Data: Geordi?
Laforge: In here, Data.
Laforge: Got her now. She's trapped. Come on out of there, you. Hey, don't you spit at me.
Data: Why is Spot under the bed?
Laforge: Probably because she knows if I catch her, I'm going to kill her.
Data: Has Spot been misbehaving?
Laforge: So far she's broken a vase, a teapot, she's ruined one of my chairs using it as a scratch post, and she's coughing hairballs up all over my carpet.
Data: These incidents are common to cat owners. When you borrowed Spot, you said you wanted to experience the full range of feline behavior before getting a cat yourself.
Laforge: Yeah, well, I'm not ready. You can take her back with my blessings. Go ahead, call her.
Data: Spot does not respond to verbal commands.
Laforge: She won't come when you call her? Data, have you ever considered training this cat?
Data: I never found it to be necessary.
Laforge: Necessary? Data, the cat is out of control. Half the time I wasn't sure if she was going to lick me or scratch my face off.
Data: I have never experienced this kind of behavior in Spot. Although she does have the unfortunate habit of jumping on my computer console when I am working.
Laforge: She needs training.
Riker: Riker to senior staff. Please report to the Observation lounge. Mission briefing in ten minutes.
Laforge: Right, we have to get her out of here. I'll scare her. You grab her when she comes out, okay?
Data: I do not think it would be wise to startle her.
Laforge: Ready? Ow!
Laforge: Training. Definitely.
Picard: Captain's log, Stardate 47310.2. We're investigating the disappearance of the Medical Transport Fleming somewhere in the Hekaras Corridor. Our search is complicated by the unique properties of this particular region of space.
Riker: The Fleming's last contact with Starfleet was four days ago. According to them, there was nothing out of the ordinary when they entered the Corridor.
Picard: Data.
Data: The unusually intense tetryon fields in this sector pose a severe navigational hazard to warp driven vessels. The Hekaras Corridor is the only route through the area which is free of tetryon fields. Ships traveling at warp must use the Corridor to ensure safe passage through the region.
Picard: How long will it take to complete a level one search?
Data: At least two days, sir. The Corridor is over twelve light years long, and the surrounding tetryon interference will limit our sensor range.
Worf: Could we send out reconnaissance probes to supplement the sensors?
Laforge: They won't be very effective. The interference will make it difficult to maintain contact with the probes. The best we can do is to increase sensor efficiency. We've installled multiphase buffers on all the sensor modules, Captain. It should help a little.
Troi: Hekaras Two is inhabited, isn't it? Maybe they've had contact with the Fleming.
Riker: They haven't. I've already spoken to the Hekaran government. According to them, only one ship has passed through the system in the last week. It was a Ferengi trader.
Crusher: The Fleming was carrying a supply of rare biomimetic gel, which is very valuable. Is it possible that the Ferengi might have hijacked it?
Riker: I wouldn't put it past them. I think we should prepare for that contingency.
Picard: I agreed. All right then. Mister Worf, initiate your search pattern. Let's head in.
Data: Geordi, there has been a slight drop in sensor efficiency. Perhaps we should examine the phase buffers.
Laforge: No problem, Data. I'll be right with you. Okay, Hansen, transfer EPS conduit thirteen to the stabilizer matrix.
Hansen: Aye, sir.
Data: Is there a problem with the engines?
Laforge: No.
Data: Then why are you stabilizing the EPS conduit?
Laforge: I'm just trying to get a slightly higher power conversion level.
Data: But that would not affect the engines in any way.
Laforge: I know that, Data. It's not the point.
Data: What is the point?
Laforge: I'm just trying to get a higher conversion level, that's all.
Data: Why?
Laforge: You know the Intrepid?
Data: Yes.
Laforge: Well, their Chief Engineer is Commander Donald Kaplan. He and I went through the Academy together. I just like to make sure that our power conversion levels are a little higher than theirs.
Data: I understand. You are in competition with Mister Kaplan.
Laforge: You might say that. This is the flagship. We should be better than everybody else.
Data: Then you are trying to outperform the Intrepid.
Laforge: Actually it's more a point of personal pride. These are my engines. And there's nothing wrong with a little friendly rivalry. Okay. Computer, how much have the conversion levels increased?
Computer: Levels are unchanged.
Laforge: All right, I'll deal with of this later. Let me give you a hand with those sensors.
Laforge: How's that?
Data: One moment. The phase buffer is functioning within normal parameters. Sensor efficiency has increased by six point seven percent.
Laforge: Six point seven? One of the stages must still be out of alignment. Let's try junction A nine.
Data: Geordi, I have taken your suggestion regarding Spot.
Laforge: Coming down.
Data: I have begun training her.
Laforge: Really?
Data: Yes. I am studying several new techniques.
Data: I began with simple conditioned response exercises and followed with environmental enhancement. Next I plan to explore bioconditioning devices.
Laforge: Devices?
Data: Such as sensor nets for behavior modification or biofeedback motivators. Unfortunately, I have been less than successful.
Laforge: I've got an idea. How about a phaser? A low stun setting at just the right moment might do the trick.
Data: Geordi. I cannot stun my cat.
Laforge: I was kidding, Data. Let's see what we've got. No, this isn't it, either.
Data: Clearly there is a misalignment somewhere in this system.
Laforge: That's for sure. Well, we've got one more possibility. Junction C twelve.
Data: I am somewhat concerned that my training efforts will ultimately fail.
Laforge: Maybe you're just going about it the wrong way, Data.
Data: I have consulted numerous animal training manuals. Some of them claim that cats are inherently untrainable.
Laforge: I don't believe that for a second. Listen to me. My sister didn't know a thing about animals and she was able to train her cat. How complicated could it be?
Data: What did she train her cat to do?
Laforge: She had that cat jumping into her arms on command.
Data: Interesting. Perhaps I could modify your sister's techniques to keep Spot from jumping on console. Do you know how she was able to train her cat?
Laforge: Well, as I recall, she walked around for two months with a piece of tuna in her blouse.
Laforge: I was right. This buffer is out of alignment. Okay, try that.
Data: Phase alignment is stabilized. However, sensor efficiency has increased by only an additional one point three percent.
Laforge: It's not much, but every little bit going to help.
Riker: Riker to Data.
Data: Data here.
Riker: We're picking up a ship ahead on long range sensors. If you and Geordi are through down there, we'd like to have you on the Bridge.
Laforge: We're not going to squeeze anything else out of these systems.
Data: Acknowledged, sir. We are on our way.
Worf: We are within visual range, sir.
Picard: On screen.
Worf: It is a Ferengi transport ship, D'Kora class.
Riker: That's the same Ferengi vessel that entered the Corridor a week ago.
Laforge: Captain, there are no emissions from their plasma vents. Their warp drive must be completely inactive.
Data: That is correct, sir. Their impulse system is down as well, Power generation is at extremely low levels.
Picard: What about life signs?
Data: Life support systems are also functioning at low levels. There are approximately four hundred fifty Ferengi on board. That is a standard complement for a ship of that class.
Picard: Mister Worf, open a hailing frequency.
Worf: There is no response on any channel, sir.
Laforge: I'm not picking any subspace emissions from the ship at all, Captain. It looks like every one of their field coils has been overloaded.
Riker: That would explain why they haven't respond to our hails.
Data: It would also explain the failure of their warp drive.
Laforge: Captain, Ferengi sensors are still online. I could modify one of our deflector emitters to transmit old style delta waves. If I modulate that with a comm. signal, the Ferengi should be able to pick that up.
Picard: Make it so.
Riker: If they did hijack the Fleming, they sure didn't get very far with the cargo.
Picard: Mister Worf, have tractor beams standing by. We may have to take them under tow. Helm, take us within tractor range.
Helm: Aye, sir.
Worf: Captain, I am picking up power emissions from the Ferengi ship. They are locking weapons.
Picard: Shields up.
Riker: Ready phasers. Prepare to return fire.
Picard: Target their weapons array only.
Worf: Phasers locked.
Picard: Fire.
Data: Direct hit. Their weapon systems are down.
Picard: Damage report.
Worf: We sustained minimal damage to decks five and seven, sir.
Data: Sir, the Ferengi ship's power has stabilized. They appear to have impulse capability.
Riker: They were just playing dead. Conserving power until we got in close enough.
Picard: But why would they attack us in the first place?
Riker: Somehow I don't think they'll let us beam over there and ask them.
Picard: Mister La Forge, how are you coming with that comm. link?
Laforge: Almost ready, Captain. All right, let's give it a try.
Picard: Open a channel.
Picard: This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Enterprise. Will you please explain why you attacked us?
Prak: Our attack? We were defending ourselves. Do you deny that you are responsible for disabling my vessel?
Picard: DaiMon, your ship was adrift, your communications inoperative. We were attempting to assess your status.
Prak: You were attempting to move in for the kill. Do not toy with me, Picard. We are obviously at your mercy, but know this. When the Ferengi Council learns of your actions, they will consider this an act of war.
Picard: DaiMon, clearly there has been some misunderstanding. I think it would be in all interests if you were to come aboard and we discuss this situation.
Prak: I see no reason to trust you, human.
Picard: In that case, we'll be on our way. I'll relay your position to your government if you wish, in case you're unable to complete your repairs and you remain stranded.
Prak: Perhaps it would be better to discuss the situation.
Prak: We detected what appeared to be a Federation signal buoy. When we approached it, it emitted a massive verteron pulse. Our warp drive, our sensors, our communications systems were all disabled. We assumed we were the victims of a new Federation weapon.
Picard: The Federation established this corridor to ensure safe access through this sector. We have nothing to gain from mining it.
Riker: Whatever happened to your ship may not have been an isolated incident. A Federation Medical transport was recently lost in that corridor.
Prak: We passed a Federation ship several days ago. It did not appear to be in any distress.
Riker: Can you give us an idea of its heading?
