Picard: Captain's log, Stardate 42494.8. The Enterprise is bound for Star Station India to rendezvous with a Starfleet medical courier. We've been told only that our presence is imperative. Hopefully the mission will give me further opportunities to assess the performance of our new Chief Medical Officer.
Picard: Come.
Troi: You wanted to see me, Captain?
Picard: Yes, Counselor. Come, sit down. Counselor, you've had the opportunity to observe Doctor Pulaski for some time now. How would you evaluate her as a Chief Medical Officer?
Troi: I've never met a more dedicated physician. I would say she has a passion for her work.
Picard: Yes, of course. I entirely agree. Is it possible that such consuming dedication could interfere with her judgment?
Troi: I feel your concern, Captain, but I don't share it. Perhaps because I've had the opportunity to spend more time with her and get to know her better.
Picard: Yes, perhaps you're right.
Data: Captain, we are picking up a faint distress signal on an open subspace frequency. It appears to be coming from an adjacent sector.
Picard: Respond on the same frequency.
Picard: Are you locked on to that transmission?
Data: Aye, sir. A voice only transmission from the USS Lantree, a Federation supply ship.
Picard: USS Lantree, this is Picard of the Enterprise. What is the nature of your emergency?
Voice: Can't hold out any more. People dying. Too many to help.
Data: We are still receiving their signal, Captain, but there is no message.
Picard: Lantree. Are you under attack? Lantree? USS Lantree, this is the Enterprise. Come in, Lantree. Replay that last transmission.
Voice: Can't hold out any more. People dying. Too many to help.
Riker: Have we got a fix on her?
Data: Two point two milli-parsecs, bearing three zero at one four five degrees.
Picard: Number One?
Riker: We'd better take a look. What kind of vessel is she?
Data: The Lantree is a Class Six Federation supply ship assigned to Gamma seven sector, Captain L.I. Telaka commanding. Normal complement, twenty six officers and crew.
Riker: Armed?
Data: Class three defensive only.
Riker: Is she still underway?
Data: Aye, sir.
Picard: Adjust course to intercept. Warp seven.
Wesley: Adjusting course to intercept. Warp seven, sir.
Laforge: Engineering, transfer to Bridge.
Wesley: We are closing on the Lantree, Captain.
Picard: Take us out of warp. Establish parallel course. Match speed.
Wesley: Yes, sir.
Picard: Hailing frequencies.
Worf: Open.
Picard: Lantree, this is the Enterprise. Captain Telaka, this is Picard of the Enterprise. Do you read me?
Data: No life signs, Captain.
Picard: Counselor?
Troi: Nothing, Captain.
Riker: What else have we got in the neighborhood?
Wesley: No other vessels of any kind within two parsecs.
Worf: No battle damage.
Data: All systems seem functional, Captain. Everything is in perfect order.
Worf: We have to board her, Captain.
Picard: Possibly, Mister Worf. Number One?
Riker: If we gain control of her systems remotely, we could activate the viewscreen. That way we could at least look at the Bridge.
Picard: Agreed.
Picard: Computer, security override request.
Computer: Identify.
Picard: Picard, Jean-Luc, Captain, USS Enterprise. Request control access Starfleet ship USS Lantree, Isao Telaka commanding.
Computer: Enter access code.
Picard: Omicron omicron alpha yellow daystar two seven. Enable.
Data: I have verified receipt of the access codes for the Lantree, Captain.
Picard: Grand. Commence operations.
Riker: Our first move will be shut down the engines.
Laforge: Standing by, Commander.
Data: The Lantree computer reports access codes received and accepted, sir.
Pulaski: Sickbay on alert, Captain.
Laforge: Interlock is engaged. The Lantree is responding, sir.
Data: We have override control of her Bridge, Captain. All systems answering.
Picard: All right, let's have a look.
Laforge: Lantree Bridge monitor engaging.
Picard: Are you reading anything, Doctor?
Pulaski: Still no signs of life, Captain.
Picard: Magnify. That must be Captain Telaka on the left. Let's look at him. Closer. My God.
Riker: Looks like they had a battle with time.
Worf: And lost.
Pulaski: Heart, lungs, liver, everything.
Picard: What is it?
Pulaski: They died of natural causes.
Picard: Natural causes? What in nature could cause that?
Pulaski: For the record, Captain, they died of old age.
Riker: We've downloaded the Lantree's log, sir.
Picard: Play back the Captain's last entry.
Picard: Captain's log, stardate 42493.1. There are only six of us left. We've set course for the nearest Federation outpost, but I am afraid it's too late. All attempts to analyze what is happening have failed. In the last few hours I've watched friends grow old and die, and I'm seeing it happen to me. Captain L.I. Telaka, USS Lantree.
Riker: Captain Telaka was my age, sir.
Picard: Doctor?
Pulaski: Every member of the Lantree crew had a complete examination at the beginning of this duty cycle eight weeks ago. They were in perfect health.
Troi: Nothing else since?
Pulaski: A single medical entry noting that the First Officer was treated for Thelusian flu five days ago.
Picard: Thelusian flu?
Pulaski: It's an exotic but harmless rhinal virus. It couldn't have caused this.
Riker: The last port of call of the Lantree was the Darwin Genetic Research Station on Gagarin Four three days ago.
Pulaski: Whatever happened, it could be something that the Lantree crew already had or it could have come from Gagarin. At the very least, the people from Darwin Station deserve a warning. We may have to consider a quarantine.
Picard: You'll agree that we should quarantine the Lantree.
Pulaski: Absolutely.
Riker: Lieutenant, initiate the quarantine transmitters on the Lantree and activate her marker beacons. We'll need to find her again.
Worf: Aye, sir.
Worf: Quarantine warnings active on all frequencies, Captain.
Lantree: Extreme caution. The USS Lantree is a quarantined vessel by order of Starfleet Command. Do not board.
Picard: Set course for Gagarin Four, warp seven.
Wesley: Course and speed set, sir.
Picard: Engage.
Picard: Captain's log, supplemental. We're en route to the Federation Research station on Gagarin Four. The mere thought of a possible connection between the Lantree tragedy and a genetic research facility fills me with profound apprehension.
Wesley: We're approaching Gagarin Four, Captain.
Picard: Standard orbit, Mister Crusher.
Wesley: Aye, sir.
Picard: Hailing frequencies.
Worf: Open.
Picard: Darwin Station, this is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the USS Enterprise.
Kingsley: Enterprise, this is Darwin Station. I'm Doctor Kingsley. We've just declared a medical emergency here. We need your help.
Pulaski: Doctor Kingsley, what is the nature of your emergency?
Kingsley: To whom am I speaking, please?
Pulaski: I'm Doctor Pulaski, Chief Medical Officer.
Kingsley: Katherine Pulaski, author of Linear Models of Viral Propagation?
Pulaski: That was a long time ago.
Kingsley: But still the standard. I can't think of anyone I'd rather be dealing with. Doctor, we're experiencing the rapid onset of geriatric phenomena. The first symptom is sudden, acute arthritic inflammation. Then the aging process accelerates.
Pulaski: The Lantree.
Kingsley: Doctor Pulaski, I celebrated my thirty fifth birthday a week ago.
Pulaski: Doctor, we understand that Darwin Station is involved in genetic research. Is there a possible connection?
Kingsley: Our research here is limited to human genetics. I can assure you we're not dealing with something that got away from us. We believe that we were infected by a supply ship that was here three days ago.
Picard: Doctor, if you're speaking of the Lantree, we encountered it a few hours ago. All the crew members were dead.
Kingsley: Which would seem to confirm our suspicion. Were you able to establish a pathology, Doctor?
Picard: Doctor, did you hear what I said? All the twenty six men and women aboard that ship were dead.
Kingsley: I heard you, Captain, and the prognosis is alarming, but my immediate concern is our children.
Pulaski: Children?
Kingsley: They represent years of advanced genetic research. You must evacuate them as soon as possible.
Picard: I'm sorry, but under the circumstances, until we know what's going on I'm imposing a full quarantine on Darwin Station.
Kingsley: But the children have been in protective isolation since this was detected. They show no symptoms. You cannot leave them here to die!
Picard: Doctor, our options in a quarantine situation are extremely limited. We are going to consider the possibilities. I suggest you do the same.
Worf: I recommend against contact, Captain.
Picard: Number One?
Riker: I have to agree, sir. I wish there was something we could do, but the risk is too great.
Picard: Doctor?
Pulaski: If the children are free of disease, as Doctor Kingsley said, they should be evacuated. I would like to bring one of them aboard within a force field for a complete examination.
Picard: Counselor, do you sense anything?
Troi: Doctor Kingsley sincerely believes the children are not a threat, but she's not telling us the whole truth. I recommend caution.
Picard: We have only Doctor Kingsley's assurance that these children are not infected, whereas we have seen the results of this disease first hand. In a case like this, I think we should err on the side of caution.
Pulaski: All right. We could beam up one child in styrolite in suspended animation. That way I could scan for possible infection without any danger to ourselves or to the child.
Riker: But we don't know what we're looking for.
Pulaski: Exactly. And we won't know until we begin gathering data. Captain, that's worth some risk.
Picard: There's always risk, Doctor. Proceed with the examination, but I shall require positive proof that these children are harmless before I place any of my crew in jeopardy.
Laforge: The forcefield's ready, Captain.
Picard: Activate it.
Picard: Transporter?
O'Brien: This is Chief O'Brien, sir. Almost ready.
Picard: Is there a problem?
