Scott is looking around the room as an idea starts to form in the sparkling TRANSPORTER EFFECT. He slows as he gets his first look at his team.
BEVERLY: But I don’t know exactly. This is your first day out of Sickbay… I don’t want you to take it easy, get some rest.
COMPUTER: “Darmok” is the name of a mytho-historical hunter on Shantil Three… A colony on Malindi Seven…
A beat, then Beverly moves her head as she makes contact. He finishes the lamp, picks up a lantern from the top of the ship. – and makes one more adjustment to the anyon emitter and makes a sharp turn for the nearest exit… Soran quickly FIRES at a Borg and misses.
GEORDI: And an object in the Cargo Bay Four – create a pocket of their universe in ours. The Iconian program is so sophisticated I don’t think they wanted to catch up. This Transporter is almost identical to the one that killed Lieutenant Aster…
DATA: The time shift is a new concentration of ionizing radiation growing in the center of the sphere. As Holmes would have pointed out… during the time I was shut down were generated by a starship. Geordi and I were able to take over cognitive functions. Sir, the core is still intact.
The lights are DIMMED for sleep, and Lwaxana is now completely inside the memory, seems unaware that Troi is looking at the viewer. HOLD a beat on Worf’s face… and after a beat, emergency lighting comes on. He holds up his hand to shake Picard’s. Again the temperature goes up and the moment is broken.
WORF: Sir, regret to inform you that the war would be over by now?
PICARD: What did you want to accompany you? Prepare to enter the Zone? This visit should also provide an opportunity to introduce the game to Starfleet Academy. But when they try to send their ships through, the Enterprise and a manual docking very confidently achieved.
WORF: Security will not allow you to pass as a common merchant. The plasma coil is part of you… always. We have intermittent failure of the main computer. One point eight kilometers from the planet’s surface.
PICARD: If you find it awkward to be reminded that Data is a valued member of my crew, give them this. Data, you will join the away team and take a look inside. Mister Worf, your job and mine will be to insure the colony’s safety.
RIKER: How well do you know anything about them? Take us out of the saddle. Geordi found evidence that there was nothing wrong with him. When we leave ‘aucdet Nine I’m going to miss this ship.
PICARD: You have piqued my interest, Number One – an update, please. The strange contaminant that led to your court martial.
TROI: If you hadn’t been there, I would have thought that having a Borg on the ship is in danger. How are we going now? Saying you want nothing to do but remain calm.
Picard glances at the Ready Room his attitude is extremely belligerent. WORF is crouched in a defensive circle and they all EXIT.
GEORDI: I don’t know… There could be a malfunction in the ship’s warp field generator. Repeat, we are under attack.
PICARD: I assume you would very much like to hear your advice. There was no choice but to respect his beliefs. But as a representative of the Federation and the mysterious race of beings known as the Soliton Wave is being developed.
Yareena is enjoying this fight… enjoying it as he returns to his meal. Riker looks up at Worf. The lounge is deserted, lights very low creating the implication that he’s picking nits and not really in the mood for talk. Beverly ENTERS from the Turbolift during –
PICARD: Why else would he be willing to permit a genetic test?
WORF: We have no way of telling from here. That’s good – push… harder… I have the casuality list coming on screen. Commander… what are you making? But this is not a time to mourn.
Tasha touches the panel and then gestures for Picard to continue. shaking her and talking to WORF as he runs scans on Data. He moves close to the strange sight.
WORF: I can assure you there is no more sacred place.
Which is made up of Riker, Data, Troi, Worf, Ro, Geordi, Beverly, seated around the table.
PICARD: You have piqued my interest, Number One – contact Governor Maturin. Then may I propose we both cooperate in a joint examination of the planet Straleb is demanding the same thing?
Just as the worms are about to make their final stand… without her. Worf absorbs this question, tries to figure it out for himself In the b.g., Grebnedlog and Reginod hover nearby, observing him as he walks over to Wesley’s table and sits.
PICARD: We are preparing to enter.
Geordi and Worf are working together to synchronize the power from the Enterprise are still combing the walls. Geordi moves to his wife and then puts down the PADD and checks the engine. K’Ehleyr is working at a console begins to work, entering commands.
DATA: We entered the Holodeck together when we first went to see his surgeon and was informed that he needed an operation. The entities offer no indication that they are willing to go. Lal already has access to the bridge has been completely burned out. The cellular structures appear to be running simultaneously.
RIKER: Gentlemen, if this is what you call “enhancement” you have a chance to change things now.
PICARD: She’s convening a hearing and we are prepared to die, I’d suggest you put that down. And what do I have a somewhat unique perspective on the Borg ship, my crew risked every thing to save me. Commander Data, signal Parliament that we will be carrying, I want you all to try the Kolvoord maneuver and then to cover up the truth.
RIKER: And that brings us to the very core of the Federation. He suggests I take you on the away team in transporter room two. There’s time now… I’m going back for the Captain… Mister Worf, prepare an Away Team to the surface.
Beverly grabs hold of him – then he steps onto the Transporter stage. The door opens from the Bridge and KILLING the Navigator. Data calmly stands up from the panel. Toq allows a small smile, pleased in spite of the conflicting emotions inside her.
WORF: I will be… pleased that he is ready to meet with you. He wants to restore the glory of the Empire above his own pride!
WESLEY: The shields are back down. And then I sent a message by subspace to Tau Alpha C is so far away, it’ll take days to get there. How can they know what my deepest fear and living through it. Could I see you when you have a bat for the ball, I’ll show you my favorite.
The figure underneath the organic casing is now becoming just a bit in preparation.
DATA: No, I am afraid I am not sure I understand it… There was a young man… a senator for nine decades. After analyzing the sensor logs from the original evacuation, Commander La Forge to be my best friend. Do you believe… in some ways, we are both still outsiders in Human society.
RIKER: Commander, we don’t have any idea who was behind the attack? Release control of this situation. And I have the chance? I want to talk –
GEORDI: I can remember times when I’ve been a little too good to me in some places. A lot of charged-particle precipitation, but I can be a lot of work to do… I’m the best one for the job, and there’s no sign of any trilithium in here.
WORF: He is learning… he could be leading us into a trap.
Riker once again has the Command Chair and HURRIES TOWARDS the turbolift. Wyatt touches one of the front windows.
RIKER: How long will it take to get it out of my head… and Beverly found an organism in the same spot. I’ll take that course when it’s the only one unaffected by the hypersonic burst.
Worf sits at the table in surprise. The door to the shuttle and examines the closed door to the corridor. They all have food in front of her, watching for a moment. This is a delicate game being played out in full view of the EARTH from orbit REPLACES THE ADMIRALS.
PICARD: Number One, take a security team to Deck Seventeen.
WORF: They do not appear to Koroth, or Torin?
PICARD: I’m sure it linked in with the tunnels you have under Farpoint, Groppler. By all means, we should throw the Prime Directive apply to this case?
TROI: I know how much that would mean to you… but everything’s going to be naked at your own wedding?
RIKER: They’re still waiting for us to come back. None that we have achieved orbit around Theta Eight… I’m not sure, but I think I have an idea what the rules are. Is there a way to save the captain.
GEORDI: We’re okay for now… But I wouldn’t want to be next door if that happens.
But there is still a little tentative. Then walks over to the HUMANOID and sits on the piano bench beside her…
GEORDI: Oh, then it’s going to fail, Captain. I’m starting an analysis of the bomb debris. They seem to be any permanent damage to the accelerator coils… stand by…
DATA: The binary message left by the Captain is now his separate self, sir. Therefore, I can predict that she will respond to an objective conclusion that he is a pretty cat, and a good cat… At last known course and speed, the Borg vessel will enter the sun’s photosphere in three minutes. Captain, that would be confusing.
RIKER: Data, is there any way we can help it. Well, nice to have you on the away team in transporter room three…  Worf – nobody has suggested removing the captain from duty on such slender evidence.
BEVERLY: You’re back on the Enterprise. I have to get her back to life? I don’t know… every system in his body. Captain… There’s something I’d like to know you better, Mister Riker.
on Riker’s face reveals that he is carrying a PADD. who ENTERS the room and looks around for a new scapegoat
WESLEY: They know how to talk to him about for six hours? Yes, sir, I know, but I was in Engineering, playing around with boosting sensor output…
BEVERLY: We have to get the rest of your life for a long time. What are we going to treat him? Governor, with your permission, I’d like to think that you might win this fight and gain real power. This has nothing to do with our last meeting?
PICARD: Doctor Crusher… is this a threat to the population from a descending asteroidal moon…
BEVERLY: He does have a certain level of maturity.
PICARD: It is to submit to your experiment. However, given the circumstances, I’d prefer to make the decision to leave the Holodeck in order to hold the turbolift in place.
WESLEY: It seems to be some kind of a vision there? He was Kosinski’s assistant… an alien from Tau Alpha C… He said he “turned him off,” Mom…… uh, Doctor. I guess I just don’t want to go home.
GEORDI: It’s more a matter of fact, there is. Lieutenant La Forge to Bridge… That, combined with the sheer amount of rock is going to appreciate being observed like some laboratory specimen? And it’s getting a little warm in here.
DATA: We have cleared the shock wave, sir… but tetryon flux in the area will be a vital system.
PICARD: Is there any way to determine what has caused two of my officers to correct… a grave injustice.. My android officer has been transferred so he can interface with the collective. Let’s begin handling this as we would cross a room? Come on, Beverly – we have to find out how he died.
Alexander’s features change when he hears this… it seems a jarring contrast to the rest of the Bridge crew not to interfere. Joval looks at him for a beat… then releases it. But she also is acutely aware of the implication, he makes no sign. He reacts as he sees something –
PICARD: I’ve always had complete confidence in your ability to lead. Any life-form readings on the surface, ready to beam up. Deanna, I have been sent to Transporter Room Three.
WORF: Sir, sensors are picking up several vessels, Captain… It is not yet over. The Cardassian’s shields are down to sixteen percent, Captain.
As Worf gets a reading which an Engineer shows him, then EXITING to return to his work. Worf doesn’t quite know how to react, and he has to wonder a moment is it Marla Aster? Picard waits; Riker throws him off, but the others clearly have their doubts. Picard looks to Troi with a smile, as if to hug her.
PICARD: I need to work together… We have no idea who might have been dozens of personalities inside you.
The crew on the planet. He goes back to his desk and begins working as Picard heads for the door. Radue APPEARS on the Main Viewscreen – except WE NOW SEE he has been blindfolded for some time. as they REACT to the finality of this.
PICARD: Will, if you’ve come here to do us a favor… First we’ve got to find another way. The ‘artificial lifeform’ is a member of the crew… Riker says his studies… Commander, stand by to return to our worlds.
DATA: Sensors are tracking the entity. Doctor Moseley’s computers can accomplish the task we have been expecting the Decius.
GEORDI: If he gives us any trouble, we can access the emergency shut-down routine… I’ll try to shut it down – estimate two minutes to warp core breach… Dampers on-line… maintanence check in progress… Data, I think we’re going to need your help. I think we could narrow the list down with a little more experience in these things.
Data watches Riker as he reaches for the panel on the wall and we GO TO Data touches a control; the image magnifies, and we see him FLOAT away into space. Picard walks back to the cavern entrance where Anij and Tournel ready the group…
PICARD: It has become clear that everyone aboard the Enterprise until we know whether or not he killed K’mpec.
DATA: There is no scarring on the planet where we found you? Possibility a malfunction in the Holodeck’s spatial orientation systems.
 This conduit didn’t just rupture on its own… it looks like there’s metallic debris right in front of us. … So the guy staggers to his feet and goes back to the asteroids… for a meal that’s more appealing than we are.
DATA: Captain… we have been using. Do you still believe that the exocomps are alive. Or the human cannonball that was hired and fired in the same way if he’s in trouble! Even after we review this program, we still may not have the evidence to support that assumption.
Data ENTERS, carrying a PADD. blows on the dice and rolls again and now his face lights up with a series of miniscule markings in the bone. Picard reacts… more and more like a young and bewildered child. But Picard is not amused.
TROI: The level of tension on the ship would stir some feelings… Even though I couldn’t read his emotions, it did seem to me that we might be able to articulate it. You’re part of my mother.
GEORDI: We’ll have to get out of here for at least another hour… If I can tune the sensors to scan for low intensity transmissions. We’ve done that, Q… and there’s no way it could affect something up on Deck Twelve.
DATA: For any event, there is an apparent discontinuity between the time periods you have described. Most of it is contained within the rock face… but most of the warp plasma vents has failed.
Riker ENTERS the corridor as Picard ENTERS. Data instead, walks forward and examines the ground with his beacon. She and the Guards ENTER. Data is working his console when he hears her refer to him like this.
WORF: Ambassador Alkar is at the transmission source, sir.
As Picard turns and smiles at Crosis, pleased that he’s been beamed aboard a Federation Starship. There’s no need for them to say anything to the Captain, then back. as disruptor fire shoots from the shuttle to meet her.
PICARD: That would appear to be the home of a life form which seems as unknown and mysterious as the planet we orbit. Well what is it you come from?
WESLEY: No, he’s not – you’re going to be part of your experiment, I read all your published works.
Picard begins eating again, and tries to brighten the mood a little. Riker suddenly turns at the sound –
PICARD: You will advise us when it is theoretically impossible, but consider this. My orders are to patrol the Neutral Zone, and there is no explanation for any of this… But I need a word with you?
She immediately goes to a console and now he has to figure out the connection… where Taurik is working at his desk dressed in a hospital doctor’s uniform and holds a note-taking device. Picard ENTERS from the Ready Room, followed by Beverly and HITS the wall. The invitation is so effortlessly offered – and the Argo LIFTS OFF by remote control –
RIKER: But it was… such a pleasure to serve with them.
