Picard: Captain's log, Stardate 43510.7. The Enterprise has put in at Rutia Four to deliver medical supplies following an outbreak of violent protests. Although non-aligned, the planet has enjoyed a long trading relationship with the Federation. Now, a generation of peace has ended with terrorist attacks by Ansata separatists, who are demanding autonomy and self-determination for their homeland on the western continent. Recreational shore leave has been prohibited and all away teams have been beam down armed.
Data: We have only a few minutes before our next meeting, Doctor.
Crusher: It's all right. We're finished. Waiter?
Worf: Doctor!
Policeman: Keep back!
Crusher: Put that away. I'm a doctor. Just lie still. Try not to move.
Crusher: Lieutenant Worf, I need some bandages, disinfectant, something with alcohol in it.
Worf: Doctor, it is not safe.
Crusher: That's an order, Lieutenant.
Crusher: Don't be afraid. There's a lot of bleeding, but it's not as bad as it looks.
Policeman: The Klingon's right. These Ansata, they're madmen. There could be another bomb. Clear this area. Everyone out of the plaza.
Data: Doctor, I believe it would be prudent to return to the Enterprise. There are physicians on this planet.
Crusher: Who are not here. I am.
Worf: Doctor.
Crusher: Thank you.
Crusher: Thank you.
Katik: Not at all, Doctor.
Data: Captain, there has been an incident.
Data: A bomb has been detonated by Ansata terrorists.
Picard: Your security status?
Data: Vulnerable, sir.
Picard: Transporter room three, lock onto the away team, prepare to beam them back.
Crewman: Yes, Captain.
Data: Sir, I've recommended such a course, but there are several wounded people and Doctor Crusher
Data: Is insisting on attending to
Picard: I understand. Picard to Doctor Crusher.
Crusher: Go ahead.
Picard: Doctor, Commander Data has informed me of your situation.
Crusher: I already know what you're going to say.
Picard: Doctor, will you at least allow me to
Crusher: The longer we argue, the longer
Crusher: It's going to take me to save
Picard: Doctor, you are endangering yourself and the away team.
Crusher: Captain, I am trying to put life back into a wounded body with sleight of hand. I'm not going anywhere. Data and Worf
Crusher: Don't have to stay. Crusher out.
Picard: Transporter room, do you have lock on the away team?
Crewman: Aye, sir. Shall I transport them?
Riker: I don't want to be in the transporter room to greet her.
Picard: Commander Data.
Picard: Hold your position until the Rutian medics arrive.
Data: Aye, sir.
Worf: The tricorder is not reading any other explosive devices in this vicinity.
Alexana: Get out of the way!
Crusher: You don't understand. I'm a
Data: A transporter would leave residual ionization in the air. Our tricorder readings found no trace after the incident.
Riker: People don't just appear and disappear. There must be some way to track her.
Data: We have been unable to detect a signal from her communicator. Either it has been deactivated or she is being held in a shielded location.
Picard: Why her?
Worf: Sir, I believe she was the intended target of the abduction.
Riker: Why would they want to take a Federation hostage? Their fight doesn't involve us.
Worf: It does now.
Finn: You hungry? You want something to eat?
Finn: I doesn't matter to me. You want to be hungry, be hungry. What's your name? You're a doctor on a Federation starship. I always wondered what it would be like to travel across the galaxy. It's not something I've exactly had time for. This isn't the best way to meet new people, is it? If you need anything, ask for me. My name is Kyril Finn. They know me.
Troi: We have no reason to believe she's been hurt in any way.
Picard: In fact, it's more than likely that they will take good care of her, if they want to use her as a bargaining chip.
Wesley: Bargaining chip?
Troi: The innocent often become the pawns in conflicts of this type, Wes.
Picard: You see, the Ansata separatists have been trying for generations to freed themselves from the rule of the eastern continent. If they can get the government just to acknowledge their demands, then kidnapping your mother will have served its purpose. I think that may be what they're after, but it may not. Frankly, Wesley, I don't care. My only concern is to get your mother back. Very shortly, we shall be leaving to have a meeting with the authorities.
Wesley: Request permission to be on the away team, sir.
Picard: No. You have an important job to do here. If we are to free your mother, then we have to be able to trace the movements of the terrorists. I want you to work with the team that are investigating this new technology of theirs.
Wesley: I understand.
Picard: Report to Mister Data. Dismissed.
Troi: He needs your strength right now.
Picard: History has shown us that strength may be useless when faced with terrorism.
Picard: And what exactly is Ansata policy with regard to hostages?
Alexana: I doubt they have one. They don't usually take hostages. These are not people we're dealing with here. They're animals. Fanatics who kill without remorse or conscience. Who think nothing of murdering innocent people.
Picard: But they could just as easily have shot her where she stood.
Alexana: Don't ask me to explain them. I can't. The atrocities that I've seen. And now they have this new device that makes them even more deadly. How do I combat an enemy who fails to register on any scanner until they're literally standing in front of you, pointing a phaser at your head?
Riker: What can you tell us about this device?
Alexana: Not much, really. They first started using it two months ago. We've taken several of these off dead terrorists. Our people have looked at them Nothing they can explain
Riker: Do you mind if we take one of these with us and have our people study it?
Alexana: Not at all. And I'll put you in touch with our research people, if you wish.
Picard: I appreciate your help.
Alexana: Perhaps if we found ourselves in possession of some of that advanced Federation weaponry of yours, it would shift the balance of power back to our favor.
Picard: Of course you know that is out of the question.
Alexana: Yes, of course.
Picard: I would like to leave Commander Riker to assist in your search for Doctor Crusher.
Alexana: If you like.
Riker: You don't sound very optimistic.
Alexana: I know my enemy, Commander. They don't leave much room for optimism.
Finn: You hungry? You want something to eat? Relax, relax. I'm just going to
Finn: Now eat something. What's the point of not eating? You're the only one who suffers. Do I look like it's bothering me? Okay, it's bothering me. Come on.
Finn: No forks. Sorry. Did I mention my name is Finn? And you're?
Crusher: Why have you brought me here?
Finn: I need a doctor.
Crusher: There are doctors on Rutia.
Finn: I need someone better. I heard you were with the Federation flagship and I knew you had to be.
Crusher: Who told you that?
Finn: I heard. Now you'll help me, just like you helped them.
Crusher: What are you talking about?
Finn: Your ship carries medical supplies for them, for the other side. Why does the Federation ally itself with the Rutians?
Crusher: We don't. All we did was bring
Finn: Medical supplies.
Crusher: People were hurt.
Finn: I know. I hurt them. You're finished eating. Get up. Get up!
Crusher: I have a son.
Finn: You'll be with him again, Doctor. I see no reason to kill you.
Crusher: I need some instruments from my ship in order to diagnose this.
Finn: You think if I allow you to contact your ship, they will transport the instruments?
Crusher: When I inform the Captain how serious the situation is, I'm sure he'll agree. I've told you, Finn, the Federation is not allied with Rutians. We're here on an errand of mercy.
Finn: And since the Federation does not wish to take sides, they will send the supplies that you need.
Crusher: Absolutely.
Finn: I've anticipated your needs.
Crusher: These are Federation supplies. The ones we had delivered to the medical dispensary.
Finn: I heard.
Riker: You mean to tell me all these people belong to the Ansata?
Alexana: No, not really. We suspect the organization itself only to consist of some two hundred members. There are over five thousand names on this list, citizens we know to be sympathetic to their cause. They pass along weaponry and information, march in pro-Ansata demonstrations, participate in general strikes or the occasional riot.
Riker: How did this ever get started?
Alexana: Seventy years ago we denied them independence. That gave them a noble cause. Now it's just an excuse for more violence.
Riker: You hate them as much as they hate you.
Alexana: Believe it or not, I always considered myself moderate.
Riker: What changed your mind?
Alexana: Being stationed here for six months, watching the body count grow. The three assassination attempts on my life.
Riker: Well, that'll change your point of view.
Alexana: The event that really opened my eyes took place only a few days after my arrival. A terrorist bomb destroyed a shuttlebus. Sixty schoolchildren. There were no survivors. The Ansata claimed that it was a mistake, that their intended target was a police transport. As if that made everything all right. That day I vowed that I would put an end to terrorism in this city. And I will.
Crusher: Thank you. You're very helpful. You could learn to do this when you grow up. If you grow up.
Crusher: They're dying. I'm seeing a complicated set of conditions. Their DNA is warped somehow, and it's distorting their entire cellular chemistry.
Finn: You can't do anything?
Crusher: I can make them more comfortable. That's all. The damage is too extensive.
Crusher: If I could detect their condition earlier
Finn: You could reverse the damage?
Crusher: Perhaps. I don't know. What happened to them?
Finn: It's the inverter. It's given our cause a new life, but it asks for our lives in return.
Crusher: What does it do?
Finn: We transport through a dimensional shift that the Rutian sensors can't trace.
Crusher: Dimensional shifting? You can't do that with humanoid tissue.
Finn: There are risks, the designers told us, But it works.
Crusher: You're showing the same distorted readings. Not as severe as the others, but
Finn: It doesn't matter.
Crusher: It does if it kills you.
Finn: Don't you know? A dead martyr's worth ten posturing leaders.
Data: A subspace field coil with an isolated power source. Curious.
Laforge: Hey, guys. Come here. Look at this. The Rutian team picked up a faint nuclear vibration during the terrorist movements.
Wesley: Nuclear vibration?
Data: That could possibly indicate subspace transition rebound during transport.
Wesley: Wait a minute, wait a minute. May I? Computer, call up the files on. What was his name? We spent two hours on him in astral physics last year. Folded-space transport.
Laforge: Adaptive transport.
Wesley: Yes.
Data: Are you referring to the Elway Theorem?