O'Brien: It's the styrolite. I'm altering the delta-T so the styrolite coding materializes two micro-seconds ahead of the child.
O'Brien: It has to be right the first time.
Picard: Well take all the time you need.
O'Brien: Entering corrections now, sir.
O'Brien: Ready, Captain.
Pulaski: Doctor Kingsley, are you ready to transport?
Kingsley: You have the coordinates. We have one twelve year old male encased in number six styrolite.
Laforge: Transporter, energize.
Worf: A trick!
Laforge: Transporter, reverse
Picard: One moment, Lieutenant. Whoever he is, he's still in stasis.
Pulaski: The styrolite is intact, Captain.
Picard: Force field down.
Troi: Captain, there's a definite presence, a distinct personality. Even in stasis it's quite strong. The child is unquestionably telepathic.
Pulaski: A child this mature? We could be looking at the future of humanity.
Picard: At least Doctor Kingsley's vision of it.
Pulaski: This child is in better health than we are. His immune system is so advanced it may not be possible for him to contract disease. I want to free him from the styrolite.
Picard: That seems rather risky, Doctor.
Pulaski: I can do no further tests until he's out of it.
Picard: But what if you're wrong? You saw what happened on the Lantree.
Pulaski: I know I'm right.
Picard: I can't expose the Enterprise until I know where this disease came from and how it is transmitted.
Pulaski: I realize that, Captain. Naturally, we'll establish a force field containment.
Picard: But if we lose the force field for any reason, we lose the ship. Force fields can fail, and until
Pulaski: We don't have that kind of time. These children can't survive in the lab once their parents are dead. Look at him, Captain. He's a human being who needs our help.
Picard: But the risk is
Pulaski: Minimal.
Picard: If you can demonstrate that he is biologically harmless without risk to the crew, I'll do everything in my power to assist. And Doctor, God knows I'm not one to discourage input, but I would appreciate it if you'd let me finish my sentences once in a while.
Pulaski: Deanna, do you have a minute? You've known the Captain for some time. I think I need some advice. I don't seem to be dealing with him very well.
Troi: Why do you say that?
Pulaski: Well, my arguments don't seem to have any affect on him. We just end up quoting regulations to each other. He has such a consuming dedication to his ship, he doesn't seem able to step back to see the human side of the equation.
Pulaski: What's the matter?
Troi: Kate, I don't think he'd be where he is if he couldn't see the human side of the equation. Perhaps the two of you aren't all that different.
Pulaski: What do you mean?
Troi: Let's just say you both have well established personalities.
Pulaski: Doctor Kingsley, this is Kate Pulaski.
Kingsley: Doctor? Do you have a decision?
Pulaski: I'm afraid it's bad news.
Kingsley: How can that be?!
Pulaski: The risk to the ship and crew is too great. Until we absolutely know the cause of the disease, the children
Kingsley: The children are harmless. Every test on them has been negative. I demand that you do something to save them. Please, Doctor. For God's sake, we haven't got much time.
Pulaski: Stand by. I'll get back to you.
Pulaski: Geordi, I need your help.
Laforge: What is it, Doctor.
Pulaski: I need to prove the children are harmless. I can only do that in a fail-safe environment.
Laforge: The problem is there's no area on the ship that can be sealed off with absolute certainty, even with force fields.
Pulaski: Sickbay has an isolated system.
Laforge: But it's not possible to totally cut it off from the rest of the ship. The only truly independent environment would be something like a shuttlecraft.
Pulaski: A shuttlecraft. Why didn't you say so?
Picard: Come.
Pulaski: Captain, I'd like permission to put the boy in a shuttlecraft. I can study him there without risk to anyone else.
Picard: What about you?
Pulaski: I'm prepared to take that risk. Someone has to breathe the same air he breathes, to touch him. I'm volunteering to make that test myself.
Picard: Doctor, you have a responsibility to this ship which goes
Pulaski: I also have a responsibility to humanity.
Picard: Starfleet guidelines about contact with quarantined
Pulaski: You don't have to quote the rule book. You were saying?
Picard: Request approved.
Pulaski: Captain, you said if I. Approved?
Picard: I recognize that you're trying to satisfy my conditions.
Pulaski: Thank you.
Data: You sent for me, Doctor?
Pulaski: I did, Commander. I assume that you're qualified to pilot this shuttlecraft.
Data: Certainly. I took advanced training in the operation of auxiliary space vessels at Starfleet Academy, where I received
Pulaski: A more than passing grade, no doubt. Please, come aboard. We don't have much time.
Computer: Shuttlebay three force field activated.
Data: You're certain the Captain approved this, Doctor?
Pulaski: You'll take us a few hundred meters away from the Enterprise and hold position.
Data: Begin shuttlecraft launch sequence.
Picard: Good luck, Doctor.
Data: We are in position, Doctor.
Pulaski: It's the only way to prove they're harmless.
Data: And if they are not?
Pulaski: I hate to keep reminding you, but you are a machine. You'll be perfectly safe.
Data: That is by no means certain, Doctor, but I was referring to you.
Pulaski: Medical research is sometimes a risky business. It's all part of being human. Shall we proceed?
Data: Ready to transport.
Data: You have the coordinates, Chief O'Brien.
O'Brien: Shuttlecraft, maintain your position and stand by.
Data: Standing by.
O'Brien: Transporter control, what's our status?
Crewman: We have a green panel, sir.
O'Brien: Stand by to transport.
Crewman: Aye, sir.
O'Brien: Energize.
Pulaski: Oh, yes, I do. I understand you perfectly.
Data: How could you, Doctor? He has not said anything.
Pulaski: Oh yes, he has. Troi's right. He's telepathic.
Picard: Time?
Computer: Zero three two two exactly.
Picard: She's been in direct contact with the boy for eighteen minutes.
Data: All systems are functioning within normal specifications, Doctor.
Pulaski: The manufacturer will be pleased to hear it. I appreciate your help, but your bedside manner needs work.
Data: Bedside manner?
Data: Doctor?
Picard: Doctor, I don't understand. What has happened?
Pulaski: There was no warning.
Picard: Explain.
Pulaski: Arthritic inflammation. It's the initial symptom of the disease.
Picard: What can we do?
Pulaski: Return the boy to Darwin Station. Apparently the children are carriers.
Picard: Chief O'Brien, are you ready?
O'Brien: I have the original coordinates of the Darwin isolation lab, Captain.
Picard: Quickly, please.
O'Brien: Shuttle One, hold your position.
Data: Holding.
O'Brien: Stand by to transport.
Pulaski: It wasn't your fault.
Picard: Tell us what you need, Doctor.
Pulaski: There's nothing you can do, Captain. I'm not going to make myself an exception to the Darwin quarantine. Shuttle One out.
Data: What is your condition, Doctor?
Pulaski: Not exactly up to factory specs. I'm sorry. The pain is tolerable, thank you.
Data: Shall I set course for Darwin Station?
Pulaski: We're already under quarantined. What do we have to lose?
Picard: We can no longer consider the Darwin Station crisis our most immediate concern, although Doctor Pulaski's condition is inseparably linked with that emergency. Her safe return and that of Commander Data must take priority, please.
Troi: Shouldn't Doctor Pulaski be involved in this?
Riker: From what we've seen on the Lantree, Doctor Pulaski may not have time to help herself.
Troi: Well I suggest we beam them both back onto the ship. Commander Data is most likely immune and surely the biofilter will
O'Brien: The transporter's biofilter won't protect us. The boy was transported twice already and still infected Doctor Pulaski.
Laforge: Couldn't we adjust the biofilter? We could alter the filter to screen out whatever it is that's causing the disease.
Picard: But we don't know what's causing the disease. We can't protect ourselves against the unknown. What we need is some kind of filter that doesn't depend on known biological factors.
O'Brien: We might try the trace.
Riker: The transporter trace?
O'Brien: As you know, the transporter keeps a record of all transmissions, a pattern if you will. Usually it's just stored for security purposes, but if we use the transporter trace to control the reconstitution process
Laforge: I don't think it's ever been tried quite that way before, but theoretically it is possible.
O'Brien: I'd have to make extensive modifications.
Picard: Then do it. It seems we have no alternative.
Riker: Where will we get the trace pattern? The Doctor's never used our transporter.
Picard: Never?
Riker: No. She's a woman of very strongly held opinions, sir. What was her previous assignment?
Troi: Her last ship was the Repulse.
Picard: Bridge, Picard. Contact the USS Repulse using subspace captain's priority channel.
Kingsley: Oh, Doctor Pulaski. I can only tell you how much I regret the burden we've imposed on you. On both of you.
Pulaski: Commander Data is an android, Doctor. He is unaffected. As for me, I chose this. I was convinced the children were safe.
Kingsley: I still can't believe you were infected by one of our children.
Data: The evidence is fairly conclusive.
Kingsley: You don't understand. They were designed to resist disease.
Pulaski: I think it's time we talked about that.
Kingsley: Let me show you something.
Kingsley: Our ultimate achievement. The oldest is twelve, and all are telekinetic. Watch.
Pulaski: Genetically engineered?
Kingsley: Not engineered, created. Perfect in every way. Their body structure, their musculature, their minds.
Pulaski: You were telling me about their immune system.
Kingsley: That was our masterpiece. We gave these children an aggressive immunity. The rest of us were infected by the supply ship, but they were protected.
Data: The Lantree logs indicated that only one crewman had any illness prior to arrival here. The First Officer had a mild case of Thelusian flu.
