the truth in that he feels

remorse for what he did.

HAFTEL

Still..it's not going to bring all those

people back..You're a murderer, Lore.

Nothing will ever change that..(shakes

head)..How could you kill all those

people?...

LORE

The colonists rejected me because I was

an android. They didn't believe I was

sentient (upset) or that I had feelings..

I tried everything to be accepted. The

only friend I had was Elanore. She accepted

me for who and what I was. She was the

only one besides my Father who didn't treat

me like a thing..but she...

DATA

She died..

LORE

(nods sadly)

I didn't have any other friends. I tried

to make friends with the others (shakes

head) they didn't want my friendship.

Gradually the pain turned into anger..and resentment. Eventually I lost control.

LLEWELLYN

And that's how you became unstable -

because you couldn't control your

emotions?

LORE (nods)

That's probably why I don't like humans

very much..No offense..(beat)..I wanted

to leave the colony, feeling that I was

better than the colonists and didn't need

them. They couldn't do half the things I

could, but I still wanted a friend..

HAFTEL

I don't care how you became unstable.

Your personal grievances have nothing to

do with me.

LORE

You've got no idea, have you? How hard

my life was..How much they hurt me..I was

never given a chance.

HAFTEL (sarcastic)

Neither were the people slaughtered by

the Borg you lead. Or the colonists

killed by the entity you collaborated

with on Omicron Theta..

LORE

(ignoring Haftel's

sarcasm)

I met the Crystal Entity on the planet.

It told me what it was and what it did..I

found myself wanting it to absorb the

colonists, but I knew that killing was

wrong. I couldn't let it kill all those

people.

HAFTEL (accusing)

But you did.

LORE (nods)

I wrestled with my conscience and found

myself giving in to it, although I didn't

want to..and then I ...

DATA

You blocked off your ethics program..

LORE (nods)

Yes..

HAFTEL

Then you tried the same thing with the

Enterprise..almost killing more than

double the number of people on Omicron

Theta..

Lore is about to say something, but Haftel won't let him.

HAFTEL

And hundreds more people lost their lives

at the hands of the Borg you altered.

LORE (sarcastic)

If I may be allowed to speak, please?

Picard nods.

LORE

Two years after my second encounter with

Data, I came across a Borg vessel. I knew

of them because I accessed Data's memories.

I was about to leave in a hurry, then

scanned the vessel. It was inoperative. I

beamed aboard and saw Borg everywhere..

dysfunctional..distraught..terrified..

LLEWELLYN

What did you do?

LORE

I must admit..I felt a touch sorry for

them. Obviously they needed me and

I wanted to help them. The Pakleds begged

me not to leave, but they could survive on

their own. They're not as dumb as they seem.

The Borg are more like me than they were.

(smirk) If you've ever met the Pakleds..You'd

know how impossible it is to have intellectual

stimulating conversations with them. (mimics)

We look for things to make us go...(smirks)

They stopped saying that after I gave them

laxatives..

PICARD

(ignoring Lore's smug comment)

And then you taught the Borg how to kill.

You changed them.

LORE

They already knew that, Captain..I won't

deny changing them..(beat)..They were

angry..It was total chaos when I found

them. I just organized the chaos and

let them do their own thing. I didn't

order them to kill. They wanted to, so

they did.

PICARD

The Borg did not see themselves as evil

before, nor did they kill or destroy

without their reasons.

LORE

You started it by sending Hugh back,

Captain. Everyone else saw them as evil.. Assimilating the Federation would've

destroyed it anyway. Even if they didn't

see it that way. Look - I'm not here to

justify my actions or to prove that I'm

innocent. I'm not (beat) I regret what I've

done and if that's not enough - too bad..

anyway..all that time I was unstable..I

wasn't in my right mind.

HAFTEL

And you think that makes it all right?

(disdainful 'hmph') You make me sick..

LORE (smiles)

Well thank you. I try my best.