Wesley: Yes. Computer, call up the files on the Elway Theorem. What if they're using inter-dimensional travel?
Data: But the Elway Theorem proved to be entirely inaccurate. All research was abandoned by the mid-twenty third century.
Wesley: But Data, look, the nuclear vibrations are the same, and Elway used a model similar to this.
Laforge: It would certainly be untraceable by any standard method of detection.
Data: But it was proven to be fatal. To use this technology would be an irrational act.
Picard: We may be dealing with irrational people, Data. Is there a way to trace this?
Laforge: With an adaptive subspace echogram, maybe?
Data: Captain, anyone who is willing to transport in this manner, would suffer significant internal damage that could be detected.
Picard: It sounds as though they may require the services of a doctor.
Riker: This is no way to live.
Alexana: For us or them?
Riker: For both of you.
Alexana: I know it's not pretty, Riker, but this is what terrorism has done to this city.
Riker: There's got to be a better way to deal with it than this.
Alexana: My methods may seem harsh but believe me, they're gentle compared to my predecessors. Suspects would be brought into police headquarters and mysteriously vanish. I put a stop to that.
Riker: What happened to your predecessors?
Alexana: They were murdered.
Riker: Are you going to tell me that little boy's a threat?
Alexana: It's possible. That shuttlebus I told you about? The bomb was set by a teenager. In a world where children blow up children, everyone's a threat.
Crusher: It's okay. Over there.
Crusher: You should be drawing, not killing people.
Finn: I can do both.
Crusher: How can you have such a casual attitude toward killing?
Finn: I take my killing very seriously, Doctor. You are an idealist.
Crusher: I live in an ideal culture. There's no need for your kind of violence. We've proven that.
Finn: Your origins on Earth are from the American continent, are they not?
Crusher: North America.
Finn: Yes, I've read your history books. This is a war for independence, and I am no different than your own George Washington
Crusher: Washington was a military general, not a terrorist.
Finn: The difference between generals and terrorists, Doctor, is only the difference between winners and losers. You win, you're called a general. You lose
Crusher: You are killing innocent people! Can't you see the immorality of what you're doing or have you killed so much you've become blind to it?
Finn: How much innocent blood has been spilled for the cause of freedom in the history of your Federation, Doctor? How many good and noble societies have bombed civilians in war, have wiped out whole cities. And now that you enjoy the comfort that has come from their battles, their killing, you frown on my immorality? I am willing to die for my freedom, Doctor. And in the finest tradition of your own great civilization, I'm willing to kill for it, too.
Alexana: All right. You can go.
Policeman: Next man.
Alexana: If you want, I could become more persuasive.
Riker: No.
Alexana: You're Katik Shaw, the waiter from the Lumar Cafe. You witnessed both the explosion and the kidnapping.
Katik: I saw nothing.
Alexana: We're aware of your ties with the Ansata. For all we know you planted the bomb yourself. Where have they taken her?
Katik: I don't know what you're talking about.
Riker: I've had enough of this. I want you to take a message back to your people. You tell them the Federation is willing to negotiate for the release of Doctor Crusher.
Alexana: Riker!
Riker: She's a Starfleet officer. She's my responsibility. Your people have terms. We're willing to listen. We want her back. It's as simple as that. I don't think it's necessary to detain this gentleman any longer.
Alexana: Get out.
Alexana: I should have him followed, but we'll try it your way.
Riker: Is that what you want?
Alexana: What I want is to go home. Back to my own country. To leave behind the roundups, the interrogations, the bodies lying in the street. To be able to walk without bodyguards, and to not have to jump at every unexpected noise. That's what I want, Riker!
Data: A dimensional jump can create subspace pressure modulation, Captain. By setting up a magnetosphere echogram that can monitor each of their movements, we may be able to collect enough data to trace their power source.
Picard: Can you estimate the number of jumps it will take?
Data: Dimensional shifting is such an unstable procedure, sir, that I cannot say. Sir, I am finding it difficult to understand many aspects of Ansata conduct. Much of their behavioral norm would be defined by my program as unnecessary and unacceptable.
Picard: By my program as well, Data.
Data: But if that is so, Captain, why are their methods so often successful? I have been reviewing the history of armed rebellion and it appears that terrorism is an effective way to promote political change.
Picard: Yes, it can be, but I have never subscribed to the theory that political power flows from the barrel of a gun.
Data: Yet there are numerous examples where it was successful. The independence of the Mexican State from Spain, the Irish Unification of 2024, and the Kensey Rebellion.
Picard: Yes, I am aware of them.
Data: Then would it be accurate to say that terrorism is acceptable when all options for peaceful settlement have been foreclosed?
Picard: Data, these are questions that mankind has been struggling with throughout history. Your confusion is only human.
Katik: Finn, everyone is being rounded up.
Finn: Because of her?
Katik: The Federation wants to negotiate her release.
Finn: While they arrange for the Rutian police to fill up the detention cells.
Katik: A Starfleet officer is working with the director. He wants a meeting with you.
Finn: I'm sure he does. Your Federation colleagues have engineered mass arrests to pressure me into releasing you.
Crusher: I'm sure you've misunderstood.
Finn: They're working with the police. He's seen it with his own eyes.
Crusher: All they want is to get me back safely.
Finn: I'm not releasing you. I need you here.
Crusher: To find a way to reverse the effects of the dimensional shift? I can do that right now. Stop using it! I have a life, Finn. I have a son who needs me.
Finn: Is your son on the ship?
Crusher: Yes.
Finn: I'm sorry he's on the ship.
Crusher: No.
Finn: They have joined forces with the Rutians against us.
Crusher: We are not your enemy.
Finn: They are more valuable to me than an enemy. For seventy years we have shouted, and no one's heard us. Destroy the Federation flagship, someone will listen.
Crusher: Please.
Finn: They are the ones who interfered. They are the ones who sent medical supplies. They are the ones who organized mass arrests. They are killing your son, not me.
Crusher: Please, Finn, don't do this. I will do anything you ask.
Finn: I had a son, too. He was thirteen when he died in detention.
Crewman: What?
Worf: Intruder alert, deck twelve.
Wesley: Another subspace reflection. Dimensional shift, sir.
Picard: Go to Red alert. Sound general quarters.
Laforge: Security to Engineering.
Worf: Intruders in Engineering
Data: Casualties reported on deck twelve. Sickbay responding.
Picard: Seal off all decks. Lock on transporters to the intruder signals.
Crewman: Intruder signals unstable, Captain, I cannot lock on.
Data: They are moving inter-dimensionally. Neither transporters nor forcefields will contain them, sir.
Laforge: Explosive charge on the main warp chamber.
Picard: Transporter room three, lock on the explosive device and energize.
Crewman: It's scrambling the sensors, Captain. I can't pinpoint it.
Picard: Begin emergency evacuation. Stand by for saucer separation, Mister La Forge, can you remove the charge from the engine core?
Laforge: I'm trying. Hold on.
Laforge: They've got it locked on somehow. Stand by.
Laforge: Transporter room, lock on my signal and stand by to transport two kilometers off the starboard nacelle.
Troi: His signal?
Laforge: Transporter Room, now!
Picard: Mister La Forge, report.
Laforge: Transport complete, Captain. I have a man down.
Wesley: More dimensional shifts, sir.
Picard: Can you calibrate their destination?
Wesley: No, sir, the readings are
Troi: Security. Code one emergency. Security!
Troi: Lieutenant Worf is recovering in Sickbay. The wound was not severe.
Riker: Dead? Injured?
Troi: Three dead, four wounded.
Laforge: Another millisecond, there'd have been a big dust cloud orbiting Rutia instead of the Enterprise.
Riker: Why? I just asked if they would talk.
Alexana: You have your answer, Riker.
Wesley: Sir, the next time the Ansata use their dimensional jump we should be able to get a fix on the power source.
Picard: Worf went down. I don't know if he's alive or dead. And there were other casualties.
Crusher: Was Wes on the Bridge?
Picard: Yes. He took cover. I didn't see any more than that. But you all right though?
Crusher: Yes, they needed a doctor.
Picard: The side effects of the transport?
Crusher: Yes.
Picard: We're getting closer to tracing their movements. Actually, it was Wesley who put us onto this dimensional jump of theirs. He has been extraordinary, Beverly. He's going to make a very fine officer.
Crusher: He's had good role models. I'm sorry. If I'd only gone back to the ship.
Picard: I should have beamed you up.
Crusher: You wouldn't dare.
Picard: Oh yes I would, and should.
Crusher: Without my permission?
Picard: If you don't follow orders.
Crusher: If you'd give reasonable orders, I'd obey.
Picard: Doctor, I will be the judge of reasonable.
Crusher: There aren't any exits to the surface.
Picard: So the only way out is by the transporter. Or the dimensional jump.
Crusher: A mode of travel I'd encourage you to avoid. It's killing them.
Picard: They're mad.
Crusher: I don't know any more. The difference between a madman and a committed man willing to die for a cause. It's all become blurred over the last few days.
Picard: Beverly, I don't have to remind you of the psychological impact of being a hostage.
Crusher: I know. I understand that. But their leader, Finn, he's not what you'd expect.
Picard: No, he's certainly not what I would expect. Without cause or reason, he and his little band of outlaws has attacked my ship!
Crusher: But he did have reasons. The medical supplies, the arrests. Jean-Luc, if we really examined our role in all this
Picard: Beverly, you are arguing for a man who may have murdered your son.
Finn: I didn't kill your son, Beverly. We weren't able to destroy the ship. We had to settle for him. She wouldn't even tell me her name. I call her Doctor.
Picard: You have made a grave miscalculation.
Finn: Oh?
Picard: You have assaulted a Federation starship, killed and wounded several members of her crew, kidnapped two of her officers, and you don't expect a response?