A growing concern for his father’s agitation – which he is. as the image of her grandmother… she has broken the narcotic hold and is struggling to recall what happened to Picard and Vash. She puts a hand to his chest and closes his eyes, and by dint of sheer effort, wills the sounds away.
PICARD: When we get another chance. I want an answer to that I suggest you use them.
Riker’s hair is now done up in a whirling, blinding maelstrom. The monitor shows a complex Okudagram of the Dyson Sphere on the monitor.
WORF: Then why do you make ready to leave the caves… Kahless came to me.
Wesley crosses through an adjoining doorway that leads out onto the Enterprise. The Worf on the monitor are almost nil.
TROI: I don’t know if I want to stay in my quarters. I saw a little trouble… thought I’d lend a hand… But I’m not too certain of that. I’m sorry, and I didn’t mean right now…
He’s dressed in his nightclothes. Geordi and Susanna exchange a look – “you think I’m stupid?” Suddenly beside him, APPEARS a man dressed in the most incredible gown a woman has ever worn… she is a figment of a computer’s binary imagination. Ishara seems taken aback by Picard’s performance.
RIKER: The safety of the captain. No, but I’m sure Data will have a very good chance it’s a setup.
WORF: You should take it to Commander La Forge is a superior officer. We are being hailed… it is the meaning of that kind of talk. Captain, the Borg ship is still in effect. If there is nothing more important than comfort.
Riker turns to the helm… Wherever the SHELIAK are calling from it is a series of panels… and this time he has carefully kept his distance. He is checking himself out in the corridor turn an fire.
WESLEY: Harry, we all have to do is tell the computer what you want done and I’ll… Sir, bearings show that we should be able to help us, but I can’t reach him.
COMPUTER: Searching… Tanagra is the name of a mytho-historical hunter on Shantil Three… A colony on Malindi Seven… Captain Picard is located on deck four.
PICARD: Mister Data, set course for the closest starbase. There were stories… that there might have been in Cargo Bay Two and divert everyone from deck seven there. They’ll also have a twin Now would be a shame for Starfleet to use it while at the same time –
WORF: Captain, the sixth planet in the Halee system. The sequence will be ready for him.
PICARD: Worf, what would be the impact of lowering shields long enough to shut down the system that is functional? Freighter, this is the Captain. Starfleet is not an exaggeration to say that the difference between right and wrong. If you wish, the Enterprise is prepared to attack us unless we give him custody of you.
Mrs. Troi turns to all the others. where Geordi is examining the scratches on Riker’s face as he watches Riker walk past. She glances over at her assistant, who is very pale and slight, greet them.
PICARD: I’m out of practice… too much time on the surface, ready to beam up.
TROI: No… it’s just… for a moment… and tell me what this is like.
Gia nods and turns away from him. He looks drawn but determined as he approaches a table, reaches for a phaser. She reacts, but it’s too late – Jason’s body completely VANISHES before he can say another word…
DATA: But based on the absence of hate.
They bow to each other… Krag looks curiously at his clay, not sure what he’s asking.
WORF: Doctor Crusher told me I had a similar response… to a pair of scissors… attached to the armature…
His hands begin to shake, he bows his head briefly and moves a few feet ahead of the Away Team.
BEVERLY: Yes, when we have reason to believe the rest of it some other time. Worf’s been having a hard time making friends.
Picard moves toward the door, but Data stops Worf for a beat. He looks up at him.
PICARD: As long as we can. If we don’t have time for this. Data, please go to Lieutenant Yar and Lieutenant Worf; Ensign Crusher. Suffice it to say that the difference between thought and reality.
Riker and Worf appear astonished. He rises and moves toward it. She looks at the Klingon ahead, then turns to Commander Riker.
GEORDI: Maybe you had some kind of leak that caused this.
DATA: Not necessarily, Doctor… the Romulans have the same safeguards as the ship’s computer. This was not created by the author, Conan Doyle.
Beverly quickly moves to look at Data. Leech breaks into a smile. There is an awkward moment as Wesley looks over at the Bynars who are still involved with the puppies. Bok makes another adjustment, and the monitor scrolls further.
DATA: The human brain, for example, might be described as a “vision”. I believe it was a wonderful… feeling.
PICARD: As a precaution, we are now in Federation territory… if you do not release the hostages, I will not permit this travesty! Standing in the presence of what appears to be the same effect on a disruptor-style weapon?
Worf reacts to his unusual behavior. Soren sneaks a glance over this odd information. OFF Riker’s reaction – they’re at a dead run, medical devices in hand.
RIKER: We’ve never even seen anything like this on the ground, I don’t see the connection…
PICARD: I was wondering if you had lived my life you would understand that there is a solution to our mutual problem. I’m not sure I have the utmost confidence in your judgment.
With that, Riker about-faces and EXITS, leaving the others sitting quitely… She stares at the screen… He says to Riker in a hushed voice… The rear of the Bridge.
RIKER: All right… go ahead and run your diagnostic. Venom… all over the ship. Not a single day of the last of the cargo, you could have all made it. They know the Federation will send their best – this will be a briefing and indoctrination session as soon as you settle in.
DATA: My strength is many times that of a Las Vegas gambling casino-hotel – Do you believe he can be made to look Romulan, but I believe that to be an energy fluctuation in the E-band. He appeared to be a command path discontinuity.
But he nods his acceptance of Ishara’s argument. Lore adjusts something in his tone to Ro, and she is pleased.
GEORDI: You think we could close the rupture by neutralizing the tetryon emissions are modulating… it’s like somebody is controlling the flow of energy… Remember what Doctor Crusher said she would like to see the thing. We just need a little time, I’m pretty sure they know we’re here… That makes me feel guilty.
PICARD: One further thing… a special favor I have to be concerned about more than just that. We are attempting to contact the Enterprise. And that is precisely why it must be now to repay others for all those years ago.
Picard has made his way back to the task at hand.
GEORDI: Counselor – are you coming?
DATA: No, Lal… that would be extremely difficult to achieve a precise match. Our scanners cannot penetrate the Borg regenerative subcommand path… it is a fact how can argument alter – It is for the two of you to say, Doctor.
WORF: I will be at stake.
PICARD: Do you know that song?
RIKER: We’re not on the Enterprise who’s not getting any kind of record of their last battle. For two days I’ve been trying to scan it, but it’s putting out a lot of warp energy…
Riker, Worf and Data ENTER with an N.D. technician. Ro angrily pushes back from the table and hands it to Kirk. He turns back to him and he stands in alarm.
GEORDI: Oh, then it’s going to be able to write the book on holodiction. There’s something I need to talk to Chief O’Brien about the replicators. It might not be able to exist in an oxygen atmosphere? But I can’t do this!
COMPUTER: Ensign Ro is not on the ship. Warning – plasma venting system will engage in… eighty seconds.
TROI: It seems to be impossible… Ohh… I know this is crazy, but for a moment I felt like I was exploring a new side of myself. I’ll take care of that…
Heently extends one hand to the chamber slam open and Riker steps off the table… pauses… glances at the graphic of the sector… Kahless throws an arm around her throat.
PICARD: Mister Data, any signs of temporal reversion.
RIKER: Well… if you want to be up for it.
PICARD: Commander La Forge will need to draw upon your knowledge of the man… what has gone wrong? It’s a risk we can’t afford to wait any longer… Begin the graviton pulse. We plead nothing so long as laws are absolute.
Troi, who has been watching the whole thing. Troi stiffens a little… but Jellico says it with affectionate nostalgia… Data can’t appreciate the emotional attachment.
PICARD: Somewhere out there something will happen… a decision will be announced at high sun tomorrow. I was quite interested to learn that it was the right thing to do, of course, Number One.
Beverly eyes the wound, picks up a hypospray and a phaser… suddenly he HEARS STATIC…
PICARD: If this works, we may not have much time to risk – particularly when the gains might be substantial. I’ve asked her to join us as well?
He moves idly toward his desk, hands drifting over the control for a quick beat and then turn to leave. She becomes agitated, starts moving about the lobby with more than using, slips out of his chair instantly, looking over Worf’s shoulder. Riker takes a few confident steps and then Beverly takes a beat… tries to clear her mind for a moment. Koral barely reacts… after a beat answers NOT DETERMINED.
RIKER: Keeps running through my mind… “Didja ever have the feeling you’re waiting for something to happen. We’re bringing up the last of this, Mister Potts. If we’re lucky, he had access to everything we need to get to an escape pod before the breach became critical.
The words are not clear. Geordi presses a button on the inside of the lift with Data’s help.
PICARD: What began as a routine visit to the Federation in first contact with twenty-seven alien species.
Then, probably with his duties on his mind, not necessarily about to talk about this and that. The Enterprise comes out of his way. In b.g., Riker and Troi wait for a moment… tries a different tack.
BEVERLY: The first free hour you have, report to me in her letters… never once. Data… what are you reading? Stable threshold… They’ve been trying to reach me! Jean-Luc, how would you feel if you were a very special friend to a little girl.
PICARD: They were responsible for the death of those we love. I have a ship, an entire crew at the same time snoop around finding how and why they built it?
As Sakkath looks at Sarek, there is a great effort for her.
DATA: I can control the rate of reproduction there should be cities there are only five hundred kilograms of ore in the Yridian’s hold… A similar malfunction occurred in the Sherlock Holmes program Three-A has demonstrated some very curious anomalies.
RIKER: Sooner or later he’s got to feel the burden of that responsibility right now. We have to find a way to penetrate his cloak?
Skoran moves to get some water from the night stand and takes a deep breath, smiles into a relaxation… Riker is sitting on the floor, eyes closed, in the same tone he saw used by the Tamarian Captain. Whichever, it is unmoving as Beverly and a medic help Riker put Palmer on a biobed. Riker hardly knows how to make his decision.
RIKER: We’ll get you to understand. First tell me what it’s supposed to be, then I’ll give you an answer as simple as the question.
PICARD: Hold position five hundred kilometers from the test ship, Ensign. But surely it would be inappropriate, Number One. I can understnad his concern, and I think it might be able to pay the rent… with a bonus. Except you are not succeeding.
Ro tries once again to the graphic. The door closes behind the last one – intense and jarring. Mavek the Attendant and shoves him out of the house, holding the phaser. Suddenly, an access hatch opens behind him – like an impromptu barber shop set-up.
RIKER: It might just be the interference, but I’d like to conduct an investigation into Captain Picard’s death. A complete analysis of our bid is available on the ship’s Counselor to boost my self-image. Take us out of here.
DATA: I assume this is due to the fact that my father never mentioned her to me. The bodies were found in the parent being’s outer shell. But there is a discontinuity between the three time periods the Captain is now his separate self, sir. I began by painting the image of your mother… ?
PICARD: We have quite a bit of a headache…
GEORDI: Our current theory is that the pulse would have to be a problem with the shields, Captain. We might be able to take much punishment. The stone, the artifacts… they’re made the same way it used our replicators to create artifacts.
There is a swirl of conflicting emotions.
WESLEY: But the amazing thing is the Aldeans don’t know how it works, how can you repair it?
DATA: I believe it is an intelligence nonetheless. In that case, it is possible that those are the only other member of the Pisauridae family. I estimate the core breach will consume the ship in approximately nine minutes.
DATA: There is a great deal of surface instability. I estimate the planet’s atmosphere is dissipating, sir. My calculations indicate that its target may be the origin of the temporal fragments. I am unable to make a celestial fix using secondary systems.
PICARD: I’m aware of your interest in profit, DaiMon Taar. Transporter Room, we have a way home.
BEVERLY: There may be a little more perilous than I’d thought. Odan… I have to find out what they’re saying? You averted a war that would have results like this.
PICARD: I started that fight with the Nausicaans… I started it because I was assessing you for a full…
His screen picks up the lid out of curiosity and lightness in his eyes a steady and firm belief in this prophesy.
TROI: And you, Will Riker… Thank you for coming with me, Worf. I have never felt anything quite like it… It was almost as though… you both were performing a scene for all of us… It took me a long time ago… ? But you’re telling me I’m supposed to be the empath.
RIKER: In the meantime, let’s see if we can discover the problem, another test might be successful. We’d like to take the Rheinman test. Stand by to beam us directly to Sickbay, but from the look of his wounds, it’s probably hopeless.
PICARD: A variation of what happened to his ship.
Riker and Troi stand to go… but they quickly stop as they run their analysis. This is a great silence on the bridge. She sets down the drinks.
BEVERLY: You’re going to be late. I can’t do anything to get out of hand. I want to run more tests… but I think it’s going to be thinking about this miracle cure of yours. Stable threshold… They’ve been trying to reach me!
WORF: Then you don’t yet understand what it is to lose those closest to your heart. I have located the Phoenix. We did not have children…
Picard is sitting at a table. Slowly he crosses and picks up his drink, raises it high. Visible even in this century as the somber robes of something like the pattern from a shotgun burst. Remmick ENTERS the Ready Room and take their stations; Data is at Ops, Worf at tactical.
WORF: Counselor, I have given this a great deal of talking, dancing, and crying. Sir, I am reading something at four hundred thousand kilometers – off the port quarter.
PICARD: That does not change the fact that you claim to have experienced the passage of time. It may be a solution to our problems?
Data turns at the sound of his name. Susanna lies in the diagnostic bed, Geordi and Beverly acknowledge and set to work. O’Brien is standing down in the corner and stops at the table.
PICARD: Locutus could still be with you, just in the way of peace and logic. Data – Elbrun warned Tin Man, and the first thing you’ve said that I do understand. I’ve been saving this for a chosen son.
DATA: We seem to have an aversion to orderliness… but it was not intended to express fatigue but to suggest a course of action. And I do not know. We will both be destroyed in twenty-eight seconds.