Haftel glares at Lore and EXITS. The others follow. Lore stays.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. SICKBAY - NIGHT SHIFT

Beverly, PADD in hand, is looking over some scans. She makes a few notations on the PADD then deactivates monitor and heads for her office.

INT. BEVERLY'S OFFICE - ANGLE ON DOOR

Beverly ENTERS, then stops dead.

BEVERLY

What the hell do you think you're doing?

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

Picard is with the two Admirals and Data.

HAFTEL

Lore is an evil (Blah, blah, rave, rave..)

LLEWELLYN

Just because he's evil, doesn't make him not

sentient. He clearly regrets what he's done

and wants a second chance.

HAFTEL

Well I think..

LLEWELLYN

I know what you think..

OGAWA'S COM VOICE

(urgent)

Sickbay to Captain Picard.

Picard taps insignia, holding up a hand, silencing the Admirals.

PICARD

Picard here, go ahead.

OGAWA'S COM VOICE

Dr Crusher has been attacked..In her

office. Her condition is critical.

Picard is shocked.

PICARD

What happened?!..

OGAWA'S COM VOICE

I don't know..I didn't hear anything..

I came into her office to discuss a

patient and found her....

CUT TO:

INT. SICKBAY

Beverly lies on a biobed, unconscious, looking extremely bad. Cuts, bruises, etc... Ogawa is examining her.

PICARD'S COM VOICE

Will she survive?

Ogawa scans Beverly with the tricorder.

OGAWA

Unknown, sir.

CUT TO:

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

Picard is worried.

PICARD

Thank you, Nurse. Keep me informed. Picard

out.

HAFTEL

I told you that android couldn't be trusted

and now it's killed another innocent person..

How many more...?

PICARD (sighs)

And I regret not listening to you, Admiral.

(keys insignia) Picard to security..

CUT TO:

INT. GUEST QUARTERS-LORE

Lore is pacing around the room. The doors open. Worf and a Security Team rush in with phasers. Lore is alarmed.

WORF

You will come with us.

LORE

What for?

WORF

For the attempted murder of Doctor Crusher.

Lore shakes his head.

LORE

I don't know what you're talking about..

I didn't...

Worf points the phaser in a very threatening manner. Lore decides to obey and lets the guards lead him to the brig.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

Picard is standing with the Admirals and Data.

WORF'S COM VOICE

Sir, I have arrested Lore. He is in the brig.

PICARD

(keys insignia)

Acknowledged.

Llewellyn turns to Data.

LLEWELLYN

Clearly your brother has become unstable

again.

Data nods, but looks upset.

DATA

But I was so sure that his instability would

not increase..and that..

LLEWELLYN (understanding)

We all make mistakes, Data, but ..(beat)..

I'm afraid Lore has to be disassembled again

- immediately.

CLOSE ON DATA

His expression shows that he doesn't want to obey the order, but knows it's necessary.

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:

INT. BRIG

Lore is sitting on the bed. Data, Picard, Deanna, Haftel and LLewellyn stand outside the cell.

LORE (scared)

Don't let them take me apart, Data...

DATA

In the past..you have lied to me..

betrayed me..used and abused me ..and

I will not let it happen again.

LORE (shakes head)

I didn't do it...I didn't hurt her...I

wasn't there..

DATA

I do not care how sincere you sound.

The evidence is against you..You are

not getting away it this time..

DEANNA

Data, he's telling the truth..I'm not sensing

any deception, All I sense is..Fear..

HAFTEL

Of course. We've found him out and we're

going to take him apart for it..You

sensed no deception before, and look what's

happened.

PICARD

I agree. Dr. Crusher's dying..it's too

great a risk to chance it again.

LORE

I swear. I didn't touch her. She was

attacked in Sickbay. I was in my quarters

when it happened..Under guard..So how did

I get out..unnoticed?

PICARD

We'll find out..You can count on it.

OGAWA'S COM VOICE

Ogawa to Picard. Dr. Crusher's vital

signs are stabilizing.

PICARD

(keys insignia..relieved)

Splendid, Nurse Ogawa..Is she well enough

to make a report?