Prak: It is possible that information was recorded in our sensor logs, Commander. Unfortunately, my entire crew is occupied with our repairs. I don't think there will be time to search our records.
Picard: DaiMon, if we assigned an Engineering team to assist you with your repair efforts, would that give you time to retrieve your logs?
Prak: I believe it would, Captain.
Data: Spot. Spot. Spot, down. Spot, down. Down. Spot. Down. This is down. Down is good. This is up. Up is no.
Data: One moment. Come in.
Laforge: Data. I had another idea that might help boost the power conversion levels. Could you give me a hand?
Data: I would be happy to.
Laforge: Don't tell me you're trying to teach the cat to use the console.
Data: It is part of her training program. I am teaching Spot to jump down from the desk on my command.
Laforge: How's it going?
Data: I have not been entirely successful.
Data: Feline supplement number two twenty one.
Laforge: Data, that cat definitely has a mind of her own. Maybe she's just not trainable.
Data: I suppose I must accept that possibility. It may be that Spot lacks the intelligence necessary to learn the appropriate responses to my commands.
Laforge: I don't know about Spot, but it seems to me your training is coming along just fine. Come on, let's go.
Laforge: Data, keep the EPS flow constant will you, while I re modulate the power taps.
Data: This procedure will only increase the conversion level by point eight percent.
Laforge: I know, but it could be just enough.
Data: Enough?
Laforge: I just received this from Commander Kaplan, subspace.
Data: La Forge, I got the Intrepid's power conversion levels up to ninety seven point one percent. Maybe you should try cleaning your plasma grid once in a while.
Laforge: Can you believe the nerve of that guy?
Data: We perform maintenance on the plasma grid at regular intervals.
Laforge: I know. He's just trying to get me angry. There. That should do it. Computer, what are the current power conversion levels?
Computer: Power conversion levels are at ninety seven point two percent.
Laforge: Too bad, Mister Kaplan.
Picard: Captain's log, supplemental. We have traced the Fleming's most likely course. It now appears that the vessel may have come to an unfortunate end.
Picard: What's the origin of this debris field?
Data: Unknown, sir. It does not appear in any Federation charts of the Corridor.
Picard: Could it be what's left of the Fleming?
Data: It is a possibility. The debris consists primarily of duranium and polycomposite fragments which suggest a ship. Furthermore, the field contains sufficient mass to account for the Fleming.
Picard: All right, let's take a closer look. Perhaps we can find something that will give us a more positive identification. Helm, take us through the debris field, ahead slow.
Data: Captain, I am picking up a small metallic object, approximately three point five meters in diameter.
Riker: Could be a ship's log recorder, or a probe casing.
Data: I do not believe so. It is emitting an unusual signal. Captain, it is beginning to generate a verteron field.
Picard: Shields up! Full reverse. Now!
Picard: Damage report.
Worf: Warp engines are offline. Shields are down. All subspace systems are inoperative.
Riker: Just like the Ferengi ship.
Data: Unidentified ship heading toward us. Two life forms are aboard.
Picard: On screen.
Data: Captain, they are initiating their transporter system.
Picard: Can we get more power to the shields?
Worf: No, sir.
Riker: All decks, security alert.
Data: Captain, we are being boarded.
Laforge: La Forge to Bridge.
Laforge: We have intruders in main Engineering. I need a security team down here immediately.
Worf: It's on its way.
Laforge: What do you want?
Rabal: We're trying to make you listen.
Serova: You're killing us.
Picard: You have made a very serious accusation. I want you to explain it.
Rabal: Captain, according to our research, warp fields cause a dangerous reaction in this region of space.
Serova: Our planet is already being affected. We have measured large gravitational shifts throughout our system.
Rabal: If something isn't done, our planet will become uninhabitable.
Laforge: Captain, I've heard this theory before. Their research was evaluated by the Federation Science Council a few years ago. Quite frankly, it didn't hold up.
Serova: That research was only preliminary. Our original analysis was incomplete.
Picard: If you wanted us to review your research, you should have made a request through the Science Council.
Rabal: Their resources are limited. It would have taken over a year before they dispatched a science ship to come and evaluate our work.
Serova: We were not willing to wait any longer. We knew that if we disabled enough ships, Starfleet would come. Then at least we would be able to present our case.
Riker: That's how you rationalize these attacks?
Serova: Neither you nor the Ferengi suffered any casualties, Commander. The actual damage to your vessels was negligible.
Rabal: We dispersed verteron probes in the Corridor merely to disable warp-driven ships. Nothing more.
Riker: You can call it whatever you like. The fact remains you deliberately disguised your probes. You made them look like signal markers. You hid them in debris field. You mined the Corridor.
Picard: Mister La Forge, how long do you estimate it will take to restore the engines?
Laforge: Their verteron pulse overloaded our field coils, Captain. It'll take at least thirty six hours to get underway.
Serova: I know precisely how our pulse affected your field coils. With my help, your ship could be operational in ten hours. Provided you agree to review our research.
Picard: Because of the seriousness of your claim, I'm willing to listen to your case. But let there be no mistake. Our priority here is the recovery of the Fleming. Now I expect you to help us restore our engines and deactivate all of the remaining probes in the Corridor. If you do not, you will both be taken to the brig and from there to the nearest Starbase, where you will answer charges for what you have done.
Rabal: My sister and I do not wish to impede your rescue process.
Serova: Rabal, don't. The probes are the only leverage we have. If we
Rabal: Serova. We will do as you ask, Captain. But please, re-examine our data.
Picard: We will. It is part of our job to retain an open mind, even under these circumstances. Mister La Forge, take them to Engineering. Get the core back online.
Laforge: Yes, sir.
Picard: Mister Data, I want you to review their research. I'd like your report as soon as possible.
Serova: There. Shields have been restored. You will be able to reengage your engines in approximately eight hours.
Laforge: You know, even when we get the engines online, it's going to take at least a week to recalibrate them properly.
Serova: I'm sorry you've been inconvenienced. But that's all it is, an inconvenience. Our concerns are much more important than the condition of your engines.
Laforge: What if the Fleming had been transporting perishable supplies or was on an emergency mission? Your little plan might have cost a lot of lives.
Serova: That didn't happen, Commander. And saving lives is precisely what we're trying to do.
Laforge: Yeah, well, you have a very interesting way of going about it.
Serova: There's no point in trying to talk to you. You've already decided not to listen.
Rabal: Commander, I know my sister can be somewhat, er, aggravating.
Laforge: I'd have to agree with that.
Rabal: But please, try to understand. She believes profoundly in this cause. She has sworn to dedicate her life to exposing the dangers of warp drive.
Laforge: Warp drive has been around for three centuries. It's a proven technology.
Rabal: And you sound just like I did, about four years ago.
Laforge: You mean you didn't believe her either?
Rabal: No. What I didn't realize was just how brilliant my sister is. It took two years of study for me even to grasp the principles behind her theoretical models. They're that sophisticated.
Laforge: Well our Commander Data's no slouch. If there's anything there, he'll find it.
Rabal: Well I hope so, because once we persuade Starfleet to stop warp travel through the Corridor, we're going to have to convince our own people to give up warp drive completely.
Laforge: Hekaras Two is the only inhabited world in this region. Without warp drive, you'd be completely isolated from the rest of the Federation. Are you really willing to take that step?
Rabal: Yes. And if you were in my position, I hope you'd be willing to do the same thing.
Data: Serova and Rabal believe there are regions of potential subspace instability within the Corridor. They believe that if these regions continue to be exposed to warp field energy, they will rupture. Subspace will extrude into normal space, forming a rift.
Picard: It's like pacing up and down on the same piece of carpet. Eventually you wear it out.
Data: That analogy is essentially correct, sir.
Picard: Can this theory be proven?
Data: Not at this time, sir. There is insufficient evidence to do so. In order to determine whether or not a rift will form, region must be exposed to warp field energy approximately one million times greater than that normally generated by a starship.
Rabal: Commander, we believe the warp field effect is cumulative. Each starship that passes through the Corridor at warp brings us one step closer to forming a rift.
Data: I agree that is a possibility. Captain, I suggest we ask the Federation Science Council to send a research vessel to this area. A more detailed investigation would resolve many of our questions.
Serova: That's your response? More research? More delays. I suppose I shouldn't have expected anything different.
Riker: Bridge to Captain Picard.
Picard: Go ahead, Number One.
Riker: We've located the
Riker: Fleming on long range sensors, approximately zero point three light years away.
Picard: What's their condition?
Riker: The vessel appears to be intact. They have shields, but it looks like their subspace systems are out.
Picard: Very well.
Picard: We'll be underway as soon as our engines are online.
Riker: Aye, sir.
Picard: I would like you all to put together a research proposal for the Science Council. I'll give it my full recommendation.
Rabal: Captain, I appreciate the opportunity you're giving us. It's a beginning that we need
Serova: Not we. You can do whatever you want, Rabal. I'll have no part of this. It's just another delay.
Laforge: Captain, the engines are back online. All systems are ready.
Picard: Very good. Helm, lay in a course for the Fleming.
Helm: Aye, sir.
Riker: They appear to be in pretty good condition. According to our sensors their shields back to full strength.
Worf: Captain, the Hekaran ship is moving off. There is one person on board. It is Serova.
Picard: Doctor, what is going on?
Rabal: I don't know. Captain, may I speak to her?
Picard: Mister Worf, open a channel.
Rabal: Serova, what are you trying to do?
Serova: They wanted proof. I'm going to give it to them. I'm sorry.
Data: Captain, the Hekaran ship's engines are beginning to overload. I believe Serova's attempting to create a warp core breach.
Rabal: No!
Riker: Prepare for impact.
Riker: Shields at maximum. Full reverse.
Picard: Report!
Data: We have cleared the shock wave. However, tetryon flux in the area is increasing rapidly.
