Balance of Terror

Balance of Terror is the fifth episode of Star Trek: New Voyages Season 1.
==Plot==
The Enterprise battles a Romulan starship suspected of destroying outposts near the Neutral Zone. 
==Script Chapters==
===Teaser===
FADE IN
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
Enterprise is at impulse speed.
CAPT. BRANSON'S (voice over): Captain's Log Stardate 1709.1, After a lengthy patrol along the Romulan Neutral Zone, the Enterprise is heading towards Outpost Four after Starfleet lost contact with it hopefully this is just a communications issue and not something else
INT-USS ENTERPRISE CHAPEL
The crew is gathering for this special event.
CAPT. BRANSON'S (voice over, continuing): Also on a personal note I am looking forward to conducting a wedding of two of my officers
Captain Branson enters as he walks over to Lieutenant Williams who is working a camera.
LT. WILLIAMS: The ceremony will be carried on all viewing screens, sir. 
CAPT. BRANSON (smiles): Good.
Then the groom enters and is also wearing his dress uniform and is nervous about getting married as Captain Branson walks over to him. 
LT. TOMLINSON: Captain Branson sir? 
John puts his hand up. 
CAPT. BRANSON: At ease are you nervous Mister Tomlinson? 
LT. TOMLINSON: Y-Yes, sir but I'm going to love her with all my heart and I will by her side no matter what. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Let me tell you something you two are great for each other and I am happy for you both. 
Doctor Carlson walks over to him. 
DR. CARLSON (sotto): Call for you from the bridge. 
Captain Branson walks somewhere and toggles the com panel.
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Branson here.
LTCMDR. IVANOVA (com voice): Still no answer from Earth Outpost number two, Captain, and now number three's gone silent. 
Captain Branson turns to see the bride. 
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Maintain course to outpost four. Keep me informed. Branson out. 
He ends the call and then the wedding music starts as the bride Lieutenant Angela Martine who's wearing a bridal gown and is being escorted by Doctor Carlson, as Captain Branson is at the podium as they're standing side by side. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Since the days of the first wooden vessels, all shipmasters have had one happy privilege. That of uniting two people in the bonds of matrimony. We are gathered here today with you, Angela Martine, and you, Robert Tomlinson, in the sight of your fellows, in accordance with our laws and our many beliefs so that you may pledge your....
Then the red lights start flashing and klaxons blares as the com activates. 
COMPUTER VOICE: All decks, red alert. Repeat, all decks, red alert 
The crew scatters to head to their battle stations. 
CAPT. BRANSON (sighs): Just when I was getting to the best part of the wedding.
Then Lieutenant Commander Ivanova's voice comes over the com.
 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA (com voice): Ivanova to Branson outpost four reports they're under attack by a space vessel, identity unknown
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Copy Z, I'm on my way. 
He leaves the Chapel. 
(END OF TEASER, FADE OUT)
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Theme Music:
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CAPTAIN'S OATH:
CAPT. BRANSON'S (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!
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STAR TREK: THE NEW VOYAGES
A STAR TREK FAN FILM PRODUCTION
======
Jarvis Davidson 
 as
Captain John Branson 
The Enterprise flies by a interstellar dust cloud. 
Felecia Linkous 
 as
Lieutenant Commander Zhasa Ivanova
The Enterprise approaching a nebula. 
Kevin Regan 
 as
Lieutenant Junior Grade Jack Mason 
The Enterprise approaches a planet. 
Ferne Myers 
 as
Lieutenant Stephanie Williams 
The Enterprise flies by a planetary system 
Sadie Waymire 
 as
Lieutenant Junior Julia Smith
Delena "Dee" Lusk
 as
Ensign Kara Carlson
The Enterprise flies next to a Federation Dreadnought. 
Jacob Elliot 
 as
Doctor Steven Carlson
The Enterprise departs from orbit. 
Becky Elliot 
 as
Lieutenant Junior Grade T'Lar
The Enterprise pauses as her warp engines power up and she leaps into warp as particle streams emit from the backs of her nacelles. 
CREATED BY:
JARVIS DAVISON & JEREMY REGAN
===Act One===
FADE IN
EXT-WARP TUNNEL
The Enterprise speeds towards Outpost Four.