OGAWA'S COM VOICE

Not yet, sir. She still hasn't regained

consciousness.

HAFTEL

Excuse me. I have some business to attend to.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. BRIDGE

Data and Picard are by the Aft stations.

DATA

Computer, where was Lore at ? (time)

COMPUTER VOICE

Lore was located in Sickbay at that time.

INT. CORRIDOR

Admiral Haftel is walking briskly down the corridor.

INT. BRIDGE

Data is tapping away at the console. He then stops and frowns.

DATA

Captain..I am getting a strange reading..

from Lore's quarters..before, during and

just after the attack on Dr. Crusher.

All the lights on the Bridge go dim and the consoles blank.

DATA

We have a ship wide power failure.

PICARD

Cause?

DATA

Unknown.

INT. BRIG - DIM

Due to the power failure, the forcefield to Lore's cell is deactivated. Lore darts out of the cell. The guard tries to stop him, but Lore gives him the nerve pinch. The guard falls to the floor. Lore takes his phaser and runs to the door, forces it open and darts out of the brig.

INT. SICKBAY - DARK, BARELY VISIBLE

The doors open. Someone enters. DO NOT SHOW PERSON.

BEVERLY'S VOICE (weak)

Who's there?

The person approaches her. Beverly sees him and her eyes widen. She grasps for her combadge, but the person grabs roughly it and throws it to the floor. He reaches for her throat. The doors to Sickbay open again.

HAFTEL'S VOICE

(from entrance)

Computer, restore ship's power.

Sickbay is instantly illuminated.

OTHER ANGLE

Admiral Haftel is strangling Beverly.

ANGLE AT ENTRANCE

Lore is standing there, holding a phaser. He shoots Haftel. Beverly holds her throat, gasping. Lore approaches her.

LORE

Are you all right?

Beverly nods, regaining her composure.

A few moments later, Worf and a security team rush in armed with phasers. They aim them at Lore. Beverly shakes her head and points to Haftel, lying on the floor.

BEVERLY

He tried to kill me..Lore saved my life.

Everyone is dumbfounded.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. SICKBAY

Data is with Lore and Picard.

PICARD

It appears we misjudged you, Lore. I

apologize.

LORE

I told you I didn't do it.

Lore looks over to Beverly and smiles. She smiles back at him. Nurse Ogawa is with herm scanning her.

OGAWA

She's going to be fine, Captain.

Picard smiles.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. BRIG

Haftel is in the cell, standing before Picard, LLewellyn, Data and Lore. Picard looks at Haftel with pure disgust.

PICARD (disgusted)

You would go so far as to kill an innocent

person to frame him.

LORE

(equal disgust)

You rotten bastard...You tried to set me

up..and did it when the guards outside my

quarters were changing shifts..

HAFTEL

I only wish it had worked..

LORE

Be grateful you're alive, Haftel. I had

the phaser set on stun, (sarcastic smile)

Thanks to my new reinstated ethics program..

HAFTEL

(pointing at Lore)

That is pure evil, Picard.

PICARD

That, Admiral, is a sentient being, and if

I'm not mistaken you just committed the

very crime you've been accusing Lore of all

along..You'd resort to murder to get your

way..To get your hands on Lore so that

you can disassemble him and study him...

HAFTEL

Data's prototype should be studied..

DATA

It is a misconception that Lore is my

prototype. Dr. Soong tried to construct

androids before Lore and I. He failed,

hence his nickname, 'Often Wrong Soong'

Those androids were the prototypes.

HAFTEL

But Lore was constructed first...

DATA

Yes, he was made first, but when there

are two twins, is the first the prototype?

Haftel looks at Data; obviously Data has made his point.

Llewellyn glares at Haftel.

LLEWELLYN

You are to be Court Martialled for the

attempted murder of Dr. Beverly Crusher,

falsifying computer information, shutting

down power to the Enterprise and lying to

prove an innocent man guilty.

HAFTEL

But my career in Starfleet will be over..