Riker: It's incredible.
Picard: Mister Data, what's your analysis?
Data: The event is approximately zero point one light years in diameter, and it is emitting extremely high levels of tetryon radiation. It appears to be what Rabal and Serova predicted, a subspace rift.
Laforge: She was right.
Picard: Can you get a fix on the Fleming? Is she still in one piece?
Data: Scanning. The Fleming is near its previous coordinates. It appears to be intact, but it is now within the rift.
Picard: Doctor, is it possible for a ship to survive in there? Doctor. I'm sorry about your loss but we need your help now.
Rabal: Of course, Captain.
Picard: Does the rift pose any danger to the Fleming?
Rabal: I don't know.
Riker: What was that?
Laforge: Some kind of high energy distortion wave. Looks like they're being generated from within the rift.
Data: IF we maintain our current position, our shields should provide sufficient protection.
Picard: What about the Fleming? How long can they survive in there?
Data: The waves are even more intense within the rift. I estimate her shields will fail in approximately twelve hours.
Riker: Can we risk going in there to get them out?
Laforge: Not at warp, Commander. According to these readings, the rift is in a state of accelerating instability which would make it extremely sensitive to warp field energy. If we go in at warp, we might make it expand even further.
Riker: I don't think we have a choice. It would take weeks to reach them at impulse.
Picard: I want some better options. Data, Geordi, take Doctor Rabal and begin an analysis of the rift. We need to find some way to get the Fleming out of there. Second Officer's log, stardate 47312.1. Our new sensor readings have greatly improved our understanding of the rift. However, we have been unable to find any way to counteract it.
Laforge: Everything here supports Serova's theories. I can't find any way to close the rift or even reduce its size.
Data: Doctor, is it possible there are areas inside the rift which are stable, where we can safely use our warp engines?
Rabal: Perhaps. Computer, scan the rift for regions of low instability.
Rabal: There's no area stable enough to withstand a warp pulse.
Laforge: Wait a minute. This is strange. Computer, display grid delta seventeen. Enhance and magnify. What do you make of that?
Rabal: It's a subspace instability outside the rift.
Data: That should not be possible.
Rabal: Commander, I'm going to begin a field enhanced scan of this sector. I'd like to take a closer look at this.
Laforge: In the meantime, we'd better tell the Captain we don't know how to get to the Fleming.
Data: I am not certain that is true. I believe I have an idea.
Data: I suggest we coast into the rift.
Riker: Coast?
Data: We can initiate a brief, high intensity warp pulse from our current position. We should be able to attain sufficient velocity to enter the rift, beam the crew off the Fleming and exit without using our warp engines.
Riker: All right, let's say we initiate a full power warp pulse. How much time do we need to drop out of warp?
Data: If we field saturate the nacelles, we should be able to sustain warp speed for approximately two minutes.
Riker: That doesn't give us much time, and it could get pretty rough in there.
Data: The timing will be critical.
Picard: Begin your calculations, Mister Data. We'll go as soon as you're ready.
Data: Aye, sir.
Data: I believe the maximum saturation level should be eighteen point three percent.
Laforge: All right. With these parameters, we should be able to maintain warp speed for two minutes eight seconds. I don't think we can get any more than that.
Data: I agree. But based on the size of the rift, it should give us sufficient time to complete the rescue. Computer, initiate nacelle field saturation.
Laforge: How did we miss it, Data?
Data: I beg your pardon?
Laforge: How did we miss the connection between warp drive and the formation of the rift? Between the two of us we've logged thousands of hours on these engines. We're supposed to be warp field experts. We certainly were wrong this time.
Data: Technically, Geordi, we were not wrong. Serova's theories rested on assumptions which were unprovable.
Laforge: Seems to me she managed to prove them pretty conclusively.
Data: By using methods any reputable scientist would never employ.
Laforge: Yeah, she was willing to die to make her point. We should have listened to her more closely, Data.
Data: We reviewed Serova's research to the best of our abilities, and we were prepared to continue studying the problem. But that was not satisfactory.
Laforge: Yeah, I can remember times when I was a little stubborn, trying to get people to believe me when I didn't have enough proof.
Data: I do not believe that you would have resorted to such extremes.
Laforge: But she had to, just to get us to listen. Why was I so resistant?
Data: Perhaps because her aggressive methods created an adversarial situation.
Laforge: Yeah. Maybe I was taking the whole thing personally.
Data: I do not understand.
Laforge: Maybe I was a little threatened. The thought that warp engines might be doing some kind of damage. It's going to take another half an hour for the nacelles to saturate. Will you call me when they're done?
Rabal: Commander.
Laforge: May I join you?
Laforge: I wanted to say I'm sorry about your sister.
Rabal: Thank you. I'm trying to tell myself that she died for what she believed in, but somehow that isn't much comfort.
Laforge: I wish it could have happened differently. Maybe I should have looked at the research more closely. It's possible there's something that I missed.
Rabal: No. You didn't miss anything. The problem was time. We needed more time to do the proper research. Serova wasn't willing to wait.
Laforge: No. I guess the question is now, where do we go from here?
Rabal: I don't think we can look at space travel the same way anymore. We're going to have to change.
Laforge: I've been in Starfleet for a long time. We depend on warp drive. I just don't know how easy it's going to be to change.
Rabal: It won't be easy at all.
Data: Captain, warp pulse calculations are complete. We will be firing the engines at maximum intensity for six point three seconds before disengaging.
Worf: Damage control teams are standing by on all decks.
Riker: The course to the Fleming is plotted and laid in, sir.
Picard: Mister La Forge, whenever you're ready.
Laforge: Aye, sir.
Laforge: Initiating warp pulse now.
Data: Engines disengaged. We are now entering the rift. Hull stress is increasing. Eighty three percent of maximum tolerance and rising.
Picard: How long until we reach the Fleming?
Worf: One minute twenty two seconds.
Riker: All transporter rooms are standing by.
Worf: Captain, I am picking up power emissions from the Fleming. They may be attempting to initiate their warp drive.
Riker: They might have been able to repair their engines.
Data: Captain, if they activate
Picard: I know, Mister Data. Can we establish communication?
Worf: No, sir. Subspace interference is too high.
Picard: How long until we reach transporter range?
Worf: Fifty three seconds.
Riker: I don't think we're going to make it.
Worf: Captain, they have initiated their warp drive.
Picard: Report.
Worf: Damage on decks six and fourteen. Our structural integrity field is holding.
Riker: What about the Fleming?
Data: They are badly damaged, sir. Their life support systems are failing.
Riker: All transporter rooms, prepare emergency evacuation procedures.
Data: Captain, when the Fleming activated their warp drive, the rift expanded by two point three percent. We no longer have sufficient momentum to escape.
Data: Distortion wave intensity has increased by a factor of ten.
Worf: We are within transporter range of the Fleming, sir. Commencing evacuation procedures.
Data: Distortion waves occurring every fifty nine seconds. Hull stress is nearing maximum tolerance.
Riker: Data, what if we forced an EPS discharge through the impulse reactor. Would that be enough to get us out of here?
Data: I do not believe so, sir, and the resulting explosion would likely destroy the saucer section in the process.
Laforge: Captain
Laforge: We might be able to get out of here without using the warp engines.
Riker: How, Geordi?
Laforge: When was the last time you went surfing, Commander?
Picard: A distortion wave.
Laforge: Exactly, Captain. If can phase match our deflector shield
Laforge: To the EM variance of the distortion wave, when the next one hits we'll be pulled along with it.
Riker: We could ride it through the rift and then break away once we're clear. That is, if we survive the ride.
Picard: Is everyone off the Fleming?
Worf: The last of the crew has been beamed aboard, sir.
Picard: All right, Mister La Forge, get us out of here.
Laforge: Yes, sir. Phase matching the deflectors shield now.
Data: The next distortion wave will impact in fourteen seconds.
Laforge: Matching phases. Prepare to engage the deflector shield on my mark.
Data: Ten seconds.
Laforge: And mark.
Picard: Engage deflector shield. Full power.
Laforge: We lost it.
Data: We were unable to maintain phase match with the distortion wave, sir.
Picard: What went wrong, Mister La Forge?
Laforge: The speed differential was too high, Captain.
Data: Another distortion wave approaching. Impact in twenty six seconds.
Riker: Our hull stress is already critical. We can't handle many more jolts like that.
Data: Captain, I suggest we take the ship to full impulse. If we can attain sufficient speed, it will lessen the shock when the wave hits.
Picard: Helm, full impulse. Head us out of the rift. Mister Worf, channel all available power to the structural integrity fields.
Worf: Aye, sir.
Picard: Stand by deflector shield.
Laforge: We're ready, Captain.
Data: Distortion wave impact in five seconds.
Picard: Engage deflector shield, now.
Data: We are now within the distortion wave. Hull stresses have exceeded maximum tolerance.
Worf: Structural integrity fields are failing on decks ten through sixteen. Switching to backups.
Laforge: We're separating from the distortion wave. I'm attempting to compensate.
Picard: How much longer until we clear the rift?
Data: Approximately twelve seconds, sir. Hull stresses one hundred twenty percent above tolerance.
Worf: A structural breach is imminent.
Data: We have cleared the rift, sir. Hull stress has returned to normal.
Picard: Cancel red alert.
Picard: Captain's log, stardate 47314.5. We have been continuing our research, while the Federation Council studies our preliminary reports on the subspace rift. It now appears certain that what we've seen here will have repercussions for many years to come.
Laforge: Our scans have shown a lot of subspace instabilities throughout the sector. If they're exposed to enough warp energies, they could eventually create other rifts.
Picard: Doctor Rabal?
Rabal: Based on current warp drive patterns in the sector, we've projected where subspace rifts will be most likely to be formed over the next forty years. This is the way things are now. This is how they'll look in ten years. Twenty years. Thirty years. Forty years.