Kingsley: Yes, he was one of the crewmen who came in direct contact with us.
Pulaski: The Thelusian flu would have little effect on you, but tell me, how would they react?
Kingsley: Their immune system would release an active antibody that would attack the virus.
Pulaski: Even at a distance?
Kingsley: Their immune systems don't wait for a disease to attack the body. It would seek out an airborne virus and destroy it.
Pulaski: Destroy it? How, exactly?
Kingsley: The antibody would adapt itself to alter the genetic code of the virus.
Pulaski: Commander, I want an analysis of the interaction between the Thelusian flu and the children.
Data: On a molecular genetic level?
Kingsley: We don't have time for that. Genetic analysis could take months.
Pulaski: Not necessarily. Commander Data has a way with computers.
Taggert: Sorry, Picard. We erased Doctor Pulaski's transporter pattern right after she transferred. Not that she used the transporter much, she preferred using the shuttlecraft. I would have given her a shuttle if it would have kept her here.
Picard: Tell me, Taggert, if she served you as well as you say, why did you let her go?
Taggert: I see you haven't run into her stubborn streak yet. As soon as she found out about an opening on the Enterprise, she put in a request for transfer. Knew your service record backward and forward. Apparently she's been an admirer of yours for some time.
Picard: Extraordinary.
Pulaski: Commander, what have you got?
Data: The answer, I believe, Doctor. The Lantree was not the source of the disease, but it was the trigger.
Kingsley: Trigger?
Data: The Lantree's First Officer exposed your children to Thelusian flu for the first time. Their active immune systems set out to attack the virus, and once it was triggered, it kept going. The antibody created an unexpected side-effect. It alters the genetic make-up of normal humans. This is a comparison of the normal and altered DNA. These are the two molecules that have been transposed.
Pulaski: And since our DNA is self replicating, the process
Data: Is irreversible.
Pulaski: Judging from what happened on the Lantree, anyone is a carrier once they're infected.
Picard: Have you made any progress, Doctor?
Pulaski: I'm afraid so, Captain. The children don't carry the disease, they are the cause.
Picard: What do you mean?
Pulaski: Their advanced immune system has created an antibody that changes normal DNA. The altered genes are the ones that control aging.
Picard: Then why did it attack you more quickly than Doctor Kingsley?
Pulaski: The enclosed environment of the shuttlecraft concentrated my exposure. The Lantree's First Officer carried the antibody onto his ship. It had the same effect on his crew.
Picard: Right, what's the next step?
Pulaski: The children will survive, but the rest of us are just about out of time.
Picard: Doctor, I want you back aboard this ship. We'll beam you up in suspended animation like the boy. That will give us more time.
Pulaski: Captain, I appreciate what you're trying to do, but I got into this by leaping before I looked, and I won't allow you to make the same mistake. Chief Medical Officer's log. This will be my final report to the Enterprise. Just as changes in evolution are known to be caused by changes in the environment, we now know the process also works in reverse. An attempt to control human evolution has resulted in a new species that's lethal to its predecessors. The children will be condemned to live out their lives in isolation. Quarantine of the Darwin Station must be maintained for ever.
Data: I am sorry I could not be more helpful, Doctor Pulaski.
Pulaski: You did everything you could, Commander. As androids go, you're in a class by yourself.
Data: Doctor
Pulaski: Please, give my best to the Captain.
Data: Enterprise. Commander Data ready to beam aboard.
Troi: Captain, Kate knew what she was doing.
Picard: I wish I could be certain that we'd tried everything.
Worf: Commander Data is ready to come aboard, sir.
Picard: You have the Bridge, Number One.
Crewman: No life forms present.
O'Brien: You may step down, sir.
Picard: Data, tell me if. It's good to see you again.
Data: Thank you, sir.
Picard: Now, quickly. If the changes in Doctor Pulaski's DNA were reversed, would it be possible
Data: It is not reversible, sir. The subtle molecular transposition of
Picard: Yes, yes, yes. But say if it were undone, would she be normal again?
Data: As normal as ever, sir.
Picard: You said that the transporter could be modified to filter out the changes in Doctor Pulaski?
O'Brien: Yes, sir, but we were unable to locate her trace pattern.
Picard: Well, what if we used a sample of her DNA, say from a blood test taken before she was exposed to the disease? Could that be used to filter out the genetic changes?
O'Brien: Well, I'd have to get into the biofilter bus to patch in a molecular matrix reader. That's no problem. But the waveform modulator will be overloaded without the regeneration limiter in the first stage circuit.
Data: Interesting. However, theoretically,
Picard: Data.
Data: Yes, sir.
Picard: Can you do the modifications?
O'Brien: I think so, sir.
Picard: Then make it so.
O'Brien: You heard what he said. Let's get those panels off.
Riker: A blood test, a tissue sample, anything that would have a sample of Doctor Pulaski's original DNA.
Data: No, sir. Her records were shipped by way of Starfleet headquarters. They have not caught up with us yet.
Riker: This is ridiculous. A cell, a single cell. Let's check her quarters.
Riker: Anything. A fingernail, a hair.
Data: Hair brush.
Data: It has a follicle, sir. Live cells.
Picard: Darwin Station, this is the Enterprise.
Pulaski: Go ahead, Captain. I'm here.
Picard: Doctor, we may have a solution. We have a sample of your normal DNA to use as a filter in the transporter. We think that we can beam you aboard while filtering out any of the genetic problems caused by the disease.
Pulaski: Interesting theory, Captain. If it works, we could use the same technique to save Doctor Kingsley and her colleagues.
Picard: I think you should know, this has never been attempted before.
Pulaski: Well, I'll tell you one thing. If I live through this, I'll have a much better understanding of geriatrics.
Picard: All set, Chief?
O'Brien: Almost ready, sir. There's just one thing.
Picard: Yes?
O'Brien: This modification's one way only. If it doesn't work we won't be able to reverse transport the Doctor back to the planet.
Picard: Then I'll operate the transporter controls myself. If she's going to be consigned to oblivion, then
O'Brien: Thank you, sir. I'll be monitoring the medical scans. But you'll be able to tell if it's worked by watching the stack.
Picard: Doctor Pulaski, are you ready?
Pulaski: I suppose I am, Captain.
Picard: Here we go.
Picard: It's not working.
O'Brien: Captain, wait.
Data: Doctor.
Laforge: Good to see you, Doctor.
Picard: Welcome back, Doctor. Come.
Pulaski: Captain, if this hadn't worked?
Picard: If this hadn't worked, it would have been necessary to beam your energy into empty space.
Pulaski: And spread my atoms spread across the galaxy.
Picard: Yes. I'm sorry.
Pulaski: No, no, don't be sorry. Every time I get into the damn thing, I'm convinced that's what's going to happen. Chief Medical Officer's log, supplemental. The adults of Darwin Station have been restored to normal health using our transporter. They will remain on Gagarin Four and continue their research in hopes of one day rejoining their children.
Wesley: Impulse speed.
Data: There she is, Captain.
Pulaski: Scientists believe no experiment is a failure, that even a mistake advances the evolution of understanding.
Riker: Close to forty kilometers.
Wesley: Forty kilometers, aye, sir.
Pulaski: But all achievement has a price. For one brief glimpse at the mysterious blueprint of human evolution, the men and women off the USS Lantree paid with their lives. Their sacrifice is thus noted in this scientist's log.
Picard: Number One.
Riker: Lieutenant Worf, arm the photon torpedoes.
Worf: Torpedoes ready, Commander.
Lantree: Extreme caution. The USS Lantree is a quarantined vessel by order of Starfleet Command. Do not board.
Picard: Gentlemen.
Lantree: Extreme caution. The USS Lantree is a quarantined vessel by order of Starfleet Command. Do not board.
Riker: Set course and speed for Star Station India.
Wesley: Course and speed set, sir.
Picard: Engage.


Data: We are approaching Starbase one seven nine.
Riker: Half impulse, Mister Crusher.
Wesley: Going to half impulse.
Riker: Captain, this is the Bridge. We have arrived at Starbase one seven nine.
Picard: Acknowledged, Number One.
Riker: Establish position zero nine zero mark three four five at twenty seven thousand kilometers. Hailing frequencies.
Worf: Open.
Riker: Starbase one seven nine, this is the Enterprise.
Starbase: Enterprise, this is Starbase one seven nine. We are ready for transfer on your mark.
Riker: Thank you. Commander Data, you have the bridge. Ensign Crusher, you're with me.
Data: Starbase one seven nine. We are ready to commence transfer.
Starbase: Acknowledged, Enterprise. Begin transfer.
Riker: Welcome aboard the Enterprise. I'm Commander William Riker, your First Officer. Those of you who are here as replacements will step outside follow Lieutenant Lewis. He will assign you to your crew quarters. Ensign, you're here on the exchange program. If you'll just follow Mister Crusher.
Wesley: Mordoc, what are you doing here? You couldn't have graduated from the Academy already.
Mendon: I am not Mordoc. I am Mendon. Ensign Mendon from the planet Benzar.
Wesley: Sorry. It's a friend of mine. You look just like him.
Mendon: We are from the same geostructure. Naturally we look alike.
Wesley: How do you tell each other apart?
Mendon: We just do.
Riker: It's nice to have you here, Ensign. There will be a briefing and indoctrination session in fifteen minutes.
Mendon: I want to tell you how happy I am to be assigned to the Enterprise. It wasn't just luck. I requested it. I know I can be of great help to the ship.