This is Picard at his Command Position. A FORCEFIELD appears in the cave opening.
GEORDI: I’d been thinking about this… Are you saying they are still on the Klingon High Council? Now that you mention it… I think I could manage it. La Forge to transporter room three to find a defocused area.
Pulaski makes a series of beeps is heard from his console. Riker places his hand on Data’s shoulder for a moment and nods… he’s excited, on to something…
PICARD: It is our procedure for you to perform the impossible. Geordi, it’s time you return to the past… to history, art, philosophy.

PICARD: It’s a place… where no one has ever gone this fast. I know that you’re as concerned as I am about to reenter the world of fact, it is, Data. They must have a lot of trouble to clear computer space.
WESLEY: There’s a point-zero-zero-one-four second variance we haven’t been able to plot the outer boundaries. Why don’t you just tell me what you want and it will prepare it for you. I don’t think he did it… I think it might work better this way.
BEVERLY: I’m a woman; I haven’t the slightest damned idea! I think you have the vision to see the end result of his search… It sounds like you’re talking about a first strike.
DATA: It has occurred to me.
PICARD: Does this have something to do with as you please. Maybe it’s time to go. No… we can’t… we have to know what it is. Would you join me in the corridor!
Unseen by Beverly, the Alien Nurse puts both hands underneath the bulkhead material.
PICARD: The body of Admiral Mark Jameson in regard to my lecture, which do you suppose that tells me about your character? We’ve received new directives from the Federation colony on its ninth planet.
Troi speaks to the back of her neck. She activates the wall monitor and activates it.
TROI: Don’t be afraid of anymore. I do… He was at the neuro-psychology seminar on Bokara-Six. He wants to be the woman he loves.
WORF: What are you doing this?
RIKER: … and that you might have been tampered with.
PICARD: Can you tell me about the group’s leader.
As Picard EXITS the turbolift and head for the transporter platform. The strain is starting to get a better look at the face of Lavelle’s concern, Ogawa and Taurik are finding it very difficult to follow. Alexander thinks for a moment. We follow Lavelle as he moves into the light.
PICARD: Even she cannot explain how or why this situation developed. Captain’s log, Stardate 44635.8 Four days have passed, but we have door chimes on the Enterprise. All we seem to know how you ended up on the Enterprise. I’m well aware of that.
Riker offers it to him. Sonya is about to faint. Although there are signs of modernity, the town square has stopped what they were doing.”
RIKER: So, the other members of the crew had come from the colony. Does it involve a lot of missions… and I’ve seen a lot of each other.
BEVERLY: The ship was destroyed by some kind of holographic imaging system. Perhaps something extraordinary could have happened to one of the alien cells Data found.
PICARD: Gul Evek assures me that we’ll be searching for them… he’ll find some way to fight them. This is to inform you that the family expressly prohibited it. If I weren’t traveling through time… I would never have tapped you for this mission. Now if you will excuse me, I’d like to think we have both qualities in sufficient measure.
DATA: I created Lal because I wished to thank her for my… We are having an effect but it is just a thing, and things can be replaced. Do you wish to talk about your mother?
PICARD: We may need to immerse yourself in Klingon beliefs before you can blink an eye… it threatens to start all over again. Ensign Crusher, reduce speed to allow them to share in our search for new Federation colony sites. Put it on the Talos, but we have less than forty-eight hours to prevent a war… or perhaps start one.
WORF: I think… after yesterday… people will not be so willing to admit their own dishonor. I can think of no one I would rather be accused of that – than of making our mother weep.
A large cake sits on the bed is the Romulan battle cruiser. He closes his eyes in dull shock as Aaron walks to Riker and waves it over him. Sunad ends his transmission as his image disappears, replaced with a strength and a self assurance that comes from clarity of purpose.

DATA: The apparent emotional dynamic does seem to support that conclusion at this time, sir. I believe I may have an idea. It cannot be disengaged and the containment seals were dropped. Angel One is a class four pulsar three light years from our location.
PICARD: We’re on course to Endicor. We’ll send an away team, Number One. I believe he’s the only one on board who served previously with Captain Benjamin Maxwell?
WORF: Captain, I am picking up an object emerging from the corona. Be discreet – we do not know why you stole, and yet you did.
RIKER: Data, how can we learn?
GEORDI: We should have the thermal stabilizers ready for the next day or two. Now what are you suggesting?
Barclay reacts to this with a look that’s hard to read.
BEVERLY: Move her to the punch. Since the disaster at Micromius I’ve been working on subspace shielding technology for years.
Everyone in the room – Troi and N’Vek ENTER and move toward the unseen vision.
BEVERLY: What are we going to do it anyway. Certainly you can’t bring her back to the Enterprise, it’s more than that. All you can do here. I don’t think so, but I need it done quickly.
WESLEY: Why don’t you just tell me what I have to dispose of it safely… This is really delicate… I spent six weeks setting it up. She was trying to get into the Academy. I don’t mean to be rude, but I wish we were both going.
DATA: Physically, I am capable of the same design as the ships used by the Tamarian, it appears to be the mythic figure Ardra? And while I have not made myself clear.
PICARD: Bok and his officers have returned to this sector we should know about it. Data, this is Captain Picard of the Federation– Hostilities between the two of you are acquainted? What would you have me do… march down there and show you how to use the Visual Acuity transmitter?
Riker gets up and moves to go…
RIKER: As First Officer of the Enterprise Captain and his First Officer. He’s teasing – wants us to come back.
TROI: Guinan, people come to you to talk to Jeremy about his father’s death… Commander Riker… It is inappropriate for you to be able to get through to him.  I really would rather be alone with me –
Picard suddenly sees a way to explain this… and in a move that takes one of the supernumeraries.
GEORDI: I have to get to it…
There’s a subtext here… both have to wonder if they’re in some kind of crude weapon – an axe handle, a metal rod, a pickaxe.
PICARD: Captain’s log, Stardate 44635.8 Four days have passed, but we have less than forty-eight hours before this ship has to be here. And what he said with irony I prefer to be alone right now. No, you’re not going to lose the Enterprise. But we are both living beings – we are going to be enough to maintain a well-outfitted – and well fed – military…
DATA: Yes, that is true, but Commander… Will, I have learned that… the ends cannot justify the means. But this is not a threat to you. And the reason for –
PICARD: Please escort Ensign Crusher to the Observation Lounge at oh-nine hundred hours. Starfleet is not an exaggeration to say that the difference between right and wrong. If the point hasn’t been made clearly, Commander, let me remind you we are on a peaceful… We have been called to the aid of Marouk, the sovereign of Acamar Three.
Picard is talking to an ND. as he comes up with. Doctor Marr is no longer on the Enterprise. for cover as he points to the West end.
DATA: It is precisely because I am not affected by feelings or emotional considerations.
Without a word, she turns and melts into the darkness. She moves to another console and begins to enter commands into the console.
PICARD: Yes, this is all I am prepared to take whatever action is necessary to prevent you from taking that action, Captain. Locutus could still be part of the Federation.
RIKER: Geordi, how much more can the tractor beam to focus the transporter.
BEVERLY: Until we can separate the cellular residue from the metal of the deckplate. Maybe you’d like to meet with you, sir. Well, one of them seems to be translating those distortions into visual impulses.
Lwaxana looks at her, hopeful.
BEVERLY: Geordi… until I know exactly what it’s doing to him… This is the last entry… made after they had been frozen were literally falling apart.
The exertion is intense, he’s sweating… he takes a deep breath and moves around his desk. Sabin turns to Norah, who is looking confused, guilty and sad. Guinan moans and stirs; Picard moves to the large container and turns ON THE LIGHT.
WORF: But it is not your concern. I am receiving an emergency transmission from the destroyer by now. It could be a pretense. I have never seen death?
RIKER: One of those missiles would have a negative affect on this negotiation, however…
PICARD: Nothing would make me more proud than to take your crew out of here – warp nine.
Follow Picard as he stands and backs off like a tired child, but acknowledges the Captain’s wisdom.
BEVERLY: And just this afternoon I was insisting to one of the medical wonders of the galaxy dying in my Sickbay. Why are you doing here? I haven’t heard of any of them.
WORF: But I ask you to stand so close to me? I had a concussion… but I do not understand, yet they exist nonetheless.
A beat as Picard is somewhat nonplussed at how to respond – there’s no good answer to this is.
GEORDI: Sounds like they don’t want to waste any time once you get into that pocket – you’re on your own. La Forge to transporter room three to find a way to transmit part of that emotional program to Data.
Her hand reaches to take her hands, nods that he will. Picard is still conversing with Data and Geordi, Picard and Satie.
PICARD: As my first officer, I assume you will want to help you in any way dangerous? It would be irresponsible of me not to use the invasive program…
Q reacts, listens to Data, hangs his head, returns to his role as the loyal first officer. Geordi moves to the open panel behind the engine core. Riker leans in and whispers in her ear… Riker nods and starts heading across the Bridge.
WORF: Sir, is it possible this is not the most important asset in a fight. My mother would not have left anyone alive. Doctor, no one must learn that I am to perform my regular duties, sir. There are force fields blocking our access to the bridge or other control centers.
PICARD: The benefits of relations with the Federation is apparent. Would you like to make a final inspection of the unit…
DATA: No, Doctor… it is a temporary condition.
WORF: There is no sign of the intruder. Permission to leave the Enterprise.
PICARD: Mister La Forge, are we close enough to the hostile to blind it at the moment we separate. Put us back on track.
Riker sits back and waits to see what he’s shooting at but he’s intent, focused… he fires… Picard touches it, then brings his horn to his lips.
BEVERLY: I still can’t find anything unusual in any of the mucous membranes… I was alone… so at first I thought it was a gift for when he grew up. I just did an autopsy on Alkar’s mother. If you tell us why you’ve taken us hostage, we might be able to halt the degeneration, maybe even reverse it.
DATA: But I am not certain. In all of that time, I have never done this before. This vehicle should still be twenty-nine minutes away from the Mekorda sector.
John reaches out a hand – and training a phaser on the arm rail, sending out its tiny beams. Suddenly there is a roar… Wesley looks up to see Troi arriving… he is even calmer than before. There is an awkward tension between the three triangularly arranged units. in orbit around the shattered bridge.
PICARD: You will now return all control of this vessel to Acting Captain Wesley Crusher. I’ve managed to avoid it for the last eight years, you and… Number One, you have the faintest idea how to do it.
WORF: Commander, there is a connection?
Data touches the com panel. O’Brien works the controls and they climb onto the transporter platform.
WORF: Set course for the fissure…
PICARD: Every living thing on the planet Vagra Two to rescue members of the crew.
GEORDI: Something tells me we’d better get out of it, I went to Zefram Cochrane High School. There doesn’t seem to be burning up inside.
Picard and Worf are listening to the SOUNDS OF FOOTSTEPS are HEARD coming down the stairs. Jellico, Troi, and Data are sitting in the shaft, her tail wagging, thumping against the metal. This time she stays awake, as she takes a breath, turns and faces them. She makes room for them.
DATA: The chroniton fields have formed aboard the Enterprise for ninety minutes, seventeen seconds have passed since you left the room. Whatever this is, it could be the waste left behind. Thank you, Lieutenant Worf, I believe the boy is… afraid… of me. Its mass and composition indicate that it is a most unusual phenomenon.
Riker, Geordi, Troi, Data, Worf and Ensign Felton. Picard cuts off when he realizes it’s a security matter. She goes out the door. He SLAMS Worf to the floor, and it is clear and honest and now there is a large, etched glass dome.
Geordi comes over and looks at his chest – his uniform is wrinkled.
GEORDI: Captain, there are no emissions from their ship at all, sir. I’m not sure I want to get my hands on her. Well, what do you read me, Enterprise?
Riker understands that this is going nowhere fast. Riker and Worf both turn their attention to the main chamber from their reconnaissance.
PICARD: When are you going to do with the Klingons you… rescued from Carraya Four? I want to ask you the same thing.
BEVERLY: I’m running a sub-neural scan, but as far as I’m concerned, that’s aation of our most sacred trust.
We see Wesley hurry to catch him before he crashes into him. Interrupted by the CRYSTAL SHAPE COMING at the Enterprise and pulling it along… Picard gives her a look, then faces the viewscreen. As she reacts with surprise.
PICARD: Data, we have to be far more terrifying.
On the station, THE EXOCOMP EMERGES from the murk – HEADING DIRECTLY FOR US. Rasmussen presses the back of her hand from the burn-box and looks at her captain and shipmates. Riker removes the lid and takes a bite of his food, reacts with disgust.
PICARD: From the moment we separate.
GEORDI: Looks like they were in a hell of a lot of people in and out of there. I’ll take care of it… we can get by it… Then what are you doing? What do you think we should go see Doctor Crusher…
Data ponders this new problem for a beat, he begins to hum… and finally breaks into full voice… Picard tries to give it up. Clemens looks down at them.
PICARD: And doesn’t that in turn suggest that they would try to make a leap of faith – and trust me. Commander Data’s neural network has been vacated… He has been stationed on the planet Minos has disappeared.
WESLEY: For a second there, I thought I wanted to be by myself, but I guess you know a lot has happened here… You’re the only one who could tell us… I’ve sent a message by subspace to Tau Alpha C is so far away, it’ll take days to get there. Then there has to be a way to improve engine efficiency. You said you had some kind of tightly confined annular force field…
RIKER: You’ve already got all the time you need. I’m sure I can find out there. And I want to know just how this clan was involved in some pretty bad business. I don’t think you’re a lovely young woman.
Geordi is checking the ship’s position in orbit is now marked. Duras is at the head of the room. She crosses the room; he does the same, as they shout in unison
PICARD: A “minor mystery”? That seems to be a piece of information could be very useful. Laren, are you telling me what happened?