Picard: Thank you, Doctor, Mister La Forge.
Picard: Ah. We've received new directives from the Federation Council on this matter. Until we can find a way to counteract the warp field effect, the Council feels our best course is to slow the damage as much as possible. Therefore, areas of space found susceptible to warp fields will be restricted to essential travel only, and effective immediately all Federation vessels will be limited to a speed of warp five, except in cases of extreme emergency.
Worf: The Klingons will observe these restrictions, but the Romulans will not.
Troi: And what about the Ferengi? And the Cardassians, for that matter?
Picard: The Federation's sharing all our data with warp-capable species. We can only hope that they realize it's in their own interests and take similar action.
Crusher: Putting limits on warp speed is only going to prevent other rifts from forming. What are we going to do about this one?
Laforge: Unfortunately, right now there's not much we can do.
Rabal: The gravitational shifts have already begun to affect my planet's orbit. Our climate is changing.
Picard: The Federation is setting up a weather control matrix on Hekaras Two. It's only a temporary solution, but it should suffice for now.
Riker: We're lucky the rift took place as far away from the planet as it did. It gives us some time to consider our options.
Picard: If there are no more questions, you're all dismissed.
Laforge: We should have those thermal stabilizers ready for the Hekarans in another day, sir.
Picard: Very well. You know, Geordi, I spent the better part of my life exploring space. I've charted new worlds, I've met dozens of new species. And I believe that these were all valuable ends in themselves. Now it seems that all this while, I was helping to damage the thing that I hold most dear.
Laforge: It's won't turn out that way, Captain. We still have time to make it better.


Picard: Captain's log, stardate 47410.2. The Atrean government has requested assistance in averting a natural disaster. Two of their geologists have come aboard, one of whom is a human who has been living on Atrea Four.
Juliana: Captain, our situation has worsened since my husband and I first contacted you. The molten core of our planet is not just cooling, it's begun to solidify.
Pran: Our gravitational field has been affected. Seismic activity has increased by a factor of three.
Juliana: If the cooling continues at this rate Atrea will become uninhabitable in thirteen months.
Laforge: We could minimize seismic activity by creating isobaric fissures and relieving some of the tectonic stress, but that would just be a temporary fix.
Data: The only permanent solution would be to re-liquefy the core.
Laforge: These pockets in the magma layer, how close are they to the molten region of the core?
Juliana: A few kilometers, why?
Laforge: Data, do you think that's close enough for ferro-plasmic infusion?
Data: The procedure will involve using the ship's phasers to drill down through the planet's surface into the pockets, where we would set up a series of plasma infusion units.
Laforge: We'll trigger the units by firing modulated energy bursts down through the shafts.
Juliana: I see. Injecting sufficient plasma directly into the core should trigger a chain reaction, and that will reliquify the magma.
Data: It should be possible to stabilize the core temperature at ninety three percent of normal.
Pran: If it works, the core would remain molten for centuries.
Picard: If you give your permission, we could begin immediately.
Pran: Very well. But before we proceed, I'd like to update our geological surveys.
Laforge: Fine. I'd be very happy to help you with that, Doctor.
Picard: I've assigned you quarters during out time here. Please, make yourselves comfortable.
Pran: Thank you, Captain.
Juliana: Data?
Data: Yes, Doctor?
Juliana: Do you have any idea who I am?
Data: You are Doctor Juliana Tainer.
Juliana: You lost all your early memories. We thought you would, but we couldn't be certain.
Data: Have we met before?
Juliana: Oh, Data, I was there, right at the beginning on Omicron Theta. I helped create you. Now look at you.
Data: You were a colleague of Doctor Soong?
Juliana: Yes, I certainly was. And I was also his wife. In a way, I suppose you could say I am your mother.
Juliana: I still can't believe I'm seeing you like this again, after all these years.
Data: Doctor, I have no memory of you.
Juliana: Oh, there's a reason for that. We wiped your processors after we finished refining your programming. Why don't you tell me what you do remember, and then I'll fill in the gaps.
Data: My memory record begins when I was activated by the Starfleet officers on the Omicron Theta outpost.
Juliana: After the attack of the Crystalline Entity.
Data: Yes. All of the inhabitants of the colony were killed. However, I discovered that my memory banks contained the contents of their journals and logs.
Juliana: We hoped their experiences would be useful. After your childhood, we figured you could use all the help you could get.
Data: My childhood?
Juliana: That's what I called it. You were like a baby, at first. A hundred kilogram baby, but still. You had trouble learning your motor skills, learning how to process sensory information. And of course Noonian was never satisfied. He kept tinkering, trying to make you as human as possible.
Data: So you wiped my memory processors after this childhood.
Juliana: Then we deactivated you and programmed you with the colonists' logs. We had planned to reactivate you, but we never got the chance. That's when the Crystalline Entity attacked. We had to leave quickly. We wanted to take you with us, but there was only room for two in the escape pod.
Data: Doctor, I have scanned the journals of the colonists. There is only one Juliana mentioned in them. Her last name was O'Donnell.
Juliana: That's me.
Data: But there was no mention that my father was married to you.
Juliana: Because of my mother. She thought that Noonian was an eccentric scientist who was too old for me. We decided to marry secretly to give her a chance to get used to our being together. We slipped away to Mavala Four and got married there. A Klingon and a Corvallan trader were our witnesses. It wasn't exactly the wedding I'd hoped for. Somehow Noonian had a way of making even the oddest things seem romantic.
Data: My father did have an unusual way of looking at things.
Juliana: How would you know that?
Data: I encountered him once in the Terlina system.
Juliana: That's where we went to after we left the outpost. I had no idea that you'd even met him.
Data: It was shortly before his death.
Juliana: He's dead?
Data: Yes.
Juliana: I had no idea it would hit me this hard. We didn't exactly part on the best of terms.
Data: What do you mean?
Juliana: I realized he loved his work as much as he loved me. Maybe more. There we were, stuck on this planet in the middle of the jungle with no one else to talk to. No life. It just wasn't enough. That's why I left. That was all a very, very long time ago. The important thing is that we're here now together. And I do want to get to know you.
Data: This has been an interesting encounter, and an altogether unexpected one. I would like to corroborate your story before we proceed further. Excuse me, Doctor.
Laforge: Data, I'm almost finished reconfiguring the phaser banks. We should be able to start drilling in about an hour.
Data: Inform me when you are ready.
Laforge: What is it you're doing over there?
Data: I am attempting to ascertain whether Doctor Tainer's story is true.
Laforge: Don't you believe her?
Data: I neither believe nor doubt. I am simply attempting to verify her assertions.
Laforge: Well, what have you turned up so far?
Data: The Registrar's Office on Mavala Four cannot confirm whether Doctor Soong was married there. Apparently many of the documents were lost when the government was overthrown.
Laforge: What's that you're looking at?
Data: I am checking passenger manifests to see if they went to Mavala during the period in question. O'Donnell, Juliana. Soong, Noonian. They were both passengers on a transport which traveled from Omicron Theta to Mavala and returned four days later.
Laforge: That sure fits with her story.
Data: Still, the fact that they went to Mavala does not prove they were married there.
Laforge: You know, Data, it almost seems to me like you're trying to prove that Doctor Tainer wasn't telling the truth.
Data: Not at all. I am merely unable to reconcile her story with the fact that my father never mentioned her to me.
Laforge: Well, she did leave him. Maybe she broke his heart. Maybe he just didn't want to talk about her. Let me ask you this. Doctor Soong created an emotion chip. Didn't Lore tell you that chip also contained memories, memories Soong wanted you to have?
Data: Yes. It is possible that those are memories of my childhood. And of Mrs Soong.
Laforge: When you think about it, why would she want to lie? Why would anybody want to pretend to be your mother?
Data: I can think of no motive for such a pretense.
Laforge: And I can understand that this might all be a little disconcerting for you, Data. It came out of the blue, and it doesn't fit into your logical processors.
Data: That is true.
Laforge: But that's life, Data. Part of being human is learning how to deal with the unexpected. To risk new experiences even when they don't fit into your preconceptions.
Data: I admit I am finding it difficult to accept the possibility of a past about which I know nothing. But it is also true that I am curious to learn more about it.
Juliana: Data?
Data: I would like to get to know you better, Mother.
Juliana: I wanted to make you female, but your father insisted on a son. We argued about it endlessly, right up until we were ready to assemble you.
Data: How did you decide?
Juliana: Noonian walked in with your head in his hand and, innocent as you please, said it was up to me. He knew perfectly well what he was doing. Once again he had made it in his own image. What could I possibly say? Deanna Troi, is that who you're going to visit?
Data: Yes.
Juliana: Your father would be so pleased.
Data: Pleased?
Juliana: He was worried that the sexuality program he designed for you wouldn't work.
Data: You misunderstand. Counselor Troi is a therapist.
Juliana: Goodnight.
Data: We will be in position over the drilling site in three minutes twenty nine seconds.
Data: These scans indicate that the magma pockets where we plan to set up the infusion units are somewhat unstable.
Juliana: I'm going to monitor the density of the rock layers and adjust the strength of the particle beam as we go. That should minimize the seismic stress that we generate while we're drilling.
Laforge: Data, I reconfigured the phasers to create the most highly focused particle beam possible.
Data: Thank you, Geordi.
Juliana: I'm just so pleased you've got good manners. It wasn't easy to strike the right balance with your programming. At first you couldn't have cared less about the social niceties like please and thank you. You were downright rude, in fact.
Laforge: Data? That's hard to picture.
Juliana: That was nothing to the problems we encountered. Never mind. I don't want to embarrass you.
Data: I am incapable of embarrassment. Please continue.
Juliana: Well, the one thing we couldn't anticipate was that you didn't seem to mind about being naked. Some of the colonists objected to having an anatomically correct android running around without any clothes on. We asked you to dress, but you didn't feel it was necessary because you didn't suffer from the elements. We actually had to write a modesty sub-routine to get you to keep your clothes on.
