Messages From Earth (episode)

Messages From Earth is the 1st episode of the fourth season opener of Starship Enterprise.
==Synopsis==
After hearing about the attack on a Federation embassy on Earth the U.S.S. Enterprise is recalled to Earth along with three other Federation Starships U.S.S. Yorktown, U.S.S. Lakota, and U.S.S. Excelsior, what is going on at Starfleet Command and can Captain Martin and his crew figure out what's going on before the Federation goes into a Civil War!
==Script Chapters==
===Teaser===
FADE IN
EXT. FEDERATION SPACE
The Enterprise is at impulse next to a binary star.
CAPT. MARTIN [voice over]: Captain's Log Stardate 53785..1, The Enterprise is on a three day research mission to a binary star system hopefully this will an uneventful mission
INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE - CONTINUOUS
Captain Martin is at his desk studying a PADD when the doors chimed.
CAPT. MARTIN: Come.
Doors opened and Commander James enters.
LTCMDR. JAMES: Here's the latest on the warp realignment sir.
John takes the PADD and studies it.
CAPT. MARTIN: Very impressive Court, I want maximum warp as soon as we can get it.
LTCMDR. JAMES: You'll have it sir.
Just then, John's combadge chirps.
CMDR. RO [com voice]: Bridge to Captain Martin
John hits his combadge.
CAPT. MARTIN [to com]: Martin here.
CMDR. RO [com voice]: Captain, we're receiving a priority one message from Starfleet Security
CAPT. MARTIN [to com]: Patch it to my ready room.
INT. DOCTOR LANGFORD AND COMMANDER T'MIR'S QUARTERS, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
Commander T'Mir is reading a few letters from her mother when the com activates.
CAPT. MARTIN [com voice]: Martin to T'Mir
LTCMDR. T'MIR [tapped combadge]: T'Mir here go ahead sir.
CAPT. MARTIN [com voice]: Please report to the briefing room, immediately
LTCMDR. T'MIR [to com]: Acknowledged.
She gets her uniform jacket and leaves her quarters.
INT. BRIEFING ROOM, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE - CONTINUOUS
The senior staff are around the table.
CMDR. RO: How many people were at the conference?
CAPT. MARTIN: How many people were at the conference?
LTCMDR. JAMES [shocked]: twenty-seven that's unbelievable.
CAPT. MARTIN: My cousin the Federation President Danielle Martin has declared a planet-wide day of mourning.
The doors opened as Commander T'Mir enters.
CAPT. MARTIN: Commander, have a seat.
Commander T'Mir sits down next to her husband as Captain Martin nods at Commander Ro who stands and activates the monitors next to the conference table.
CMDR. RO: We received this less than ten minutes ago. 
The monitor shows the meeting as Commander Ro explains more.
CMDR. RO [cont'd]: It's a recording of a high level diplomatic conference between the Federation and the Romulan Empire held on Earth a few days ago. [to com] Computer, begin replay at time index five nine eleven.
NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
To include the viewscreen, which shows an M.O.S. security recording of a conference room full of Federation and Romulan diplomats. They're milling around, talking in an informal session, when suddenly, the room is irradiated by a high-tech weapon. The viewscreen goes white and fritzes out as the recording ends.
CLOSE ON T'MIR
As she reacts to what she's seen.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: A bomb?
CMDR. RO: The bomb had a molecular-decay detonator.
LT. MASON: And only one race uses that type of bomb.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: My people the Romulans.
[END OF TEASER, FADE OUT]
====
Theme Music:
=======
CAPTAIN'S OATH:
CAPT. MARTIN [voice over]: Space The Final Frontier These are the Voyages of the Starship Enterprise its continuing Mission: To Explore Strange New Worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations to boldly go where no one has gone before!
======
A shot over another Federation Starship as the USS Enterprise NCC-1701 is at Station keeping.
=====
STARSHIP ENTERPRISE
A STAR TREK FAN FILM PRODUCTION
====
BASED ON STAR TREK CREATED BY: GENE RODDENBERRY
====
The Enterprise exits dry-dock berth. 
JARVIS DAVIDSON 
 AS
CAPT. JOHN MARTIN 
An underbelly shot of the ventral section of the Enterprise as the moon is in full view. 
FELECIA LINKOUS 
 AS
CMDR. RO LAREN
The Enterprise flying by an interstellar dust cloud. 
KEVIN REGAN 
 AS
LT. JACK MASON 
The Enterprise flying towards an M-Class planet. 
FERNE MYERS 
 AS
LTCMDR. COURTNEY JAMES 
Enterprise traversing a planetary debris field. 
JACOB ELLIOT 
 AS
DR. PETER LANGFORD
Enterprise flying by a binary pulsar. 
DELENA "DEE" LUSK 
 AS
LT. JAMIE KAYE
Enterprise heading towards Arcamon Science Station.
SADIE BRICKHOUSE 
 AS
LT. SITO JAXA
Enterprise flying by a comet. 
BECKY ELLIOT 
 AS
LTCMDR. T'MIR
The Enterprise's warp engines power up and she leaps into warp. 
CREATED BY:
JARVIS DAVIDSON & JEREMY REGAN
===Act 1===
FADE IN
EXT. SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
Enterprise approaches Earth.