Finn: On the contrary, I'm counting on it.
Picard: You want Federation involvement?
Finn: Captain, the Federation has a lot to admire in it, but there's a hint of moral cowardice in your dealings with non-aligned planets. You're doing business with a government that is crushing us and you say you're not involved. You're very, very much involved. You just don't want to get dirty.
Picard: You accuse us of cowardice while you plant bombs in shadows?
Finn: I am been fighting the only war that I can against an intractable enemy. Now, I'm fighting a big war against a more powerful adversary. Can't you see how that helps me?
Crusher: I'm afraid I can't.
Picard: He's added another chair to the negotiating table.
Finn: You added the chair, Captain. I am simply forcing you to sit in it. The Federation will quickly tire of our little war. They'll want you back. They will want to get as far away from Rutia as they can. And I will not make it easy. Eventually, the Federation will force the government into make concessions. And then a few more, and then a few more. Until we can finally reach an honorable agreement that saves face for all sides. Except we win.
Picard: You understand I will not cooperate with you in any way.
Finn: You've already cooperated, Captain, just by coming here.
Finn: I am not here to hurt you. Just hear what I have to say. Your people are safe. How long they stay that way depends on you. We demand an embargo and trade sanctions levied against Rutia. The Federation will blockade the planet. No ships will be allowed in or out. This will continue until the government of Rutia consents to talks mediated by a Federation council. You have twelve hours to make your decision.
Wesley: Got it. We've pinpointed the Ansata base to some three hundred kilometers from the city, on the southern tip of the continent.
Data: Sensors indicate it is located thirty meters below the ground, implying a cavern-like dwelling.
Riker: Any passages leading to the surface?
Data: Our readings show no evidence of any, Commander.
Riker: Any light they have must be artificially generated.
Alexana: If we could shut that down, you could use the confusion to find your people.
Worf: Request permission to join the rescue party, sir. I owe it to the Captain.
Riker: Permission granted. You have the bridge, Mister Data.
Data: Aye, sir.
Wesley: Commander? Good luck.
Riker: We'll bring her home, Wes.
Finn: You're glad to see your Captain.
Crusher: Yes.
Finn: I may have to kill him. I just wanted to warn you.
Crusher: He can help you, Finn. He is very influential.
Finn: He will not help us.
Crusher: If you could just convince him that your cause is
Finn: You may be able to convince him, perhaps. Not I.
Crusher: I've talked to him. I'll try.
Finn: If our places were reversed, I would expect to die.
Crusher: Your places would never be reversed. He would never forcibly abduct you or play games with your life. He would treat you with respect.
Finn: I've treated you with respect.
Crusher: You've scared the hell out of me, Finn. You've controlled me through fear just like you've tried to control this whole continent.
Finn: You haven't tasted real fear yet, Doctor.
Crusher: Is that the best you can do? Is fear the only weapon you have?
Finn: No, but it's a good one.
Crusher: You know what scares me the most, Finn? It scares me to think that you might win this fight and gain real power.
Finn: Doctor. I don't want you to fear me.
Riker: Generator's right over there.
Picard: Beverly, how dangerous would another ride through the inverter be to us?
Crusher: I don't know. But I don't want you to start thinking about
Picard: Beverly, it is our obligation to think of escape.
Crusher: He's prepared to kill you.
Picard: An excellent reason to escape. Do you think you've gained his confidence?
Picard: Indeed you have. And more. This might prove to be an advantage to us.
Crusher: Jean-Luc, there are some things I want to tell you in case we don't get out of this.
Picard: Have they found us?
Voices: Turn those circuits on. Sandor, come with me. Do we have any emergency power?
Police: Freeze! Hold it right there. Hands up. Hands up, let's go.
Crusher: Finn!
Crusher: He's dead.
Riker: You didn't have to kill him.
Alexana: As a prisoner he would have been a focus for violence as his followers tried to free him. Now, he's a martyr. But the death toll might go down, at least in the short term. It's an imperfect solution for an imperfect world.
Picard: Riker!
Crusher: No more killing.
Alexana: Already another one to take his place. It never ends.
Riker: He could have killed you. He didn't. Maybe the end begins with one boy putting down his gun.
Crusher: I hear I owe my rescue to you.
Wesley: I was just part of the team. It's good to have you back. Both of you, sir.
Picard: Take us out of orbit, Mister Crusher. At your convenience.


Data: Captain, we have arrived at Tanuga Four. The away team has completed its survey of Doctor Apgar's work and is ready to return to the ship.
Picard: Good. Please. And feel free to examine the work of the other students too.
Data: Ensign Williams' striking style is heavily influenced by geometric constructivism.
Data: Lieutenant Wright has effectively fused the incongruities of the surrealists with the irrationality of Dadaism.
Data: Interesting.
Picard: Oh, thank you. In what way?
Data: While suggesting the free treatment of form usually attributed to Fauvism, this quite inappropriately attempts to juxtapose the disparate cubistic styles of Picasso and Leger. In addition, the use of color suggests a haphazard mélange of clashing styles. Furthermore, the unsettling overtones of proto-Vulcan influences
Picard: Thank you, Mister Data.
Data: You are welcome, sir. If I can be of further assistance
Picard: No! Thank you.
Picard: Captain's log, Stardate 43610.4. After completing a delivery of dicosilium to the Tanuga Four research station, our away team has received an update from Doctor Nel Apgar on his efforts to create Krieger Waves, a potentially valuable new power source.
Picard: Welcome back, Mister La Forge.
Laforge: Thank you, sir.
Picard: Where's Commander Riker?
Laforge: He's still on the station, sir. Doctor Apgar wanted to have a word with him.
Picard: Any problems?
Laforge: Not with the scientific part of the mission, no, sir.
Riker: Riker to Enterprise. I'm ready to leave, now.
Laforge: I'm sure Commander Riker will be able to explain everything, Captain.
O'Brien: Stand by, Commander. Engaging transport.
O'Brien: Transporter Room to Engineering. I have a power drain.
Picard: Transporter Room! Is Commander Riker aboard?
O'Brien: Not yet, Captain. I'm having trouble clearing the signal
O'Brien: Transporter Room to Bridge.
O'Brien: He's aboard.
Riker: Why do you sound so surprised, Mister O'Brien?
O'Brien: For a moment, we weren't sure you left the space station in time.
Riker: In time for what?
O'Brien: It just exploded, sir.
Picard: Captain's log, supplemental. Commander Riker has informed me that Doctor Apgar was the only one aboard the space station when it exploded. We remain in orbit investigating the accident.
O'Brien: I've gone through the whole system, Captain. I can't find any malfunction in the transporter.
O'Brien: Nothing that would cause an explosion like that
Picard: Why was there a power drain before transport?
O'Brien: I don't know, sir.
Picard: I shall want an answer to that. I'm sure the Tanugans will too.
O'Brien: Yes, sir.
Data: Captain, the radiation and debris are consistent with an overload of the station's reactor core.
Picard: Were there any indications of reactor core problems while you were on the station?
Laforge: No, sir.
Picard: Number One? Mister La Forge indicated that this was not an entirely routine mission.
Riker: It's a long story, sir, but I'm sure it doesn't have anything to do with this accident.
Worf: Captain, Chief Investigator Krag of the Tanugan security force requests permission to beam aboard.
Picard: Granted. Will you escort him to the Bridge, Mister Worf.
Worf: Aye, sir.
Picard: Perhaps you had tell me as much as possible prior to his arrival, Number One.
Worf: I'm Lieutenant Worf, head of ship's Security. I will take you to the Captain.
Picard: Chief Investigator, welcome to the Enterprise. I'm Captain Picard. This is my First Officer, Commander William Riker.
Krag: Commander Riker, I am here to take you into custody.
Riker: Custody? On what charge?
Krag: Suspicion of murder.
Riker: Murder? Now wait a minute, you can't come on
Picard: Chief Investigator, we are perfectly willing to cooperate with you, but
Krag: Then release the prisoner for transportation to the planet.
Picard: Let's continue this discussion in private. Number One, you have the Bridge.
Picard: Just what is the evidence against my officer?
Krag: Two witnesses have come forward to describe Commander Riker's threats against Doctor Apgar.
Picard: Threats? I'm aware there was a private conversation between them.
Krag: Apparently, it was much more than just a private conversation, but he will have a chance to prove his innocence.
Picard: Investigator, in our system of jurisprudence, a man is innocent until proved guilty.
Krag: In ours, he is guilty until he is proved innocent, and you are under our jurisdiction. If I understand the Federation regulations on these matters, and I just happened to look them up before I
Picard: I am aware of Federation regulations, sir, and if you investigate them further, you will find the captain decides if extradition is warranted.
Krag: Are you saying it is not?
Picard: I'm saying, if there is sufficient cause to warrant a trial, I will release my officer into your custody.
Krag: Would you say you're close to your First Officer, Captain?
Picard: That question is irrelevant here.
Krag: Really, Captain, you cannot believe that. How can I expect a fair and impartial decision?
Picard: I must protect the rights of my officer.
Krag: I can appreciate that, but you will do it on the planet, not here. After all, what if you were suddenly to decide to leave this star system?
Picard: You have my word as a Starfleet officer that I will not.
Krag: Unacceptable. Captain, you will turn him over to me for interrogation now.
Picard: Interrogate him here.
Krag: We must recreate, step by step, moment by moment, all the events leading to the explosion. We will require access to all the witnesses, as well as the data from the lab's ground computers. It would be impossible to accomplish here.
Picard: Perhaps not. Mister Data, will you report to my Ready Room?
Data: Aye, sir.
Picard: We may be able to assist you in recreating the events.
Picard: Commander Data, this is Chief Investigator Krag. Commander, by taking testimony from the away team and from witnesses provided by the Investigator, would it be possible to program the Holodeck to recreate what happened on the science station?