CAPT. BRANSON'S (voice over): Captain's Log Stardate 1709.2, While on an uneventful patrol along the Federation-Romulan Neutral Zone border, we received emergency call from outpost 4. The U.S.S. Enterprise is moving to investigate and assist
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
The turbo-lift doors opened and Captain Branson walks onto the bridge and he walks over to the command chair. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Situation report Z?
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: Julia can brief you on the situation Lieutenant?
Commander Ivanova gets up and walks over to the First officer station.
LTJG. SMITH: Outpost Four reported under attack, sir. Then message terminates. 
Captain Branson walks in front the helm and ops stations sliding his two fingers across the top of the console's edge. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Any word from Two or Three? 
LTJG. SMITH: Two has not responded to our hails. And Three has also gone silent. 
Captain Branson sits in the command chair. 
CAPT. BRANSON: What's our speed?
ENS. CARLSON: Warp factor 5 sir.
CAPT. BRANSON: Increase speed to warp factor 6.5 Mister Mitchell what's our ETA to Outpost Four?
LTJG. MITCHELL: Position, eight minutes from Outpost four at this velocity, sir. 
Captain Branson toggles the com panel on the right side of the command chair.
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Engineering we need more speed if we're going to reach Outpost four.
LT. WILLIAMS (com voice): Aye, sir we'll give you all she's got and more
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Thank you Steph.
He ends the com call and turns to Lieutenant Smith.
CAPT. BRANSON: Did Outpost 4 give anything at all on the attacking vessel, Lieutenant? 
LTJG. SMITH: None at all sir.
Then Lieutenant Mitchell chimes in about the attacks. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: I'm guessing it's the same attackers, sir. The Romulans. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Let's not make guesses just yet. I'd like to avoid a war if I can. Maintain course. Alert me when we're two minutes out. Z you've got the bridge. 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: Aye, sir. 
Captain Branson gets up from the command chair and enters the ready room, as Commander Ivanova sits in the command chair worried about her friend. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM (RED ALERT)
Captain Branson is reviewing what information Starfleet has on the Romulan Star Empire, when the com system activates. 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA (com voice): Captain Branson report to the bridge
Captain Branson leaves the ready room.
CUT TO:
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Enterprise emerges from warp.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Ensign Carlson reports.
ENS. CARLSON: Enterprise is in position and holding, sir. Just out of weapons range. 
Lieutenant T'Lar reports. 
LTJG. T'LAR: Detecting a fair amount of debris, but no sign of any attacking ship. 
Captain Branson sits down in the command chair. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Let's triple check. Julia, see if there are any other Federation ships in the vicinity, in case we need backup. 
Lieutenant Smith checks her console and reports. 
LTJG. SMITH: The USS Yorktown sir.
CAPT. BRANSON: That's Jessica's vessel.
Then she has two fingers on her ear piece and reports. 
LTJG. SMITH: Sir, we're being hailed. It's the outpost. Audio only. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Let's hear it. 
She inputs commands into the communication console and then Commander Al-Salah's voice comes over the com.
CMDR. AL-SALAH (com voice, static): Outpost four. Do you read me, Enterprise? This is Commander Hansen Al-Salah
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Branson here, we're minutes away, Hansen. What's your status? 
CMDR. AL-SALAH (com voice, static): Outposts two, three, and eight are gone
John closes his eyes to say a silent prayer for those who were killed on those three outposts.
CMDR. AL-SALAH (com voice, static): Unknown weapon. Completely destroyed, even though we were alerted. Had our deflector shield on maximum. Hit by enormous power. First attack blew our deflector shield. If they hit us again with our deflector shield gone. Do you read me, Enterprise?
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Al-Salah What hit you, Commander? What vessel? Can you identify? 
CMDR. AL-SALAH (com voice, static): Negative. It all happened so fast. And it seems to have disappeared somehow. Switching to visual. Enterprise, can you see? 
(The viewscreen shows a man in a wrecked room, surrounded by fires and debris, as Captain Branson slowly gets up from his command chair shocked at what's he seeing.)
CUT TO:
INT-OUTPOST FOUR COMMAND CENTER (RED ALERT, BATTLE DAMAGED)
[ALARMS BLARING] 
CMDR. AL-SALAH: Enterprise, can you see it? My command post here. We're a mile deep on an asteroid. Almost solid iron. And even through our deflectors, it did this. Can you see? 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Captain Branson still standing.
CAPT. BRANSON: We see it Commander was your son with you?