[EPISODE NOTES: OPEN CREDITS FALL OVER OPENING SCENES]
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
LT. KAYE: Approaching Earth.
CAPT. MARTIN: Establish orbit Lieutenant.
LT. KAYE: Aye, sir.
Lieutenant Kaye works the helm as Lieutenant Mason reports.
LT. MASON: Sir sensors are picking up three other Federation Starships.
Commander Ro turns to him.
CMDR. RO: Can you ID them Jack?
Lieutenant Mason work the tactical console.
LT. MASON: U.S.S. Lakota, U.S.S. Yorktown, and U.S.S. Excelsior.
CMDR. RO: One Excelsior-class vessel and a California-class vessel.
CAPT. MARTIN: And one Galaxy-Class Dreadnought.
Sito reports.
LT. SITO: Sir Admiral Leyton wants to meet you with and Commander Ro.
CAPT. MARTIN: Alright let's get it done then T'Mir you've got the bridge.
Both Captain Martin and Commander Ro leaves as T'Mir takes command.
JUMP CUT TO:
EXT. STARFLEET COMMAND, EARTH SURFACE-DAY
An establishing shot of Starfleet Command as well as Archer's Arena.
INT. HALLWAY, STARFLEET COMMAND
Captain Martin and Commander Ro wearing their dress uniforms when ADMIRAL LEYTON, the head of Starfleet Operations calls out to them.
VICE ADM. LEYTON [O.S.]: Captain Martin.
Captain Branson smiles as Admiral Letyon walks up to them Leyton is in his mid-fifties, tall, healthy and looks younger than he is. He's a veteran of conflicts with the Romulans, Tholians, Cardassians and Borg.
At Leyton's side is his adjunct, COMMANDER ERIKA BENTEEN, a career officer in her early thirties and of slight build. She carries herself with the confidence of someone who never doubts that she's doing the right thing.
CAPT. MARTIN: Admiral Leyton sir its good to see you again.
They shook hands.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: This is my adjutant, Commander Benteen. (to Benteen) Captain Branson was one of the best officers I had under my command as my tactical officer during the wars with the Cardassians and Tzentkethi.
CAPT. MARTIN: My first officer Commander Ro Laren.
They shook hands.
CMDR. RO: Admiral Leyton, Commander Benteen.
CMDR. BENTEEN (Nods): Commander and Captain.
Captain Martin is a bit tensed after seeing his ex-wives friend.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: I hope we didn't interrupt anything that the Enterprise was busy doing?
CAPT. MARTIN: Just a routine study of a binary star, Admiral what's going on?
VICE ADM. LEYTON: John Earth's in danger. Maybe the greatest danger it's faced since the last world war. Something has to be done about these Romulans.
CMDR. RO: What do you want us to do sir?
CMDR. BENTEEN: We'd like to confer with you and Ro, see if there's anything about the Romulans you left out of your official reports. 
CAPT. MARTIN: Very well I'll also have Commander T'Mir available if you want to ask her some questions about her people as well she's been very helpful learning about Romulan technology and how to detect cloaked warbirds.
CMDR. BENTEEN: Very well then.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Which is why you're here. You know more about the Romulans than anyone in Starfleet. And so, effective immediately, I'm making you acting head of Starfleet Security here on Earth. 
CMDR. BENTEEN: Congratulations, Captain.
And off Martin's surprised reaction, we...
[END OF ACT ONE, FADE OUT]
===Act 2===
FADE IN
EXT. SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
Enterprise, Yorktown, Lakota, and Excelsior are in orbit of the planet.
INT. CAPTAIN'S QUARTER, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE - CONTINUOUS
Captain Martin is at his desk studying a few PADDs on the recent incident as well as on the desktop monitor as the doors chimed.
CAPT. MARTIN: Come.
Doors opened and Jessica enters.
JESSICA: Hey.
John looks at his girlfriend.
JOHN [smiles]: Hey.
She walks over to the desk.
JESSICA: I heard about your new assignment.
JOHN: It's just temporary I still retain my command of the Enterprise though.
She sits at the desk.
JESSICA: Anything me and my crew can do?
He turns to monitor to face her.
CAPT. MARTIN: The Yorktown will run scans of the explosion site as well as send engineering teams down to examine it further but that won't happen till 1100 hours tomorrow the Starfleet Medical personnel are still combing the debris field for bodies.
CAPT. SMITH [nods]: Alright, I'll have Andy prep a engineering team to head down there first thing in the morning.
John looks at her.
JOHN: Sorry, I've got a meeting with my cousin soon we're going to convince her to make a few changed to defend Federation bases and installations here on Earth.
JESSICA: Its alright honey.
They kiss and she leaves the quarters.
JUMP CUT TO:
INT. PRESIDENT'S OFFICE - DAY
Captain Martin and Admiral Leyton ENTER to find Federation President Danielle Martin sitting at her desk. We can see the Eiffel Tower out the window behind her. As Captain Martin's carrying a twenty-fourth century briefcase, which he places on the ground by his chair.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Madam President may I present Captain Martin.
Danielle turns to the two men.
FEDERATION PRESIDENT MARTIN [smiles]: John, its good to see you again.
The two cousins hug.
CAPT. MARTIN: She's my cousin sir.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Ah, I see well now that you two know each other.
FEDERATION PRESIDENT MARTIN: What can I do for you gentlemen?