Riker: Bridge to Engineering.
Laforge: La Forge here. Go ahead, Commander.
Riker: We've established a synchronous orbit over the drilling site.
Laforge: Phaser modifications are online, sir.
Data: My calculations indicate
Data: The first phaser blast will be approximately nineteen seconds in duration.
Riker: Acknowledged.
Pran: Someone's checked his calculations, of course.
Riker: No, but I'm sure Mister Data knows what he's doing.
Pran: Even so, he is a machine. Someone should check up on him.
Riker: I have complete confidence in Mister Data's ability to check up on himself. Mister Worf?
Worf: Phasers locked on target.
Riker: Fire when ready.
Data: We are within two kilometers of the magma pocket.
Juliana: Another five seconds should do it. We've broken through.
Worf: Terminating the beam.
Juliana: The pocket seems stable.
Data: I detect no increase in the stress levels of the surrounding magma.
Riker: Good work, Data.
Riker: I don't think we could have gotten it any cleaner.
Juliana: We have Data to thank for that. I couldn't have done it without him. His figures were perfect.
Data: The drilling process has raised the temperature in the magma pockets by almost three hundred degrees Celsius. It will be several hours before it cools enough for us to enter.
Juliana: Data, do you have any plans right now?
Data: I do not.
Juliana: Maybe we should spend a little time together? I'd love to see your quarters.
Data: Thank you. I will be playing this piece at a recital tomorrow evening.
Juliana: That was beautiful.
Data: I have been told that my playing is technically flawless, but no one has described it as beautiful.
Juliana: It was, really.
Data: Are you certain you are not saying this because you are my mother? I have noticed that parents tend to exaggerate when it comes to their children's accomplishments.
Juliana: I suppose there's a certain amount of vanity involved, considering that giving you a creative aspect was my idea. Your father didn't really see the point. He thought that since you didn't have emotions, there would be no real need for you to express yourself. Somehow I had the feeling the opposite would be true.
Data: I do not know for certain, but I believe it is during my creative endeavors that I come closest to experiencing what it must be like to be human.
Juliana: Well, I'm glad I insisted.
Data: As am I.
Juliana: Data, I'm very familiar with that Handel piece. How would you feel about my playing the viola part tomorrow?
Data: I would like that very much.
Juliana: I'll have to practice. You don't have a viola?
Data: I could replicate one for you. Computer, please replicate one viola.
Juliana: Did you paint these?
Data: Yes. I am attempting to master all known styles of painting. This one is in the style of the early French impressionists.
Juliana: It's very good. Who's this?
Data: That is Lal, my daughter.
Juliana: Your daughter?
Data: I created her, using myself as a model.
Juliana: Where is she now?
Data: The positronic matrix I designed for her was unstable. She only lived a short time.
Juliana: I see.
Data: In a sense, you were her grandmother. Would you like to practice now?
Juliana: Yes. Yes, of course.
Data: The acoustics in Ten Forward are most favorable.
Juliana: Yes, yes, very nice. Data, may I ask you something?
Data: Of course.
Juliana: Do you think you'll ever try to create an android again?
Data: Perhaps. I created Lal because I wished to procreate. Despite what happened to her, I still have that wish.
Juliana: How do you know the same thing won't happen? Creating a stable positronic matrix is very tricky. Your father lost several prototypes before Lore.
Data: I was not aware he created other androids before my brother.
Juliana: There were three of them. They were like children to us. Losing them was very painful. When Noonian decided to try again, I was very much against it. I didn't think we had the right to bring a life into the world with so little chance of surviving. But your Father was sure that he'd figured out what went wrong, insisted he could make a stable matrix, and he did. But Lore was cruel. Evil. Eventually we had no choice, we had to dismantle him. Your father decided to build yet another android, one who didn't have emotions. I couldn't believe he would want to try again.
Data: I am that android. Are you saying you were against my creation?
Juliana: Initially I was. But I was wrong, I know that now. I've followed your progress for years. I'm very proud of what you've accomplished.
Data: Then why did you never attempt to contact me?
Juliana: Because I felt guilty about something I'd done.
Data: Perhaps if you told me what has made you feel this way, it may alleviated the guilt.
Juliana: I lied. When I said there was no room for you in the escape pod that we took from Omicron. There was. I didn't want to bring you with us. I was afraid if we reactivated you, you'd turn out like Lore. I made Noonian leave you behind.
Data: We are within four kilometers of the magma pocket.
Laforge: We're picking up feedback pulses along the particle beam.
Juliana: We must have hit a pocket of magnesite ore. I'll try to adjust the phaser harmonics to compensate.
Riker: Data, we're going to have to terminate the beam if this keeps up.
Data: If we do, we will have to begin a new shaft at a suitable location.
Juliana: There is no other suitable location. Just give me a few more seconds.
Laforge: Doctor, it's going to take longer than that to match the
Laforge: You did it.
Juliana: It was just luck I hit the right frequency. All right, we're less than two kilometers away from the target site. Stand by to terminate the beam.
Laforge: We've broken through.
Juliana: Now.
Data: I am detecting no signs of
Data: Instability.
Pran: Commander, may I suggest we set up the infusion unit in the first magma pocket and give this one a chance to cool.
Riker: Data
Riker: Doctor Tainer, we'll meet you in transporter room two.
Data: Acknowledged.
Data: I have initialized the plasma induction coils.
Juliana: I'll need another minute to align the diverter.
Pran: There are signs of stress in the surrounding magma, but the site should remain stable until we finish the plasma infusion.
Juliana: Good, we're almost done here.
Pran: Data, Juliana told me what she said to you last night. She's been very upset. I don't blame you for being angry with her
Data: I am incapable of anger.
Juliana: It's all right, Pran. I know what I said to you must have been hard to hear, but I hope you understand my reasons.
Data: I am not certain I do. Perhaps you could clarify them for me?
Juliana: Well, I'll try. What do you want to know?
Data: If I had been your biological offspring, would you have left me on Omicron Theta?
Juliana: Oh, Data, how can I answer that?
Data: Doctor Tainer, I get the impression you are trying to spare my feelings. I assure you that is not necessary.
Juliana: I just don't want you to misunderstand my answer. No, I wouldn't have left you behind if you'd been my biological child.
Data: Is that because you place more value on biological life than on artificial life?
Juliana: Absolutely not. I cherished every android your father and I created as if it were my child. Even Lore. Despite the fact that he turned on us, despite the dreadful things he did, dismantling him was the most difficult thing I ever had to do. I was afraid that if you turned out like him I would have to dismantle you, too. And I couldn't bear to do that. I'm not trying to justify leaving you behind. I'm just sorry I did. I hope you believe me.
Data: I do. Thank you for making it clear to me.
Audience: Bravo, bravo.
Crusher: Data, why do you want to look at Doctor Tainer's medical records? Is something wrong with her?
Data: I was hoping you would be able to determine that from her transporter trace pattern.
Crusher: Well, probably I could, but ordinarily I don't check somebody's medical status without a good reason.
Data: Doctor, I would ask that you not require me to be more specific. I assure you, I have a good reason for asking.
Crusher: All right, Data. At first glance I see nothing wrong with her. Except for a mild case of hypertension, which is normal for a woman her age.
Data: I see.
Crusher: Maybe you should tell me what her symptoms are.
Data: She has not complained of any discomfort.
Crusher: Then why do you want to see her medical records?
Data: Because I have reason to believe she is not who she claims to be.
Riker: Bridge to Data.
Data: Go ahead, sir.
Riker: There's been a cave-in in one of the magma pockets. You're needed in transporter room two.
Data: On my way. Excuse me, Doctor.
Juliana: What happened?
Pran: We were running a final check on the infusion units when a part of the wall gave way.
Laforge: It looks like the area has stabilized, but seismic stress is building up. Eventually, the pocket will collapse.
Riker: How long, Geordi?
Laforge: It's tough to tell, Commander. Twelve hours at most.
Juliana: Then we must finish configuring the unit and inject the plasma immediately.
Riker: I'd rather not send anyone back down there.
Juliana: If you don't do it
Juliana: Now, Commander, it may take months to find another suitable site. The core may solidify by then.
Pran: She's right, we have to act now.
Riker: All right, but I want you in and out of there as quickly as possible.
Data: Acknowledged.
Juliana: You're hurt. I'll go.
Data: There will be more seismic activity. We must hurry.
Data: The shaft has not been obstructed by the seismic activity. It should be possible to trigger the unit from orbit.
Juliana: The infuser's been damaged. We're going to have to start the programming sequence all over again.
Data: Priming the energy-transfer matrix.
Juliana: Re-initializing the particle stream buffer.
Riker: Riker to Data. Are you there?
Data: Go ahead, sir.
Riker: We're reading an increase in seismic stress levels.
Data: Understood, sir. We will attempt to expedite our work.
Juliana: There. Now we just have to re-align the diverter.
Riker: Data, are you all right?
Data: Yes, sir. We'll be returning to the beam-out point shortly.
Juliana: That's it. Let's go.
Juliana: Can we transport without the pattern enhancers?
Data: No, we are too far below the surface.
Juliana: How are we going to get down there?
Data: There are no handholds in the rock face. We are going to have to jump.
Juliana: No, it's too far! I won't make it!
Data: You will.
Laforge: Basically she's a Soong-type android, except everything about her is designed to fool you into thinking she's human.
Crusher: She's got tear ducts, sweat glands, even veins and capillaries underneath her skin.
Riker: Why does the scanner read her as a human?
Crusher: Because she has a feedback processor designed to send out a false bio-signal.
Laforge: It's part of her aging program. Not only does she age in appearance like Data, her vital signs change too.
Crusher: What I can't figure out is why she lost consciousness. As far as I can see, everything is fine. She should be awake.