Data: It would require construction and design specifications, full orthographic representations of the Krieger equipment, as well as visual representations and voice analyzes of the persons involved. But it is possible.
Krag: Very well. Arrangements will be made to provide you with all available information. I shall return shortly with our witnesses.
Picard: Commander, will you escort Investigator Krag to Transporter Room Three.
Picard: Ensign Crusher, Mister La Forge, we are going to recreate the research station here on the holodeck. I want you to work with Commander Data on the preparations. In addition, Commander La Forge and Commander Riker, I want you to give the computer detailed depositions of everything you saw, everything you heard while you were on board. Counselor, I want you to assist me during this inquiry. My decision about the extradition will be based upon the evidence presented during these recreations.
Riker: Captain, may I have a word with you?
Picard: Under these circumstances, Number One, I think that would be inappropriate. Second officer's log, Stardate 43611.6. Programming of the holodeck has taken eighteen hours eleven minutes, and is now complete. All participants have entered their depositions. Technical schematics and complete records from the lab's ground computers, as well as Doctor Apgar's personal logs, have been included. The recreations will have a nominal eight point seven percent margin of error.
Picard: Is there anything you'd like to say before we begin, Number One?
Riker: Just this. I'm not a murderer. I went to the Tanugan lab as an official representative of Starfleet. I acted accordingly. I was there to evaluate Doctor Apgar's progress in the development of a Krieger Wave converter. That's all I was interested in. Computer. Load deposition program Riker one. Run the simulation.
Riker: Doctor Apgar, I'm Commander William Riker. Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge.
Apgar: My assistant, Tayna. Well, let's get on with it, shall we?
Manua: Don't be in such a hurry, dear. Perhaps our guests would care for some refreshments.
Apgar: My wife, Manua.
Riker: A pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Apgar. If you're prepared to get started, so are we.
Apgar: Of course I'm prepared.
Riker: All right, why don't you give me the overview of your research while Mister La Forge and your assistant take a look at the experimental data.
Apgar: Fine, whatever. I must say, Commander, I resent this early arrival. Starfleet will get its converter. I've had a few setbacks, that's all.
Riker: We're not here to pressure you, Doctor. We just want an update on your progress.
Apgar: Tayna, show the Commander's assistant whatever he wants to see. Give him full access to our records.
Tayna: Yes, Doctor. If you'll come with me. Our lambda field generator is on the planet since it requires a minimum of five thousand kilometers for the field to collimate.
Manua: Really, darling, you're being rude. After all, Commander Riker is willing to sit through all your prattle about Krieger Waves. Let's have a drink, Commander, and we'll hear all about Krieger Waves.
Riker: To your success, Doctor.
Manua: And the rewards that come with it.
Apgar: Riker, what is Starfleet doing here anyway? My delivery wasn't scheduled for another three months.
Riker: We were in this sector on another mission, and since you had already contacted Starfleet about additional dicosilium, it seemed like a good opportunity.
Manua: How interesting. Tell us about this other mission.
Riker: It's just a study of a proto-star cloud. The Enterprise'll be back tomorrow.
Apgar: The Enterprise just left you here?
Riker: We didn't want to inconvenience you. We've made arrangements for quarters on the planet.
Manua: I won't hear of such a thing. Commander, I insist you and Mister La Forge stay with us.
Apgar: I hardly
Manua: I know that you would prefer to be alone with your very important work but I, for one, am glad for the company.
Manua: Good. I must apologize for my husband's lack of social graces. He may be one of the great scientific minds in the galaxy, but he does come up a bit short in other areas.
Krag: Wait a moment. Stop.
Picard: Computer, freeze program.
Krag: Then it's your testimony that it was Mrs. Apgar's idea for you to spend the night aboard the space station.
Riker: It's my testimony and it's the truth.
Picard: Resume program.
Manua: Our guest quarters aren't luxurious but I've tried to make this room warm and inviting.
Riker: I'll be very comfortable, thank you. Good night.
Manua: The environmental controls are over here.
Riker: I'm sure I'll find everything I need.
Manua: And the door shuts by touching this panel.
Riker: Mrs. Apgar.
Manua: This is my sanctuary. Privacy is very important on a small station. I'm left alone here. Often for hours.
Riker: It's late. I am tired.
Manua: Are you still tired, Commander?
Riker: Ma'am, excuse me. I really think that you ought to leave.
Apgar: I knew I'd find you with him. Did you think I didn't notice how you looked at him? I'm not the fool you take me for.
Riker: Doctor.
Riker: Doctor, believe me. This has been a terrible mistake.
Apgar: You won't get away with this. I'll see to it. I swear I will, Riker.
Picard: Freeze program.
Riker: I didn't see Doctor Apgar until the following morning when he asked to see me alone. Commander La Forge returned to the Enterprise. Resume program.
Apgar: I suppose if I make a formal complaint, your report on my work won't be very good.
Riker: Doctor, this is going to have no impact on my report. It was a misunderstanding of the worst kind. We could straighten the entire thing out if you would ask Mrs. Apgar to join us.
Apgar: My wife and my assistant have transported down to the planet. What are you going to put in your report, Riker? That there is no justification for all the extra dicosilium I've requested? That is why they sent you early, isn't it?
Riker: Doctor, I
Apgar: I can explain why I needed it. They have no idea what my problems are. There are explanations for all of it.
Riker: I don't need explanations.
Apgar: Then we have nothing further to say to each other.
Riker: I'll tell my Captain to expect your grievance.
Apgar: Do that.
Riker: Riker to Enterprise. I'm ready to leave. Now.
O'Brien: Stand by, Commander. Engaging transport.
Riker: Freeze program. Then I returned to the Enterprise.
Krag: And you have nothing further to add, Commander? Nothing about firing a phaser?
Riker: I never fired a phaser on the science station.
Krag: That's odd. Very odd. Captain Picard, is it not true that your sensors detected an energy drain just as Commander Riker began transport?
Picard: That's correct.
Krag: Have you been able to explain it?
Picard: Not to my knowledge.
Krag: We have. Our readings are quite clear about it. Information retrieved from the lab's ground computers indicate that a focused energy pulse was fired just as Commander Riker began transport. Furthermore, by analyzing the angle and trajectory, we have determined that it came from the very spot Commander Riker was standing. So then, will you allow me to show you my recreation of the end of this story? A speculation, if you will. Computer, run hypothetical Krag one.
Riker: Riker to Enterprise. I'm ready to leave. Now.
O'Brien: Stand by, Commander. Engaging transport.
Krag: Freeze program. Three seconds later, the station exploded.
Laforge: The Tanugans are right. Something was fired at the reactor core just before transport.
Data: The energy signature would seem to indicate a phaser-like blast.
Wesley: Well, it wasn't the commander's phaser. It couldn't have been. There's another answer. We're just not seeing it.
Data: Was there anything else in the lab capable of creating this kind of energy discharge?
Laforge: Not that I saw. Besides, how do you account for the fact that it came from Commander's Riker's exact position. Damn it, I should have stayed with him.
Worf: Commander, sensors indicate a radiation burst on deck thirty nine, outside cargo bay twelve.
Data: Source?
Worf: Unknown, sir.
Data: Computer, identify type of radiation.
Computer: Emission is not consistent with any known radiation.
Worf: It is subsiding, sir.
Wesley: What kind of radiation could do this? Make any sense to you?
Laforge: I don't recognize it. Not even the main deflector puts out that kind of spillage.
Wesley: Where would it be coming from?
Laforge: I don't know, Wes, but whatever it is, it's capable of putting a hole in solid duranium.
Krag: In a sense we have already met Mrs. Apgar, so we shall dispense with introductions.
Picard: Mrs. Apgar, you understand the purpose of this hearing?
Troi: We understand how difficult this will be for you. If you need a recess, please, don't hesitate to ask.
Picard: Would you like to make a statement before we begin?
Manua: No. I just know he did it. He killed my husband.
Krag: Computer, load Manua simulation one.
Krag: Run program.
Manua: If you greet them with such a long face they're going to assume something is wrong with the experiment.
Apgar: I just need time. A little more time.
Manua: I'm certain they'll give you the time you need if you just show a little charm.
Apgar: You do that so much better than I do. Manua, someday I'll be able to reward you for all your patience. I'll get you everything you ever dreamed of.
Manua: I have all the reward I need. Now go on, I'll be right in.
Riker: Doctor Apgar?
Riker: I'm Commander William Riker. Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge.
Apgar: My assistant, Tayna. Well, let's get on with it, shall we?
Manua: Don't be in such a hurry, dear. Perhaps our guests would like some refreshment?
Apgar: My wife, Manua.
Riker: It's a pleasure to meet you, Manua.
Apgar: I'm anxious to get started.
Riker: If you wish.
Apgar: I must say I resent your early arrival, Commander I have much work to do.
Riker: Doctor, I'll do everything in my power to make this as painless as possible for both of us. Do you assist your husband in his work?
Manua: Oh, dear, no. I'm no scientist.
Riker: No, neither am I.
Manua: But I find this all fascinating, don't you?
Riker: Mister La Forge, why don't you take a look at the doctor's experimental data. Later, you can give me an overview.
Apgar: Fine. Whatever. Starfleet will get its Krieger wave converter. These things take time. I've had a few setbacks, that's all.
Riker: Doctor, I'm not trying to put any pressure on you. I'm sure my report will only underscore the need for continued support of your research.
Apgar: Tayna, I'll call up the records. Show the Commander's assistant whatever he wants to see.
Tayna: Yes, Doctor. If you'll come with me? Our field generator is on the planet, since it requires a minimum of five thousand kilometers for the field to collimate.