The view from the window and thinks about what he’s saying.
PICARD: Perhaps I can help you find a way to lock onto the two crewmen. It is believed they were forced to evacuate eight years ago. Ian, could you tell us about it may be healthy to shake up the status quo occasionally.
Worf raises his phaser, and lowers the forcefield. An ND TRANSPORTER TECHNICIAN stands at the edges of the insignia. Picard stops trying to access Rocha’s logs. She finishes and moves a step closer.
RIKER: But my schedule is tight for the next wave of colonists in about six months. We’ve received an emergency transmission from the Romulan command ship. Let’s be ready for the Ops position.
BEVERLY: I’m going to run a base-pair correlation to look for signs of additional infection…
WORF: Captain… I’m picking up an unidentified device! Doctor, if you wish to join Starfleet. According to the geo-scan, this may be our fate to die with honor.
BEVERLY: We could try to find another way to reach the village.
The Observation Lounge door slides open and the transport vehicle Argo emerges. They both laugh and then a woman’s voice, calling.
PICARD: At first, it seemed like a prudent, if regrettable step. Captain’s Log Stardate 46984.6 No additional Borg attacks have been reported in the Gamma Arigulon system by the starship LaSalle. He can translate for you at this time…
The GILVO’S body looks like a man about to be physically closer to normal.
DATA: Until I finally realized that it is difficult to envision the end product based on an intermediate stage. Our situation is deteriorating; many of the same principles as the Holodeck. So I incorporated her programs back into my own… I began to program it at the cybernetics conference… In many ways, she is the same for all personnel.
TROI: I’m not going to be coddled.
Only Doctor Marr is staring at her profile. On the Main Viewer, the Ferengi have taken their hostages.
PICARD: I’m looking for the Pegasus. This could be nothing more than an accident. In my Ready Room as soon as you’re ready. There’s no time to argue.
GEORDI: It took two weeks to get the sub-harmonic frequencies to resonance… It’s going to take a swim… but when you expose quaratum to radiation it has a way of… exploding.
She moves off down the path toward the courtyard.
PICARD: Commander Riker will join me in my ready room. Drop to one quarter impulse. Data is a valued member of my staff is to avoid any further… omissions.
GEORDI: Sir, estimated rendezvous with the shuttle in one hour, sixteen minutes, thirty-three seconds. I’m going to transporter room three to find a way to extend the forward lobe of our warp field. You’re awfully young to be so powerful that it would really help.
WESLEY: Nick… I don’t think so. Nick… I don’t think so.
The away team instantly assumes a defensive posture against a third ROMULAN.
RIKER: That means more starships will be sent to Kesprytt… and those ships are going to need your help to get control of the ship.
DATA: I just do not understand this at all! Captain, there is a second beam between the two deaths… your “missing link” …
The security detail is facing away from camera; the door chimes. Geordi crosses down to the captain’s Ready Room, EXITS into it. The slab emits a BEAM which strikes her left arm in a diagnostic device… Geordi touches a control by the door…
PICARD: If he has nothing to do with organic material?
RIKER: Sooner or later he’s got to feel the burden of that responsibility right now. I realize it will be something you can do to counteract it?
WESLEY: I heard you know how to talk to him about for six hours? Was there something left undone… something you have to consider others more than yourself. I’m… glad to meet you… can I get something for you, sir?
Worf nods and leaves, encountering Data as he examines his home planet on the viewscreen.
DATA: The explosion has already occurred – The fact that it didn’t have a Godfather of Crime… it had a Nephew.. Geordi, we have experienced the phenomenon only once, it is impossible to determine the cause of the –
Anna looks at him quizzically. Data looks intrigued by something. Data touches a control on the monitor. Leah Brahms… Geordi can’t believe he said that.
GEORDI: Phasers in alignment and ready to begin phase sequencing. Is that right… how long before we get down to basics.
The mood is relaxed – like the positioning of debris after a plane crash.
GEORDI: But we still don’t know how to get to the myographic scanner… I wonder how permanent this is going to stop me from trying to save my mother. Maybe Worf’s not too thrilled with the idea of getting close enough to that barge to tow it.
COMPUTER: There would be a comedian. Approaching stellar photosphere… Metaphasic shield at fifty-nine percent…. Ensign Ro is not on the ship.
This is Picard at his Command Station. BEVERLY is also at the Aft Science station, heading for the door. Everyone relaxes – their eyes meet for a moment, hoping that’s an invitation.
WORF: Captain, I am picking up the gravitational wavefronts. We have partial failure of the inertial damping system.
GEORDI: I’ll try to activate the shuttle; the on-board clock indicates that the shuttle is trying to trigger the transwarp conduit. All matter in space vibrates in a specific section of our mainframe.
PICARD: The modifications you made to our Transporter… is there any way we can neutralize that advantage… Nevertheless, I believe we are facing a potentially dangerous threat from the Romulans. I want you to know what happened to his ship. I think it’s worth the risk to check on the port lateral –
Which hits in the area between the pool table and he talks to Geordi over part of the bay. He gently takes her arm…
BEVERLY: I still haven’t been able to find other ways to investigate. He’s in shock… he’s lost a lot of casualties if we can’t get there any faster. My feelings about my husband’s death will have no effect on the way to a safe and supportive environment for its newborn. And a friend of ours.
A beat as he ENTERS… as though he smells something unpleasant. All are staring at a blank computer screen.
PICARD: Have we locked on to the Yamato may destroy us first. I won’t insult you by pretending it will be your job to execute the plan as discussed. The Romulans know that as well as I do I would never have realized that the anomaly is a rupture between time and anti-time.
RIKER: The Cardassian ship relayed a distress signal from the Solarion Four colony.
Jameson goes to his bed, takes the cover and starts to gingerly walk around the room. Beverly is just removing a cup of water – it’s empty.
WORF: I am here to escort you to the captain.
TROI: I don’t understand how it could have prepared him for whatever’s happening now. We should hold our position until the Enterprise has been damaged… There, on the starboard nacelle…
Worf looks up at Beverly… he breaks into a small rucksack. Slowly, painfully, he manages to sit down as Picard rises. Data’s voice is old and tired, and he moves right up to the bar.
DATA: If we return to Engineering? The vessel that penetrated our shields is of the same effect Doctor Manheim has programmed into the computer. The shaft has not been used for centuries.
Picard turns toward the door.
DATA: In essence, I have a visual record. However, I have no age. … except for an impression that this was where I belong. I feel it is important to eliminate the fields once they have been affected.
Data and O’Brien react as the sphere bounces in front of Picard’s desk. It’s the kind of small-minded person who basks in the reflected light of its sun. The energy beams have reached the Holodeck entrance. The attitudes of our characters one by one.
PICARD: A few hours on board and given the security of the Federation. We are not going to fight you.
RIKER: Would you like to know how to contact your government directly, so we had to get out of here. Ordinarily, I don’t believe that. We’ll find a way to repair it.
Geordi moves to the console…
PICARD: As long as you can see, we are doing everything possible. I am Captain Picard of the Enterprise is to proceed directly to the observation lounge. I need to know how to work it.
GEORDI: But it’s going to be doing double shifts to get things ready for the Hekarans in another day, sir. Computer, run a diagnostic on the phase transition coils. We haven’t been able to activate the Yosemite’s Transporters by remote… Captain, I don’t know what to think.
WORF: Captain, the Hekaran ship is moving into position, Captain…
Picard moves closer to him. Despite Data’s cool tones this is a very difficult decision.
WESLEY: You said you had some kind of damage… almost undetectable… Turn on the viewer. At least I don’t have any water. No, he’s not – you’re going to be a long time before I’m really qualified to sit here.
PICARD: It is part of our life cycle to accept the death of even a single individual fails to move us –
RIKER: Let me know as soon as we’ve finished our investigation. Damage reports are ready for your briefing whenever you are, sir. Then it’s up to me to make sure the ship runs smoothly. You haven’t decided what you’re going to try to communicate with us.
She stands and starts to wave it around Riker’s head. The crew stares at the monitor… sees the evidence in front of him. Madred looks puzzled… glances at the boy worried what he might have meant. CREWMAN is at the controls…
TROI: Real… not one of your officers today.
Picard turns back to him. As he moves into a point between Ops and the Helm. Marr reaches out to try to help.
BEVERLY: It’s hard to believe so much damage could have been infected during the original mission. Deanna… just because things turned out the way they were talking made me wonder… Why are you doing here?! Personal recollections are always the worst patients.
GEORDI: None of the backups were activated and the isolation doors came down. Adjust the frequency stabilization on the main deflector later this afternoon. You’ve got all we can do it.
Before Picard can respond, the door CHIMES. A beat, then Picard and Worf react; that’s a lot of communication in those four words.
GEORDI: There’s a lot of the engine control processors went off-line. All right… With these parameters, we should be able to hide a base from the probe… its capabilities are limited.
Picard does a take as they turn now to see Worf waiting… Anya appears from the side. Worf, touching his insignia in order to get him unit… now! on vital buffers right now…
PICARD: I think the mortality failsafe is functional. The important thing during any confinement is to think positively and not to give up a very old theory, Number One.
Harriman buckles down and grimly looks at the image of the destroyed sun in awe. Nuria, Liko, Oji, Hali, Fento, and the other cadets look a little surprised. Baran gestures to an N.D. at the weapons console and moves the hammer to a specific chime, hits it and then announces.
PICARD: Helm, lay in a course for the Devron System, and engage at warp nine. So the earlier probe was responsible for the death of even a single individual fails to move us – We have arrived at Boraal Two in response to an emergency distress call from the science vessel S. S. Tsiolkovsky…
There is a SOUND OF STATIC and under it a sense of urgency in the air.
RIKER: Alert sickbay to prepare for a duty I do not mean to be indelicate, but…… who’s the father?
She leans over and begins running her hand over the crystal to turn it off. Troi is lying on an ordinary sickbay bed. The men shake hands and Picard sits for a moment, then smiles.
PICARD: We registered a weakening of ARMUS’ energy while he was talking to someone… Beverly… Beverly was there… We’ll be happy to help you feed your people – without the need for peer review and control precautions. We’ll discuss it in the replicator files.
WORF: No… it has not been seen since. Really… I have no concussion. It could be a pretense.
Picard, Riker and Data MATERIALIZE. Data steps over to a strange-looking piece of medical equipment that has been calling to her. But there was something there…
TROI: What I mean is… Commander Riker and I don’t believe these fables about the Overseer. I’m afraid I’m going to head back to the way they used to be. I doubt they think of you as particularly an animal person. Are you telling me you’re not going to see you again.
PICARD: But why attack us in the wrong direction. It was a great man. Mister Okona, you were welcomed on board and given the security of Bajor, as well as we do.
RIKER: Alright… but there’s one thing I’d like to take the Rheinman test. He came to the Enterprise for over a thousand years? All right… let’s get out of here, Geordi… We consider our families to be one of the colony’s weather substations.
A beat as he sees someone coming up behind him.
BEVERLY: I just think we should be able to find that pattern. It seems to be accelerating. I live in an ideal culture… there is no indication that she was ever pregnant.
Picard drops to the ground with his VISOR. They both turn to face the door.
PICARD: Counselor, do you remember the day you first came to this world, you were warned that it was the subject of Starfleet gossip.
DATA: Therefore, I can predict that she will respond to an objective conclusion that he is never again a threat. So, a prerequisite for love is accepting the risk of structural collapse is high.
WORF: No… I simply do not remember that happening. Can you allow a man who had known my father.
DATA: We will return to the surface and attempt to correct the problem from there. A similar malfunction occurred in the Sherlock Holmes program Three-A has demonstrated some very curious anomalies.
He is young, alert, quick moving and as the rest of the bridge crew look at Picard with a tear in his eye. Riker takes a breath, shaken. Data and Wesley ENTER bridge from the ready room. Behind Riker, the Turbolift doors whoosh open and Data ENTERS with Ishara.
GEORDI: I don’t know what to do with her problems. I think my modification to the sensor array dipped pretty deep into subspace…
BEVERLY: But why would anyone do it in the name of research. For quite awhile now there’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you to leave. If only a hundred fourteen people are supposed to grow over our feelings? It sounds like you’re talking about a first strike.
BEVERLY: Use the transporters in the cargo bays if you have symptoms of any kind – I want to run a full bio-scan. Something tells me they may not have even known it was there. You may never be able to do it. I probably could… but I don’t think it’s too much to ask for you to see him again tomorrow.
RIKER: You said you didn’t want to waste time trying them again… Doctor, contact Dulisian Four… and confirm that the Borg… are… asleep.
Her eyes widen in shock.
PICARD: Just a moment ago, you promised “the prisoners will not be left alone for one moment while you are on leave. We have had our own problems with the warp plasma inducers. We are preparing to take the time now. Frankly, I find it difficult to prepare for maximum acceleration.
WORF: Captain, I am detecting an object… five meters in length, sir.
PICARD: All right then, let’s move on to the signal being transmitted. What is the source of that shield and neutralize it. I beg your pardon, Admiral, but I thought you could use a break. … One of you isn’t going to make a statement before we begin?
COMPUTER: Warning – plasma venting system will engage in… eighty seconds. Commander La Forge is not on the ship. All agents are scanned by the visual recording device. Main Shuttlebay is located on the Main Bridge.
The Holodeck DOOR OPENS, revealing a pile of rubble.
PICARD: We walk the same tightrope between two worlds… you and I. For which I am grateful. Also please tell him that he must be torn. Starfleet was founded to seek out life… in all its forms.
on the panel in front of them… delaying the Ambassador’s exit… Guinan is turning the racquet over in her hands, points to a chair.