Data: Check her positronic matrix. There may be a cascade anomaly.
Riker: You said you knew she was an android. How?
Data: The first indication occurred when we were digging. I saw her perform complex calculations without the assistance of the computer.
Riker: That could have just meant she was good at math.
Data: That is true, but it was enough to get my attention. Later, I noticed something odd about the way she blinked her eyes. The intervals between blinks were governed by the Fourier system, the same mathematical formula my father used to give my blinking pattern the appearance of randomness.
Riker: Only you could have noticed something like that.
Data: Then there was the concert in Ten Forward.
Riker: What about it?
Data: We had practiced the piece, and I noticed that she played it the same way during the performance. Every pitch, every intonation, was exactly the same. Only an artificial life form could have done that.
Riker: Does her husband know anything about this?
Data: I do not believe so. He is on the surface monitoring the plasma infusion.
Riker: Probably just as well.
Laforge: Data, come take a look at this.
Data: It appears to be an information module. With a holographic interface.
Soong: Whoever you are, you must have found out about Juliana.
Data: That is correct.
Soong: I programmed this hologram to answer any questions you might have. I am Noonian Soong. I created her.
Data: I am Data.
Soong: Data? I hoped somehow it might be you. I even created a response program to answer your questions. How are you, boy?
Data: I am fine.
Soong: I'm glad you got the chance to meet your mother.
Data: You refer to Doctor Tainer as my mother, yet the complexity of her design indicates she was created after I was.
Soong: You're right. But there was a real Juliana O'Donnell. She was my wife. She helped me create you.
Data: What happened to her?
Soong: She was injured when the Crystalline Entity attacked. We made it as far as Terlina Three but, she slipped into a coma. When I realized nothing could be done for her, I built an android. I tried to perfect my synaptic scanning technique so that I could transfer Juliana's memories into a positronic matrix. I didn't know if it would work, but I had to try. I couldn't stand the thought of losing the only woman I ever loved. A few days after Juliana died, I activated the android. She looked up at me and smiled. She recognized me. It had worked! Here was a life not two minutes old, and as far as she knew I was her husband. She'd just recovered from a terrible injury. It was incredible.
Data: Then you never told her the truth?
Soong: Why? There was no reason for her to know. I wanted her to be happy. I wanted us to be happy. We were. For a while.
Data: What happened?
Soong: I made a terrible mistake. I never really let her know how much I loved her. So she left me. The real Juliana probably would have left too, if she'd lived.
Data: If she recovers and learns that she is an android
Soong: She doesn't have to know. I designed her to shut down in the event the truth was discovered. When you put that chip back in, she will wake up and remember nothing. All you have to do is make up some excuse about what happened to her.
Data: Then you do not believe she should know the truth?
Soong: Truth? The truth is, in every way that matters, she is Juliana Soong. I programmed her to terminate after a long life. Let her live out her days, and die believing she was human. Don't rob her of that, son. Please.
Data: It seems that I must make a decision. Whether to tell Doctor Tainer that she is an android or to withhold that information from her. I do not know what to do.
Crusher: Why was Doctor Soong so adamant that she not be told?
Data: He seemed certain that if she knew, it would preclude the possibility of her being happy.
Picard: Data, what do you think?
Data: I am not certain. I understand why my father felt as he did, but his wishes are not necessarily paramount. I am more concerned with what would be best for her.
Crusher: Wouldn't she be better off knowing the truth? Dealing with the reality of her existence?
Troi: I don't think so. She's believed she's human all her life. The truth might be devastating to her.
Picard: Data, there might come some time in the future when she would find out anyway. Another accident, perhaps. Maybe it would be easier for her if she learned the truth from you.
Crusher: I can tell you that if I were in her place, I would rather be told by my son than by some stranger.
Data: I find I am having difficulty separating what would be best for her from what would be best for me.
Troi: What do you mean?
Data: If she knew she were an android, we would have something to share. I would no longer be alone in the universe.
Troi: I know how much that means to you, Data, but at the same time, by telling her you're robbing her of the one thing you've wanted all your life. To be human.
Picard: It's a difficult choice. You must do what you think best, Data. But whatever decision you make, we will support it.
Juliana: Data? What happened? The last thing I remember is jumping off a cliff.
Data: You were knocked unconscious by the fall. You broke a bone in your arm, but Doctor Crusher repaired it. Everything is fine.
Picard: Captain's log, supplemental. The infusion of plasma into the core of Atrea Four has been accomplished. The core should remain molten for several hundred years.
Juliana: When will I see you again?
Data: Perhaps I can visit Atrea on my next leave.
Juliana: I would like that very much. Well, I'd better be going.
Data: There is something I thought you should know. My father told me that he had only one great love in his life and that he regretted never telling her how much he cared for her. I am certain he was referring to you.
Juliana: That's nice to know. On Atrea there is a saying, that a child born from parents who love each other will have nothing but goodness in his heart. I guess that explains you. Take care of yourself, son.
Data: Goodbye, Mother. Energize.


Worf: Personal log, stardate 47391.2. I am returning from the Bat'leth competition on Forcas Three. The conditions were difficult. Several contenders were maimed. But I was triumphant. I won Champion Standing. I am looking forward to resuming my duties aboard the Enterprise. However, I am anticipating a troubling situation.
Riker: It looks like we're going to have to head into to the Argus Array. This is the third time this year it's stopped relaying data. Starfleet's beginning to think it's more than a simple malfunction. I want you to start a long range scan once we get. Lieutenant? Are you listening to me?
Worf: Hmm? Yes, sir.
Riker: You seem awfully tense for a man who just came back from vacation.
Worf: Today is my birthday.
Riker: What's the matter with you?
Worf: Because it is my birthday I assumed that you or one of the others would try to mount an unexpected social gathering.
Riker: A surprise party? Mister Worf, I hate surprise parties. I would never do that to you.
Worf: I am sorry, Commander.
Riker: Settle in. I'll meet you on the Bridge.
Worf: Aye sir.
All: Surprise!!
Riker: I love surprise parties.
All: Cha Worf Toh'gah nah lo Pre'tOk. Cha Worf Toh'gah nah lo Pre'tOk. Cha Worf Toh'gah nah lo Pre'tOk. Tu Mak Dagh Cha doh Borak!
Worf: That was not a Klingon song.
Troi: It wasn't easy to translate. There doesn't seem to be a Klingon word for jolly.
Crusher: It's traditional for the birthday boy to cut the cake.
Riker: Captain Picard sends his birthday wishes. He was needed on the Bridge.
Data: Happy birthday, Worf.
Worf: Thank you.
Worf: Ah. A painting.
Data: Yes. I have entered my Expressionistic phase. This is my interpretation of the Battle of HarOS.
Worf: The Battle of HarOS?
Troi: I think it's wonderful. And I know just where to put it.
Worf: What are you doing?
Troi: I always thought this room could use a little more color.
Laforge: Nice. The Battle of HarOS, right?
Laforge: Worf, are you all right?
Worf: Yes, Yes, I think Data's painting is making me dizzy.
Crusher: Some cake?
Laforge: Thank you, Doctor.
Worf: I thought the cake was chocolate.
Troi: Don't I wish. This is from Alexander. He gave it me just before he left to visit your parents. Thank you.
Laforge: What is it, Worf?
Worf: It is a cast of Alexander's forehead. The ridges of a warrior.
Troi: He wished he could have been here when you got back from shore leave. You should have seen him, Worf. He stayed up all night talking about how proud he was of his father.
Worf: Thank you for watching him while I was away.
Troi: Oh, it was my pleasure.
Picard: So, how old are you, Mister Worf?
Worf: Captain, I was told you could not attend.
Picard: I wouldn't miss this for the world. How old are you?
Worf: I am old enough.
Picard: Report.
Data: The Array appears to be functioning normally, sir.
Riker: That can't be right. We were told the Array stopped relaying data six days ago.
Data: The Array is still transmitting data, sir, but it is no longer sending that information to the Federation. It appears someone has redirected its imaging systems.
Picard: Where is the information being sent now?
Data: Sector one nine six five eight, sir. I am unable to access it's main computer, so it is impossible to determine the exact location.
Riker: What's in that sector?
Worf: It is uninhabited. But there could be a ship or a subspace relay station receiving the data.
Riker: Captain. I suggest we beam a repair crew aboard the Array. We can begin downloading their imaging logs, find out what the Array's been observing for the past six days.
Picard: Make it so.
Riker: Mister Data?
Worf: Excuse me, Counselor. Do you have a moment?
Troi: Of course.
Worf: I have been meaning to speak with you about Alexander.
Troi: Oh?
Worf: It has never been easy for me having Alexander on board. I have always tried to be a good father, to give him guidance, but he seems to have his own mind about some things.
Troi: Most children do.
Worf: I could not have come this far without your help. Alexander looks up to you. At times, I have felt that you are like a mother to him.
Troi: Worf, that's one of the nicest things anyone's ever said to me.
Worf: One time when I thought I was going to die, I asked you to watch over Alexander. I was wondering if you might consider formalizing that arrangement. I want you to be Alexander's Soh-chIm.
Troi: His Soh-chIm?
Worf: You would become his surrogate mother. In case anything ever happened to me, you would be responsible for him.
Troi: I don't know what to say. It's a great honor. So, that would make me your?
Worf: The closest analogy is step-sister.
Troi: That would make my mother your step-mother.
Worf: I had not considered that. It is a risk I am willing to take.
Troi: I accept.
Data: Lieutenant Worf, please report to Engineering.
Worf: I am on my way.
Data: We have analyzed the imaging logs. It appears the Array was reprogrammed to observe several Federation sites.
Laforge: This is Deep Space Five. Starbase Forty seven. The Iadara Colony and the Utopia Planitia Shipyards.
Picard: They're responsible for new starship development.