Manua: Darling, let Tayna take care of that. I'm sure Commander Riker wants to hear how close you are to a breakthrough. I'll pour the two of you a drink and you can talk all about Krieger waves.
Manua: Commander.
Apgar: To success.
Riker: Success.
Apgar: Well, in a way, I suppose it's good that you're early. Manua's right, it gives me a chance to show you the progress we've been making.
Riker: I'd appreciate it if Commander La Forge and I could stay here until the Enterprise returns.
Manua: It's a little inconvenient.
Riker: It would help to accelerate the process.
Apgar: Well, if you wish, Commander. Now, where shall I start? Well, first of all, you should know that I am very close to being able to collimate a Krieger field.
Manua: Our guest quarters are very modest.
Riker: Very charming. It has your touch.
Manua: The station is small, and we don't often have guests. I use this as my sanctuary.
Riker: Who do you need sanctuary from?
Manua: The environmental controls are here.
Manua: Commander, please. It's late and I'm tired.
Riker: A man more interested in Krieger waves than in a lovely woman like you. How is that possible?
Manua: My husband is one of the great minds in the galaxy and we love each other very much.
Manua: Please don't.
Riker: It must be very lonely. A princess in a very high tower.
Manua: Please, my husband will be looking for me.
Riker: Your sanctuary, remember?
Manua: Commander, don't, please!
Riker: She's lying! That never happened.
Picard: Freeze program.
Manua: Please.
Riker: Captain, you know I would never act like that.
Picard: Commander Riker!
Riker: This isn't me. I wasn't the one who closed the door. I didn't proposition her and I certainly didn't try to rape her. Why are you doing this?
Manua: It's exactly what happened.
Troi: Will, come on, sit down.
Krag: Resume program.
Manua: Please.
Apgar: I knew you'd try this, Riker. Do you think I didn't notice how you looked at her? I'm not the fool you take me for.
Apgar: You won't get away with this. Your career is over. I'll see to it. I swear I will, Riker.
Riker: If you report this, you'll be making a terrible mistake, Doctor. A terrible mistake.
Krag: Freeze program.
Manua: Your career was safe. He was a scientist. In another day some fascinating bit of technical trivia would have distracted him. He would have forgotten about you and his complaint to Starfleet. Excuse me.
Picard: We'll, um, we'll take a short recess.
Riker: Why would she lie like that? She was lying. You could tell.
Troi: Will, I didn't sense any deception from her.
Riker: Then you think that I?
Troi: No! No, of course not. I know you. You don't have to convince me of anything.
Riker: We can't both be telling the truth.
Troi: It is the truth as each of you remembers it.
Riker: But her version puts a noose around my neck.
Crusher: This is healing beautifully. I think you can work on strengthening these muscles again.
Worf: Security to Doctor Crusher. Evacuate. Repeat, evacuate. Radiation emissions are indicated in Sickbay.
Data: It is definitely the same radiation that penetrated deck thirty nine. Highly focused, very powerful but of unknown origin.
Laforge: If this should happen in the engine core or the anti-matter containment tanks, we'll be in big trouble, Captain.
Picard: Do you have any theories?
Wesley: Captain, Data's noticed something that's too strange to be a coincidence.
Data: The two radiation events aboard the Enterprise occurred five hours, twenty minutes and three seconds apart. The science station exploded yesterday at almost four times that interval.
Wesley: There's a point zero zero one four second variance we haven't been able to explain yet.
Riker: So you're saying there's a connection between the radiation bursts and the explosion?
Data: We do not have the evidence to support that conclusion at this time, Commander.
Crusher: If they're right, we should be able to predict the next event.
Laforge: We're expecting it in just over five hours.
Picard: Take every precaution to protect the ship's vital areas. If we haven't identified the source before the time interval, we'll leave orbit. If you perceive any further danger, advise me immediately.
Wesley: We'll figure it out for you, Commander.
Tayna: After the fight, Doctor Apgar came to find me he was very upset.
Krag: And he told you what happened?
Tayna: Yes, he told me everything that happened.
Krag: Based on Tayna's deposition, we have recreated the incident in Commander Riker's quarters as Doctor Apgar described it to her. Computer.
Picard: Inspector, Inspector, this is hearsay. She wasn't a witness to this incident.
Krag: But Doctor Apgar is dead. Her statement is admissible according Tanugan law and I insist you consider it.
Picard: Well, we'll watch this evidence, and we'll weigh it accordingly.
Krag: Computer, run Tayna simulation three.
Apgar: I knew I'd find the two of you together. Do you think I didn't notice how you were looking at each other? I'm not the fool you take me for.
Apgar: I'm going to report this, Riker. You can count on that.
Riker: You're a dead man, Apgar. A dead man.
Krag: Freeze program. And then Doctor Apgar came to find you?
Tayna: Yes.
Krag: Run Tayna simulation four.
Apgar: I want you to take Manua and beam down to Tanuga immediately.
Tayna: But Doctor, if he threatened you, you shouldn't stay
Apgar: I'm not leaving him here alone. He's capable of anything. I've got to protect our work.
Tayna: I'll contact the authorities.
Apgar: No. I'll take care of that.
Tayna: Doctor, be careful.
Apgar: It'll be all right. Go on.
Krag: Freeze program. Then what happened?
Tayna: I left the station with Manua. The next day, when I heard the station had exploded, I knew what had happened. He'd killed Doctor Apgar.
Krag: Thank you. You are excused.
Krag: Captain, I have established motive, method and opportunity. In any court in the Federation, that is sufficient to warrant the extradition of the accused. I await your decision forthwith.
Picard: I don't see any alternative, do you?
Troi: We both know Will's innocent.
Picard: Of course he's innocent. But as a Starfleet Captain, I can't allow myself the luxury of yielding to my personal feelings. The evidence warrants a trial. I'll have to allow extradition.
Troi: Do you think there's enough evidence to prove his innocence?
Picard: No.
Data: Captain, I believe we have found the source of the radiation. Can you join us on the Bridge?
Picard: Acknowledged.
Data: As you know, Captain, we are looking for a phenomenon that reoccurs every five hours, twenty minutes and three seconds.
Picard: The interval between radiation bursts.
Data: We have found one such phenomenon on the planet's surface.
Laforge: It's the field generator that Apgar during in his research. When it's fully charged, it automatically emits an energy pulse and then takes five hours, twenty minutes and three seconds to recharge itself.
Wesley: It must have been left on after the explosion of the lab.
Picard: But why would a generator be affecting the Enterprise this way?
Data: It should not be. It is a harmless lambda field generator.
Laforge: But we knew that somehow it was related to our radiation bursts and then the pieces started just falling together.
Data: We now know what is causing the bursts, and why the science station exploded, sir.
Wesley: And we also know who killed Doctor Apgar.
Picard: Chief Inspector, we've watched the events replayed over and over again and I am impressed, and admittedly dismayed by the body of evidence against Commander Riker. But isn't it remarkable that with all the witnesses, all the different points of view of the events aboard the space station, we haven't seen what really happened?
Krag: I do not understand.
Picard: Allow me, with the help of Mister La Forge, to explain. Computer, load Manua program one, time index fourteen four one. Play program.
Apgar: Fine. Whatever. Starfleet will get its Krieger wave converter. These things take time. I've had a few setbacks, that's all.
Picard: Freeze. Mrs. Apgar, this was from your deposition. It would seem to suggest that your husband had failed to create Krieger waves.
Manua: Yes, but he was very close to a breakthrough.
Picard: He said he needed more time. He was upset by our early arrival. But in fact I maintain he already had made that breakthrough and that he was lying to us.
Krag: On what basis?
Laforge: For the last several hours, the Enterprise has been experiencing unusual radiation bursts. We've identified them as Krieger waves.
Tayna: Krieger waves? But that's impossible. From where?
Laforge: From right here. Inside the holodeck.
Picard: We recreated your science lab in every conceivable detail. Essentially, what was in the original lab is here.
Laforge: Including the Krieger wave converter that Doctor Apgar claimed didn't work. Except it does work.
Picard: Your field generator on the planet surface has been sending out harmless energy charges, which this facsimile has been converting into Krieger waves.
Riker: But the holodeck can't create anything dangerous.
Laforge: Well, it didn't. When you get down to basics, the converter is nothing more than a complex series of mirrors and reflective coils. The energy from the field generator down on the planet simply reflects off of elements in the convertor which turns it into highly focused Krieger waves.
Picard: And those same waves have been randomly striking different areas of our ship as we orbit the planet and our angle to the generator changes.
Krag: Why would Apgar lie about his success?
Picard: Computer, run Manua program one, time code, fourteen three eight.
Apgar: Manua, someday I'll be able reward you for all your patience. I'll get you everything you ever dreamed of.
Manua: I have all the reward I need.
Picard: Freeze program. Run Riker program two, time code, sixteen one zero.
Riker: To your success, doctor.
Manua: And the rewards that come with it.
Picard: Freeze.
Manua: I never said that.
Picard: Nevertheless, it seems clear that your husband was motivated to earn the kind of rewards that pleased you, Mrs. Apgar.
Manua: What's wrong with that?
Troi: Well, he wouldn't have earned great profits from his dealings with Starfleet. We were only interested in a new power source.
Laforge: But if he could turn this into a weapon it would be worth a lot to the Romulans, the Ferengi and a few others. Now Doctor Apgar had been ordering extra dicosilium for months. That's a pretty good indication that he was trying to create larger reflective coils.
Picard: And when the away team arrived early he must have been worried that Starfleet was becoming suspicious. He needed more time to finish his work. Apgar said that each of the three versions. No doubt, he was afraid that Commander Riker might learn the truth and cut off his support prematurely. Discovering Commander Riker with his wife didn't help matters. I submit that he decided to murder Commander Riker.
Manua: Ridiculous.