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Captain Martin has several suggestions on how to combat Romulan infiltration. I think you'll find them very interesting.
Martin takes a PADD out of the briefcase and hands it to the President. Danielle takes the PADD and scans the contents.
FEDERATION PRESIDENT MARTIN [re: PADD]: Hmm. I understand the need for increased security, but blood screenings?
CAPT. MARTIN: To help tell the difference between Vulcans and Romulans madam President.
FEDERATION PRESIDENT MARTIN: But wouldn't that prove ineffective? I mean we had no idea that Ambassador T'Pel was actually a Romulan in disguise.
CAPT. MARTIN: If it wasn't for the efforts of Doctor Crusher and Commander Data then we never would of known what happened.
FEDERATION PRESIDENT MARTIN: Precautions may be advisable, but I will not disrupt the lives of the population. Despite what happened at Antwerp, I believe the changeling threat to be somewhat less serious than Starfleet does. 
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Madam President, I assure you the threat is real.
FEDERATION PRESIDENT MARTIN: For all we know, there was only one Romulan on Earth, and he may not even be here anymore.
CAPT. MARTIN: But if he is here, we have a problem. There's no telling how much damage one Romulan spy could do.
Danielle looks at her cousin.
FEDERATION PRESIDENT MARTIN: Forgive me for saying so, Captain, but you sound a little paranoid.
CAPT. MARTIN: Do I? 
Just then...
NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
A Romulan transporter beam hums and Commander T'Mir materialized into the room as Danielle jumps up from her chair and backs away.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Forgive the intrusion, Madam President, but as you can see, Starfleet has every right to be concerned.
CAPT. MARTIN: Allow me to introduce Lieutenant Commander T'Mir my Chief Science Officer.
FEDERATION PRESIDENT MARTIN: A very effective entrance, Commander.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: One that never should have been allowed to take place. Admiral Leyton and Captain Martin walked in here without being searched, without being blood-tested, and without having their possessions subjected to intense security sweeps.
CAPT. MARTIN: I had my old friend Azui Sull allow me to borrow a Romulan transporter device that allowed T'Mir to lock onto it and was able to beam into this room, and if she was a Romulan infiltrator, she could have killed you. 
VICE ADM. LEYTON: The way security is now, a Romulan infiltrator could get anywhere on Earth.
CAPT. MARTIN: Madam President, all we want is your permission to increase security at Federation and Starfleet installations here on Earth. Blood tests will be limited to high-ranking Federation officials, Starfleet officers and their families. The average citizen won't even notice the difference. I wish these security measures were not necessary, but the safety of Earth and the entire Federation depends on them. 
The President considers John's plan. She clearly would rather not implement his suggestions, but she's beginning to see the wisdom in John's point-of-view.
FEDERATION PRESIDENT MARTIN: You present a very convincing argument, captain. It would seem I have no choice but to accept your proposals.
CAPT. MARTIN: Thank you madam president.
But Danielle isn't happy with the decision he's been forced to make and he wants to make sure both Leyton and Martin know it.
FEDERATION PRESIDENT MARTIN: Don't thank me. If I could think of another solution, I would use it. It took centuries for Earth to evolve into the peaceful haven it is today. I would hate to be remembered as the Federation President who destroyed paradise. 
CAPT. MARTIN: Danielle, We're not looking to destroy paradise. We're looking to save it. 
And off the President's resigned expression, we...
[END OF ACT TWO, FADE OUT]
===Act 3===
FADE IN
EXT. SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
Enterprise, Yorktown, Lakota, and Excelsior are in orbit of the planet.
INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE - CONTINUOUS
Lieutenant Mason stands at ease as Captain Martin.
LT. MASON: So we should increase security at every Starfleet base on Earth.
CAPT. MARTIN: Yes, it would be very helpful if you led the security force.
LT. MASON: Aye, sir I'll ready my team.
He leaves the ready room as John's thinking.
Doors chimed.
CAPT. MARTIN: Come.
Doors opened as Captain Shelby entered holding a PADD.
CAPT. SHELBY: The latest planetary scans.
She hands him the PADD John reviews the PADD.
CAPT. MARTIN: Thanks Elizabeth.
He reviews the PADD.
ELIZABETH: Your welcome, I spoken to our daughters they're doing well Tina has been reassigned to the U.S.S. Luna under the command of Captain Kennedy.
JOHN: And Sarah?
ELIZABETH: The Stargazer is on a deep space assignment.
John leans back.
JOHN: She's still angry at me.
ELIZABETH [sighs]: She's hurt John.
JOHN: So she decides to hurt me in the process? Liz she needs to understand that I took the smart way out of the situation.
Then the com activates.
CMDR. RO [com voice]: Captain Martin report to the bridge
Both John and Elizabeth head to the doors.
JUMP CUT TO;
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
Both Captains Martin and Shelby walk onto the bridge.
CAPT. MARTIN: Report?
LT. MASON: We just lost contact with Starfleet Command.
Captain Martin turns to the viewer as it shows a darken San Francisco.
CAPT. MARTIN: Locate my cousin.
LT. SITO: She's at her office in Paris. 
CAPT. MARTIN: Have Admiral Leyton meet me there Ro you've got the bridge.