Worf: Someone is using the Array for covert surveillance of the Federation.
Data: That is our theory. We believe unauthorized access was made six days ago. The imaging logs from that day show a ship approaching the Array.
Worf: That's a Cardassian ship. Galor Class.
Laforge: We're only three light years from Cardassian space. They would have easy access to the Array.
Picard: Mister Worf, start a long range scan of the region. See if there are any Cardassian ships nearby.
Worf: Aye sir.
Laforge: Worf, here's a propulsion analysis of the Cardassian ship. You might try scanning for its energy configuration.
Data: Lieutenant, are you all right?
Worf: I feel dizzy.
Laforge: Worf, you don't look so good. Maybe you ought to go to Sickbay.
Worf: Yes. Yes, perhaps I will.
Crusher: Any nausea or blurred vision?
Worf: No. However, I did experience some dizziness earlier today at my birthday celebration.
Crusher: Sounds like you're having some of the side effects from the concussion. I can give you some vertazine for the dizziness but I'd like you to rest.
Worf: Doctor, perhaps you are thinking of another patient. I have no concussion.
Crusher: Worf, you came in here this morning complaining of ringing in your ears. I scanned you. You had a concussion. You don't remember any of this?
Worf: No.
Crusher: Temporary memory loss is common for this kind of injury. Do you remember telling me about the Bat'leth tournament? You said that one of the competitors hit you over the head. That's why you lost the match.
Worf: I won that tournament. And I can prove it to you.
Crusher: What's wrong?
Worf: It says ninth place. This is not the same trophy. Someone is playing a trick on me.
Crusher: Worf, try to stay calm. Memory loss can be very disorienting.
Worf: The log. I recorded a personal log on my way back to the Enterprise. Computer, access personal logs on Shuttlecraft Curie. Show my log entry for Stardate 47391.2.
Worf: Personal log, stardate 47391.2. I am returning from the Bat'leth competition on Forcas Three. The conditions were difficult. Several contenders were maimed. One of the contenders used an illegal T'gha maneuver against me. The judges chose to ignore it and I was robbed of my rightful standing. I was awarded ninth place. I am looking forward to resuming my duties aboard the En
Worf: I do not understand.
Crusher: Worf, I'm sure this is very disturbing for you, but don't worry, your memories will return. The best thing you could do right now is to settle back into your normal routine, but slowly.
Worf: Thank you, Doctor.
Crusher: Let me know if you have any more problems with dizziness. I'll give you a hypospray.
Data: Lieutenant, have you completed the metallurgical scan of the Array?
Worf: Sir?
Data: The metallurgical scan. Have you completed it?
Worf: I do not remember you asking me to. Captain, there is a Cardassian ship approaching. Galor Class.
Picard: Open a channel.
Worf: On screen.
Picard: This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Starship Enterprise. You are in Federation territory. Please explain your presence here.
Nador: We were wondering the same thing about you, Captain. Why would Starfleet's flagship want to venture so close to the Cardassian border?
Picard: We are repairing one of our subspace telescopes.
Nador: I see. May we offer our assistance?
Picard: No, thank you. Everything is under control.
Nador: If you don't mind my asking, what exactly is this telescope of yours designed to do?
Picard: It's a long range subspace Array. We use it for gathering data on astronomical phenomena.
Nador: I'm certain it would never be used to observe a neighboring species.
Picard: Certainly not.
Nador: Well then, best of luck with your repairs. Just try to make certain that your studies are limited to astronomical phenomena.
Riker: Charming fellow.
Worf: Captain, that ship was responsible for reprogramming the Array.
Picard: What are you saying?
Worf: It is the same class and energy configuration as the ship we saw in the imaging logs.
Picard: The imaging logs? Are you suggesting that you have evidence the Cardassians have tampered with the Array?
Worf: They are using the Array as a surveillance device. You saw the logs yourself.
Picard: I haven't heard anything about this.
Riker: Neither have I.
Worf: Commander Data, show them the logs you downloaded from the Array.
Data: I know of no such logs.
Picard: Mister Worf, are you feeling all right?
Worf: Yes.
Picard: Mister Data, perhaps you had better re-examine the Array. See if you can find any evidence to support Mister Worf's claims.
Worf: Doctor Crusher says I am experiencing further memory loss, but my instincts tell me it is more than that. I remember those imaging logs. I could tell you every detail, every word.
Troi: Worf, let's assume for a second you're right, that things did happen as you remember them. Are you saying that everyone's memory on this ship has been altered but yours?
Worf: Enter.
Laforge: Counselor. Worf, I wanted you to know that we re-examined the imaging logs. They don't show a Cardassian ship or any evidence that the Array was reprogrammed. From what we can tell, the Array suffered a simple mechanical failure.
Worf: That is not right. I was certain that
Troi: What's wrong?
Worf: Counselor, the painting that Commander Data gave me. It has moved.
Troi: Worf, I hung that painting there. At your birthday party, remember?
Worf: No.
Worf: The painting has changed. Don't you see it?
Worf: Your hair and your clothing, they have changed as well.
Laforge: Worf, maybe you should come with me to Sickbay and
Picard: Now, Mister Worf! Now!
Riker: What are you waiting for? Raise the shields.
Worf: This panel configuration has been altered. I do not know how
Data: Direct hit. Engineering Section and deck forty two. Shield generators are overloading.
Picard: Number One.
Riker: Firing photon torpedoes. Full spread.
Riker: Direct hit on their main reactor. They're returning fire.
Data: Captain, we have sustained heavy damage to the deflector systems. Hull breaches on decks seventeen and thirty six.
Picard: Ensign, take us out of here, maximum warp.
Gates: Aye, sir.
Picard: Are they pursuing us?
Riker: No, sir. They are firing on the Argus Array. They destroyed it, sir.
Picard: Bridge to Engineering. Mister La Forge, what's your status?
Hayes: This is Ensign Hayes, sir. Commander La Forge has been taken to Sickbay with plasma burns. There's serious damage to the secondary plasma conduit but I think we've got it under control.
Picard: Acknowledged. Ensign, lay in a course to Starbase one two nine.
Gates: Aye, sir.
Picard: What happened back there, Lieutenant?
Worf: I believe I experienced another memory loss.
Riker: Memory loss? What are you talking about?
Worf: I do not feel well. Request to be temporarily relieved of duty, sir.
Picard: Granted.
Worf: Computer, access personal logs on Shuttlecraft Curie. Play log entry for stardate 47391.2.
Computer: There is no log entry from the Shuttlecraft Curie for that stardate.
Worf: Computer, display any log entries regarding the Bat'leth tournament on Forcas Three.
Worf: Personal log, stardate 47391.2. There has been a malfunction in the ship's main deflector. It will require two more days of repairs. As a result, I will not be able to compete in the Bat'leth tournament on Forcas Three. I have asked my brother to take my place. He does not have my prowess with the blade, but
Troi: Why'd you lock the door?
Worf: Why shouldn't I?
Troi: I heard what happened on the Bridge. Are you all right?
Worf: I am not sure.
Troi: Do you want to talk about it?
Worf: I would rather not, Counselor.
Troi: Very well, Lieutenant. Hot chocolate.
Worf: Is there something I can do for you?
Troi: Actually, there is.
Troi: Come and sit down. I just want you to relax for a minute. There. You are so tense. Now, I know you don't want to talk about what happened on the Bridge, but there are times when it's just best to let things out. Come on. If you can't talk to me, who can you talk to?
Worf: I do not believe this is appropriate behavior!
Troi: Even for your wife?
Worf: Wife?
Troi: Worf, what's wrong?
Worf: I do not know. Things are changing.
Troi: What's changed?
Worf: I do not remember us, you and I, being mates. It is as if events, circumstances, continue to change from moment to moment, but I am the only one who seems to be aware of it.
Troi: Are you saying you don't remember the last three years? You don't remember us falling in love and getting married?
Worf: I do remember the last three years, but they were different. We did not have this relationship. We were friends. And the Enterprise did not have a battle with the Cardassians. And no one believes me.
Troi: Whatever's wrong, whatever happened, I want you to know that I believe you. And that I love you. And together we'll find out what's happening.
Data: I am initiating a subspace scan to search for temporal anomalies on or off the ship.
Ogawa: Counselor Troi, please report to Sickbay.
Troi: I'm on my way. Let me know if you find anything.
Worf: Commander, how long have I been married to Counselor Troi?
Data: Two years, one month and twelve days.
Worf: And when did this relationship begin?
Data: It is my understanding your romantic affiliation began shortly after you recovered from your spinal injury on stardate 45587. It was six months later that you asked Commander Riker for his formal permission to court Counselor Troi. You felt to do otherwise would be dishonorable.
Worf: And then we mated?
Data: I am not privy to the exact details of when, where or how your first coupling took place. I could investigate it
Worf: No, that is all right.
Data: I am detecting no temporal anomalies in this system. Perhaps we should try to pinpoint the exact moment when events became discontinuous. Do you remember the first change?
Worf: I was in Sickbay. Doctor Crusher told me I had a concussion but I do not remember that happening.
Data: Think back. Are you sure that was the very first change?
Worf: Before. Yes. Yes, I was in Engineering. I felt a wave of dizziness and when I looked up, you and Commander La Forge were on the opposite side of the room. Captain Picard was gone. I thought I had blacked out for a moment and had not observed your movements. And at my birthday party, the cake was chocolate and then it was yellow. And Commander Riker told me Captain Picard was not going to attend, and then suddenly he was there.
Data: We should try to find the commonalties in these events. Where were the people you were with?
Worf: Everyone was at my birthday party. Then I was with Counselor Troi, then Commander La Forge came in. Geordi. Geordi was present at all three locations. And he was near me in each case just before I noticed the differences. There has to be a connection.
Data: It is possible. We should speak to Commander La Forge.
Data: Doctor, is Geordi well enough to answer some questions?