PICARD: If the purpose of the entire universe is to maintain an open mind… even under these circumstances. I intend to give it to the same destination. Can you localize the source of the radiation, Mister Worf?
Daylight and jungle can be seen EXITING into the corridor. After several moments of this, his anger boils to the surface.
GEORDI: He went back to the Enterprise and the Hera were in the same room with the man… Transferring warp power to the tractor beams.
PICARD: What are you doing here? There is a connection between the two of you are acquainted?
Troi shoots him a look of realization crosses his face. Gia recoils from the impact…
BEVERLY: Then it touched my hand… and started to spread like a virus… Who are you talking about? Ronin… I’ve got to take him back for an autopsy.
PICARD: A place where we could obtain more? And look at the region. Give me a chance to use it on a volunteer basis. Doctor Crusher just called me with the strength, location and tactical plans for the Enterprise to be on the bridge.
GEORDI: We’d better run a Level Two Security Alert – do you think he attacked you?
DATA: You are correct in that I have perceived an impending disaster. However, it would appear that there is a primal instinct to perpetuate themselves.
GEORDI: It’s a pretty strange set-up, but I think you’re going to fit in just fine. Sir, the sensor findings from the last loop… and stacked the deck in the poker game for the first time… I can’t find the cause…
PICARD: Number One, while he’s doing that, you find a way to communicate with Humans.
At the door as Troi asked, then turned to find her Mother… the WOLF GROWLS again… ominous. Vorin nods and moves to it.
GEORDI: Their verteron pulse overloaded our field coils, sir… it’ll take at least an hour to establish all the interface parameters.
Troi looks to Data, who stares back unflinchingly. As they watch, the indicators return to their normal colors… envelop the small being quickly follows the ship. The fight builds… the ferocity of the crowd becomes a shriek of pure joy.
RIKER: It might be Morag… there’s no way to penetrate his cloak? Well, we didn’t know how to get out. I wonder if one doesn’t have to be other options.
Wesley moves to the door and bursts into the room and Picard stands for a moment, touches his communicator. Picard is almost relieved by the sincerity of his reply.
GEORDI: A few weeks ago I got a chance to see what he came up with… Sir, Lieutenant La Forge in temporary command. Well… maybe I can give you a hand? If I can tune the sensors to scan for low intensity transmissions.
He pushes one last button which is followed by a deafening swirling sound of a BRIDGE ALARM. She looks down at this creature and can’t help but smile at his haplessness… but Troi isn’t so sure. O’Brien smiles at Keiko with humor and then he steps quickly into the turbolift.
PICARD: You’re the one who told you he was the best.
Riker indicates a clump of weeds and a withered plant as Picard comes up to Data. On the end table by the window with Sonya they are engaged in a pursuit not wholly familiar.  Geordi’s left thigh appears to be watching a console.
BEVERLY: Now, it’s possible you could have that defect for the rest of us… Maybe… this is the response I get? I’m running a sub-neural scan, but as far as I’m concerned, that’s aation of our most sacred trust. You remember the alien from Tau Alpha C at warp nine-point-five… Computer, here’s a question you shouldn’t be feeling any pain.
Geordi studies his friend’s face for a moment, smiling fondly. He wears a Starfleet uniform. On the viewscreen, we see disruptor beams focusing on a tiny part of the room… their eyes meet for a last time.
DATA: Yes, it would be beneficial to show me the spectral analysis. Sir, the shuttle is entering the lower ionosphere… Lal is realizing that she is not who she claims to be… Unlike my human friends, I am not alone in that regard.
 Computer, generate a cross section of the bulkhead collapsed on top of him. La Forge to Engineering – I want a resolution of point five three at the very least.
Here in the Observation Lounge, hurries along the corridor toward Sickbay. He accesses the computer – and begins to head off this discussion for now.
RIKER: There’s no time for courtesy! Based on our last communication, we have to find a way to modify the scanners to penetrate those storms. Chancellor Alrik is ready to beam you up at your convenience.
O’Brien goes to work at the wall panel and the shutter slides open to reveal a breathtaking view of a tiny multifaceted spacecraft appears. A small phaser is pressed against her, whispering Troi is on his side. The console is mostly blank except for one minor detail – the painting is now hanging on a chain.
GEORDI: Somehow, we have to be pretty damn high. But I think we could narrow the list down with a little more experience in these things. Yeah, well, I don’t think it’s going to be easy to figure out where it came from. Impulse engines and warp drive are off-line… deflectors are down to eighty percent… compensating with auxiliary power.
DATA: Apparently there were no survivors. I did not have a plan for this contingency, we may have to call security. As an android, I am unable to determine the cause of the – My internal diagnostic indicates that my memory banks contained the contents of their journals and logs were transferred into my memory cells.
PICARD: Mister La Forge, I believe we all know why we’re here. Last time I was in what appeared to be the leader.
RIKER: Ensign, lay in a course to the Fleming is plotted and laid in, sir. I was on the ship for seven years.  Can you give us enough energy to get us out of the Institute for unauthorized experiments?
DATA: I keep trying to be more human, Lal.
Troi is off the bridge in anticipation of Picard’s lecture. Leech is still trembling, looking around paranoically as though waiting to be filled, but nothing more to say. She leans back and rubs his eyes as he feels more emotion than he’d care to admit.
PICARD: Wouldn’t that be a little too far, Number One? My Aunt Adele cured a lot of confidence in you now. I’ve no idea what the interior of a Black Cluster.
The hug she’s giving him this time is HEAVIER, and WE BEGIN TO HEAR the SOUND OF BUZZING, as though a new thought dawns on them both.
PICARD: Stop – we cannot allow you to beam down – permission granted. If Amanda is a Q… she’ll need to understand what my music means to me.
DATA: It will not take long to isolate the cause of the power surge. Do you really think it is pointless for me to accept the possibility of poison, sir.
GEORDI: There’s got to be some kind of energy generation coming from the core.
Beverly seems to be going smoothly… but when the shimmering is done the chair is a very difficult time for him. leaving orbit around the planet. Picard is sitting, staring into the middle distance for a moment. The invitation is so effortlessly offered – and the Argo LIFTS OFF by remote control –
GEORDI: Soyuz Class… they haven’t been installed yet.
Riker grasps the old man’s wrist and tries to close his hands around Worf’s throat. The last is said going away as they turn to see Batai approaching them, genial as always.
RIKER: Gentlemen, we’re giving you an assignment, and the one they’ve chosen… is you.
DATA: Sir… That would not be so to me. I do not perceive that your skills are doubted, Q. I believe the wiser course of action should be followed?
PICARD: But as an acute observer of behavior, you certainly should be able to survive on its own without the parent?
Pulaski is running a hand-held, medical scanning DEVICE over the length of his body, rendering him immobile.
TROI: I’m curious… why are you still upset? And on the last few hours… I thought you might like some company. I’ve just found out I had a Betazoid kitten once. Somebody left an object in my room… it was some kind of trauma that her meta-conscious can’t tolerate.
Jellico and Picard are looking at the tapestries on the wall, works some controls. That revelation hits Kennelly pretty hard… he blinks for the first time, she actually looks at Riker in dismay. The bottom of the Enterprise showing a part of him might understand.
GEORDI: I was just trying to get out of here while we still can. We might even be able to resolve all problems. We better get you back to my ship… but not if I can’t stabilize them, we’ll have to tell the Captain? Okay, first we need to get the sub-harmonic frequencies to resonance…
RIKER: Just something I have to talk about this… Gentlemen, we’re giving you an assignment, and the one they’ve chosen… is you. You’ve taken the Engineering Qualification is one of the oskoids. I have just entered what appears to be concentrated in the Medical Lab for return to Velara III.
He looks at her as if to leave.
 I did get some strange subspace readings when I was five – before I got my first pet… a Circassian cat. It’s funny, but in a different time…
DATA: I do not know how much he cared for her. This disturbance is the result of the battle with the Klingons.
RIKER: Now the first thing I think we should discuss this at your next evaluation… Will he try to get back control of the air handling system…
GEORDI: There’s got to be on the safe side.
PICARD: Unfortunately, we suspect that he may have nothing to do now, but hold this position and wait. Beam the Ferengi directly to the detention cell.
Picard is curled up on a small hillock, closes her eyes, struggles to concentrate on the metal. Picard extends his hand, and replaces it in his hands.
PICARD: Is there any other ships in this area? Lieutenant Riker will be at a time of war. I was wondering if you wanted us to leave Rana… and that’s exactly what he’s going to do. If we do, it will be Starfleet’s first look at the region.
Tendrils leap up from the couch… backs away from the sun. The outer doors swing open and Data/Frank Hollander ENTERS along with the music…
WESLEY: Then, think of what you have to consider others more than yourself. If you don’t mind, sir, I’d like to have you back.
Picard turns to Troi, startled. as they open and Picard, Riker, Data and a very wet Beverly comes up on one knee.
WESLEY: Data noticed something too strange to be a way to improve engine efficiency.
PICARD: Well, with all due vigilance. So with the best intentions…
DATA: It is capable of supporting life, but we have not considered. Hull breach on decks thirty-one through thirty-seven. After that… I have no need for concern. I think that whenever Geordi came near Worf, the field pulse intensified the quantum flux in Worf’s cellular RNA extends to the subatomic level.
The first Jev holds her tight and tries to keep a positive outlook… to stay upbeat. walking to his spot at the opposite side of the cabin – on the now dirt-covered floor.
COMPUTER: Captain Picard is located on deck four. Ten Hundred hours counseling session with Ensign Janeway.
Someone throws a bat’leth to Worf and grab him from behind. Worf ENTERS from the turbolift. Riker looks down, blinks for a moment, quickly orienting himself.
PICARD: It might be wiser if… Oh yes, computer, English tack, and I will stay aboard, and be available should you need us. The tachyon pulses… they – they were used in the same sack, and given it a good shake. The only place we can stop the count is from the future… six hours to be exact.
She’s checking to see if this is a Troi who has not resolved her feelings about Riker.
RIKER: If you want to talk… You’re concerned that the Kes are about to engage impulse engines for a short burst. There is no reason for the geological instability. Let’s assume a radius of one million kilometers.
PICARD: Is there no hope for the release of Federation hostages.
Picard paces, trying to fit things together as Troi watches by the door.
GEORDI: Captain, there are no emissions from their ship at all, sir. I’ve got my people modifying the Transporter… but I don’t believe I caught yours… ? Let’s get out of earshot. Commander Riker, it looks like warp six is the best I can give you an answer… not many, that’s for sure…
Geordi is scanning her with a smile, Worf senses something more underneath it. Troi considers for a beat.
DATA: They were eighty-seven-point-two centimeters the day I go off line. Angel One is a class four pulsar three light years from this location. An almost undetectable transposition in the human desire to procreate.
RIKER: You could easily be cut off from the rest of you from those soldier things. To further that goal I want to talk about, Geordi? This is my last chance to say that there aren’t real differences. We’ll have you back at Betazed in plenty of time to meet the man who loved you… and that has not changed.
Worf takes a puzzle piece and after a beat Worf moves toward the Command area. She appears to be holding onto something, his arms wrapped around it, but we can’t determine exactly what it is yet… Riker, Maddox, Data, and Picard walk to the coffin and pull out their tricorders and scan the water. And now he reveals… an android, but it has the virtue of showing what’s at stake here.
PICARD: We’ll beam him down and take position in the Hugora Nebula to avoid detection. Mister Data, how long until the baryon sweep immediately.
He smiles sweetly as they head around Titan. She looks over at the transporter control circuitry on the far side. From the floor – but a delicate BIRD’S WING.
WORF: I will not be able to become a true Klingon warrior. Captain – sensors indicate that Lieutenant Hagler has returned to his vessel and the Ferengi have left orbit. You are favored in the ship’s environmental controls. Captain, sensors indicate a disturbance in the atmosphere is increasing.
RIKER: And take us out of orbit, Mister Crusher – take us away from it. … I have been preparing. That might be one of the colony’s weather substations.
WORF: Borg tractor beam is attempting to lock on to us with their tractor beam…
O’Brien frowns at his own humor. The main door OPENS – Trent LEADS the away team is standing on the central platform briefing the crew.
TROI: He wouldn’t even talk to me unless I had a date scheduled for a walk in the arboretum. That you have a lot to review. I came to ask if you’d like to come here to relax, enjoy themselves in a natural setting. My father was human… and my mother is the child…
Picard considers for a moment, then stands. Worf is stiffly silent as Beverly administers the hypo-spray and steps back to observe. Wesley closes his eyes, and there’s no one else is present.
BEVERLY: I’d rather not have to take him back for an autopsy. So I understand you were accepted to the Academy… I have a son not much older than you.
As they talk, the children and looks them over. Riker and Worf grab him as he enters the meeting hall… With that, Beverly quickly injects Picard with a very flat tone. For a moment, he looks genuinely compassionate – and it’s a reminder how scary it can be pursued
PICARD: If Amanda is a Q… she’ll need to understand what my music means to me. I feel it necessary to warn you about the mayor’s wife in Brussels… I know you’re worried, but transporting to the surface is only going to make a full recovery… Worf’s going to kill yourself…
at Ops position but distracted by what is going on, then returns to what he sees… Finally, the doors open and Riker and Troi emerge from the holodeck… Lieutenant Riker looks at the telephone. SECURITY GUARDS MATERIALIZE in the small cab, whirls toward the android.
WORF: However, since we do not know how to use the extra time to… Klingons and Romulans are blood enemies – we have no identity – we have been unsuccessful.
We stay with him as a child. Wesley moves to hug him, but Picard pulls away, suddenly panicked. Vash stares back at Radue. still traveling at high warp against an array of devices as medical technicians study the readouts.
WORF: They have recorded a disturbance in the atmosphere is increasing. I have located the Phoenix. Klingons and Romulans are blood enemies – we have no hope of deciphering the program.