JUMP CUT TO:
INT. PRESIDENT'S OFFICE - MORNING (OPTICAL)
Power is out here as well. The President is talking to one of her advisors.
FEDERATION PRESIDENT MARTIN: I'm not interested in excuses. It is imperative we get the power relay system functioning again. 
Just then, Martin, T'Mir, Leyton and two Security Officers MATERIALIZE in the President's office.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Madam President.
FEDERATION PRESIDENT MARTIN: How did you get here?
CAPT. MARTIN: We contacted the Lakota and used their transporters. Madam President, as acting head of Earth Security, I must advise you to declare a State of Emergency.
MADAM PRESIDENT MARTIN: You're serious. With the exception of the Borg incident and the Dominion War, there hasn't been a State of Emergency declared on Earth in a century. 
CAPT. MARTIN [sighs]: I'm aware of that. But I have reason to believe a Romulan warfleet may be in Federation Space headed for Earth.
MADAM PRESIDENT MARTIN: Do you have evidence to back this up?
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Madam President in 2369 my people had Commander Troi altered as Romulan to help get three of the highest members of the Romulan Senate, and she gave them the codes to the sensor net. It's possible that Commander Toreth used them to pass into Federation Space undetected.
MADAM PRESIDENT MARTIN: How long until we get the power relays working again?
VICE ADM. LEYTON [sighs]: From what we can tell, the Romulans infected the system with some kind of self-replicating computer protocol. It jumped from one power relay to the next, disrupting every system it came in contact with. 
LTCMDR. T'MIR: The only way to correct the problem is to shut down the entire grid, purge all the operating systems, and restart the relays.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: And that could take days.
CAPT. MARTIN: Which is why it is imperative that you declare a State of Emergency. 
MADAM PRESIDENT MARTIN: What good will that do when we have no way to defend ourselves?
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Madam President we've got the Federation Home battlegroup in orbit and we can use shuttles and transporters, we mobilize every Starfleet officer on Earth in less than twelve hours.
This is a surprise to the President, who had no idea Starfleet had such capabilities.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: We've been preparing for something like this for a long time. We have stockpiles of phaser rifles, personal forcefields, photon grenades, enough to equip an entire army. I can start getting men on the streets immediately. 
MADAM PRESIDENT MARTIN: What you're asking me to do is declare martial law. 
VICE ADM. LEYTON: What I'm asking you to do is let us defend this planet. We don't know what the Romulans will do next, but we have to be ready for them. John, tell him. 
CAPT. MARTIN: Danny, the thought of filling the streets with armed troops is as disturbing to me as it is to you.
Danielle listens to her cousins words.
CAPT. MARTIN: But not as disturbing as the thought of a Romulan army landing on Earth without opposition. The Romulan are the most brutal and efficient soldiers I've ever encountered. 
Commander T'Mir listens to John's words about her people.
CAPT. MARTIN: They don't care about the conventions of war or protecting civilians. They will not limit themselves to military targets. They'll be waging the kind of war that Earth hasn't seen since the founding of the Federation. 
LTCMDR. T'MIR: At the same time the warbirds will takedown orbital complexes and shipyards as well as any type of defense platforms.
The President sits down in her chair, crushed under the weight of her responsibility.
MADAM PRESIDENT MARTIN: I don't know if this was the Borg incident I wouldn't hesitate but due to this power outage.
Leyton's getting impatient.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: We appreciate your feelings, Madam President, but we don't have time for regrets. You accepted the job and now it's yours.
But T'Mir's also a woman who's shouldered responsibilities she didn't ask for. She knows what the President's going through.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Madam President, there are people all over this planet right now huddled in the dark, terrified about what might happen next. They're waiting for a sign, something to reassure them that everything will be all right. But they won't wait long. Fear is a powerful and dangerous thing. And if you don't act, if you don't show them that they're not alone, then fear will surely take over. 
President Martin looks at John for a beat, then picks up a PADD and taps in her personal authorization code, and hands the PADD to John.
MADAM PRESIDENT MARTIN: Earth is in your hands, gentlemen. Do what needs to be done.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Thank you, sir. You've made the right decision.
MADAM PRESIDENT MARTIN: I hope you're right, for all our sakes.
[END OF ACT THREE, FADE OUT]
===Act 4===
FADE IN
EXT. SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
Enterprise, Yorktown, Lakota, and Excelsior are in orbit of the planet as well as the Federation Home battlegroup as the Enterprise takes the lead.
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
The ship's at yellow alert as the crew are at their stations ready for action, as Captain Martin sits in the Captain's chair tensed up.
CAPT. MARTIN [to com]: Enterprise to attack fleet maintain sensor scans throughout the system, taskforce Gamma form up on the Excelsior taskforce Beta follow the Yorktown taskforce alpha remain at Earth orbit.
EXT. SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
Taskforces Beta and Gamma depart from the main fleet and head out to different parts of the Terran System while taskforce alpha remains at station keeping.
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
Commander Ro turns to him.
CMDR. RO: Are you sure that it was a good idea to split up the battlegroup?
John turns to her.
CAPT. MARTIN: We've got to cover every bit of this sector to make sure that no Romulan taskforce gets to Earth.
Captain Martin leans back in the Captain's chair.
EXT. SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
Taskforce Alpha remains in orbit of Earth.
INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
John's on his feet.