LLEWELLYN

You should've considered that before. Your

punishment will be up to Starfleet Command

and I'm sure they won't take it lightly.

LORE

Maybe they should disassemble it.

Haftel glares at Lore. Lore smiles smugly.

HAFTEL

I stand by my belief that the android

should be..

LLEWELLYN

Shut up, Haftel. You're a disgrace

to Starfleet...(pause)...Captain..if I may

speak with you and Data alone..

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

LLewellyn sits with Data and Picard, discussing Lore.

LLEWELLYN

Data..(beat)..I agree Lore's 91% stability

is well within safety parameters, but I fear

the 9% instability will increase with time.

DATA

I have computed that possibility, sir, and

it is almost impossible. I have isolated

the unstable links.

INT. ENGINEERING

Lore walks into Engineering, looking around. He sees Geordi by a computer station and approaches him. Geordi looks up, then looks Lore up and down.

GEORDI

Hi, Data. Where's your uniform?

LORE

It's dirty. I'm washing it.

GEORDI (nervous)

Lore...What do you want?...

LORE

Nothing much..(pause)..Well..(beat)..I

came to apologize...for using you..with

the Borg.

GEORDI (surprised)

Apologize?

LORE

I realize it was wrong..Don't ask me why I

did it..I know I caused you a lot of pain

and I'm sorry.

GEORDI

You wouldn't believe the headache I had

after that.

LORE

I'm sorry..

Geordi nods.

LORE

Mind if I take a look around?

GEORDI

Just don't get in the way, or touch anything.

Lore nods. A series of WARNING BEEPS are heard from the computer terminal on the far side of Engineering.

GEORDI

(to Lore)

Excuse me.

He goes to check it with other Engineering personnel. Lore watches them, then casually looks around, seeing no one watching him, he enters a sequence into the computer.

He smiles to himself then quietly leaves.

INT. PICARD'S READY ROOM

Data, Picard and LLewellyn are still discussing Lore's instability. Llewellyn shakes his head.

LLEWELLYN

I'm afraid I'm going to have to order you

to disassemble Lore...I know he saved Dr.

Crusher's life..I don't particularly want

to take him apart..It's clear regrets what

he did. and he deserves a second chance..but..

DATA (cuts in)

I understand your concerns, Admiral, but,

I do not believe there is any danger.

LLEWELLYN

And I trust your judgement, Commander. I'm

acting with the best interests of Starfleet

and the Federation. (pause) And your brother..

It's too soon to expect people to forgive and

forget..If there were a trial..now..I'm quite

sure the sentence handed down would

be..permanent disassembly

DATA

I understand your concerns, sir, and I

will obey your order - under protest.

LLEWELLYN

Noted. Lore is to be disassembled, but not

for research purposes. I'll be leaving now,

Captain.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. DATA'S QUARTERS

Lore is pacing around, holding Spot. Spot is PURRING. The doors open and Data ENTERS. He sees Lore holding Spot. Lore is slightly embarrassed and walks over to greet Data.

LORE

Uhh..nice cat you got here. What's his

name?

DATA

Spot.

LORE

That's a dogs name...Anyway, he reminds

me of a cat we had of the colony called

Selena.

DATA

A dog's name? (beat) To change the subject, Lore..What are you doing in my quarters?

LORE

I came to ask you how it went. You

weren't here, so I waited...and (pause)..

also.. I just wanted to say..(pause)..I'm

sorry..

DATA

Do you wish to make amends?

LORE (nods)

Yes..but..how?

DATA

I do not know. You will have to do that

yourself.

LORE

I know I can't undo what I've done. I

wish I could, but...(shakes head)...I

can't.

DATA

You have already made a start by saying

you are sorry.

LORE

It's not enough. It won't bring those

people back.

DATA

That is true, but at least it is a start

that you regret what you have done.

LORE

I never thought I'd say this, but..(beat)..

Thanks.

DATA (smiles)

It is all right, Lore.

LORE

No, I really mean it..I mean I've...always

wanted this...to be fixed..