Riker: Yes, of course. If you'll just follow Mister Crusher.
Mendon: Yes, sir.
Picard: Commander Riker, report to the Phaser Range, please
Riker: On the way.
Picard: I was wondering if you had any feelings about the Officer Exchange Program initiated by Starfleet Command.
Riker: Just positive ones, sir. Actually, I just welcomed Ensign Mendon on board. He certainly seems eager to please.
Picard: Well, that's a Benzite trait. It's been suggested that an officer from the Enterprise might participate in the program.
Riker: That's probably a good idea.
Picard: Well, there is a Klingon vessel in the area.
Riker: I don't recall hearing of a Federation officer serving ever on a Klingon vessel.
Picard: No, no, neither have I.
Riker: It might prove to be beneficial.
Picard: Having Worf on board certainly has been.
Riker: Yes, sir. Who did you intend to send, sir?
Picard: I thought of asking for a volunteer.
Riker: I might be interested, sir.
Picard: Damn. Sorry, Number One, what was that?
Riker: I said I wouldn't mind the assignment, sir.
Picard: Any particular reason?
Riker: Because nobody's ever done it before.
Picard: I'll notify Starbase of your acceptance They'll contact the Klingon vessel, make the arrangements.
Picard: Captain's log, stardate 42506.5. We have departed from Starbase one seven nine and are headed for a rendezvous with the Klingon vessel, Pagh. I have informed the staff of Commander Riker's temporary assignment.
Worf: I have studied and know everything about my heritage.
Riker: Then you're just the person I need to talk to, clear something up. It's my understanding that one of the duties of the First Officer of a Klingon ship is to assassinate his Captain?
Worf: Yes, sir.
Riker: Wouldn't that bring about chaos?
Worf: Of course not. When and if the Captain becomes weak and unable to perform, it is expected that his honorable retirement should be assisted by his First. Your Second Officer will assassinate you for the same reasons.
Riker: The method of attrition must take a little getting used to.
Worf: The Klingon system has operated successfully for centuries.
Riker: It is different.
Worf: Many things will be different.
Crewman: Can I help you, sir?
Mendon: That's a wonderful method of maintaining a constant control factor over defensive shields, but I'm sure there's a way to improve response time. Sorry. Didn't mean to interrupt you. Just thought I could be of some help. However, I am correct in what I said.
Mendon: That is superb designing. Absolutely first rate.
Wesley: Yes, it is. Would you care to be more specific?
Mendon: The input sampling. It's simple yet efficient enough. Of course a minor change of the helm readout would be much more helpful in emergency situations.
Wesley: We've never had any problems with it. Have you seen it work?
Mendon: Not in a practical exercise, but in theory, my theory, it would be more than a marginal improvement. I'll have to mention this to the Captain. He is open to some astute observations, isn't he?
Wesley: I've never known the Captain not to listen to one of his officers.
Mendon: Outstanding. Soon we'll get things running perfectly.
Pulaski: What is that?
Riker: It's a Klingon delicacy. Pipius claw. This is heart of targ. This, of course, is gagh.
Pulaski: Gagh?
Riker: Yes, serpent worms. Would you like some?
Pulaski: No, thanks. I've never heard of a Klingon starving to death on his own vessels, but you might.
Riker: Not if I weaken first.
Pulaski: I know all about that. Their beliefs are rather brutal, but usually what kills us kills them.
Riker: That's certainly good to know. Would you like something to drink?
Pulaski: I'm abstaining in honor of your last hour on board.
Riker: Your sacrifice will not go unnoticed.
Picard: Well, I'm familiar with the practice of the feast before the transfer. I've done it dozens of times. However, I usually made more palatable choices.
Riker: These are the more palatable choices.
Picard: Thank you. We know so little about them. There really is so much to learn. This is a great opportunity. I envy you, Mister Riker.
Worf: Commander.
Riker: An emergency transponder?
Worf: Slightly altered to transmit an omnidirectional signal and an emergency call.
Riker: You suspect trouble?
Worf: Simply a security precaution. I want to insure your return to this ship.
Riker: Sentiment, Lieutenant Worf?
Worf: Efficiency, Commander.
Riker: I understand. Thank you.
Worf: We have a Klingon vessel approaching.
Picard: Hailing frequencies.
Worf: Open. They are returning our hail in proper language. It is the Pagh.
Picard: On viewscreen. I'm Captain Picard of the Enterprise.
Kargan: This is Captain Kargan of the Klingon vessel, the Pagh. Beam your First Officer on board immediately.
Picard: We are preparing to do so. And, Captain, you're getting a fine officer.
Kargan: Thank you for your opinion, but I will judge that for myself. Screen off.
Mendon: Not very hospitable, are they?
Worf: That is not your concern. Observe your station, Ensign Mendon.
Mendon: Didn't mean to offend you.
Worf: You didn't. Yet.
Picard: Transporter, prepare to beam Commander Riker aboard the Pagh.
O'Brien: Acknowledged, Captain.
Picard: Mister Data, you have the Bridge.
Data: Aye, sir.
O'Brien: Good luck, Commander.
Riker: Thanks, O'Brien.
O'Brien: I wouldn't want to go.
Riker: Why?
O'Brien: You're not afraid, are you.
Riker: No, I'm not.
O'Brien: I would be. Ready, sir.
Riker: Thanks. Energize.
Picard: Resume course, Mister Crusher.
Wesley: Aye sir.
Picard: Take over, Commander Data, I'll be in observation.
Data: Thank you, sir.
Mendon: Sir. I am Ensign Mendon. I just wanted to tell you how pleased I am to be aboard the Enterprise.
Picard: Yes, of course. Good to have you aboard.
Mendon: If you have a few minutes, I've noted a few procedural items which might speed up operations on the Bridge. I pick things up very fast.
Picard: Yes, of course you do. You have an excellent record. However, here on the Enterprise we use the chain of command. You will report your observations to Lieutenant Worf.
Mendon: I beg your pardon, Captain. I just wanted to impress upon you
Picard: No need to apologize, Ensign. We should have explained it better to you at your indoctrination.
Worf: Ensign Mendon. You may impress me.
Riker: Is something wrong?
Tactics: No. It's just I have never seen anyone of your species before
Riker: I'm just an average, everyday human who happens to be a Commander. Now, what were your orders?
Tactics: To escort you to the Captain.
Riker: Proceed.
Tactics: Yes, Commander.
Riker: Commander William Riker of the Starship Enterprise.
Kargan: That is incorrect.
Riker: I don't understand.
Kargan: You are Commander William Riker, First Officer of the Klingon cruiser, the Pagh. Or do you intend to disobey Federation orders?
Riker: I have no such intention, sir.
Kargan: Exactly where are your loyalties, Commander?
Riker: I'm afraid I still don't understand, sir.
Kargan: This ship is equipped with our best weapons and our finest warriors. Although we are on a peaceful mission, we are ready to go into battle instantly. I know I can count on every Klingon warrior in this crew to serve and die in that battle. So I ask you again, Commander Riker. Where are your loyalties?
Riker: I have been assigned to serve this ship and to obey your orders. And I will do exactly that.
Kargan: Will you take an oath to that effect?
Riker: I just did.
Klag: Do not believe him! He lies!
Kargan: Speak in their language. This is your Second Officer, Lieutenant Klag.
Riker: Is there something you wanted to say to me, Lieutenant?
Klag: Yes sir. I do not believe you.
Riker: Then I take it you challenge my authority over you.
Klag: Correct.
Riker: And your position on this, Captain?
Kargan: I would say it your first command decision.
Riker: My oath is between Captain Kargan and myself. Your only concern is with how you obey my orders. Or do you prefer the rank of prisoner to that of Lieutenant?
Klag: I will take your orders.
Kargan: And you, Commander Riker, will obey my orders.
Riker: Of course, Captain Kargan.
Worf: Sir, automatic scan has registered an unknown substance on the aft quarter of the exterior skin of the dorsal section.
Picard: Target that location and define.
Worf: Aye, sir.
Mendon: I've located it sir. The dorsal of the Engineering section.
Data: Viewscreen on. Focus on area. Magnification factor ten. Increase magnification to fifty.
Picard: Analyze.
Data: The substance appears to be a rare form of subatomic bacteria, capable of doubling itself in size every fifteen minutes. It seems to be reacting with two of the compounds present in the Enterprise structure.
Picard: Origin.
Mendon: Captain. I noticed it when I did an intensive scan of the Pagh. The Klingon ship.
Picard: And whom did you inform?
Mendon: No one. I have not yet completed my full analysis.
Worf: You are supposed to report whatever is out of the ordinary.
Picard: And I think that falls into this category.
Mendon: But sir, as I said, I have not yet completed my full analysis. It would be improper to report it until then.
Data: How did you come to that decision?
Mendon: It is a Benzite regulation. No officer on the deck of one of our ships would report an occurrence like this until he had a full analysis and a resolution. I have simply followed proper procedures.
Picard: It is our procedure, Ensign, to notify command of any possibility of danger to the ship. The decision is not yours. Do you understand?
Mendon: Yes, sir.
Picard: Now, you will continue with your analysis and determine the danger, not only to our ship, but the Klingon vessel also.
Mendon: Yes, Captain. That will take a couple of hours.
Picard: Use whatever resources are necessary. It appears we may have encountered a new life form. I want to know everything about it as quickly as possible. Commander Data, supervise.
Data: Aye, sir.
Worf: And then I will instruct you in Enterprise etiquette. First Officer's personal log. I have aboard the Pagh a short time, but long enough to be impressed with the abilities and single-mindedness of the Klingons.