Picard: Is it? Computer, run Tayna program four, time index eighteen one four.
Tayna: I'll contact the authorities.
Apgar: No, I'll take care of that.
Picard: Freeze.
Picard: Tayna, exactly is Apgar doing here?
Tayna: Activating the generator on the planet.
Picard: Why would he do that?
Tayna: Maybe he was going to work on the converter, I don't know.
Picard: Maybe he was already thinking ahead to his next confrontation with Commander Riker. Computer, play Riker program four, time index twenty four one.
Apgar: What are you going to put in your report, Riker? That there's no justification for all the extra dicosilium I've requested? That is why they sent you early, isn't it?
Riker: Doctor.
Apgar: I can explain why I needed it. They have no idea what my problems are. There are explanations for all of it.
Riker: I don't need explanations.
Picard: Freeze. To Apgar, this must have seemed as though Commander Riker were confirming his worst fears. And I believe it was now that he decided finally to kill him.
Krag: You forget, Picard, we know the energy pulse which blew up the reactor originated from Commander Riker's position, not Doctor Apgar's.
Laforge: We are hypothesizing that Doctor Apgar energized the converter at the moment of Commander Riker's beam-out, hoping to make his death look like a transporter accident. But something went wrong. The energy pulse hit the transporter beam and reflected back to the reactor, which caused the explosion.
Krag: An interesting hypothesis. But impossible to prove.
Laforge: Not really. We know that the field generator on the planet has been repeating a discharge ever since the explosion. The intervals are like clockwork, except the explosion occurred point zero zero one four seconds after the initial discharge. And the only explanation for that variance is the time it would take the energy pulse to bounce back from the transporter beam to the reactor.
Picard: We've arranged a demonstration to illustrate. Mister La Forge, I think it's about time, isn't it?
Laforge: Computer, load program, La Forge one. Coordinate auto-engage time sequence. The next discharge from the field generator is scheduled to occur in just a few moments, and we've aligned the holodeck program to recreate the final events as Commander Riker described them. Only this time our facsimile will automatically process the energy charge from the planet and reflect it just as the original convertor did before the explosion.
Picard: If we're correct, we'll know it instantly.
Computer: Auto-engage time sequence synchronized.
Apgar: Then we have nothing further to say to each other.
Riker: I'll tell my Captain to expect your grievance.
Apgar: Do that.
Riker: Riker to Enterprise. I'm ready to leave, now.
O'Brien: Stand by, Commander. Engaging transport.
Picard: Doctor Apgar killed himself during his attempt to kill Commander Riker.
Krag: Based on this new evidence, I withdraw my request for Commander Riker's extradition. Commander, my apologies.
Picard: Number One, have we any further business in the Tanuga system?
Riker: Not that I know of. I'd be more than willing to put it behind me.
Picard: Then perhaps you would do me the pleasure of getting this ship underway.
Riker: With pleasure, sir. Ensign Crusher, set course for Emila Two, warp three.
Wesley: Course laid in, sir.
Riker: Engage.


Guinan: All right. Try this.
Worf: What is it?
Guinan: Just try it.
Guinan: You see? It's an Earth drink. Prune juice.
Worf: A warrior's drink.
Guinan: You know, you're always drinking alone. It wouldn't hurt you to seek out a little companionship.
Worf: I would require a Klingon woman for companionship. Earth females are too fragile.
Guinan: Not all of them. There are a few on this ship that would find you tame.
Worf: Impossible.
Guinan: You never know till you try.
Worf: Then I will never know.
Guinan: Coward.
Worf: I was merely concerned for the safety of my crewmates.
Guinan: Drink your prune juice.
Riker: Lieutenant Worf, report to the Bridge.
Worf: On my way.
Guinan: No!
Picard: Analysis, Mister Data.
Data: Sensors are reading gravimetric fluctuations, Captain. Most unusual ones.
Riker: Unusual in what way? Specify?
Data: Nothing I have seen before.
Picard: Is it a wormhole?
Data: Yes and no. Like a time displacement, but it does not have a diskernible event horizon.
Wesley: Sir, navigational subsystems are unable to give coordinates on the object.
Data: Confirmed. The phenomenon does not have a definable center or outer edge.
Riker: Are you saying it is and yet it isn't there?
Data: I do not have sufficient information to make an analysis as yet, Commander. The dynamics of the radiation patterns
Worf: Captain! Something's happening. A new change in sensor readings.
Picard: Mister Data?
Data: Scanning sensors)
Picard: Lieutenant, what are their sensor readings? Is that an enemy vessel?
Tasha: I'm getting too much interference, Captain.
Crewman: Now hear this. Fleet formation briefing in main war room at fifteen hundred hours. Doctor Joshua Campbell, report to station ops. Ensign Toms, please forward combat information. Ensign Thomas to CIC.
Guinan: This isn't right. It's changed.
Tasha: It's clearing now, Captain. Definitely Federation starship. Accessing registry.
Riker: Looks like they had a rough ride.
Tasha: NCC one seven oh one C. USS Enterprise. Military log, Combat date 43625.2. While investigating an unusual radiation anomaly, the Enterprise has encountered what could almost be called a ghost from its own past, the Enterprise-C, the immediate predecessor to this battleship.
Data: Sensors confirm design and specifications, Captain. Analysis of hull and engine materials conform to engineering patterns and methods of that time period.
Wesley: But that cruiser was destroyed with all hands over twenty years ago.
Data: Presumed destroyed. The Enterprise C was last seen near the Klingon outpost Narendra Three exactly twenty two years, three months and four days ago.
Riker: And now they're here.
Picard: Has it been adrift for all those years, or has it has traveled through time?
Data: It is a possibility, Captain. If that hypothesis is correct, the phenomenon we just encountered would be a temporal rift in space.
Picard: A rift?
Data: Possibly the formation of a Kerr loop from superstring material. It would require high-energy interactions occurring in the vicinity for such a structure to be formed. The rift is certainly not stable, Captain. It could collapse at any time.
Tasha: Captain. I'm able to scan the interior of the ship now, sir. Heavy damage to warp field nacelles and hull bearing struts. Internal space frame is... Life-signs, Captain! Readings are sporadic. It looks like they have massive casualties, but some are still alive.
Riker: Bridge to Sickbay. Emergency teams, stand by transporter rooms.
Crusher: Understood.
Picard: Belay that order, Doctor.
Riker: Respectfully, if I may suggest regardless of where they came from, they are here now and they need our help.
Picard: Commander, if that ship has traveled into the future, we could be dealing with variables that will alter the flow of our history.
Tasha: Enterprise C is sending out a distress call, sir. Audio only.
Garrett: This is Captain Garrett of the Starship Enterprise, to any Federation ship. We have been attacked by Romulan warships and require immediate assistance. We've lost warp drive. Life support is failing.
Riker: There's no record of the Romulans ever assaulting the Enterprise C.
Tasha: Voice message has ended, Captain. I'm only receiving their automated distress signal now.
Picard: Open a hailing frequency. This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Federation, of a Federation starship. Standby to receive emergency teams. Commander, we will handle this one step at a time. Stabilize their power systems and tend to their injured, and avoid all discussions of where and when they are.
Riker: Aye, sir. Lieutenant.
Wesley: Captain, message coming in from Starfleet monitor stations. Klingon battlecruisers headed towards this sector.
Picard: Battle alert, Mister Crusher. Condition Yellow.
Wesley: Aye, sir. All decks report Condition Yellow.
Riker: Captain Garrett?
Garrett: Yes.
Riker: I'm Commander William Riker. Our emergency teams are on board your ship. Doctor?
Crusher: The rest of the bridge crew is dead. She has a bad fracture and has serious internal injuries. I'm going to have to get her back to the Enterprise.
Garrett: To where?
Riker: We'll explain that later.
Garrett: You'll explain now, Commander.
Riker: We're from a Federation starship. We answered your distress call. Your ship is in good hands, but we need to get you to our Sickbay.
Garrett: Very well.
Crusher: Crusher to transporter room. Two to beam directly to Sickbay.
Crewman: Stand by for transport.
Laforge: It's pretty bad, Commander. Looks like they were in a hell of a fight.
Riker: If you can't stabilize the life support, we're going to have to evacuate the ship.
Laforge: I think we can do it. I'll have to get to Engineering though. La Forge to damage control team alpha. Meet me on Engineering level three.
Tasha: Commander.
Castillo: Thanks.
Riker: Commander William Riker.
Castillo: Lieutenant Castillo, helmsman.
Data: Away team reporting in, sir.
Picard: On screen, Mister Data. Go ahead, Commander.
Riker: We've stabilized life support. Mister La Forge is working on restoring the main power couplings, but that'll take time. It's a real mess down here, sir.
Picard: Survivors?
Riker: One hundred twenty five.
Picard: Recommendation?
Riker: I'd hate to have to scrap her. Starfleet could certainly use another ship, even if she is old.
Picard: Agreed. But we can't stay in this area too long. You have nine hours. If you can get her underway by then, we'll escort her back to Starbase one oh five. If not, we'll evacuate the survivors and destroy the ship.
Riker: Understood, sir.
Picard: Keep me posted, Picard out.
Picard: Guinan?
Guinan: We need to talk. Somehow this, this is all wrong. This is not the way it's supposed to be.
Picard: You must have some idea how things have changed.
Guinan: I look at things, I look at people, and they just don't feel right.
Picard: What things? What people?
Guinan: You. Your uniform. The Bridge.
Picard: What's the matter with the Bridge?
Guinan: It's not right.
Picard: It's the same Bridge. Nothing has changed.
Guinan: I know that. I also know it's wrong.
Picard: What else?
Guinan: Families. There should be children on this ship.
Picard: What? Children on the Enterprise? Guinan, we're at war.
