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Synopsis:
A mysterious probe that
scanned a Federation system and sent a signal into outer space is
pursued by the U.S.S. Enterprise, which follows its propulsion
trail to see if it can catch the probe. While tacking the probe,
the Enterprise encounters an alien vessel that is surrounded by a
magnificent energy field which proceeds to encompass the
Federation ship. The alien ship transforms itself into the shape
of a large feathered serpent which reveals itself as Kulkukan of
ancient Mayan-Aztec legend. Upset over being forgotten by
Earthlings, Kulkukan transports Kirk, Scott, McCoy, and Ensign
Dawson Walking Bear to his ship to solve an enigmatic puzzle. If
they succeed, Kulkukan will reveal himself. If they fail, the crew
will all perish.
The four crew members are
transported to an Earth-like city filled with many cultures and
must force a light source to strike a certain space on an ancient
pyramid. When they accomplish the task, Kulkukan appears as the
winged serpent, alleging to be their master. Transported to an
ominous "life-room," the crew members notice a variety
of creatures from around the galaxy, including the ferocious, but
now peaceful, Capellan power-cat. Kirk explains that they cannot
accept Kulkukan as their master, despite his contributions to
mankind.
On the U.S.S. Enterprise,
Spock discovers a way to break the energy field surrounding the
ship, distracting Kulkukan from the other crewmen. The men release
the animals from their cages, thereby creating a chaos which
Kulkukan is unable to control. The power-cat traps Kulkukan and
prepares to kill him so Kulkukan is forced to reveal himself
as a mortal. Kirk saves Kulkukan and thus teaches him a valuable
lesson about human survival. Kulkukan leaves as an old, broken
mortal, and Kirk decides that the price of infinite knowledge is
too high to pay. |
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