DATA

I know. I am sorry you had to be

disassembled, but..

LORE

I don't blame you for deactivating me...At

the time I was..scared..and angry, but I

understand now...and I'm sorry for what

I did...Lying to you..betraying you..

stealing your chip..using you with the Borg..

and everything else...

DATA

You are asking for forgiveness?

LORE

(shakes head)

I don't expect you to forgive me.

ANGLE ON DATA

Data thinks for a while, thinking about the things Lore has done and if he deserves to be forgiven, then he remembers something else:

DATA

(V.O from Brothers)

The two boys appear to have reconciled

their differences.

BEVERLY

(V.O from Brothers)

They're brothers, Data. Brothers forgive.

Data comes out of it and looks at Lore.

DATA

(after a long pause)

I forgive you, Lore.

ANGLE ON LORE

Lore blinks, widens his eyes and is totally surprised.

LORE (surprised)

DATA

You are my brother.

LORE

(sincere, grateful)

Thank you...(pause..nervous)..Well..I also

came here to ask you how it went with

Llewellyn..

Data looks at Lore, but says nothing.

LORE

I see...He's ordered you to disassemble

me again...

DATA (nods)

I am sorry, Lore, but...

LORE (angry)

I saved your precious doctor's life and they

still want to take me apart! I can't believe

these people! Why do you let them rule you

like that?

DATA

They do not rule me, Lore. I am free

to resign if I wish.

LORE

Then why don't you?

DATA

I will not give up my life..or my friends

here...Again, I am sorry, but...

LORE

Well they don't rule me..(beat)..Look, I

understand..but I don't want to be taken

apart again..You've got no idea what it's

like..I don't want to go through it again..

DATA

I understand, Lore, and I wish it were

otherwise, but I have no choice. As things

stand at this time..It is the safest course

for you..You must be tried for your crimes..

And now..With the Borg incident still fresh

in the minds of people..The sentence that

would be handed down would surely be..

Permanent disassembly..Do you want that?

Lore looks at Data.

LORE

But when will I get another chance? - Will

I have to wait another 26 years before

someone reassembles me?

DATA

I am sorr..

Lore suddenly throws Spot in Data's face, then grabs his arm.

LORE

No hard feelings, Brother, but my life's

on the line.

Lore hits Data's off switch before Data can do anything. He catches Data and lies him on the floor, then looks down at his brother.

LORE

Sorry.

Lore turns and EXITS.

FADE OUT:

FADE IN:

INT. DATA'S QUARTERS - PAN OVER ROOM

Data is lying on the floor. Spot is walking around him. Data's insignia CHIRPS. Spot sniffs at it.

PICARD'S COM VOICE

Picard to Data..

There is no reply.

PICARD'S COM VOICE

(anxious)

Picard to Data.

Spot paws the insignia on Data's chest and MIAOWS.

CUT TO:

INT. BRIDGE

All crew are in their places. SPOT'S MIAOWING is heard through Picard's insignia.

PAN OVER BRIDGE SHOWING EVERYONE'S SURPRISE

Riker smiles. Picard widens his eyes.

PICARD

Data?..

There is no reply.

PICARD

Computer..Locate Commander Data.

COMPUTER VOICE

Commander Data is in his quarters.

Picard turns around.

PICARD

Worf..

WORF

Aye, sir.

RIKER

I'll join you..

Worf and Riker EXIT.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. DATA'S QUARTERS

The doors open. Worf and Riker ENTER, Worf with a phaser. They look around. Worf sees Data lying on the floor.

WORF

Commander..

Riker comes to him and kneels down to Data.

RIKER

I'll take it from here..You go and find

Lore..

WORF

Aye, sir.

Worf EXITS. Riker is about to turn Data on, then sees Spot. He smiles uneasily.

RIKER

Nice kitty...

Spot walks around, making Riker uncomfortable. He points at Spot.

RIKER

Stay.

He then turns Data on. Data opens his eyes, sits up and looks around.

DATA

Commander..

PICARD'S COM VOICE

Picard to Riker..