CAPT. SMITH [monitor]: So far taskforce Beta has not detected any cloaked signature we're not giving up
CAPT. MARTIN [sighs]: Keep at it Jess anything you detect I don't care how small I want to know what it is.
CAPT. SMITH [monitor]: You got it Smith out
Transmission ends as John looks at their prom picture at Starfleet Academy.
EXT. SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
Taskforce Alpha remains in orbit of Earth.
INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
A close up of the screen showing the planetary grid and what caused it to go off-line, as Commander T'Mir is there as well helping.
CAPT. MARTIN [sighs]: I don't like this. The more I read Starfleet's reports on the sabotage of the power relays, the more unanswered questions I have. [lays it out] How were the Romulans able to infiltrate the Division of Planetary operations? Where did they get the codes for the Division's computer control network? And how did they manage to overload every power relay on Earth at the same time?
T'Mir nods. She's in total agreement. But her attention is drawn to something she sees on the PADD.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Captain, have you ever heard of a group called Red Squad? 
CAPT. MARTIN: They're an elite team of Starfleet cadets. According to Tina during her time at the Academy, every student at the Academy wants to be a part of it.
T'Mir, shakes her head. She figures she was making something out of nothing.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: That explains it.
CAPT. MARTIN: Explains what?
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Well, according to this transporter log, a group called Red Squad was beamed back to Starfleet Academy twenty six minutes after the State of Emergency was declared.
This gets John's interest.
CAPT. MARTIN [confused]: That's strange. During the blackout, Starfleet mobilized hundreds of units. Why would they demobilize Red Squad?
LTCMDR. T'MIR: That's why I brought it up. But if they're cadets I suppose Starfleet wanted to get them out of harm's way.
But something about T'Mir's theory doesn't ring true to John. He looks up something on his own computer.
CAPT. MARTIN: If that's true, how do you explain this?
John calls up a file on his wall monitor. It reads as follows - From Commander, Starfleet to OIC Training Squadron 47, stardate 53986.53. Trans code 4747-23 routing Paris/satcom 5/Luna 6017/San Francisco. Message begins. Effective immediately. All members of CTS-47 designation Red Squad are hereby assigned to field duty patrolling Sol sector, Terra 1. Mission specific orders will be transmitted once all squadron personnel are on station. Message ends.
CAPT. MARTIN: Three hours later Starfleet Command issued an order assigning the entire Corps of Cadets to field duty.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Which means they weren't bringing Red Squad home for their protection. 
CAPT. MARTIN: So the question is, why would they demobilize Red Squad only to mobilize them again three hours later? 
They both look at each other.
EXT. SOL SYSTEM, EARTH ORBIT
Taskforce Alpha remains in orbit of Earth.
INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
Close on a monitor displaying a Bolian Admiral, the COMMANDANT of Starfleet Academy. T'Mir is keeping out of sight.
COMMANDANT [monitor]: Captain Martin, is there something I can do for you?
CAPT. MARTIN: I need to talk to you about Red Squad. 
The mention of Red Squad wipes the smile off the Bolian's face.
COMMANDANT [monitor]: Go on
CAPT. MARTIN: Are you aware that there's a transporter record of Red Squad being returned to the Academy not long after the power outage?
ACADEMY COMMANDANT [on monitor]: Are you saying that's in the official records?
CAPT. MARTIN: That's right.
The Commandant looks surprised and more than a little worried.
ACADEMY COMMANDANT [on monitor]: Is this a secure line?
CAPT. MARTIN: It is at my end. 
COMMANDANT [monitor]: One moment
The Commandant's face is replaced by the triangular logo of Starfleet Academy. Martin looks up at T'Mir, who is standing behind the monitor so he will not be included in the picture sent to Commandant. They lock eyes for a beat. The Commandant's behavior seems a little strange. Just then, the monitor reactivates and the Commandant comes back on line.
ACADEMY COMMANDANT [on monitor]: Sorry, Captain, but I think you'll agree that this is a time for caution
CAPT. MARTIN: I understand that sir.
ACADEMY COMMANDANT [on monitor]: Does Admiral Leyton know about this report?
CAPT. MARTIN: That I know of.
ACADEMY COMMANDANT [on monitor]: Listen to me, Captain. I want that record erased before anyone else can see it. Is that understood?
CAPT. MARTIN: Aye, sir.
ACADEMY COMMANDANT [on monitor]: Good. That report could cause us a lot of trouble. I'm glad you spotted it
CAPT. MARTIN: So am I. I'd hate to see the members of Red Squad get into any trouble. 
COMMANDANT [monitor]: They're fine young men and women. When Leyton talked to me about using them I thought it was a mistake, but I must to admit they performed their mission admirably. I appreciate your call, Captain. I'm in your debt
The Commandant ends his transmission as John sits back in his chair, deeply concerned about this latest development.
LTCMDR. T'MIR: Well, that certainly raised more questions than it answered.
And as we push in on Martin's troubled face, we...
JUMP CUT TO:
EXT. EDGE OF SOL SYSTEM
Taskforce Beta led by the U.S.S. Yorktown is at station keeping.
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. YORKTOWN
Yellow lights are flashing as the crew are at their stations.
LT. JONES: Nothing on long range sensors Captain.
Captain Smith sit back in the Captain's chair.
CAPT. SMITH: Inform the Flagship of our findings.