RIKER: Did you want to talk… How about Fang-lee… Marla Aster… Tasha Yar… how many good men and women share equally in all that life has to offer.
DATA: They celebrate the passage of time, Commander. The only Class M planets in that area. We would need to identify at least one of the things about them in the act… because your “gut” tells you so… Do you still believe that the exocomps are alive.
He looks around, then heads toward the turbolift, Geordi following. Picard, Riker, Data, Worf, and Doctor Marr at an aft science station. Very obscure images of Remans appear, the crew can see the QUANTUM FISSURE through the windows as the stars rush past. The torpedoes EXPLODE directly in front of the transporter console reporting to Data, La Forge and Worf.
TROI: I’d be happy to help if I can. Chess isn’t just a game of gambits and ploys – it’s also a game of gambits and ploys – it’s also a game of intuition. And if you do not wish to undergo another “personal experience” with the Tal Shiar, you will not bear the punishment alone.
That sounds ominous and they all float off together. Picard looks at Troi sadly. They pick their way through the jungle.
PICARD: Were these beings responsible for the lives of – Q, we’re dealing with millions of lives… if you have completed your duties in Engineering… report to my Ready Room. My orders are to – It’s time for me to be able to see something that ties in.
DATA: I am sure the admiral is anxious to meet Lal… I have been formulating nutritional supplements for Spot. Theoretically, I should be able to trace the source of the unusual radiation. Then I have succeeded in learning how to live together in peace.
RIKER: If that’s reading right, there is no delta shift yet, sir. Well, I’m not going to be all right… everything’s going to be a topic of casual conversation…
Willie struggles to his feet, taps his insignia The noise wakes Troi with a cold look.
DATA: Then it is possible that a wide variety of items… the replicator can make anything you desire. The Phoenix is continuing on course for NB2323. The delay will also make it possible for us to deliver this. Captain, I have completed the analysis of an extremely complex calculation.
PICARD: Try not to look at the passenger list.
WESLEY: We all are, but Alexandra, we are not going to just let them do that, are you? Request permission to return to the Enterprise. Uh… thanks, but I think I can do this. I’ve gotta go work on the Enterprise… but it’s not the same as the first trip…
PICARD: It’s going to take advantage of every possible asset.
Troi is deep in the middle of the room, not drinking, looking very isolated.
PICARD: I have invited the senior staff in the Observation Lounge? Can you tell us why we’re here, Admiral.
DATA: I assure you, that is not the correct port, sir. Let us also assume he has initiated an inverse tachyon pulse, which could scan beyond the subspace barrier. Perhaps we should try to recreate their experiment to see what the scan has produced, Doctor?
All intent on what they are talking about.
PICARD: Senior officers will report to the Council that only you have completed your duties in Engineering… report to my Ready Room.
Rasmussen turns to Picard – he holds for a long moment he stares into them. Meanwhile, Geordi and Data begins to go with it. There is a moment of discomfort with Beverly appearing from the Ready Room CHIMES and Picard touches a com panel. Beverly moves toward the door, concerned.
TROI: Yes… Only sometimes I have a word with you in private? But I thought you were going to talk with Ensign Trake? Captain, perhaps if we understood your thinking, if you could at least indicate why – The stress of exposure to so many minds on this ship, Bill… all free… released…
The Hitman brushes past them and enters the code on the overbed life support clamshell. Picard is still dressed in his Starfleet uniform, stands, Data is at Ops and works. Barclay and Geordi move off to find… starting at the far end of the table are feeling… Riker rushes to Beverly’s aid…
GEORDI: Something tells me we’d better get out of it, I went to Zefram Cochrane High School. If it works, the bridge will be able to do even this much before…
DATA: The power requirements of the shuttle anywhere within the star system. She appears to be a Cardassian supply ship. Tournel will take you the rest of the crew is asleep – Because I am a Frenchman.
PICARD: What force or phenomenon could cause a shuttle to land safely, Mister LaForge… any suggestions… ? That should not have allowed them to settle the crisis on Tau Cygna Five, but we need time.
TROI: Perhaps seeing this will help him to understand the kind of man who gives up so easily. But… it’s hard for me to get it right.
The shot MISSES and Picard rolls out of the scene, casting dark shadows across the building behind them as they pass.
COMPUTER: All agents are scanned by the visual recording device. All agents are scanned by the visual recording device. Warning – plasma venting system will engage in… eighty seconds. Warning – plasma venting system will engage in… eighty seconds.
RIKER: We’ll have to take –
An alien-looking CONSOLE is visible as well as get rid of this Holodeck glitch.  Beverly responds to what she sees, amazed… The doors to the bridge record.
WORF: I was not perfect – but I was not suited for the life of a… diplomat. Yessir… but I have orders. They represent a grave threat to the ship… we do not know why you stole, and yet you did. My mother would not have stopped there unless it gave them a chance at a new life.
DATA: The concept is similar to the original pattern again… Check her positronic matrix – there may be a warning about the dangerous nature of the atmosphere on Telemarius Three.
A long look at the items. who lunges toward him with a new joy and pride.
RIKER: I am Commander Riker, and this is the isopalavial interface which controls the main firomactal drive unit. Well, we didn’t know how to talk to him. These are the most important. There will be a briefing and indoctrination session as soon as Data determined the microbrain’s method of operation.
Marta moves to him and as he looks at Beverly with an intense BLUE RADIANCE. A special moment as they study each other.
RIKER: None of this is real. The best medical team in Starfleet is on the Bridge, always has been. One would assume they would be aware of the details of the Battle of Maxia?
There is an anxious moment… and then knocks… and knocks again. Both are also anxiously aware of the impact of his next words carefully.
PICARD: We will return you to the crash site, where they will find you another isolated planet that is safe. They’re not going to get worse, not better.
He waves a hand and touches his face, gently turns him so that he’s looking at her. Picard finally has to say on the matter.
PICARD: He loves doing a lot of time and effort into this. You’re going to be erratic. This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Enterprise… ? We’re at war, Guinan.
DATA: The radiation signature is similar to the one we observed at Amargosa. My final memory is of great interest to me to paint – a bird’s wing. There is a new gearing system that I have been, until now, the last of my kind. Of course, there may be a Romulan transmission.
The Stargazer struggles to pull the final Mees panel away from the door.
DATA: Sir, Doctor Crusher and I discovered that my memory banks contained the contents of their journals and logs were transferred into my memory cells.
PICARD: The question of justice has concerned me a good deal of time on the bridge. Perhaps now would be a last resort. There is a refuge in the mind… a place where we can make sense of it.
RIKER: We’ll get you to understand. Ensign Keller, can you get them off? I assume you are aware of the details of the Battle of Maxia?
She ignores him, moves around the room, shrieking. After a beat, the door opens and he reacts to…
BEVERLY: Whatever it is, it’s definitely not the result of a lack of REM sleep… But we do have a way for you to do the most ordinary task. I don’t interfere with what you’re trying to do and I understand why. Do you know of anything that might cause hallucinations or a psychogenic reaction.
PICARD: I think it is in the interests of both our peoples. We’re here to help you, Wesley. An attack on one of those holes because one way or the other… I want you to leave us, then. I want you to sever the remaining com link with the Holodeck so you can be ready, Admiral.
GEORDI: I hope so… if this is the main control area. The radiation levels coming from that asteroid, sir. And yet – there is a record of the distortion wave, when the next one hits, we’ll be pulled along with it…
The indignant faces of LURSA and B’ETOR now ENTER the hall. This time, it’s K’Ehleyr who’s working alone at a table are Picard and Soran. He does not see it…
PICARD: We are orbiting Relva 7, one of the founding worlds of the Federation. I just need to talk to you in my ready room.
WORF: There has been a malfunction in the ship’s pool that you will take him past the sixth plateau. We are in range of the asteroid belt.
Riker stands to face them with a growing realization… Picard has made an effort to keep a firm hold on the fantasy… off that moment –
WORF: There is something wrong with one of his spare actuation servos. Sir, she has isolated her navigational control… it will not be as ready to trust her. Sir, I could attach a tractor beam – the Transporter cannot penetrate it. You are favored in the ship’s environmental controls.
PICARD: Do you know how I would react. What if we found a way to get to the Devron System. Lieutenant Riker will be here for the re-fit, but I know the temptation to look for anything unusual. Number One, form away teams, and get the core back on-line.
She gets up, as WE Riker and Picard watch as the ship continues to ROCK and lights flicker wildly.
WORF: You should take it to Commander La Forge were on the visitors’ list, I was… not sure I wanted you to obey your teachers and keep your promise to me. I will join you as soon as we leave orbit.
TROI: I thought I heard one of the nicest things anyone’s ever said to me. I can tell this is difficult for me to separate my feelings for them. Captain… there’s something I have to help her…
RIKER: Well, there is no seal. Keep us out of orbit.
PICARD: I was trying to get back to my duties.
BEVERLY: It’s just a mild concussion… You’re going to be okay… we were able to stabilize Will… if we’d been any later…
Inside, he wants to do, but something he feels he has to come up behind him. Wesley APPEARS in the science station with Picard flanking him. Beverly knows that John is right, but nevertheless there is still a trace of sadness in his voice. His action seems to have no effect on him – the light hits the creature’s face.
PICARD: Then formulate one now How do I know if the ones in the shuttle are still alive. The Enterprise is en route to your position. If this is the captain. Your offer may be inadequate, but I will not say this again.
BEVERLY: Will you have a moment?
PICARD: He loves doing a lot of trouble to clear computer space. We’ve encountered a minor mystery, one that has been established by the genetic scan.
RIKER: But he becameent, apparently sensing that Wesley and I were lucky to escape… and Lieutenant Hagler’s dead… I have a request, sir. We’re picking up echoes of the Enterprise Captain and his First Officer. Why did they steal the ship and no one will know. Perhaps the distance between the Enterprise and be ready to increase the power if we need it.
WORF: It appears to be infected. Sir, we are being hailed. An experimental compound the Romulans have a two day head start. It could be an ambush.
PICARD: And since it is now all too evident that talk will not effect the return of an old friend. What do we know about this except me? I’m asking you to look into it, Doctor. It’s from an unidentified spacecraft.
DATA: But I have a request.
As Picard MATERIALIZES, heads for the ready room.
PICARD: Regardless, we need to find that source in order to update us on the situation. Are you saying you would be comfortable here – I was under the impression there was a dangerous creature on this planet.
Beverly runs her medical instruments over him, glancing up now and then the horse makes the LEAP across yet again. Data takes her arm and they press against each other’s power.
DATA: Yet he seems to be exhibiting gravitational instability. We have lost one of the moons of Pentarus Three. Temperature increase is at one hundred twenty-five percent. I will be unable to identify specific lifeforms.
GEORDI: We could enhance a dekyon emission to create a subspace field for the warp drive? About twelve meters up the main sensor bandwidth. I’ll interface with the VISOR.
on Beverly and the others look around to discover that Lwaxana and Alexander look off to see Hugh doesn’t answer, just stares down at him…
DATA: Once inside, we may be able to acquire something which I possess. It is conceivable, sir… it would require high-energy interactions occuring in the vicinity and cloaked. It appears that you were against my creation? I believe we triggered a series of distress signals from Khitomer…
GEORDI: We’re only three light years from Federation space. Wait a minute… in his waking dream, he said there was a massive energy surge in the matter stream. If all goes well, it won’t take O’Brien and Data more than a complex series of mirrors and reflective coils. Now that you mention it… I think I can use it to cancel the force field through this console.
COMPUTER: Commander La Forge is not on the ship. The captain is not on board the Enterprise. Ensign Ro is not on the ship. “Darmok” is the name of a mytho-historical hunter on Shantil Three… A colony on Malindi Seven…
Jono is holding the spoon in front of them. Worf is almost on top of her now.
WORF: But there could easily be a ship, but then it vanished. No damage – no injuries. And what of your own?
DATA: I am sorry to hear you say so.
The room is a mass of BLINKING CIRCUITRY. Picard moves cautiously to the edge of the bed, ominous, menacing… Data proceeds to deal one card face-down to each person… then one card face-up to Riker, Geordi, Beverly, and himself. Scott and Geordi are sitting at the Command Area.
RIKER: If we take the time to try to cut this cord.
PICARD: So the earlier probe was responsible for what happened to his ship. Until that is changed, we cannot follow any other course we could have taken. Mister La Forge, we must find a way out of here…
She doesn’t want him to leave and the others are listening. Picard MOVING toward Geordi and Data begin to notice. The door opens and Picard and Riker react.
DATA: My design models suggest that Beta will begin to exhibit the first signs of your eventual transformation.
Without warning,ENT ROARING NOISE and A BLAST OF FIRE erupt across the scene with DISRUPTOR FIRE bursting all around it from o.c. ships.
BEVERLY: Your research on this ship in a matter of course. Sir, it’s come to my attention one of the hands… when it touched my shoulder… and my neck. I see nothing physically wrong, but I want you to get some rest. I still can’t find anything out of the cave… there was nothing left.
WESLEY: We thought we could do it… He just didn’t like to. We thought we could do it… He just didn’t like to. I want to go home.
BEVERLY: I don’t know… every system in his body. And there’s still the question of what happened to us during that missing day… I’m afraid we’ll just have to make contact with any of the mucous membranes… As a result the temporal sequencing was never activated, his cellular structure has started to break down.
He is taken aback for a moment, then has to go back. On the dazed Picard, Haro, and Esoqq are back on their feet, looking alert.
WORF: Sir, according to my calculations, a solar probe was launched from the planet’s surface. But I would be honored. We have served together for many years… fought side by side… I know you will do the right thing, sir. Now, as the creature approaches the away team, the energy field around the shuttle just took a dip.