RIKER

It's all right, sir. He was only

deactivated.

DATA

Lore is attempting to escape.

PICARD'S COM VOICE

Both of you, return to the Bridge.

DATA AND RIKER

Aye, sir.

Data stands. He and Riker EXIT.

CUT TO:

INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE MAIN SHUTTLEBAY

Lore is walking briskly down the corridor, watching his back. Worf sees him and blocks him off. He points a phaser at Lore.

WORF

You will come with me.

Lore laughs and looks casual. He moves as Worf fires, then in a blur of movement, Lore grabs the phaser, points it at Worf and grins.

LORE

Now show me your warrior fierceness...bring

back old memories?...

Worf is uncomfortable. He tries to grab the phaser. Lore takes it out of his reach and shakes his head.

LORE

Uh uh..

Lore then stuns Worf. Worf falls to the floor unconscious. Lore ENTERS the Main Shuttlebay.

INT. MAIN SHUTTLEBAY

Lore runs to the controls.

LORE

A twenty second delay should be enough...

He starts the depart sequence. The huge door slides upwards. Lore races across the floor to cargo shuttle Type 9A. He opens the hatch and climbs inside.

Note: This shuttle is capable of speeds in excess of warp 2.

COMPUTER VOICE

Main Shuttlebay forcefield deactivated.

EXT. SPACE

Show shuttle departing the Enterprise.

CUT TO:

INT. MAIN BRIDGE-DATA

Data is sitting at OPS.

DATA

Sensors are operative, Captain. Lore is

definitely aboard the shuttle..

ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN

Through the viewscreen, the shuttle is seen.

PICARD

Open hailing frequencies.

TACTICAL OFFICER

Hailing frequencies open, sir.

PICARD

Lore, I demand you return to the Enterprise.

ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN

Lore appears on the viewscreen, sitting in the pilots seat of the shuttle. He shakes his head.

LORE

I'm afraid I can't do that, Captain. It's

a death sentence.

Lore cuts communication. His image is replaced by the starfield. The shuttle turns.

DATA

Captain, he is preparing to go to warp.

TACTICAL OFFICER

Phasers, photon torpedoes, shields and

transporters are still off line.

PICARD

And when the weapons do come on line, we

will use them only as a last resort.

Is that understood?

TACTICAL OFFICER

Yes, sir.

PICARD

Is the tractor beam functional?

Data studies the console.

DATA

It is coming on line now, sir.

PICARD

Lock on to the shuttle.

Data makes the necessary adjustments.

EXT. ENTERPRISE AND SHUTTLE

The tractor beam is released, but not before Lore fires the shuttle thrusters and blasts off into warp.

INT. BRIDGE

PICARD

Estimated time until our warp engines

come on line.

DATA

Unknown, sir. We still have to crack

Lore's security code. To use a

colloquialism.. he will be 'long gone' by

then.

Picard nods and sits down.

PICARD

Agreed.

CUT TO:

INT. SHUTTLE - LORE

Lore is sitting in the pilots seat, looking relaxed and singing It's a Sin to Tell a Lie to himself.

LORE

(from first verse)

So be sure that it's true,

When you say I love you,

It's a sin to tell a lie...

He then stops singing and looks through the window as the stars whiz past. Lore comes out of warp and cruises ahead.

LORE (to himself)

I'm lonely in here...It's almost as bad

as drifting through space..I escaped the

Enterprise and being disassembled again...

Now I'm free to go wherever I want. To do

whatever I please. I want people to be

with...I won't be alone then...

Lore smiles as he looks out into the starfield.

LORE

Soon...

Then the smile slowly fades away.

LORE (thinks)

Who the hell am I kidding? Until I find

someone out there who understands and

cares enough...I'll always be alone...

Lore is upset. He gazes out into the starfield, hoping ...

SOONG'S VOICE

Lore..(beat).What are you sulking about?

LORE

I'm hearing things. I must be going crazy...