LT. JONES: Aye, Captain.
JUMP CUT TO:
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
LT. MASON: Captain, we've just received a transmission from the Yorktown so far nothing on long range sensors but they're maintaining sensor scans.
CAPT. MARTIN: Very well then Commander Ro you've got the bridge and have my daughter beam over and report to my ready room.
CMDR. RO: Aye, sir.
JUMP CUT TO
INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
Captain Martin sits at his desk as the doors chimed.
CAPT. MARTIN: Come.
Doors opened and Lieutenant Tina Martin enters.
LT. MARTIN: You wanted to see me sir?
CAPT. MARTIN: It's about Red Squad.
LT. MARTIN: What about them?
CAPT. MARTIN: what can you tell me about them.
Tina sit in front of the desk.
LT. MARTIN: Only what I heard during my time at Starfleet Academy dad, those guys are the best. They're the only people I know who aren't afraid of the Romulans. 
CAPT. MARTIN: Why's that?
Tina doesn't understand this line of questioning.
LT. MARTIN: I don't know. They're not scared of anything, I guess.
John absorbs this news, which means more to him than it does to Tina.
CAPT. MARTIN: I'd like to meet some of these cadets. You think you could introduce me to one of them?
Tina looks surprised that her father would make such a request.
LT. MARTIN: I'm sorry. I can't do that, sir. (tries to explain) The names of Red Squad members are supposed to be secret.
But John's not about to let his daughter off the hook so easily.
CAPT. MARTIN: Lieutenant, you are obviously under the mistaken impression that I'm asking a favor. I want a name, and I want it now. And that is an order. Understood, Lieutenant Martin? 
Tina, caught between a rock and a hard place, nods reluctantly.
LT. MARTIN: Yes, sir.
JUMP CUT TO
INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
Captain Martin sits at his desk as the doors chimed.
CAPT. MARTIN: Come.
Doors opened and in walks a confident, nineteen- to twenty-year-old Starfleet cadet, JOHNNY MADDEN. Madden comes to attention.
CADET MADDEN: Cadet Johnny Madden reporting as ordered, Captain. 
CAPT. MARTIN [looks down at PADD]: Johnny Ryan Madden, Starfleet Service number C nine five three oh four six nine-nine four two seven. A third year student at Starfleet Academy with a specialty in tactical operations.
CADET MADDEN; Yes, sir.
Madden looks pretty proud of himself. He's glad to have come to John's attention.
CAPT. MARTIN [re: PADD]: Cadet, I have been reviewing a record of Red Squad activities on the night of the twenty third. The night of the power outage. 
Cadet Madden is caught off guard.
CADET MADDEN: Record, sir? We were told that there was not going to be any written record.
CAPT. MARTIN: Are you contradicting me, Cadet? 
Madden is confused. He's one of the brightest kids in his class and he's not used to getting called onto the carpet.
CADET MADDEN: No, sir.
CAPT. MARTIN: Good. Now who told you there wasn't to be a written record? 
CADET MADDEN: Our briefing officer. 
But before he could press any hard Admiral Leyton enters.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: You're dismissed Cadet.
Cadet Madden leaves.
CAPT. MARTIN: Admiral I was trying to figure out what was Red Squad doing.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: I haven't been getting a lot of sleep lately. Too much to do. 
CAPT. MARTIN [pointedly]: Maybe you need a vacation.
Leyton turns to John.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: I'm afraid I owe you an apology, John. 
CAPT. MARTIN: The way I see it, you owe a lot of people an apology.
Martin's quiet tone belies his disappointment at Leyton. Leyton's response is equally controlled. These are two professional soldiers with an enormous amount of respect for each other and they're both determined to keep their emotions in check.
VICE ADM. LEYTON (shakes his head): I wish I could've told you the truth from the beginning. But somehow I suspected we wouldn't see eye-to-eye on this thing.
CAPT. MARTIN: Then why did you bring me here? 
VICE ADM. LEYTON [simply]: Because I needed someone who knew how to fight Romulans. And that's you. (a beat) And I suppose on some level I hoped that once you saw what we were accomplishing, you'd join us. (a beat) You always had a strong sense of
duty.
CAPT. MARTIN: My duty is to protect the Federation. 
VICE ADM. LEYTON: That's what we're trying to do. 
CAPT. MARTIN: What you're trying to do is seize control of Earth and place it under military rule!
VICE ADM. LEYTON: If that's what it takes to stop the Romulans.
John makes one last attempt to get Leyton to see the irony in what he's doing.
CAPT. MARTIN: So you're willing to destroy paradise in order to save it. 
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Remember when we were on the Okinawa fighting the Tzenkethi? That time when I wanted to take the ship into an asteroid belt to chase down those three raiders.
CAPT. MARTIN: Both me and Sisko told you that it was an unnecessary risk. 
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Without the chain of command, Starfleet would cease to function
and we wouldn't stand a chance against our enemies. [driving home his point] I'm still your commanding officer. And now more than ever, I need you to respect my authority.
CAPT. MARTIN: And I cannot do that! Not this time. 
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Then as of now, I'm relieving you of your post as temporary head of Earth Security and sending the Enterprise to the Atalia sector, go home John you don't belong here.
Leyton EXITS....
JUMP CUT TO:
EXT. WARP SPACE
Enterprise is on course for the Atalia sector.