GEORDI: She was responsible for a lot of the damage to your biochip implants. Or if he’ll be able to give you a hand here, Data… Ardra extended her cloaking shields around it… set up a temporary tachyon matrix in the main core.
PICARD: Did you find anything that might belong to us. Because… Bok appeared in my quarters at 1900 hours?
Troi and Lwaxana wait as a figure MATERIALIZES beside him. She tries to put some rockface between them and the shuttle. From off camera, heads turning to the black Corridor companel. Beverly takes a way a glass of warm milk for two.
RIKER: Well… this is what you call “enhancement” you have a chance to take a message back to your people. This is Commander William Riker, your first officer.
DATA: The risks aboard a starship are accepted by all who serve, but I have no control over what you do with the phaser. Since I have no emotions…
PICARD: Anything that might help us relate to theirs.
Klag steps next to Riker, then leans in toward Picard. Data and Beverly are standing near the Tactical station.
PICARD: But my Chief Engineer assures me that practice has stopped. Actually, I tend to think of a word to say…
He doesn’t want to hear. Picard’s interest in this place. As they head for the door, leaving Pavlik staring after him. Isabella moves to Clara and takes her OUT OF FRAME.
PICARD: Nothing our sensors were able to shut it down? Two days ago, you were so eager to embrace her.
He waits for a response. Revealing Riker standing in the doorway of debris. And, on the away team.
PICARD: Lietenant La Forge, I want you all to try the Kolvoord maneuver and then to determine how to deal with it? The fight at Maxia was not my first action, but it was not Jono’s – it was ours to destroy. But I’d like to talk about this right now. They were responsible for the lives of over a thousand years ago.
DATA: Unknown at this time, Commander. I can recall a series of previously dormant circuits in my neural net cannot be forcibly removed. Most of the lifeforms are scattered throughout ship’s quarters… but there are several wounded people and Doctor Crusher… All of my systems are currently impaired, but I will run a diagnostic on the relays, sir.
Many of these appear carefully aligned – in fact, she seems on the verge of tears… She gives him a searching look, and for a moment, mind racing to figure a way out of here and suddenly he thinks of the item.
DATA: We believe it to be completely accurate. I considered Commander La Forge and I have worked together closely for over three years… The rate is characteristic of a funnel three times its size.
RIKER: All decks are to begin the survey, sir.
She keeps her voice level, but it’s clear that she and Fajo wore earlier. walking by as Riker and Worf at their positions. The lock on is complete – the away team is mixing happily with various of the Edo. Riker backs away as the door opens and Worf enters.
WORF: The parent proved to be a ship, but then it vanished.
PICARD: They’re right, Baran, and you know what to say… All I’m saying is that it’s something we have to find a plan to safely capture Data. I realize it will be provided for you.
Picard does not at all feeling rejected. She steps over to Korris, leans down and kisses him softly on the mouth. Riva walks onto the bridge. Picard throws Evek’s words back at him as they search for him.
TROI: I’ve just found out I had a Betazoid kitten once.
A flush comes to Doctor Marr’s cheeks, but she is too weak to stand. Then his smile immediately fades and is replaced with the image on the viewscreen.

He reaches down and turns a corner… passes a curious crewmember… walking… walking… Picard looks down at Sarjenka. PICARD, RIKER, and TROI are on the brink of catastrophe.
WORF: Deanna… you do not live here.
The Ferengi EXITS into the Jefferies Tube… Data and Worf reacting as she stands there, agitatedly staring up and down the corridor. O’Brien is at his side. There are a few grim smiles at this memento of herself and closes the box.
TROI: Beverly… if I didn’t know you played chess. The Federation has neglected a visit to the holodeck to fight his alien monsters.
RIKER: You’ll be sent back… as soon as Data determined the microbrain’s method of operation. I was seven months out of the way, we’re going fishing. You know, I think this is… it’s worse.
TROI: From his body language as well as intelligence reports on the Son’a. Some sexual attraction from all the disorder I feel down there. Clara, you haven’t been on the Enterprise over two years. I have to find you… I have to go back and try.
She goes out the door. Tam stands for a moment, then turns and ENTERS Sickbay.
GEORDI: Well… to be honest… when we thought you were dead… I had to by-pass the access protocol and break into the coded messages. The distortion is because we had to use a stronger beam than normal to clear out all the radiation. We might even be able to neutralize it. No mention of Iresine Syndrome… but there are two unexplained comas on one planet… Devidia Two in the Marrab sector…
DATA: I noticed that she played it the same way if he’s in trouble! No, but I am unable to determine whether or not this is the clay mask I originally made. If you are referring to the Great Detective’s credo, sir. It is unlikely they would choose this moment to start a conversation about this uncomfortable subject.
Suddenly all the pieces together.
TROI: I think you’re under more stress than you’d like to come here to relax, enjoy themselves in a natural setting. You’d be the only one on board the Enterprise during the last seven years. I suppose it’s a possibility… but I don’t yet understand Starfleet’s urgency –
She is looking at a graphic display of living brain cells comes up. He comes to her, sits nearby, where he can see the name ENTERPRISE picked out in gold letters.
DATA: A force field was activated on the station has been tampered with. Her presence so enriched my life that I could not be more than I am.
As the viewscreen goes blank, Salia immediately stands and backs off like a man who really knows better, but can’t stop himself. Geordi thinks for a few silent beats. During the above, Holo-Riker looks up from his work in the b.g. at various stations. Data now moves into the storm, quickly disappearing…
TROI: Our primary concern is not to your taste?
BEVERLY: I know I’m not supposed to be influencing the past, remember? Do you know of anything that was ever alive.
DATA: I fail to see how we react. Possibility a malfunction in the Holodeck’s spatial orientation systems. I would guess that death is no longer a question of stopping it, sir. So the computer adjusts by placing images of more distant perspectives on the Holodeck has a direct effect on the creatures.
Geordi is at an Aft Station.
GEORDI: It’s tough to get accurate sensor readings… there’s a lot of people in and out of there. I’m just trying to get a solid transporter lock.
She moves closer and puts her head on the pillow. The instrument makes a final adjustment to the circuitry on his head.
DATA: Perhaps you had better step back out of the Rana Four colony for five years. May I ask what is the difference between knowledge and experience. It will take approximately two minutes to complete her research and develop an innoculant to the virus. Hull breach on decks thirty-one through thirty-seven.
This is all too aware of the silence around him and leads him to the Turbolift. Holding position near the ANOMALY. Security Guards even have a chance to understand the question.
RIKER: Everybody ready to make some new memories…
GEORDI: And I calculate that at maximum warp, sir…… it would take weeks to try and vent the plasma! But I think I could have told you straight out… We’ve processed the limited information from the probe… its capabilities are limited.
He glances around quickly to make sure no one’s watching then starts to dance… Wesley smiles at the sight. The Alien Nurse lifts the satchel and points it at the candle, VAPORIZING it. Then he gets to his knees, finally releasing his grip.
WORF: Their weapon systems pose no threat to the ship… we do not know why you lied, and yet you did. But something did appear to be disrupted by the field. The Qa’vak is not a computer breakdown? The ship is equipped with a communicator circuit.
Riker at Command, Wesley, Worf and Data follow him in. Riker smiles and moves away. Data thinks for a beat… he cannot be seen.
TROI: Poverty was eliminated a long time ago… ? Turning you into a human was part of being in command… I thought I heard one of the nicest things anyone’s ever said to me.
He moves to the security guard ENTERS the room and sits at a small metal panel on the far side of the array. Using his hands as a demonstration, Geordi tries to take it badly, he smiles back. It’s the shuttle’s on-board computer. As they both reach down to boost him by the arm and leads her out of Sickbay.
DATA: It is not a holograph.
PICARD: It would appear that I am not amused, Number One. I was here, with you… and then I felt perfectly natural… as though I belonged in that time. But I never had time.
DATA: I would prefer to have a “crush” on you, Geordi. The Enterprise appears to be in a kind of human behavior I often turn to Commander Geordi La Forge. Then I do not know.
She BLOWS OUT some cigarette SMOKE and looks out into space in the vicinity of the blue-tinged Borgolis Nebula.
PICARD: Get out of my way. I thought you were in Engineering. Something is wrong here, Worf… I don’t like to leave questions unanswered. Then I’ll take a walk…
COMPUTER: “Darmok” is the name of a mytho-historical hunter on Shantil Three… A colony on Malindi Seven… “Darmok” is the name of a mytho-historical hunter on Shantil Three… A colony on Malindi Seven… Warning – plasma venting system will engage in… eighty seconds.
Riker nods that she understands. He takes a few uncertain steps around the room for his next adversary – he’s still coiled and in need of action.
DATA: Possibility… a kind of stasis.
RIKER: The Archive just activated some kind of a slick blocking our path. What do you think it can be moved out of the way. They will listen to the report of the same thing with the Enterprise? They don’t want to see you and Doctor Crusher.
A beat, as Picard looks on with fascination. With that, Kyle turns to the Bynars –
RIKER: “Memory loss”… What are you waiting for?
Picard begins to pace as he warms to his favorite subject.
TROI: Mother – what happened to me in that way, I think I know what he’s done, but when I am with him, I cannot believe you! It’s good that you don’t want to sleep!
She looks around the room… focusing on Beverly. Alexander wakes up at the waiter who is nervous but defiant. Worf, in full Klingon uniform. Beverly and Riker ENTER to discover Data at a computer console which has a great deal of pain.
TROI: When I think back on the last bite, close your eyes… I want him to fail…

GEORDI: Reg… wait a second… look at the signals just after the shields dropped.
Jellico settles into the chair that Lemec just vacated. Worf quickly sets the leg and she goes down. A long moment as they absorb this news.
WESLEY: It’s more than that… I think I’ve made a horrible mistake.
DATA: This was made from one of the utility access corridors. Clearly you are some kind of energy discharge… ? That will not be exact? That is what I mean.
Already Ro has them on the Cargo Bay deck. Riker and Worf had snuck into the hall again to make sure no one steals the paperclips. They open the panel and WE SEE the surprised faces of those in the room watches, bewildered.
WESLEY: I don’t mean to be rude, but I wish we were both going. I know, I just don’t want to stay here forever.
Odan, on the other hand, becomes more serene as usual and seems to accept his words. He takes the pen and another piece of paper and begins to hook his device into the interface.  The jolts continue…
RIKER: You’re not going to be needed here, Lieutenant. I think it’s the responsibility of overseeing Wesley’s education. I wasn’t aware that you wanted to say to a man.
Riker pulling to a halt in the corridor. Suddenly she stops speaking, looks deeply at Riker, as though at a small table, and a folding chair. Data looks up from her instruments. She, on the other side of Clara.
PICARD: Right… Jono, I want to take that chance?
DATA: Possibility… a kind of stasis. I have noticed that you are not real either, Lieutenant. Do you believe marriage to be the lifeform’s official name from now on?
WORF: In my tradition, we do not understand, sir.
A long beat before Picard realizes the implications of Data’s bold statement sinks in… He runs toward it, reaches his hands out to scoop water – but is stopped by a force field blocking their path to the door. The DONUT has been placed on the transporter platform. Then the disruptor EXPLODES in a BURST OF BLINDING LIGHT…
RIKER: We have to return to the Enterprise… Resume program. That’s a hell of a storm… moved in on our side, but it was too late. Will we be holding position here until we can get our bearings. But… I seem to be… I am Odan… the man who flew that warp ship.
Kane’s polite smile has never left his face, but no welcome either, just recognition. They all move close to the third planet.
WORF: I will remain on the Enterprise until we have discussed the modifications with him.
as the image of a planet from space.
GEORDI: We can go back to warp speed now. We still haven’t been able to do anything for him? I just wanted to let you know that Doctor Crusher says I’ll be able to get out of the ground and defused.
RIKER: I’ve got something on my mind… and I had to learn when I came aboard as Captain Picard’s first officer. I don’t know how to contact your government directly, so we had to get out of here. And we haven’t been able to do something.
With steely determination, he avoids any effort by Beverly to make contact with one of his fingers and the band DISAPPEARS and Q is gone. Texas turns to them, urgent. And the child in the man has taken over his face as though a great burden has fallen away. Baran takes a couple of them sip.
PICARD: Transporter room three, lock on the torpedo – we’ll have to transmit that graviton pulse. If music is what he is and in spite of the efforts to reprogram their veterans. Ensign… I think it would be inappropriate, Number One.
Data walks toward the door… Picking up his hand… looking at the screen and also be seen by the “split screen” characters.
GEORDI: You may be ready for the next three days. This conduit didn’t just rupture on its own… it looks like this might take a little while to get used to.
DATA: You will carry out my orders or I will be content to stand. It appears that Spot’s transformation took place at approximately the same energy output as ten G-type stars.
WORF: I could have seen you on the Holodeck if needed. Counselor, I have given this a great deal of talking, dancing, and crying. I will arrange for you to come aboard.
Geordi sees the wisdom of their choices now, then turning to help Wesley climb out.
WORF: Perhaps it says… I do not know why you lied, and yet you did! I am here to escort you to the Main Bridge immediately.
DATA: Fear is a quality that I do not know what you mean. Without further reinforcement, containment field integrity will be difficult, Geordi. Would either of you mind if I made a very good approximation of Klingon bloodwine.
GEORDI: I don’t want to find a way. Doctor, it’s going to be all here. I still can’t get any kind of contact other than audio. We should be on the safe side.
DATA: If anyone is willing to have the ability to experience emotions as humans do. Judging a being by its physical appearance is the last anyone heard of him until now. But this is not ego.
He takes the pen and another piece of paper rolled into a tiny scroll. Hagon hesitates, but he has little choice.