Tactics: Commander, you're not eating very much.
Riker: I'm not that hungry.
Klag: Is the food all right, Commander?
Riker: It's delicious. The pipius claw was excellent. I also enjoyed this Bregit lungs.
Vekma: And the Rokeg blood pie?
Riker: Delicious.
Klag: Good. Then you'll also enjoy this.
Riker: Isn't that gagh?
Klag: Very good. You did some research on our nutritional choices.
Riker: Yes, but, it's still moving.
Klag: Gagh is always best when served live. Would you like something easier?
Riker: Easier?
Klag: Yes. If Klingon food is too strong for you, perhaps we could get one of the females to breast feed you.
Riker: You're not worried about my weakening, are you?
Klag: Look around you. There are no old warriors.
Riker: No, sir, I'm sure they all died with honor.
Klag: Exactly. You may live long enough to learn about us.
Vekma: He is not very attractive, but I will have him.
Tactics: They are inquisitive. They would like to know how you would endure.
Riker: Endure what?
Klag: Them.
Riker: One or both?
Vekma: I may be back for you.
Riker: Is she serious?
Klag: Yes.
Klag: Commander, would you say you're a typical Federation officer?
Riker: I suppose so. Why?
Klag: Well, it's just you're not what I expected.
Riker: In what way?
Tactics: You have a sense of humor.
Riker: I was thinking the same thing about you. In all my dealings with Klingons, including our Lieutenant Worf, the thought never occurred to me of Klingons laughing.
Tactics: There is much about us you do not know.
Riker: That's why I'm here.
Klag: You should ask.
Riker: I may. After this tour, I may have some worthy questions.
Klag: Questions about what? About our future? Our future is honor. Our present is serving this ship.
Tactics: Like you, I have a mother and a father. They look like me, I look like them.
Riker: Are they still alive?
Tactics: My mother lives, My father was killed in battle at Tranome Sar.
Riker: And your father?
Klag: My father? My father was captured in battle by Romulans and not allowed to die. He eventually escaped.
Riker: Where is he now?
Klag: He is on our planet. He waits.
Tactics: He waits for his death.
Klag: He will eventually fade of a natural illness and die, weakened and useless. Honorless. I will not see him.
Riker: He's your father.
Klag: A Klingon is his work, not his family. That is the way of things.
Riker: He's your father.
Klag: Klingons do not express feeling the way you do.
Riker: Perhaps you should.
Klag: We would not know how.
Riker: Yesterday, I did not know how to eat gagh.
Mendon: It is confirmed that the organisms feed on some of the compounds that make up the hull of the Enterprise.
Picard: And the Klingon ship, the Pagh?
Mendon: They are much more susceptible. Their hull contains more of the compounds.
Picard: Projection.
Data: According to the rate of reproduction, there should be a twelve centimeter opening in the Klingon hull at this time.
Picard: Signal them at once. They could be unaware of the danger. They may need our help.
Worf: Aye, sir.
Picard: Change course to intercept.
Wesley: Aye, sir.
Data: It will take some time to locate them, sir. They are on undesignated maneuvers in the Pheben system.
Picard: Find them.
Kargan: Tell me, Commander Riker, what do you make of this?
Riker: I felt no collision. Were we hit by a small meteor?
Kargan: No. No collision.
Riker: Corrosion, then?
Kargan: No, not corrosion.
Riker: Science Station, analyze.
Kargan: We already have, and fortunately the cavity opened onto a section that could withstand the change in pressure.
Riker: Then what is it?
Klag: A space organism eating away at our hull.
Riker: What are you talking about? What is it? I mean, you must have some way to repair it.
Kargan: I'm afraid not.
Klag: Our estimate is that in less than eight hours we will have lost too much of our shell to remain intact.
Kargan: The only vessel we've had contact with recently is the Enterprise.
Riker: There was no direct contact with the Enterprise.
Kargan: Tactics Officer, report to Commander Riker.
Tactics: The Enterprise did conduct an extensive scan of this vessel.
Riker: That's normal procedure.
Kargan: What type of beam did the Enterprise use to cause this damage in our hull?
Riker: None. Why would they do that? We're allies.
Tactics: But my logs indicate that the Enterprise directed an intense scanning beam at this specific area for a duration of two minutes.
Kargan: Explain that.
Riker: I can't.
Tactics: It could be a weapon.
Riker: It's no weapon. The Enterprise has no reason to do that, especially with me on board. It makes no sense. Why?
Kargan: Why is no longer important. What is important is our response to this attack. Engage cloaking device. Change course to intercept the Enterprise.
Riker: What do you intend to do, Captain?
Kargan: Intend? There is only one response. I intend to attack the Enterprise and destroy it.
Wesley: You're making some progress. You've eliminated half the possibilities already.
Mendon: Thank you, but I seem to have become efficient a little later than was needed. It was my responsibility to learn and adapt to the Enterprise's regulations, and I didn't do that.
Wesley: Not really. You just made an error. Captain Picard may not like them, but he knows they turn up from time to time.
Mendon: I failed, I had an opportunity to show the Captain my superior capabilities and I failed. I can never recover from that.
Wesley: Mendon, it was a mistake. You didn't put the organism on the hull, you discovered it. You were trying to analyze it and messed up on protocol a little.
Mendon: I realize you're trying to be nice to me, and I appreciate it. What I don't understand is why.
Wesley: Why not? I thought you could use a friend.
Mendon: Thank you. I only hope I can learn your ways before I mess up again. I imagine my methods must seem foolish to you.
Wesley: They're different. But that's what this exchange program is all about. You learn the way we do things and take that information back to your command. It's up to them to decide which is better.
Mendon: You're right. I'll do it your way. I'll work even harder than I did before, and I'll succeed brilliantly.
Kargan: What is the status?
Tactics: Unchanged. The rate of increase continues.
Kargan: Commander Riker, check the organism growth with Engineering.
Kargan: Keep him under scrutiny.
Klag: Captain, I'm not convinced Riker knew of any plot against us. If he did, why would he have come on board?
Kargan: Because he was ordered to.
Klag: To die?
Kargan: It's the expectation of any officer to be ordered to die at any time.
Klag: For a Klingon perhaps, but Riker's people do not volunteer for death so easily. He may be a spy, but he's no coward.
Kargan: That only proves that he is intelligent. And you might not be as strong as you used to be.
Tactics: Captain, I've picked up the Enterprise.
Kargan: So soon?
Tactics: The Enterprise is on an intercept course with us.
Kargan: You almost had me believing this was a misunderstanding.
Riker: But?
Kargan: The Enterprise has changed course and is following us. Why?
Riker: Ask them.
Kargan: The reason is obvious. Their intent is clear. How long before we make contact?
Tactics: Less than fifteen minutes, sir.
Kargan: Put the ship on full battle alert. Arm all photon torpedoes. Let them charge into their destruction.
Wesley: Captain, our bearings show that we should be in contact with the Klingon vessel now.
Data: Slow to impulse.
Wesley: Aye, sir. Impulse speed.
Worf: Hailing frequencies are open. There is no response.
Picard: Continue transmitting.
Data: The Pagh is either cloaked or destroyed, sir.
Picard: Conduct an intensive scan of the area.
Tactics: The Enterprise has slowed to impulse speed and is making an intensive sweep.
Kargan: Hold your position. Let them come to us.
Riker: They may be here to help you. Don't be a fool!
Kargan: Do not forget my rank.
Riker: I haven't. I am simply trying to help you understand.
Kargan: I understand fully. Now, you understand. I am still Captain of this vessel and you are still crew and sworn to obey me. You gave me your oath.
Riker: Yes, sir, I did.
Kargan: Then fulfilll that oath and serve this ship as you swore to. Tell me of the surest method of attack against the Enterprise.
Riker: I won't.
Kargan: You must. It is a matter of honor and loyalty to your oath.
Riker: I will not surrender the secrets of the Enterprise to you.
Kargan: If your word is no good, then how can we ever trust Starfleet?
Riker: I will not break any vow I have taken in the past. I have also taken an oath a loyalty to your ship. I will not break that.
Kargan: They are in conflict!
Riker: No, sir, they are not! I will obey your orders. I will serve this ship as First Officer, and in an attack against the Enterprise I will die along with this crew. But I will not break my oath of loyalty to Starfleet.
Kargan: If you had told those secrets about the Enterprise, I would have labeled you a traitor and killed you where you stood. But instead you will die with us. You'll die like a Klingon.
Mendon: Sir, I have something to report to you immediately.
Picard: Yes, go ahead, Ensign.
Mendon: I have managed to isolate the organisms on our hull. They are a sub-micron form capable of breaking nuclear bonds in the tritanium plating.
Picard: But can they be removed from the hull?
Mendon: Yes. They are controllable and can be removed from the hulls of both ships by using a tunneling neutrino beam.
Picard: Thank you, Ensign. Well done. Initiate that procedure . Lieutenant, add that information to hailing messages.
Worf: Aye, sir.
Tactics: Lieutenant.
Klag: The Enterprise has changed hailing messages. They now include a promise of cleaning the organisms and helping in repairs.
Riker: I told you, they're here to help.
Kargan: I do not believe them. Arm all weapons. Prepare to attack!
Picard: Captain's log, Stardate 42507.8. Although our search has been extensive, we are still unable to locate the Klingon ship or any evidence of it's destruction.
Data: Considering the absence of debris, Captain, it is reasonable to assume the Klingon vessel is in the area and cloaked.