INT-OUTPOST FOUR, COMMAND POST (RED ALERT)
CMDR. AL-SALAH: No, thank god no.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Everyone is shocked at seeing the battle damaged outpost.
CAPT. BRANSON: Commander what do you have on the intruder?
CUT TO:
INT-OUTPOST FOUR COMMAND POST (RED ALERT, BATTLE DAMAGED)
CMDR. AL-SALAH: No identification. No answer to our challenge. Only a glimpse of it. Then they fired something at us, some form of high-energy plasma. Fantastic power. And then the whole vessel disappeared. But it's out there somewhere. Our sensors show that much. Enterprise, something coming on our viewing screen, coming at us fast. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: Tie us in.
CMDR. AL-SALAH (viewer): Tying in now
(A ship appears from nowhere on the screen) 
CAPT. BRANSON: Jack do we have phasers?
LTJG. MASON: We're still out of range sir.
CAPT. BRANSON (tenses up): Commander do you have phasers we're still out of range. 
CMDR. AL-SALAH (viewer): Negative phasers gone weapon crew are dead 
Captain Branson quickly turns to Lieutenant Smith. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Julia hail them. Warn that ship off. 
LTJG. SMITH: Trying to sir but they're not responding! 
[Transparent viewer shows the forward section of the warbird as it powers something up and sends it out, as the viewscreen switches to Hansen as the outpost is hit, then just bright light.]
CUT TO:
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Enterprise is facing Outpost four as it erupts into a fiery explosion. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
[KLAXONS BLARE]
[Back to the attacking ship, which then vanishes.]
LTJG. T'LAR: Interesting how they became visible for just a moment. Perhaps necessary to use weapons. 
[Captain Branson still standing shocked by what just happened.]
LTJG. MITCHELL: Sir, we have to take them out. 
CAPT. BRANSON: We have to have visual in order to engage the enemy Lieutenant you know that, T'Lar can we find away to engage them before they decide to attack another 
Federation outpost? 
LTJG. T'LAR: Analyzing their movement patterns now. Give me a moment. 
Then Ensign Carlson reports. 
ENS. CARLSON: Sir? Incoming warp signature. 
LTJG. SMITH: We're being hailed its one of ours its the Yorktown.
CAPT. BRANSON: She was on the side of the Neutral Zone who's hailing us?
LTJG. SMITH: Its Captain Jessica Smith.
[Captain Branson is surprised.]
CAPT. BRANSON: Julia on screen.
CUT TO:
INT-USS YORKTOWN MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
The crew are at their stations. 
CAPT. SMITH: Enterprise, this is Captain Jessica Smith of the USS Yorktown, offering assistance.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
[Captain Branson is standing in front of the viewer with his hands behind his back.]
CAPT. BRANSON: Jessica I thought you had a date on the other side of the Zone.
CAPT. SMITH (viewer): We received Outpost Four's distress signal and pushed warp eight for as long as we safely could we have any idea who did this?
LTJG. MITCHELL: We may have an idea of who it is. 
CAPT. BRANSON: We're trying to determine, conclusively.
Then T'Lar reports. 
LTJG. T'LAR: Captains, I have a blip on the motion sensor. Could be the intruder. 
INT-USS YORKTOWN MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
CMDR. T'VAR: Same here ma'am it seems they are heading to the Neutral zone on a course of one eleven mark fourteen. 
CAPT. SMITH: Home, its heading back to Romulus. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
LTJG. MITCHELL: Sir, it's the Romulans. We have to take them out. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Ty, We can't enter the Neutral Zone. Starfleet is clear on this. We do, that's considered an act of war. 
LTJG. MITCHELL (annoyed): They've destroyed three of our outposts. That's not an act of war? 
CAPT. BRANSON: We attack the Romulans without authorization, the Federation will consider us expendable. 
CAPT. SMITH (viewer): We do have another option 
CAPT. BRANSON: Jessica what's the plan? 
CAPT. SMITH (viewer): We can shadow the ship. Follow a parallel course, to buy us some time
LTJG. MITCHELL: Don't you mean interception course ma'am? 
CAPT. SMITH (viewer): No
INT-USS YORKTOWN MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
CAPT. SMITH: The Captain is right That would be a declaration of war. But if Enterprise and Yorktown match course and speed with the enemy ship, exactly, move for move, they might think we're just a reflection. Echoes on their sensors. That way we won't lose them while we wait to hear back from Starfleet.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Captain Branson turns to Lieutenant Smith.