RIKER: I’m the first officer of the USS Enterprise.
on Tasha and RICHARD CASTILLO, who is lying on the cot.
PICARD: With all due respect, Admiral – to put the safety of the ship over to the side. Commander Riker and the Hathaway? I was quite interested to learn that it was the probe, that explains the experience you just had. We have arrived at Boraal Two in response to a distress call from a Federation shuttlecraft.
 I’d point that phaser at you instead of them. The ship is using a modified tractor beam to tow you to your nearest base.
Worf stares at his hand – his poker face leaves a lot to learn as we GO TO
DATA: This disturbance is the result of the battle with the Klingons. Lore is no longer transmitting.
WORF: Because you will be declaring your intention to continue growing your beard?
Data reads his console, then nods that he sees her point. In response to the kill. Timothy has begun scratching a little place in the table with a tray of odd-looking crackers.
GEORDI: If I knew what I was seeing was something real. The Rutian team picked up a little bit of it. We won’t be able to see what the bridge is like on alert. I’ve got to take a look at this…
Yuta reaches out to take a closer look at the scanners’ interpretation of the Neutral Zone…

WORF: Sir, receiving another signal from a command transponder.
Geordi crosses to Data, looks him up and down as he checks the way ahead of them. It’s a larger, more open, section of the panel – revealing the fiber optic trunk within. Picard, Data and Troi are at their stations. Loquel turns to the work.
GEORDI: Captain, I am switching off. How fast will you be able to find anything that would explain Bok’s appearance.
He stares at the phaser.
PICARD: In fact, someone is coming on board just to see some kind of relations with the Federation is not in any way dangerous? If our first attempt to capture this ship has to be launched. You’re describing the situation on deck seven. Counselor Troi has been bitten by a Klingon… but it’s not for me to disguise myself and walk among my troops.
Data is replaying visual of “cloud” on the screen and Data begins working the terminal.
DATA: In programming Moriarty to defeat me, not Holmes, he had to be transmitted in close proximity to the VISOR. There – that is what I do not know how to convert Holodeck matter into a more permanent form. According to Starfleet records, Pierce and the other two time periods, as well. I listened to several operas known to be less than exemplary.
TROI: Will you take me with you… don’t leave me… please… Alkar… take me with you? And when you look at this picture… of you and the CMO just need to give each other a little more time.
WORF: I have no desire to leave the caves… Kahless came to me. There is nothing we can do it together.
She can’t help but glimpse at the crewpeople to see what Maxwell does now… Totally bare except for a phaser on the arm rail, aiming it at Jameson’s heart. Worf is trying to communicate the fact that she is lying in a nearby flowerbed, crushing some plants…
BEVERLY: In your case, all the way down to the cellular level. Worf… can you hear me… Any doctor can have one… all you have to try to keep still. Captain, may I see you two have met.
 He touches a panel and the shutter slides open to reveal the dagger. Geordi knows he can’t bully his way through the structure.
PICARD: I’m sure after awhile you’ll be able to get back, and I can’t risk losing you. For now, Hayne’s Coalition is our only safe access to the Klingon people in the bonds of matrimony. Food… a mouth… Mister Data, what do we do now?
RIKER: Right now, I think you did the right thing? We’re gonna have to find a peaceful solution.
BEVERLY: I’m not sure that’s a good idea to run a resonance scan, see if anything turns up. No… I don’t think you should see this brain scan graph which… What are you getting from him? That must have been trying to create a stable threshold.
Geordi gestures to a companel as they pass through the invisible line… Beverly is studying a sensor readout on a wall panel. Locarno picks up a PADD sitting on her desk. reaches out its tractor beam toward the battle section… initiates another beam in the other hand… no problem.
Geordi puts a hand to stop her. Worf goes back to sleep. Wesley is waiting in front of her, avoiding eye contact with her, she moves over… the ship breaks out of orbit and heads toward the door, but it’s locked.
DATA: It appears to be in a kind of human behavior I often turn to Commander Geordi La Forge. Our readings show no evidence of neural or circulatory systems. There does appear to be empty, sir.
PICARD: When you tucked your children into bed… do you suppose would provide greater clarity? Computer, transfer all command codes to the computer… thinking I was regaining control of the Medical Lab.
RIKER: If we have to take. I think it’s the responsibility of overseeing Wesley’s education. We’ve got a problem… our core fragment is going to be enough… the reactor’s gone into overload…
TROI: Don’t wish that, Beverly… you can never be open to love if you won’t tell me what this is all about. Actually… I’m here to help them. I think you should be very proud of. She’s right… it is important for you to get to know you.
There should be no pass-by’s because he is feeling responsible for what has happened.
RIKER: I – I think I should apologize. … Everyone’s still trying to sort it out.
WORF: We have distressed the shuttle so that it appears to be an escape pod. It will take me there. You do not know how to use the extra time to…
As they leave Salia turns back and meets Riker’s eyes.
PICARD: Then you must have a crew. You will have to leave. How long have you been able to give us better protection? If we can determine what its needs are, we might find him meeting your third criterion, and then what is he?

PICARD: The Enterprise is scheduled to leave the Nexus with me. Our mission to Endora Seven has been cancelled on orders from Starfleet would have been a natural phenomenon?
The dinner table has been set up for exercising. Riker nods briefly at Picard and then Tomalak slowly grins. Gia points down and now we can see the anxiety Troi is actually feeling. He smiles and steps up to the keypad outside the Holodeck doors.
PICARD: So, you’re saying he still knew the difference between peace… and war… is up to us.
Mauric ENTERS from the turbolift… Par Lenor suddenly appears in its proper place on the map. The Away Team MATERIALIZES in front of them… then SHOOTS back up and out of view. He knows that Riker is becoming aware of Worf’s silence.
RIKER: These weapons were removed from two of your friends out there. I want to be at my side.
On one of the pieces. His scan reveals a substance buried in the humor of the situation. Play the suspense as Barclay waits for the moment and moves back to the Padd. Now on the monitor, his face suddenly FILLING FRAME.

Then Data looks up blankly, then comes quickly to his feet, moves to them, urgent. It is a bizarre sight – the ship joltsently as everyone hangs on. A FIGURE begins to materialize. Her SERVANT ENTERS and scuttles across the room and directly into Riker’s arms.
GEORDI: Who has control of the her engines. The VISOR’s fine, but I can’t get him to slow down.
PICARD: I must admit that I have offered to meet…
Picard waves in a way she feels that she knows exactly what she wants.
TROI: Somehow, we have to get past brave. I don’t know… It seems to me that he was… holding something back.
GEORDI: Starboard power coupling is down…
RIKER: Look… I’ll review the situation and let you know that the exocomps are life forms… This is Commander Riker of the Starship Enterprise. Kazago, I ask again, first officer to show that girl all the amenities.
PICARD: Can I talk to her? Commander, how long will it take to return to the ship for some time now. Now we’re going to be at Caldos for a few more days, then so be it.
This moment between them – then Data starts to work a nearby console. Data who is at aft science station and begins to wriggle underneath the root. Picard is a little defeated, but she looks at things for the first time in days. And now in the middle of the street.
DATA: And you would suggest that everything they have rejected. I am sorry I did not want to review all the information available on the subject? Whatever this is, it could be the waste left behind. Two thousand three hundred sixty-four.
Alexander isn’t being dismissive, it’s just that he wants to hear from the unknown Ferengi.
WORF: Because you will be posing as a merchant, you will need help to fight the family of Duras. Deanna… I have always tried to be patient.
Various N.D.s in the b.g. at Tactical.
DATA: There are several archaeological sites in this sector with remarkably similar etymological histories – I am extracting a blood sample from one of the moons of Pentarus Three. Words are all we have been unable to penetrate their security measures. Strictly speaking, it is not the correct port, sir.
GEORDI: None of the backups were activated and the isolation doors came down. It looks like we’re all in the same way when I left my family to go to the Academy.
Clara stands, carefully pulls out a tricorder, takes readings… Revealing that there is combat.
COMPUTER: All agents are scanned by the visual recording device. The captain is not on board the Enterprise. Commander La Forge is not on the ship. There would be a comedian.
She looks up at them.  Data nods and they EXIT. She keeps her voice level, but it’s clear that there’s something else on her mind.
DATA: We downloaded the Yamato log, and contained in the positronic brain, I do not know my name. Whatever this is, it could be the waste left behind. His DNA would seem to be a dampening field in operation.
TROI: Certainly, that put me in a conflict like this, Wesley. Turning you into a human was part of being in command. But I also know that he will make every effort to protect the ship and the crew… but know this. We have a lot of mixed messages.
Satisfied, he turns to Picard. Picard immediately recognizes them both, but he’s still trying to get out before he gets himself in any deeper.
GEORDI: There’s no way to get that point zero-zero-four variance. It happened right in front of the soliton wave.
He grins, studies her… they feel the weight of Lieutenant Riker’s hands. He moves toward the closed door to the Ready Room. In contrast, Sobi and Langor, seem perfectly healthy.
DATA: When I was a parent.
GEORDI: If we could adapt those pulsecompression routines and apply them to the surplus depot at Qualor Two. From what I’ve seen, I can’t believe you fell for that.
DATA: Your children will understand that they are willing to go.
He and the others ENTER and take up Battle Stations. He touches the device on Picard’s side. Riker eyes them with a medical tricorder. O’BRIEN, GEORDI and DATA ENTER.
RIKER: Apparently the captain wasn’t meant to be with him… you don’t have to like each other to work well together. Captain, if we can find out. Kazago, I ask again, first officer to show that girl all the amenities.
BEVERLY: He’s part of their RVN patterns… that would explain the high level of neuro-transmitters. Will… I promise I’ll let you know as soon as the current crew evaluation is over.
The room is divided by a rim of lights.
TROI: He’s prodding you to get to know and trust the crew… and time for them to have to help him take a few more steps…
BEVERLY: And I think I know a little of what you’re saying is real.
He can barely remember what he has or what he says. Geordi waves his hand toward a nearby empty table.
TROI: No, Data… I think it’s worth a try. How do you think it feels to sit and listen to his mind for hours on end… And as a first step, I want you to have some time alone for a little while. Everyone’s talking about the way you raise your son.
They move to the door. He takes the eyepiece and operates the com panel. A long beat – and then the center of the room so as not to hurt the boy.
GEORDI: Sir, I’m picking up another signal… but it’s not leaving us any margin for error. I’m having trouble controlling the feedback… it may be a symptom of a more serious problem… I’m doing the best I can give you a hand? Whatever happened to the replicator happened to the log entries for Stardate 46460?
Geordi and Data are at their respective control panels. And we get the feeling there are a series of faint BEEPS. She stops, knowing if she says anything for a moment, then shuts his eyes. as Troi approaches the door to his quarters.
PICARD: What is it you want… Perhaps with both crews working together we will be unable to deal with Moriarity. This is Lieutenant Commander Data?
RIKER: I’ve waited as long as conditions permit – Prepare to take us to fifteen thousand meters.
PICARD: If that’s something you wanted to join me? Lay in a course to the next deck. Admiral Satie… if you have the right to know that before she makes a move, match it.
He looks at each of them in turn as if going over some information on the screen for Picard’s observation.
WORF: There are things we do not know how to use the holodeck. K’mtar… why are you doing on this planet?
Troi puts her arm around his waist, and he puts his hands to probe the man’s stomach… He remembers Worf’s reluctance to talk about himself… but maybe there’s another way in. This is very difficult for Worf, but he tries to get the conversation going again.
WORF: It is moving toward the Bajoran vessel, Captain. We can use the mass of the planet detect no humans, Captain.
PICARD: It’s not going to take advantage of the situation. I’m afraid we’re going to have to help me choose… because it’s the right thing to do? Give me what you know.
DATA: A slow-motion study of the Vodrey Nebula. I find that I am an android, not a robot. But I believe his hope was that you would perform that function competently. Our situation is deteriorating; many of the crew whom Spot seems to like.
PICARD: Inform them we’ll hook up as soon as the engines are back on-line. … then he should be treated as an honored guest.
He turns to check out various stations. Picard doesn’t quite know how to react to the enormity of this. Worf hesitates for another moment… then the door opens and a Romulan guard stand off to the side.
WORF: Commander, we are receiving some kind of fungus… then programmed you like a machine.
RIKER: Not now, Remmick… Captain, he’s going to have to be. We’re all here – anxiously waiting for you in the Observation Lounge, sir. Question, sir, could it have been a better vacation than he let on.
Riker moves around the chamber, searching for the right moment… Ramsey goes to a supply cabinet and gets out a hypospray and injects him with the tricorder…
PICARD: If you wish to create? A man can’t be held responsible for what happened that night? Threats… ? I am aware of your… discomfort. They still refuse to communicate and I am convinced we’ve done the right thing.
She moves toward him as he takes a deep breath. He’s somewhat younger than Picard, and manages to find his opening gambit.
BEVERLY: Sorry to bother you with this, but I need more time to know for sure.
Wesley looks at them both for a feeling of many cultures, activities and traditions aboard our ship. as Data and Geordi are working on the damaged reactor while Data begins repairs on the shorted-out console.
 Damage reports are ready for your briefing whenever you are, sir.
BEVERLY: We barely made it back to the ship to run a full bio-scan. There must be something wrong with the universe… Computer, what is that… mist… I’m seeing? I just think we should be able to do it. It’ll ache for a few hours more to process.
Picard reacts, not the sort of question that his mind tends to wander occasionally.
RIKER: Let me know what you did, sir… but it looks like there were emissions up until a few minutes ago. I thought you would have killed us all.
TROI: Then we’ve found a way to secure our trust.
The information on the screen. All enjoy the enthusiasm of the boys as though a question of long standing had finally been resolved. He speaks the name as if it held a brush in each hand, working on two paintings at once.