Guinan: No, we're not. At least, we're not supposed to be. This is not a ship of war. This a ship of peace.
Picard: What you're suggesting
Guinan: I'm not suggesting. That ship from the past is not supposed to be here. It's got to go back.
Crusher: Run a full electrolyte report. Boost the level of tricordrazine. Try to relax.
Crewwoman: Doctor Selar, report to pathology ward stat. Doctor Selar, report to pathology ward stat.
Picard: I'm Captain Jean-Luc Picard.
Garrett: Rachel Garrett. How's my ship?
Picard: The support systems are being restored. We're continuing repairs.
Garrett: Where did you come from? We weren't picking up any other Federation ships in this sector.
Picard: What's the last thing you remember?
Garrett: We were answering the distress signal.
Picard: Distress signal?
Garrett: You must have heard it. From the Klingon outpost, Narendra Three. But you didn't, did you? This Sickbay, I've never seen like it, even on a starbase. And your uniform. What ship is this, Captain?
Crusher: Please try to be still.
Garrett: I must insist. What ship?
Picard: You are aboard the Enterprise, Captain. One seven oh one D. You have come twenty two years into the future.
Garrett: Twenty two years. Does my crew know yet?
Picard: No.
Garrett: I must tell them. I owe them that.
Picard: If you wish, I can see that they're informed.
Garrett: Is there some reason they should not be told?
Picard: I am concerned that if you return to your own time with knowledge of the future
Garrett: Return to the battle? We barely escaped with our lives. If we returned, we'd be destroyed.
Picard: Have you any idea how this happened?
Garrett: There was a fierce volley of photon torpedoes. We were hit. A bright light, and then here.
Picard: It is possible that this exchange of fire was the catalyst for the formation of a temporal rift. History has no record of your battle with the Romulans.
Garrett: We were responding to a distress call from the Klingon outpost on Narendra Three. The Romulans were attacking it. We engaged them, but there were four warbirds.
Picard: The Narendra Three outpost was destroyed. It is regrettable that you did not succeed. A Federation starship rescuing a Klingon outpost might have averted twenty years of war.
Castillo: I just can't quite make myself believe it. Twenty two years!
Tasha: I'm reading forty percent on forward shields. What do you have on aft?
Castillo: Forty percent.
Tasha: That won't cut it. Commander, advise Lieutenant La Forge that shields are below minimum.
Riker: Acknowledged.
Castillo: We'll never see our homes again. Our families.
Tasha: How do you know your family's not still alive?
Castillo: You're right, I don't. But imagine coming home after twenty-two years. Would I even recognize them?
Tasha: What are the stats on main phaser banks?
Castillo: Emitters available, sixty percent forward, fifty two percent aft.
Tasha: Good. Let's take a look at the torpedo launchers.
Castillo: I guess I'm lucky to be alive at all.
Tasha: You may not like the future. It's been a long war. The Federation has lost more than half of Starfleet to the Klingons.
Castillo: We were negotiating a peace treaty when I left.
Tasha: A lot of changes, Lieutenant. A lot of changes.
Castillo: When we get a break, maybe you could fill me in on some of them.
Tasha: Photon banks are depleted. Auxiliary fusion generators are down.
Data: There is a high degree of probability that the temporal rift is symmetrical, Captain.
Picard: Then what would happen if the Enterprise C were to fly back through it?
Data: Back, sir? The Enterprise C would emerge in her own time period at almost the same instant she left.
Picard: Right in the middle of the battle with the Romulans.
Data: Yes, sir.
Picard: Is there any possibility she could survive?
Data: None, sir.
Picard: Then sending them back would be a death sentence.
Crewwoman: Lieutenant Barrett to communications.
Tasha: She was the first Galaxy Class warship built by the Federation. Forty two decks. Capable of transporting over six thousand troops.
Castillo: How long have you been on board?
Tasha: Four years. Straight out of the Academy. I was lucky to get the Enterprise.
Castillo: Yeah, me too. I mean, my Enterprise.
Crewwoman: Triage team to main shuttlebay.
Garrett: Lieutenant, how's the ship?
Castillo: We've restored minimal shields and the forward phaser banks. Still no photon launchers or warp drive.
Garrett: Concentrate on the weapon systems. From what Captain Picard told me, the Federation can use all the help it can get.
Tasha: And soon. Our sensors have picked up Klingon warships in this sector, Captain.
Garrett: Why wasn't I informed, Mister Castillo?
Castillo: Captain, you shouldn't
Garrett: As senior officer, I want you to be my liaison to the Enterprise-D. Coordinate with Tactical.
Tasha: That's me, Captain.
Crusher: Where do you think you're going?
Garrett: I'm resuming my duties, Doctor.
Crusher: Captain, you need at least another twenty four hours.
Garrett: Nonsense. Doctors always over-protect their patients.
Crusher: And captains always push themselves too hard.
Garrett: Doctor, my ship and crew need me now. Twenty four hours might as well be twenty four years.
Picard: I need more.
Guinan: There is no more. I wish there were. I wish I could prove it. But I can't.
Picard: Then I can't ask them to go back.
Guinan: You've got to.
Picard: Guinan, they will die moments after they return. How can I ask them to sacrifice themselves based solely on your intuition?
Guinan: I don't know. But I do know that this is a mistake. Every fiber in my being says this is a mistake. I can't explain it to myself so I can't explain it to you. I only know that I'm right.
Picard: Who is to say that this history is any less proper than the other?
Guinan: I suppose I am.
Picard: Not good enough, damn it. Not good enough. I will not ask them to die.
Guinan: Forty billion people have already died. This war's not supposed to be happening. You've got to send those people back to correct this.
Picard: And what is to guarantee that if they go back they will succeed? Every instinct tells me this is wrong, it is dangerous, it is futile.
Guinan: We've known each other a long time. You have never known me to impose myself on anyone or take a stance based on trivial or whimsical perceptions. This time line must not be allowed to continue. Now, I've told you what you must do. You have only your trust in me to help you decide to do it.
Tasha: Deflector shield technology has advanced considerably during the war. Our heat dissipation rates are probably double those of the Enterprise-C, which means we can hang in a firefight a lot longer. Guinan?
Guinan: Have you ordered yet, Tasha?
Tasha: No, not yet. Is anything wrong?
Guinan: Not a thing. What can I get for you?
Tasha: Just a couple of TKLs. We're in a hurry. Oh, this is, Lieutenant Castillo.
Tasha: First time for everything.
Castillo: First time?
Tasha: It's just that I've never seen anything bother her before.
Castillo: What's a TKL?
Tasha: Standard rations. Food replicators are on minimum power, so everything else is diverted to defensive systems. So where was I?
Castillo: You've told me more about tactical in an hour than I learned my last year in the Academy.
Tasha: You're going to need it, Lieutenant.
Castillo: Hey, I've known you a whole day now, Lieutenant. I won't salute if you won't. What did she call you? Tasha?
Tasha: Yeah.
Castillo: Most everybody just calls me Castillo. My mother calls me Richard.
Tasha: Okay, Castillo.
Castillo: No, I think maybe I'd like it better if you called me Richard.
Tasha: Richard.
Picard: This is the Captain. Senior officers will report to my Ready room immediately.
Tasha: So much for lunch.
Crusher: Captain, are you suggesting that we let them return and attempt to complete their mission?
Picard: I am, Doctor.
Crusher: Based on Guinan's intuition?
Riker: That won't accomplish anything, sir. There's no way they can save Narendra Three.
Tasha: Captain Garrett says there were four Romulan warbirds. The Enterprise-C would be outmanned and outgunned.
Laforge: Unless we were to re-arm them with modern
Picard: We can't do that. If we send that ship back with new technology we will be altering the past.
Riker: But that's what you're talking about anyway, isn't it? Altering the past.
Picard: We're talking about restoring the past.
Laforge: How could Guinan know that history has been altered if she's been altered along with the rest of us?
Data: Perhaps her species has a perception that goes beyond linear time.
Picard: There are many things about her species we can't easily explained. Yet it is very possible she is correct. A ship from the past has traveled through time. How can we know what effect those events will have on the present. Indeed, we shall never know for certain, if Guinan is correct. But I have decided the consequences of that possibility are too grave to ignore. Dismissed.
Riker: Sir, if you'd like my opinion
Picard: I think I'm aware of your opinion, Commander. This is a briefing. I'm not seeking your consent.
Riker: With all due respect, sir, you'd be asking one hundred and twenty five people to die a meaningless death.
Data: Not necessarily meaningless, Commander. The Klingons regard honor above all else. If the crew of the Enterprise-C had died fighting for the survival of a Klingon outpost, it would be considered a meaningful act of honor by the Klingon Empire.
Picard: Even their deaths might have prevented this war. If the Enterprise-C returns to the battle and its mission is a success, history will be irrevocably changed. This time line will cease to exist and a new future will have been created. I've considered the alternatives. I'll go with Guinan's recommendation. Dismissed.
Crusher: If she's right, we may not even be in an alternate time line.
Laforge: Yeah, who knows if we're dead or alive.
Data: Engineering. Is Engineering your destination as well?
Tasha: What? Oh, deck six. Sorry.
Data: If I interpret your facial expressions correctly, you are preoccupied with something unpleasant.
Tasha: No, I was just thinking about a lot of things. I've been working with one of the officers on the Enterprise-C. He's nice. I like him. I'm worried about what's going to happen to him.
Data: We may never know what happens. If they succeed, we will not even realize that these events occurred.
Castillo: Shields are up to seventy two percent. That's better.
Tasha: Good.
Garrett: Do you believe this Guinan?
Picard: I discovered long ago that she has a special wisdom. I've learned to trust it. I could arrange for you to speak with her if you wish.