Ogawa: Geordi's dead.
Data: There do not appear to be any unusual readings. Energy residuals from the plasma burns, the beginnings of cellular decomposition. I see nothing that connects these bio-readings to your recent sense of discontinuity.
Ogawa: What about his visor?
Data: I still see nothing unusual. Perhaps we should activate it.
Ogawa: Hook it up to the diagnostic array and I'll check it out.
Data: The visor is active.
Crusher: Worf, are you alright?
Data: Have you noticed another discontinuity?
Worf: Doctor Crusher was not here. Doctor Ogawa was.
Crusher: Doctor Ogawa?
Worf: My uniform has changed. What is my rank and position?
Troi: You're a Commander and First Officer.
Worf: Are we still married?
Troi: Yes.
Data: I am detecting a quantum flux in your cellular RNA.
Worf: What does that mean?
Data: I do not know. I will have to analyze these readings.
Data: I have found the quantum flux in Worf's cellular RNA extends to the subatomic level. It is asynchronous with normal matter. In essence, Captain, Mister Worf does not belong in our universe.
Riker: What?
Data: All matter in the universe resonates on a quantum level with a unique signature. That signature is constant. It cannot be changed through any known process. It is the basic foundation of existence.
Riker: Are you saying that Worf's quantum signature is different from ours?
Data: Yes, sir. I cannot explain it. It is as if he originates from a different quantum universe.
Riker: Mister Worf, you say the discontinuities started to occur after you returned from a Bat'leth tournament on Forcas Three.
Worf: Yes, sir.
Riker: Now, I know for a fact that you never attended that tournament and that no shuttlecraft has left the Enterprise for over a month.
Worf: I understand that, but I also clearly remember attending the tournament and returning to the ship in a shuttlecraft.
Riker: Do you remember the route you took to return?
Worf: Yes.
Riker: Let's backtrack that course. See if there are any unusual readings or anomalies.
Data: Aye, sir.
Worf: If I may inquire, sir, how long have you been Captain of the Enterprise?
Riker: Four years. Ever since Captain Picard was killed in the incident with the Borg. You don't remember any of this, do you?
Worf: I do remember. I just remember differently.
Wesley: Captain, I'm picking up a minor subspace disturbance off the port bow.
Riker: Full stop.
Helm: Aye, sir.
Riker: Analysis, Mister Data.
Data: It appears to be a quantum fissure in the space-time continuum.
Riker: On screen.
Data: The anomaly cannot be seen, but I believe I can enhance it with a warp field to make it visible.
Riker: Is it dangerous?
Data: Not from this distance, sir. I am also detecting an ion trail intersecting the phenomenon. I believe it was left by a Starfleet type six shuttlecraft.
Worf: So I was here.
Data: I have an explanation, sir.
Data: I believe the quantum fissure we discovered is a fixed point across the space time continuum. A keyhole which intersects many other quantum realities.
Troi: What do you mean, quantum realities?
Data: For any event, there is an infinite number of possible outcomes. Our choices determine which outcomes will follow. But there is a theory in quantum physics that all possibilities that can happen, do happen in alternate quantum realities.
Worf: And somehow I have been shifting from one reality to another.
Data: That is correct.
Troi: How did this happen?
Data: When Worf's shuttlecraft came into contact with the quantum fissure, I believe its warp engines caused a small break in the barriers between quantum realties. Worf was thrown into a state of quantum flux. He immediately shifted into other realities.
Crusher: And Geordi's visor somehow triggered that effect?
Data: Exactly. The visor uses a subspace field pulse. I believe that whenever Geordi came near Worf, the field pulse intensified the quantum flux and pushed Worf into another reality.
Worf: How can we find my original quantum state and return me to it?
Wesley: We could scan the quantum fissure using a subspace differential pulse. Maybe we could locate the quantum state that shares Worf's signature and find a way to get him back.
Data: An excellent idea, Lieutenant.
Troi: Worf. From what I understand, there's a good chance my Worf won't return. I guess it's just hard for me to accept that there's a reality out there where you never loved me.
Worf: Deanna, I have always considered you a close friend. And although I have never seriously considered a romantic relationship, I would not be opposed to the possibility.
Troi: What about our children?
Worf: Children?
Troi: You didn't know?
Worf: When the last shift occurred in Sickbay, we did not have any children.
Troi: We have a little girl, Shannara, she's two years old, and a three year old boy, Eric Christopher.
Worf: What about Alexander?
Troi: Alexander?
Worf: He was my son in another reality.
Wesley: I've used a differential pulse to analyze over ten million quantum states within the fissure, but I still haven't found one with your signature. This may take some time, sir.
Data: Captain, a Bajoran ship is approaching.
Riker: Red Alert.
Worf: Sir, the Bajorans?
Troi: Ever since the Bajorans overpowered the Cardassian Empire, they've become more and more aggressive.
Riker: Yesterday they destroyed one of our subspace telescopes because they thought we were using it to spy on them.
Wesley: They're charging their weapons, sir.
Worf: Shields!
Riker: Return fire.
Wesley: They've damaged our power systems, sir. It's caused an energy surge within the subspace pulse. The quantum fissure is beginning to destabilize.
Riker: Can we disengage the pulse?
Wesley: Too late, sir.
Riker: What the hell is happening?
Data: The barriers between quantum realties are breaking down. Other realties are emerging into our own.
Wesley: The Bajoran ship is disengaging, sir.
Data: The rate of quantum incursions is increasing exponentially. At this rate, the sector will be completely filled with Enterprises within three days.
Wesley: Captain, we're receiving two hundred eighty five thousand hails.
Riker: I wish I knew what to tell them. Mister Data, can we stop these incursions?
Data: Perhaps, if we can find the ship which that Commander Worf's quantum signature.
Riker: How would that help?
Data: It was Worf's shuttlecraft which traversed the fissure and weakened the barriers between quantum realities. If he re-enters the fissure in his original shuttle, and emits a broad spectrum warp field, it may be enough to seal the fissure and stop additional realities from emerging into our own.
Riker: What then? How do we get the Enterprises that are already here back to where they belong?
Data: In theory, the act of sealing the fissure should restore the barriers between quantum states. The ships would return to their own realities.
Riker: Lieutenant Crusher, send a general hail, all ships.
Wesley: Aye, sir.
Riker: This is Captain Riker of the Enterprise. That is, the Enterprise which is indigenous to this universe. We've all encountered a quantum anomaly. We think we have found a way to return all of us to our proper realities, but we need to find that ship which exhibits a certain quantum signature. Our Mister Data will transmit that signature to you now.
Riker: Anything?
Wesley: There's too much comm. traffic, sir. It's tough to isolate who's talking to who. Wait a minute. Here it is. Someone's responding.
Riker: On screen.
Picard: Captain, it would that we have found the quantum signature you are looking for.
Riker: Data believes that by sending Worf back through the fissure again, it would return us all to our proper realities.
Picard: Our Data has said the same thing.
Riker: We need you to send us your shuttlecraft Curie.
Picard: We're launching it now.
Riker: Thank you. It's good to see you again, Captain. It's been a long time.
Riker: Did they send the right shuttle?
Data: Yes, sir. It matches Commander Worf's quantum signature precisely. I have remodulated the shuttle's engines to emit an inverse warp field. You will need to activate the field at the precise moment you enter the fissure.
Worf: Assuming it works, will I find myself near my own ship?
Data: That is one possibility. However, the uncertainty principle dictates that time is a variable in this equation. You may end up several days before the event or several days after. There is no way to tell.
Worf: I understand.
Riker: Good luck.
Worf: Setting course for the fissure.
Riker: Acknowledged.
Wesley: Captain, the shuttlecraft is under attack.
Riker: The Bajorans again.
Wesley: No, sir. It's one of the Enterprises. They're hailing us.
Riker: On screen.
Riker: We won't go back. You don't know what it's like in our universe. The Federation's gone, the Borg is everywhere! We're one of the last ships left. Please, you've got to help us!
Riker: I'm sorry, there's no choice. If this works, everything will return to
Riker: No, we won't go back!
Wesley: Sir, they're firing on the shuttlecraft.
Riker: Open fire. Try to disable them.
Wesley: Direct hit. Their shields have collapsed. Their engine core is overloading.
Riker: What happened?
Wesley: It looks like the ship had already taken heavy damage. Their warp containment field must have been weak.
Riker: Probably from fighting with the Borg.
Data: Captain, Worf is entering the fissure.
Worf: Charging primary systems. Initiating inverse warp field.
Worf: Worf to Enterprise.
Picard: Enterprise here.
Worf: Captain, is everything all right?
Picard: Yes, Lieutenant. Is there a problem?
Worf: No, I do not believe so, but I will explain when I arrive.
Picard: How was the Bat'leth tournament?
Worf: It was fine, sir. I won Champion Standing.
Riker: So you think this quantum fissure is nothing that we need to worry about?
Worf: No. No, I believe the inverse warp field resealed it.
Riker: I'm looking forward to reading your report.
Riker: Something wrong?
Worf: I know what you are planning, sir. I will not be surprised.
Riker: Surprised? I don't know what you're talking about.
Worf: Of course you don't.
Troi: Welcome home, Worf. I hope you don't mind, I let myself in. I promised Alexander I'd feed his Dalvin hissing beetle while you were both away.
Worf: So you do not live here?
Troi: What's that supposed to mean?
Worf: It is a long story.
Troi: Happy birthday, Worf. Will wanted to give you a surprise party, but I knew you'd hate it so I talked him out of it.
Worf: Thank you.
Troi: I know Klingons like to be alone on their birthdays. I'm sure you have to meditate, or hit yourself with a pain stick or something.
Worf: Deanna. You do not have to leave.
Troi: Oh?
Worf: I have not had dinner. Would you care to join me?
Troi: I'd love to.
Worf: Champagne.