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE - CONTINUOUS
Martin, Ro, Mason, Kaye, Sito, and T'Mir.
LT. SITO: At present speed, we will arrive at the Atalia system in thirty-seven hours.
Martin nods -- he appears subdued. Sito looks at him with concern. She steps over to his side.
LT. SITO [quietly]: Captain, I'm going for a walk in the arboretum. I wouldn't mind some company.
John glances at her, considers the offer, then nods.
CAPT. MARTIN: You've got the bridge Ro.
INT. ARBORETUM, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE - CONTINUOUS
Both Captain Martin and Lieutenant Sito are walking through the arboretum.
SITO: Are you alright John?
John looks at her.
JOHN: It just that this whole situation with the Admiral has me considered he wants to overthrow my cousin and insert himself as President.
SITO: John, he planned this the whole time we've got to stop him.
John considers this.
CAPT. MARTIN [tapped combadge]: Martin to bridge alter course take us back to Earth maximum warp.
They leave the arboretum.
JUMP CUT TO:
EXT. EDGE OF THE SOL SYSTEM
A burst of light as the Enterprise emerges from warp and her impulse engines engage.
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
Captain Martin sits n the Captain's chair.
LT. KAYE: We've secured from warp sir.
LT. MASON: Sir, we're being hailed by the Lakota. They're ordering us to disengage our impulse engines, and prepare to be boarded.
LT. SITO: They've raised their shields and powered up their phasers. (grim) Looks like they won't take no for an answer.
As the crew reacts, we...
JUMP CUT TO:
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. LAKOTA
Transparent viewer shows the Enterprise approaching.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Report?
CAPT. BENTEEN: The Enterprise is on approach she's had yet to lower her deflectors.
STARFLEET TACTICAL OFFICER: Phasers are powered and armed.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Now let's see how well you are under pressure John.
JUMP CUT TO:
EXT. EDGE OF THE SOL SYSTEM
As the Enterprise approaches the waiting Lakota.
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
As before.
LT. MASON: The Lakota's targeting their weapons on our warp engines.
LTCMDR. JAMES: They're bluffing. That's a Federation ship. They're not going to fire on us.
LT. SITO: I sure hope you're right Commander.
CAPT. MARTIN: Maintain course.
LT. MASON: We're in weapons range.
CAPT. MARTIN: Raise deflectors.
Just then.
JUMP CUT TO:
EXT. EDGE OF THE SOL SYSTEM
The Lakota opens fire with a volley of phaser fire, which lashes against the Enterprise's deflectors.
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
As the Bridge is rocked and some consoles spark.
CAPT. MARTIN: Damage report!
LT. MASON: Port deflectors down to 60%!
LTCMDR. JAMES: Someone's been upgrading the Lakota's weapons. That's a lot of firepower for an Excelsior-class ship. 
CMDR. RO: Do we run?
LTCMDR. JAMES: If they've been tinkering with the weapons, who knows what they've done to the warp drive.
Captain Martin considers his options for a beat, then...
CAPT. MARTIN: Hail them.
LT. MASON [off console]: No response.
The ship shakes again. A crewman goes down. Langford goes to help him.
LT. SITO: They're trying to disable our engines. 
DR. LANGFORD: Let's go. We've got to get you to the Medical Bay.
LTCMDR. JAMES: What do we do sir?
CAPT. MARTIN [grim]: We fight.
The Enterprise shakes as it's struck by another volley from the Lakota.
JUMP CUT TO:
EXT. EDGE OF THE SOL SYSTEM
The Lakota continues to fire at the Enterprise as the Sovereign-Class vessel fires her phasers at the Lakota's deflectors as both vessels pummeled each other.
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. LAKOTA
STARFLEET TACTICAL OFFICER: The Enterprise's deflectors haven't gone down.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: How?
STARFLEET TACTICAL OFFICER: I'm not sure Admiral but it seems that they've had their deflectors improved.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Captain, we're armed with quantum torpedoes?
Benteen turns to him.
CAPT. BENTEEN: Yes, sir.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Armed them.
JUMP CUT TO:
INT. SICKBAY, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
Doctor Langford is treating wounded officers as the ship rocks about from the weapons fire.
NURSE TAKAHASHI: She's got a broken arm.
DR. LANGFORD: Set it with the osteogenic stimulator.
NURSE TAKAHASHI: Got it doc.
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
There's visible damage on the Bridge.
LT. MASON: Deflectors are almost gone.
LT. SITO: We've got major systems failures on decks one, three and four.
CAPT. MARTIN: What about the Lakota?
LT. SITO: They're in worse shape.
LT. MASON: One photon ought a do it.
LTCMDR. JAMES: And kill everyone on board. 
LT. MASON: It's either them or us.
Commander Ro turns to Captain Martin.
CAPT. MARTIN: Jack, hail them one more time all subspace channels.
LT. MASON: Channel open sir.
JUMP CUT TO:
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. LAKOTA
CAPT. MARTIN [com voice]: This is John Martin Captain of the Enterprise we're both damaged but you're much worse then we are at the moment, why don't you disengage your weapons and deflectors and surrender''
Admiral Leyton remains firm.