Garrett: Captain, I would be lying to you if I told you there was a chance in hell of coming out of this alive. Why doesn't your ship come back with us? The Romulans would be no match for your weaponry.
Picard: I can't do that.
Garrett: No, I suppose not. You don't belong in our time any more than we belong in yours. To be honest, Picard, a significant number of my crewmembers have expressed a desire to return, even knowing the odds. Some because they can't bear to live without their loved ones, some because they don't like the idea of slipping out in the middle of a fight. But I have told them that in the here and now, the Federation needs another ship against the Klingons. And we'd better get used to being in the here and now.
Picard: But if you go back, it could be a great deal more helpful. The war is going very badly for the Federation, far worse than is generally known. Starfleet Command believes defeat is inevitable. Within six months we may have no choice but to surrender.
Garrett: And you're saying all this may be a result of our arrival here?
Picard: One more ship will make no difference in the here and now. But twenty two years ago, one ship could have stopped this war before it started.
Garrett: Mister Castillo.
Castillo: Yes, Captain?
Garrett: Inform the crew we're going back.
Castillo: Yes, Captain.
Garrett: The Romulans will get a good fight. We'll make it one for the history books.
Picard: I know you will, Captain. Lieutenant Yar?
Tasha: Permission to remain for a moment, sir.
Picard: Granted.
Garrett: Transporter room, Captain Picard is ready to return to his ship.
Crewman: Aye, Captain.
Tasha: I just wanted to say good luck.
Castillo: I'll try to put some of your tactical briefing to good use when we get back.
Tasha: Your ship has much more maneuverability than the Romulan counterparts of that era. Actually, if you could just isolate... You'll do fine.
Castillo: If you get back to Earth and you see a man, say, in his late fifties taking a hard look across a crowded room. Hey, you never know.
Tasha: Goodbye, Lieutenant.
Garrett: Red Alert! Full power to shields.
Tasha: Shields are up. Functioning.
Castillo: Initiating evasive maneuvers. Gamma sequence.
Garrett: Ready phasers. Enterprise-D
Garrett: Has your captain returned safely?
Riker: Acknowledged. Captain Picard is safely aboard. Fire phasers.
Data: Firing phasers.
Picard: Report.
Riker: One Klingon bird of prey off the starboard bow.
Tasha: Firing phasers.
Garrett: Load torpedo bays.
Data: The Klingon vessel has recloaked, sir. I have no readings.
Picard: Captain Garrett, damage report.
Picard: Captain Garrett.
Tasha: This is Lieutenant Yar, sir. Captain Garrett is dead.
Castillo: I'm prepared to lead the Enterprise back myself, Captain Picard.
Riker: Sir, Lieutenant Castillo is the last surviving senior officer. He will have limited support from Ops, no Tactical, reduced staff in Engineering.
Castillo: I have good people willing to do their best.
Riker: Certainly, history never meant for this ship to go into battle without her captain.
Castillo: I can't speak to that point, sir, but I can get us back to where we're supposed to be. I believe that's what Captain Garrett would want me to do.
Data: Commander Data to Captain Picard.
Picard: Go ahead.
Data: Sir, sensors are showing additional instability in the time rift. Possibly the result of the battle with the Klingons.
Picard: Any signs of other Klingon vessels?
Data: No, sir.
Tasha: Our coordinates have been transmitted to the Klingon command, sir. We mustn't remain here.
Castillo: Sir, it is my intention to return, unless you order me not to.
Picard: How soon can your ship be ready?
Castillo: We sustained moderate damage in the attack. I think we can get underway in a few hours.
Picard: Make it so. We'll give you cover.
Castillo: One to beam to the Enterprise-C. We keep saying goodbye, don't we?
Tasha: I wish there was more time.
Castillo: More time. I think we have all the time we can handle as it is.
Castillo: Lieutenant.
Guinan: Can I get you something, Tasha?
Tasha: Guinan, I have to know something. What happens to me in the other time line?
Guinan: I don't have alternate biographies of the crew. As I said to the captain, it's just a feeling.
Tasha: But there's something more when you look at me, isn't there? I can see it in your eyes, Guinan. We've known each other too long.
Guinan: We weren't meant to know each other at all. At least, that's what I sense when I look at you. Tasha, you're not supposed to be here.
Tasha: Where am I supposed to be?
Guinan: Dead.
Tasha: Do you know how?
Guinan: No. But I do know it was an empty death. A death without purpose.
Picard: Come. Yes, Lieutenant?
Tasha: Captain, I request a transfer to the Enterprise-C.
Picard: For what reason?
Tasha: They need someone at Tactical.
Picard: We need you here.
Tasha: I'm not supposed to be here, sir.
Picard: Sit down, Lieutenant. What did she say to you?
Tasha: I don't belong here, sir. I'm supposed to be dead.
Picard: She felt it necessary to reveal that to you?
Tasha: I felt it was necessary.
Picard: I see. You realize that it is very possible the Enterprise-C will fail. We will continue in this time line in which case your life, hopefully, will continue for a long while.
Tasha: I know how important it is that they don't fail, Captain. That's why I'm requesting this transfer.
Picard: You don't belong on that ship, Lieutenant.
Tasha: No, Captain Garrett belongs on that ship. But she's dead. And I think there's a certain logic in this request.
Picard: There's no logic in this at all. Whether they succeed or not, the Enterprise-C will be destroyed.
Tasha: But Captain, at least with someone at Tactical, they will have a chance to defend themselves well. It may be a matter of seconds or minutes, but those could be the minutes that change history. Guinan says I died a senseless death in the other time line. I didn't like the sound of that, Captain. I've always known the risks that come with a Starfleet uniform. If I'm to die in one, I'd like my death to count for something.
Picard: Lieutenant. Permission granted.
Tasha: Thank you, sir.
Castillo: I'm showing phaser banks up to seventy percent efficiency. We've got an hour left. Let's see if we can get them up to ninety.
Crewman: Aye, sir.
Castillo: Parker, you've got Ops. Fredericks, take the conn.
Tasha: I'll handle Tactical. Lieutenant Tasha Yar reporting for duty, sir.
Castillo: You're not part of my crew.
Tasha: I am now. Captain Picard approved my request for transfer.
Castillo: This isn't a joke, Tasha. We're going back in the rift, into battle. We're not coming back.
Tasha: I know the mission. These are my orders, Lieutenant.
Castillo: But I don't want you here.
Tasha: You need me here. Show me someone on your crew who can do the job better than I can.
Castillo: Welcome aboard. Take your station, Lieutenant.
Tasha: Aye, sir. Military log, supplemental. Lieutenant Tasha Yar has transferred to the Enterprise-C, where she has taken over tactical duties. Meanwhile, our long range scanners have picked up Klingon battle cruisers on an intercept course.
Riker: Number and type of ships, Mister Crusher?
Wesley: Three K'vort class battlecruisers, sir.
Picard: They're not even troubling to cloak themselves.
Riker: They shouldn't be so confident after the pasting we gave them on Archer Four.
Picard: Attention all hands. As you know, we could outrun the Klingon vessels, but we must protect the Enterprise-C until she enters the temporal rift. And we must succeed. Let's make sure history never forgets the name Enterprise. Picard out.
Picard: Mister Data?
Data: Shields are holding, sir.
Picard: Hold fire. Mister Crusher, come about to course one four eight zero zero three.
Wesley: Aye, sir.
Riker: Photon torpedoes ready.
Picard: Dispersal pattern, sierra. And fire!
Data: One enemy target hit, sir. Moderate damage to their forward shields. Our shields are still holding. Minor damage to secondary hull.
Picard: Course one four eight. Correction, course one seven zero mark zero one four.
Wesley: Sir, one of the ships is breaking off and going towards the Enterprise-C.
Picard: Mister Crusher, keep us within two hundred kilometers of the Enterprise-C.
Wesley: Coming to two one seven mark one one five. Increasing to two thirds impulse.
Riker: Damage control teams, deck fourteen.
Laforge: Engineering to bridge. Starboard power coupling is down. Containment field generator three is damaged. Attempting to bypass.
Riker: If we lose antimatter containment
Picard: Acknowledged, La Forge.
Wesley: Sir, the Klingons are flanking us, attempting to draw us away from the Enterprise-C.
Picard: Hold course, Mister Crusher. Continual fire, all phasers.
Data: One enemy target destroyed, sir.
Picard: Damage report.
Riker: Heavy casualties in the secondary hull. Navigational sensor array inoperative.
Laforge: Antimatter containment fields are failing. If I can't stabilize them, I'll have to dump the reactor core or she'll blow!
Data: Shields buckling, Captain. They will not
Laforge: La Forge to Bridge.
Laforge: I can't hold the antimatter containment fields. Initiating emergency shutdown!
Laforge: Coolant leak! Bridge, we have a coolant leak in the engine core! I can't shut it down. I estimate two minutes to a warp core breach!
Laforge: Go! Go! Go!
Picard: How long until the Enterprise-C enters the rift?
Data: Fifty two seconds, sir.
Picard: All remaining power to the defense systems.
Data: Power couplings severed in forward phaser banks. Attempting to bypass. Controls not responding.
Klingon: Federation ship Enterprise. Surrender and prepare to be boarded.
Picard: That will be the day.
Picard: Report, Lieutenant.
Worf: Readings fluctuated momentarily. It appeared to be a ship, but then it vanished.
Data: The phenomenon is closing in on itself, Captain.
Picard: Very well. Prepare a class one sensor probe. We'll leave it behind to monitor the final closure. Mister Crusher, lay in a course for Archer Four.
Guinan: Captain, this is Guinan. Is everything all right up there?
Picard: Guinan? Yes everything's fine. Is something wrong?
Guinan: No. No, everything's fine. Sorry to bother you.
Guinan: Geordi, tell me about Tasha Yar.