CAPT. BRANSON: I like that idea I'll have Julia inform Admiral Nogura at Starbase 98, in the meantime how about you come aboard and we'll compare notes. 
Jessica nods and the transmission ends.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Enterprise and Yorktown are side by side.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM (YELLOW ALERT)
Captain Branson is reviewing the information on the Romulans when the doors chimed.
CAPT. BRANSON: Come.
Doors opened and Lieutenant Smith enters.
LTJG. SMITH: You got a minute?
John looks up at his sister in law.
CAPT. BRANSON (smiles): Sure, what's up?
JULIA: Its Tyson I am worried about him.
JOHN: Me to he's got some sort of grudge against the Romulans for?
Julia sits in the chair in front of the desk.
JULIA: He's got some family history is great-great grandfather fought in the war with the Romulan Star Empire in the late 22nd century.
John leans forward.
JOHN: Julia should we be worried that he could start a war?
JULIA: I hope not John.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
Both vessels are next to each other.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
The MSD mission ops console screen shows an EM signal.
LTJG. SMITH: There's a comet ahead, and its trail is reflecting a signal on an unused EM frequency. It is encoded. T'Lar is trying to decipher. But we think it might be from the enemy ship. 
Lieutenant T'Lar leads them over to the science console. 
LTJG. T'LAR: They cut off transmission, but we managed to make a copy. I think it's the feed from their bridge, sir. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Let's see it. 
Transparent viewer shows the bridge of the Romulan vessel seeing the Romulans, much to the shock of everyone as the camera pushes in on T'Lar.
(END OF ACT ONE, FADE OUT)
===Act Two===
FADE IN
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
Both vessels are next to each other as a comet flies by.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM (YELLOW ALERT)
Jessica materialized on the transporter pad.
CAPT. BRANSON: Captain Smith welcome aboard the Enterprise.
CAPT. SMITH: Glad to be back aboard her.
They hug each other.
CAPT. SMITH: I'm still jealous.
CUT TO:
INT-USS ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM (YELLOW ALERT)
Captain Branson, Commander Ivanova, Lieutenant T'Lar, Lieutenant Smith, Lieutenant Mason, Ensign Carlson, Doctor Carlson, and Captain Smith are around the table.
CAPT. BRANSON: Well, we're not gonna get out of this problem by not talking about it. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: I'd like to hear what T'Lar has to say for herself. 
T'Lar has her arms crossed. 
LTJG. T'LAR: I assure you Mister Mitchell I had no idea of the similarities between my people and the Romulans. 
CAPT. SMITH: It does seem suspicious. Not the similarity itself, but that we should discover it right now. 
CAPT. BRANSON: What are you suggesting? 
CAPT. SMITH: Well, it's no secret that the Vulcans and the humans are in alliance. Perhaps the Romulans allowed us to see that transmission in hopes that it would sow discord among us. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Even if we ignore the pointy-eared elephant in the room, we have another problem to worry about. We're going to lose our prey. 
ENS. CARLSON: The Romulan vessel will cross the Neutral Zone in about an hour. 
CAPT. SMITH: I don't think we can wait, we have a choice to make here. 
LT. T'LAR: Say we do make that choice. Their plasma weapon can still slice through our deflectors. That, in conjunction with their cloaking device, gives them a tactical advantage. Even against our ships working in tandem. 
DR. CARLSON: Working in tandem for what? To destroy them? Say we're lucky enough to do that. Isn't that, technically, an act of war? 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Hate to say it Doc but they started this fight by attacking our outposts. 
DR. CARLSON: This isn't a schoolyard Ty. Billions of lives are at stake here. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Which is why I want to hear everyone's opinion on the subject. 
DR. CARLSON: I vote against war. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: So do I. I just think that means killing Romulans. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Captain your thoughts? 
CAPT. SMITH: What happens when they return to Romulus and tell their leaders that the Federation won't even fight back? I'm starting to lean toward attack. If we allow them to destroy our outposts with no repercussions, we run the risk of war. 
CAPT. BRANSON: I have to believe there's another way. 
LT. T'LAR: I think we should attack. 
Everyone turns to T'Lar. 
CAPT. BRANSON: T'Lar? 