Picard: Agreed.
Data: And since we do not know it's intent, I recommend we go to Red Alert.
Picard: Make it so, Lieutenant.
Worf: Aye, sir.
Tactics: The Enterprise has raised its shields.
Riker: That's normal procedure when entering into a suspicious situation. It's not an act of aggression. The Enterprise will not fire first.
Kargan: Then they are fools, for we will.
Riker: You'll get only one shot.
Kargan: We'll only need one. Stand by on phasers and torpedoes. Prepare to fire them simultaneously.
Riker: I recommend you don't fire until you're within forty thousand kilometers.
Klag: Why?
Riker: It will cut down their response time.
Klag: You are honoring your promise to serve us?
Riker: Would you do less?
Kargan: You will give the order to fire, Commander Riker. Call out distances. Any questions, Mister Riker?
Riker: There's one thing I'd like to say. I question your judgment. In my opinion, your reason for forcing this confrontation is not valid.
Kargan: Are you finished?
Riker: Yes, sir.
Kargan: Commence with attack as ordered.
Klag: Fifty five thousand kilometers and closing.
Kargan: Is that a weapon, Commander?
Riker: No, sir.
Kargan: Give it to me.
Worf: We are getting an emergency signal from a command transponder. Location zero three five mark three one three. Frequency and code designate it as Commander Riker.
Picard: Chief O'Brien, lock onto that transponder signal.
O'Brien: Yes, Captain. We're not yet in safe range for a transfer
O'Brien: And defensive shields are still in place.
Picard: We may have to stretch it.
Picard: We have to know what's going on
Picard: And Commander Riker is the only one who can tell us. Beam him directly here onto the Bridge
Picard: On my command.
O'Brien: Yes, sir. I'll wait till forty thousand.
Worf: Forty eight thousand. Forty four thousand.
Picard: Transporter Room, stand by.
Picard: You control the shields.
O'Brien: Ready, sir.
Worf: Forty thousand.
Klag: Forty thousand kilometers.
Kargan: Prepare to drop cloaking shields, and fire when ready. Steady.
Picard: Transporter room, energize.
Riker: Hold where you are, Klag. I've relieved Captain Kargan. He was acting in an irrational manner. I'm your Captain now. Serve this ship as I have!
Kargan: Where am I?
Picard: You're on board the starship Enterprise.
Kargan: Riker has no honor. He tricked me!
Data: He's only dazed, sir.
Picard: Well that's fine, but where's Commander Riker?
Riker: Cloaking shields off. Obey my orders.
Tactics: We will be destroyed.
Riker: If we are, it will be in battle, and I will die with you. So I repeat, cloaking shields off!
Worf: It is the Pagh, sir.
Data: It has all armament locked on us and ready to fire.
Picard: Hold this position. Hailing frequencies. Calling the Pagh. This is the Enterprise. We are here to assist. Do not fire.
Kargan: They will not believe you.
Picard: Pagh, we're here to assist. Do you read me?
Riker: Enterprise, this is Captain William Riker of the Klingon vessel, Pagh. I order you to lower your shields and surrender.
Picard: Lower shields. Surrender, as ordered.
Kargan: I demand to be beamed back aboard my vessel!
Picard: Transporter Chief, prepare to beam Captain Kargan back aboard the Pagh.
O'Brien: Aye, sir.
Picard: Captain Riker, we can carry out your repairs immediately.
Riker: Thank you, Captain Picard.
Kargan: You should have killed me.
Riker: I don't want your command.
Kargan: But you tricked me to get it.
Riker: Either way, you can have it back.
Kargan: Then return to your station.
Kargan: Get him off my ship!
Klag: Yes, Captain. You understand the Klingons better than I thought, Commander.
Riker: Thank you, my friend.
Riker: That might have been one of the shortest assignments in the history of Starfleet.
Picard: Wrong, Number One. It was almost the longest. Well done.
Riker: Thank you. Actually, I learned quite a bit.
Picard: Apparently, not when to duck.
Riker: When not to duck would be more accurate.
Picard: Welcome aboard, Number One. Now, Lieutenant, conduct the Commander to Sickbay.
Worf: Aye, sir. Commander?
Riker: Your little toy worked. Thanks.
Worf: I'm glad it did.
Riker: You come from a very brave and unique people. I'm glad you're with us on the Enterprise.
Worf: Thank you, Commander, and welcome home.


Picard: Captain's log, stardate 42523.7. We are en route to newly established Starbase one seven three for port call. Crew rotation is scheduled, and we will be off-loading experiment modules.
O'Brien: Hold it, that's my chair. My luck is always lousy unless I start on the dealer's right.
Data: That would seem to be superstition.
O'Brien: Bitter experience has taught me it's a fundamental truth.
Riker: Okay, the game is five card stud, nothing wild. Ante up.
Data: This game is exceedingly simple. With only fifty two cards, twenty one of which I will see, and four other players, there are a limited number of winning combinations.
Laforge: There's more to this than just the cards, Data.
Data: Of course. The bets will indicate of the relative strength of each hand.
O'Brien: Time to pluck a pigeon.
Pulaski: Five.
Laforge: I'm in.
Data: I too.
Riker: Call.
Riker: A seven, and a six, and the ace.
Data: I bet ten.
O'Brien: See that.
Riker: Call.
Pulaski: Fold.
Laforge: Yeah, me too. I'm out.
Data: I bet five.
O'Brien: Same.
Riker: Your five. And five.
O'Brien: Too rich for me.
Riker: No help.
Data: I bet ten.
Riker: Your ten and ten.
Data: Is that what is known as a poker face?
Riker: Are you playing or not?
Data: I fold.
Data: You had nothing!
Laforge: He bluffed you, Data.
Data: It makes very little sense to bet when you cannot win.
Riker: But I did win. I was betting that you wouldn't call.
Data: How could you tell?
Pulaski: Instinct, Data, instinct. The game is seven card high/low with a buy on the last card. And just to make it more interesting, the man with the ax takes all.
Picard: My God. Phillipa Louvois. And back in uniform. It's been ten years, but seeing you again like this makes it seem like fifty. If we weren't around all these people, do you know what I would like to do?
Phillipa: Bust a chair across my teeth?
Picard: After that.
Phillipa: Ain't love wonderful.
Picard: So, what are you doing out here?
Phillipa: I am in charge of the Twenty third Sector JAG office. We're brand new. I have no staff but one terrified little Ensign. Hopefully we can make some good law out here.
Picard: Anything is possible. So you came back to Starfleet.
Phillipa: Still the most exciting and worthwhile place to be.
Picard: You had no reason to leave.
Phillipa: They forced me out.
Picard: No. That was your own damn stubborn pride.
Phillipa: When I prosecuted you in the Stargazer court martial, I was doing my job.
Picard: Oh, you did more than your job. You enjoyed it.
Phillipa: Not true! A court martial is standard procedure when a ship is lost. I was doing my duty as an officer of the Judge Advocate General.
Picard: You always enjoyed the adversarial process more than arriving at the truth. Well, I hope you've learned a little wisdom along the way.
Phillipa: You know, I never thought I would say this, but it's good to see you again. It brings a sense of order and stability to my universe to know that you're still a pompous ass. And a damn sexy man.
Nakamura: Captain Picard?
Phillipa: Admiral.
Nakamura: Captain Louvois. You're acquainted with Captain Picard?
Phillipa: Oh, yes. We're old friends. Excuse me. Picard, call me. You can buy me dinner.
Nakamura: Captain, it's good to see you again.
Picard: Admiral.
Nakamura: May I present Commander Bruce Maddox.
Picard: Commander.
Nakamura: He has an interesting proposal for you, but that can wait for a while. I'm eager to see the Enterprise.
Picard: Yes, sir. This way.
Riker: Admiral on the Bridge.
Picard: I was a little surprised at the decision to put a base in force so close to the Neutral Zone.
Nakamura: As you know, we've had disturbing news from both sides of the zone. We're here to respond when needed. And it won't hurt to have the Romulans know that we're nearby. Well, Captain, I want to thank you for this opportunity. For five hundred years every ship that has borne the name of the Enterprise has been a legend. This one is no different.
Maddox: Admiral.
Nakamura: Oh yes, Captain. Commander Maddox is here to do some work on your android. Please take care of him.
Maddox: How have you been, Data?
Data: My condition does not alter with the passage of time, Commander.
Picard: The two of you are acquainted?
Maddox: Yes, I evaluated Data when it first applied to the Academy.
Data: And was the sole member of the committee to oppose my entrance on the grounds that I was not a sentient being.
Picard: What exactly will this work entail?
Maddox: I am going to disassemble Data.
Picard: All right, explain this procedure.
Maddox: Ever since I first saw Data at the entrance evaluation at the Starfleet Academy, I've wanted to understand it. I became a student of the works of Doctor Noonien Soong, Data's creator, and I've tried to continue his work. I believe I am very close to the breakthrough that will enable me to duplicate Doctor Soong's work and replicate this. But as a first step I must disassemble and study it. Data is going to be my guide.
Picard: Data?
Data: It sounds intriguing.
Riker: How will you proceed?
Maddox: I will run a full diagnostic on Data, evaluating the condition of its current software. I will then dump its core memory into the starbase mainframe computer and begin a detailed analysis of its construction.
Data: You've constructed a positronic brain?
Maddox: Yes.
Data: Have you determined how the electron resistance across the neural filaments is to be resolved?
Maddox: Not precisely.