CAPT. MARTIN [com voice]: Erika, this me you're talking to I know you're loyal to the Admiral but Elizabeth wouldn't act solidly base on what happened at the Federation Embassy, and I know you've got quantum torpedoes armed and ready to fire
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Don't listen to him.
Captain Benteen turns to him.
CAPT. BENTEEN: Admiral!
VICE ADM. LEYTON: I'm in charge of this mission, commander! I will not surrender or stand trial for following direct orders. I'm the one they'll hold responsible, not you! I'm dead either way.
Benteen looks at him.
CAPT. BENTEEN: I won't let you endanger this ship because you're afraid to face the consequences!
Admiral Leyton looks at Benteen.
VICE ADM. LEYTON: Are you questioning my orders, commander? 
CAPT. BENTEEN: No, sir. I am relieving you of command. Remove Adm. Leyton from the bridge. Now!
Two security officers take Admiral Leyton off the bridge as Benteen walks over to the Captain's chair and activates the com.
CAPT. BENTEEN [to com]: Lakota, to Enterprise the Lakota surrenders. I say again, the Lakota surrenders. We are returning control of Earth to its local government.
INT. MAIN BRIDGE, U.S.S. ENTERPRISE
Captain Martin leans back in the Captain's chair relieved that he doesn't have to give the order to destroy the Lakota.
CAPT. MARTIN [to com]: Enterprise acknowledged surrender Benteen glad you're still on our side Erika, standby to receive both medical and engineering assistance.
He ends the com chat as Commander Ro turns to him.
CMDR. RO: It looks as if we won.
John looks over at her.
CAPT. MARTIN [sighs]: No, we've achieved the mission objective. It is not a victory. Too many on both sides had to die for it.
Commander Ro looks at him.
EXT. SOL SYSTEM, JUPITER
Two tow tugs approach the damaged Lakota as the Enterprise heads off to its next adventure.
[END OF ACT FOUR, FADE OUT, ENDING CREDITS]
==Cast==
===Main Cast===
Character 	Actor(s) 	Rank 	Position
John Martin 	Jarvis Davidson 	Captain 	Commanding Officer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Ro Laren 	Felecia Linkous 	Commander 	Executive Officer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Jack Mason 	Kevin Regan 	Lieutenant 	Chief Tactical/Security Officer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Courtney James	Ferne Myers 	Lieutenant Commander	Chief Engineer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Peter Langford	Jacob Elliot 	Lieutenant Commander	Chief Medical Officer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Jamie Kaye 	Delena "Dee" Lusk	Lieutenant 	Chief Conn Officer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Sito Jaxa 	Sadie Waymire 	Lieutenant 	Chief Operations Officer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
T'Mir 	Becky Elliot 	Lieutenant Commander	Chief Science Officer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
===Guest Stars===
Character 	Actor(s)	Rank 	Position
Harris Payne 	TBA 	Lieutenant 	Assistance Chief Engineer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Kayla Mackenzie 	TBA 	Chief Petty Officer 	Transporter Chief, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Laurel Takahashi	TBA 	Lieutenant 	Assistance Chief Medical Officer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Peter Johnson 	TBA 	Lieutenant 	Security Officer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Ethan Novakovich	TBA 	Crewmen second class	Science division, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Elizabeth Cutler	TBA 	Crewmen first class 	entomologist, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Sean Hansen 	TBA 	Lieutenant Commander	Science Officer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
Elisa Sheridan 	TBA 	Lieutenant 	Assistance Chief Science Officer, U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E
===Special Guest Stars===
Character 	Actor(s) 	Rank 	Position
Danielle Martin 	TBA 	N/A 	Federation President
Jean-Luc Picard 	Josh Irwin 	Vice Admiral 	Commanding Officer, U.S.S. Stargazer NCC-82893
James Leyton 	TBA 	Vice Admiral 	Starfleet Flag Officer
Elizabeth Shelby	TBA 	Captain 	Commanding Officer, U.S.S. Excelsior NCC-77246
Tina Martin 	TBA 	Lieutenant 	Chief conn officer, U.S.S. Luna
Jessica Smith 	Ashley Kalfas	Captain 	Commanding Officer, U.S.S. Yorktown NCC-1717-A
T'Var 	TBA 	Lieutenant Commander 	Executive Officer, U.S.S. Yorktown NCC-1717-A
Nikki Caetano 	TBA 	Lieutenant Junior Grade	Navigational Officer, U.S.S. Yorktown NCC-1717-A
Paul Erickson 	TBA 	Ensign 	Chief Helm Officer, U.S.S. Yorktown NCC-1717-A
Sara Jones 	TBA 	Lieutenant 	Chief Security/Weapons Officer, U.S.S. Yorktown NCC-1717-A
Anthony Thrope 	TBA 	Lieutenant Commander 	Chief Engineer, U.S.S. Yorktown NCC-1717-A
Ashley Peterson 	TBA 	Lieutenant Commander 	Chief Medical Officer, U.S.S. Yorktown NCC-1717-A
Erika Benteen 	TBA 	Captain 	Commanding Officer, U.S.S. Lakota
==Trivia Notes==
===Background Information===
*Inspired by Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Season 4 episodes "Homefront" and "Paradise Lost"
*Commander T'Mir using her knowledge of Romulan technology.
*The Clear Skies character Captain Azuri Sull was mentioned in the episode.
*First appearance of Federation President Danielle Martin.