OTHER ANGLE

An image of young Dr. Soong (eg, Birthright) is there. He appears in a transparent ghostlike form. Lore looks around and sees him.

LORE

I take it back. I am going crazy.

The Soong image smiles.

SOONG IMAGE

You're not going crazy, Lore.

Lore then stares in disbelief. He reaches out to touch the image, but his hand passes straight through. He shakes his head, and closes his eyes, for a few moments. Ie - How could this be happening??? Lore opens eyes and sees the image still there.

LORE (disbelief)

SOONG IMAGE

I understand what you've gone through,

Lore.

Lore listens with a confused expression on his face.

SOONG IMAGE

(continuing)

And I don't blame you for what you've

done.

ANGLE ON LORE

Lore is surprised, and is about to say something. The Soong image shakes his head.

SOONG IMAGE

Also..I don't blame you for what you did

to me.

LORE

But I ... killed you.

SOONG IMAGE

Strictly speaking, yes (angrier) and you

stole Data's chip..(beat)..but I'm not

here to argue.

LORE (sincere)

I'm sorry, Father...I thought the chip

would...

The Soong image smiles.

SOONG IMAGE

(understanding)

Fix you, I know.

Lore nods.

SOONG IMAGE

I came to say I forgive you.

LORE (puzzled)

Why?

SOONG IMAGE

You are my son.

Lore looks at the image of his Father and smiles warmly.

LORE

Thank you..(pause)..I love you, Father...

The Soong image smiles warmly at Lore and nods.

SOONG IMAGE

I love you too, Son.

Lore smiles warmly.

LORE

(after a pause

hopeful)

Father..(pause)..is it too late for me?...

Lore is upset. The Soong Image shakes his head.

SOONG IMAGE

No, Lore, it isn't. It's never too late.

I can only tell you never to give up.

You'll eventually get what you've always

wanted .... needed.

Lore is puzzled, but hopeful.

LORE (hopeful)

I will?

SOONG IMAGE

I'm sure of it.

LORE

But when will I know it's ...

SOONG IMAGE

You will know.

The image starts to fade.

LORE

Father, wait!

SOONG IMAGE

(fading)

You will know.

Then he is gone, leaving Lore alone wondering, hoping ...

INT. DATA'S QUARTERS - DATA

Data is touching up a portrait. It is a portrait of Lore

DOOR CHIME

Data puts his brush down.

DATA

Come in, please.

The doors slide apart and Geordi ENTERS.

GEORDI

What's up?

Data looks at Geordi.

DATA

You can tell something is wrong?

Geordi gives Data a look.

GEORDI

You don't fool me for a second, Data.

I've known you too long. I've seen that

look on your face before.

There is a long pause.

DATA

It is Lore, Geordi.

Geordi prompts Data to go on.

DATA

Before he regained his memories, I began

to understand him, more than I did before..

GEORDI

So did I, sort of...

DATA

He said that no one had ever given him

a chance. That is also what my Father

said. He understood Lore and forgave

him for what he had done.

GEORDI

Did you forgive him?

There is a pause, then Data nods slowly.

DATA

I cannot blame him for turning me off. As

he said, his life was on the line..(beat)..

But, Geordi, it is not only that. It...

Geordi studies the portrait of Lore for a moment.

GEORDI (interrupts)

Let me guess. You're peeved off at

Admiral LLewellyn for wanting to take him

apart.

DATA (nods)

I understand him being concerned that

Lore was not 100% stable, but he could

have at least given Lore a chance...

Geordi nods.

DATA (continuing)

The Admiral seemed quite single minded.

He did not even try to accept Lore's new

found stability. I find that unfair...But

since Lore escaped, he now has the second

chance he always wanted..and needed. It is

up to him what he decides to do with it.

Geordi nods.

CLOSE ON PORTRAIT OF LORE

Data looks at his portrait.

DATA

Sometimes life is unfortunate, but as long

as Lore is out there, somewhere, there is

always hope ...

CLOSE IN ON DATA

On his hopeful expression, we:

FADE OUT.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Back to DataLore Page