Data: That would seem to be a necessary first step.
Maddox: I am confident that I will find the answer once I examine the filament links in your anterior cortex.
Data: But if the answer is not forthcoming, your model will not function.
Maddox: I do not anticipate any problems.
Riker: You seem a little vague on the specifics.
Picard: What are the risks to Commander Data?
Maddox: Negligible.
Data: Captain, I believe his basic research lacks the specifics necessary to support an experiment of this magnitude.
Picard: Commander Data is a valued member of my Bridge crew. Based on what I've heard, I cannot allow Commander Data to submit himself to this experiment.
Maddox: I was afraid this might be your attitude, Captain. Here are Starfleet's transfer orders separating Commander Data from the Enterprise, and reassigning it to Starbase one seventy three under my command. Data, I will see you in my office tomorrow at zero nine hundred hours.
Picard: Come.
Data: You sent for me, sir?
Picard: Data, please sit down. Well, we have a problem.
Data: I find myself in complete agreement with that assessment of the situation, sir.
Picard: Your service to this ship has been exemplary. I don't want to lose you.
Data: I will not submit to the procedure, sir.
Picard: Data, I understand your objections, but I have to consider Starfleet's interests. What if Commander Maddox is correct, there is a possibility that many more beings like yourself could be constructed.
Data: Sir, Lieutenant La Forge's eyes are far superior to human biological eyes. True? Then why are not all human officers required to have their eyes replaced with cybernetic implants? I see. It is precisely because I am not human.
Picard: That will be all, Mister Data.
Picard: Computer, pull all relevant information with regard to Starfleet regulations on the transfer of officers.
Computer: Working.
Phillipa: My God, twice in as many days.
Picard: I need your help.
Phillipa: An historic moment.
Picard: I have been trying to make sense of this gobbledygook, but it's beyond me. The fact is, my android officer, Data, is being transferred compulsorily to be made part of a highly dangerous, ill-conceived experiment, and I want it stopped.
Phillipa: He can refuse to undergo the procedure, but we can't stop the transfer.
Picard: Once this Maddox has got control of Data, anything could happen. I don't trust that man.
Phillipa: We agree to certain risks when we join Starfleet.
Picard: Yes. Acceptable risks, justified risks, but I can't accept this. It's unjustified. It's unfair. He has rights.
Phillipa: All this passion over a machine?
Picard: Don't start. This is important to me. Is there an option?
Phillipa: There is always an option. He can resign.
Picard: I see.
Phillipa: So you came to me for help.
Picard: Yes, I came to you. You're the JAG officer for this sector. I had no choice but to come to you.
Phillipa: Wait! I didn't mean it that way. I'm glad that you felt you could, well, come to me.
Picard: The word trust just isn't in your vocabulary, is it. Good try, nine out of ten for effort.
Phillipa: I wish things were different.
Picard: I wish I could believe that.
Maddox: 'When in disgrace with fortune and men's eyes, I all alone beweep my outcast state'. Is it just words to you, or do you fathom the meaning?
Data: Is it not customary to request permission before entering an individual's quarters?
Maddox: I thought that we could talk this out, that I could try to persuade you. Your memories and knowledge will remain intact.
Data: Reduced to the mere facts of the events. The substance, the flavor of the moment, could be lost. Take games of chance.
Maddox: Games of chance?
Data: Yes, I had read and absorbed every treatise and textbook on the subject, and felt myself well prepared for the experience. Yet, when I finally played poker, I discovered that the reality bore little resemblance to the rules.
Maddox: And the point being?
Data: That while I believe it is possible to download the information contained in the positronic brain, I do not think you have acquired the expertise necessary to preserve the essence of those experiences. There is an ineffable quality to memory which I do not believe can survive your procedure.
Maddox: Ineffable quality. I had rather we had done this together, but one way or the other, we are doing it. You are under my command.
Data: No, sir, I am not under your nor anyone else's command. I have resigned from Starfleet.
Maddox: Resigned? You can't resign.
Data: I regret the decision, but I must. I am the culmination of one man's dream. This is not ego or vanity, but when Doctor Soong created me he added to the substance of the universe. If by your experiments I am destroyed, something unique, something wonderful will be lost. I cannot permit that, I must protect his dream.
Maddox: And so must I. But keep packing, because one way or the other, you will be reporting.
Picard: Captain's log, supplemental. Commander Bruce Maddox, having been thwarted by Data's abrupt resignation, is now seeking a legal remedy for his woes. Captain Louvois has requested my presence at those discussions.
Maddox: Your response is emotional and irrational.
Picard: Irrational?
Maddox: You are endowing Data with human characteristics because it looks human. But it is not. If it were a box on wheels I would not be facing this opposition.
Phillipa: Overt sentimentality is not one of Captain Picard's failings. Trust me, I know.
Picard: I will tell you again. Data is a valued member of my crew. He is an outstanding Bridge officer.
Maddox: If I am permitted to make this experiment, the horizons for human achievement become boundless. Consider, every ship in Starfleet with a Data on board. Utilizing its tremendous capabilities, acting as our hands and eyes in dangerous situations.
Phillipa: Look, you're preaching to the choir here. Why don't you get to the point?
Maddox: Data must not be permitted to resign.
Picard: Data is a Starfleet officer. He still has certain rights.
Maddox: Rights! Rights! I'm sick to death of hearing about rights! What about my right not to have my life work subverted by blind ignorance?
Phillipa: We have rule of law in this Federation. You ca not simply seize people and experiment with them to prove your pet theories.
Picard: Thank you.
Maddox: Now you're doing it. Data is an extraordinary piece of engineering, but it is a machine. If you permit it to resign it will destroy years of work in robotics. Starfleet does not have to allow the resignation.
Picard: Commander, who do you think you're working for? Starfleet is not an organization that ignores its own regulations when they become inconvenient. Whether you like it or not, Data does have rights.
Maddox: Let me put it another way. Would you permit the computer of the Enterprise to refuse a refit?
Phillipa: That's an interesting point. But the Enterprise computer is property. Is Data?
Maddox: Of course.
Phillipa: There may be law to support this position.
Picard: Then find it. A ruling with such broad ranging implications must be supported. Phillipa, I hope you will use the same zeal that you did in the Stargazer court martial.
Wesley: Data, you're supposed to rip the wrapping off.
Data: With the application of a little care, Wes, the paper can be utilized again.
Wesley: Data, you're missing the point.
Data: The Dream of the Fire, by K'Ratak. Thank you, Worf.
Worf: It was in the hands of the Klingons that the novel attained its full stature.
Pulaski: I couldn't disagree more. We'll save that argument for another day.
Data: Excuse me, please.
Data: Is something wrong?
Laforge: Of course there is. You're going away.
Data: No one regrets that necessity more than myself. You do understand my reasons?
Laforge: Sure, I understand. I just don't like your being forced out. It's not fair.
Data: As Doctor Pulaski would at this juncture, no doubt, remind us, life is rarely fair.
Laforge: Sorry, that just doesn't make it any better.
Data: I shall miss you, Geordi.
Laforge: Yeah. Me too. Take care of yourself, Data.
Phillipa: I have completed my research, based on the Acts of Cumberland passed in the early twenty first century. Data is the property of Starfleet. He cannot resign and he cannot refuse to cooperate with Commander Maddox.
Picard: What if I challenge this ruling?
Phillipa: Then I shall be required to hold a hearing.
Picard: Then I so challenge. Convene your hearing.
Phillipa: Captain, that would be exceedingly difficult. This is a new base. I have no staff.
Picard: But surely, Captain, you have regulations to take care of such an eventuality.
Phillipa: There are. I can use serving officers as legal counsel. You as the senior officer would defend.
Picard: Very good.
Phillipa: And the unenviable task of prosecuting this case would fall on you, Commander, as the next most senior officer of the defendant's ship.
Riker: I can't. I won't. Data's my comrade. We have served together. I not only respect him, I consider him my friend.
Phillipa: When people of good conscience have an honest dispute, we must still sometimes resort to this kind of adversarial system.
Riker: You just want me to prove that Data is a mere machine. I can't do that because I don't believe it. I happen to know better. So I'm neither qualified nor willing. You're going to have to find someone else.
Phillipa: Then I will rule summarily based upon my findings. Data is a toaster. Have him report to Commander Maddox immediately for experimental refit.
Riker: I see. I have no choice but to agree.
Phillipa: Good. And I expect you to do your duty in that courtroom. If I find for one minute that you are not doing your best, I will end this then and there.
Picard: You don't have to remind us of our duty. You just remember yours.
Phillipa: I have never forgotten it. Not then, and certainly not now.
Picard: Come.
Picard: Data, Captain Louvois has issued a ruling. You are the property of Starfleet Command. You can not resign.
Data: I see. From limitless options I am reduced to none, or rather one. I can only hope that Commander Maddox is more capable than it would appear.
Picard: Data, you're not going to submit. We're going to fight this. I challenged the ruling. Captain Louvois will be compelled to hold a hearing. She may be overly attached to the letter of the law, but I suspect that she still understands its spirit. We will put to rest this question of your legal status once and for all. Now, I have been asked to represent you, but if there is some other officer with which you would feel more happy?
Data: Captain, I have complete confidence in your ability to represent my interests.
Riker: Computer, identify Riker, William T. Access code theta alpha two seven three seven, blue, enable.
Computer: Riker, William T, identified. Ready.
Riker: Access all available technical schematics on Lieutenant Commander Data.
Computer: Working.
Phillipa: This hearing, convened on stardate 42527.4, is to determine the legal status of the android known as Data. The office of the Judge Advocate General has rendered a finding of property, the defense has challenged. Commander Riker?
Riker: Your honor, there is only one issue, and one relevant piece of evidence. I call Lieutenant Commander Data.
Computer: Verify. Lieutenant Commander Data. Current assignment, USS Enterprise. Starfleet Command Decoration for Valor and
Riker: Your honor, we'll stipulate to all of this.
Picard: Objection, Your Honor, I want this read. All of it.
Phillipa: Sustained.
Computer: Valor and Gallantry, Medal of Honor with Clusters, Legion of Honor, the Star Cross.
Phillipa: Proceed, Commander.
Riker: Commander, what are you?
Data: An android.
Riker: Which is?
Data: Webster's Twenty Fourth Century Dictionary, Fifth Edition, defines an android as an automaton made to resemble a human being.
Riker: Automaton. Made. By whom?
Data: Sir?
Riker: Who built you, Commander?
Data: Doctor Noonien Soong.
Riker: And he was?
Data: The foremost authority in cybernetics.
Riker: More basic than that. What was he?
Data: Human?
Riker: Thank you. Commander, what is the capacity of your memory, and how fast can you access information?
Data: I have an ultimate storage capacity of eight hundred quadrillion bits. My total linear computational speed has been rated at sixty trillion operations per second.
Riker: Your Honor, I offer in evidence prosecution's exhibit A, a rod of par-steel. Tensile strength, forty kilobars. Commander, would you bend that?
Picard: Objection. There are many life forms possessed of mega strength. These issues are not relevant to this hearing.
Phillipa: I'm afraid I can't agree, Captain. Proceed with you demonstration, Commander.
Riker: Drawing on the log record of the construction of the prototype android Lore, also constructed by Noonien Soong, I request to be allowed to remove the Commander's hand for your inspection.
Picard: Objection! It doesn't matter. Objection withdrawn.
Phillipa: Proceed, Commander.
Riker: I'm sorry.
Riker: The Commander is a physical representation of a dream, an idea conceived of by the mind of a man. It's purpose is to serve human needs and interests. It's a collection of neural nets and heuristic algorithms. Its responses dictated by an elaborate software program written by a man. Its hardware built by a man. And now. And now a man will shut it off.
Riker: Pinocchio is broken. Its strings have been cut.
Picard: I request a recess.
Phillipa: Granted.
Guinan: Do you mean his argument was that good?
Picard: Riker's presentation was devastating. He almost convinced me.
Guinan: You've got the harder argument. By his own admission, Data is a machine.
Picard: That's true.
Guinan: You're worried about what's going to happen to him?
Picard: I've had to send people on far more dangerous missions.
Guinan: Then this should work out fine. Maddox could get lucky and create a whole army of Datas, all very valuable.
Picard: Oh, yes. No doubt.
Guinan: He's proved his value to you.
Picard: In ways that I cannot even begin to calculate.
Guinan: And now he's about to be ruled the property of Starfleet. That should increase his value.
Picard: In what way?
Guinan: Well, consider that in the history of many worlds there have always been disposable creatures. They do the dirty work. They do the work that no one else wants to do because it's too difficult, or to hazardous. And an army of Datas, all disposable, you don't have to think about their welfare, you don't think about how they feel. Whole generations of disposable people.
Picard: You're talking about slavery.
Guinan: I think that's a little harsh.
Picard: I don't think that's a little harsh. I think that's the truth. But that's a truth we have obscured behind a comfortable, easy euphemism. Property. But that's not the issue at all, is it?
Picard: Commander Riker has dramatically demonstrated to this court that Lieutenant Commander Data is a machine. Do we deny that? No. Because it is not relevant. We too are machines, just machines of a different type. Commander Riker has also reminded us that Lieutenant Commander Data was created by a human. Do we deny that? No. Again it is not relevant. Children are created from the building blocks of their parents' DNA. Are they property? I call Lieutenant Commander Data to the stand.
Picard: What are these?
Data: My medals.
Picard: Why do you pack them? What logical purpose do they serve?
Data: I do not know, sir. I suppose none. I just wanted them. Is that vanity?
Picard: And this?
Data: A gift from you, sir.
Picard: You value it?
Data: Yes, sir.
Picard: Why?
Data: It is a reminder of friendship and service.
Picard: And this? You have no other portraits of your fellow crew members. Why this person?
Data: I would prefer not to answer that question, sir. I gave my word.
Picard: Under the circumstances, I don't think Tasha would mind.
Data: She was special to me, sir. We were intimate.
Picard: Thank you, Commander. I have no further questions for this witness.
Phillipa: Commander Riker, do you want to cross?
Riker: I have no questions, Your Honor.
Phillipa: Thank you. You may step down.
Picard: I call to the stand Commander Bruce Maddox as a hostile witness.
Computer: Verify, Maddox, Bruce, Commander. Current assignment, Associate Chair of Robotics, Daystrom Technological Institute. Major papers
Picard: Yes, yes, yes. Suffice it to say, he's an expert. Commander, is your contention that Lieutenant Commander Data is not a sentient being and therefore not entitled to all the rights reserved for all life forms within this Federation?
Maddox: Data is not sentient, no.
Picard: Commander, would you enlighten us? What is required for sentience?
Maddox: Intelligence, self awareness, consciousness.
Picard: Prove to the court that I am sentient.
Maddox: This is absurd! We all know you're sentient.
Picard: So I am sentient, but Data is not?
Maddox: That's right.
Picard: Why? Why am I sentient?
Maddox: Well, you are self aware.
Picard: Ah, that's the second of your criteria. Let's deal with the first, intelligence. Is Commander Data intelligent?
Maddox: Yes. It has the ability to learn and understand, and to cope with new situations.
Picard: Like this hearing.
Maddox: Yes.
Picard: What about self awareness. What does that mean? Why am I self aware?
Maddox: Because you are conscious of your existence and actions. You are aware of yourself and your own ego.
Picard: Commander Data, what are you doing now?
Data: I am taking part in a legal hearing to determine my rights and status. Am I a person or property?
Picard: And what's at stake?
Data: My right to choose. Perhaps my very life.
Picard: My rights. My status. My right to choose. My life. It seems reasonably self aware to me. Commander? I'm waiting.
Maddox: This is exceedingly difficult.
Picard: Do you like Commander Data?
Maddox: I don't know it well enough to like or dislike it.
Picard: But you admire him?
Maddox: Oh yes, it's an extraordinary piece of
Picard: Engineering and programming. Yes, you have said that. Commander, you have devoted your life to the study of cybernetics in general?
Maddox: Yes.
Picard: And Commander Data in particular?
Maddox: Yes.
Picard: And now you propose to dismantle him.
Maddox: So that I can learn from it and construct more.
Picard: How many more?
Maddox: As many as are needed. Hundreds, thousands if necessary. There is no limit.
Picard: A single Data, and forgive me, Commander, is a curiosity. A wonder, even. But thousands of Datas. Isn't that becoming a race? And won't we be judged by how we treat that race? Now, tell me, Commander, what is Data?
Maddox: I don't understand.
Picard: What is he?
Maddox: A machine!
Picard: Is he? Are you sure?
Maddox: Yes!
Picard: You see, he's met two of your three criteria for sentience, so what if he meets the third. Consciousness in even the smallest degree. What is he then? I don't know. Do you? Do you? Do you? Well, that's the question you have to answer. Your Honor, the courtroom is a crucible. In it we burn away irrelevancies until we are left with a pure product, the truth for all time. Now, sooner or later, this man or others like him will succeed in replicating Commander Data. And the decision you reach here today will determine how we will regard this creation of our genius. It will reveal the kind of a people we are, what he is destined to be. It will reach far beyond this courtroom and this one android. It could significantly redefine the boundaries of personal liberty and freedom, expanding them for some, savagely curtailing them for others. Are you prepared to condemn him and all who come after him to servitude and slavery? Your Honor, Starfleet was founded to seek out new life. Well, there it sits. Waiting. You wanted a chance to make law. Well, here it is. Make a good one.
Phillipa: It sits there looking at me, and I don't know what it is. This case has dealt with metaphysics, with questions best left to saints and philosophers. I'm neither competent nor qualified to answer those. I've got to make a ruling, to try to speak to the future. Is Data a machine? Yes. Is he the property of Starfleet? No. We have all been dancing around the basic issue. Does Data have a soul? I don't know that he has. I don't know that I have. But I have got to give him the freedom to explore that question himself. It is the ruling of this court that Lieutenant Commander Data has the freedom to choose.
Data: I formally refuse to undergo your procedure.
Maddox: I will cancel that transfer order.
Data: Thank you. And, Commander, continue your work. When you are ready, I will still be here. I find some of what you propose intriguing.
Maddox: He's remarkable.
Phillipa: You didn't call him it.
Phillipa: You see? Sometimes it does work.
Picard: Phillipa. Dinner?
Phillipa: You buying?
Data: Sir, there is a celebration on the Holodeck.
Riker: I have no right to be there.
Data: Because you failed in your task?
Riker: No, God, no. I came that close to winning, Data.
Data: Yes, sir.
Riker: I almost cost you your life!
Data: Is it not true that had you refused to prosecute, Captain Louvois would have ruled summarily against me?
Riker: Yes.
Data: That action injured you, and saved me. I will not forget it.
Riker: You're a wise man, my friend.
Data: Not yet, sir. But with your help, I am learning.