LT. T'LAR: Sir, if the Romulans are an offshoot of my Vulcan blood, which I believe, then attack is indeed the only option. Vulcan, like Earth, had its aggressive colonizing period. Savage, even by human standards. If the Romulans retain this martial philosophy, then weakness is something we dare not show. 
LTJG. MITCHELL (smirks): Well, if T'Lar and I can agree, then there's hope for all of us. 
CAPT. BRANSON: We don't all agree. 
Then Jessica comes up with an idea.
CAPT. SMITH: Hold a moment. Captain Branson, that comet we're approaching might just be the alternative that you've been looking for. T'Lar, can you put up the trajectory on screen, please? 
T'Lar inputs commands into the PADD as the monitor changes to shows the comet. 
CAPT. SMITH: Currently, the Romulan ship is headed for the comet's tail. Now, I know that they're invisible and we can't lock on to their exact position. But the second they go through that, particle distortion will reveal their location. 
CAPT. BRANSON: We'll be boxing them in. 
CAPT. SMITH: They'll be pendent and we'll be able to get weapons locked. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Good plan Captain. 
CUT TO:
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Enterprise and Yorktown are side by side but split off to flank the Romulan vessel as we hear Captain Branson's log entry.
CAPT. BRANSON'S (voice over): Captain's Personal Log Stardate 1709.2. Per Captain Smith's plan, we are mounting a pincer move. Our two ships will slowly drift closer as the Romulans remain unaware. When they pass through the comet's tail giving us their exact location, we will be in weapons range
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
[DISTANCE CHATTER.]
CAPT. BRANSON'S (voice over, continuing): Smith, however, has agreed to my plan to neutralize, not destroy, the Bird-of-Prey, leaving open the possibility of dialogue. And yet I remain concerned this brash, young Starfleet captain follows her own rules
CAPT. BRANSON: Kara maintain course and speed.
ENS. CARLSON: I'll keep my foot over the gas just in case. 
EXT-COMET TRAIL
The Enterprise continues through the comet trail.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
LTJG. T'LAR: Still tracking the gravitational presence of the Romulans. Their trajectory remains unchanged.
CUT TO:
INT-USS YORKTOWN MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
CAPT. SMITH: Holding position, Enterprise just let us know when you see them.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
ENS. CARLSON: We're passing though the tail now sir.
Captain Branson turns in his command chair to face the viewer.
CAPT. BRANSON: Any second now.
Transparent viewer shows the debris then just open space as everyone is a bit confused.
INT-USS YORKTOWN MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
CAPT. SMITH: Something isn't right.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
LTJG. T'LAR: The Captain is right we should of seen them by now.
INT-USS YORKTOWN MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
CAPT. SMITH: Enterprise, I don't like this.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (YELLOW ALERT)
T'Lar's monitor shows the Romulan signature.
LTJG. T'LAR: Reading gravitational signature again. It's behind the Yorktown.
John quickly gets up from his command chair.
CAPT. BRANSON: JESSICA GET OUT OF THERE!
INT-USS YORKTOWN MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. SMITH: RED ALERT!
Lights dimmed and klaxons blare.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: Red alert Kara get us over there as fast as you can.
Ensign Carlson gets to work on her station.
INT-USS YORKTOWN MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. SMITH: Evasive maneuver Delta Seven!
Ensign Larson works on the helm station.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Yorktown quickly maneuvers as the Romulan fires its disruptors a few hits the ship's deflectors, as the ship moves quickly.
INT-USS YORKTOWN MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. SMITH: Sam get us behind them.
ENS. LARSON: Aye, Captain.
He works to get the ship behind the Romulan vessel.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
As the Yorktown attempts to get behind the Romulan warbird it fires off its plasma torpedo and it struck the forward section of the Yorktown causing massive damage to the Sombra-Class vessel.
INT-USS YORKTOWN MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Huge shower of sparks erupt from the ceiling as the crew are thrown from their stations, and Captain Smith is thrown from her command chair.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Romulan vessel flies off as the Yorktown is drifting as explosions erupt from where the vessel took the bad hit as debris floats from the vessel.
INT-USS YORKTOWN MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Klaxons blare as coolant spews from the ceiling as console screens flicker and lights flicker as Captain Smith gets up from the floor.
CAPT. SMITH (to com): Enterprise fire phasers now.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): We're out of range we might hit you on accident Jess.
INT-USS YORKTOWN MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. SMITH (to com): Or you could draw their fire.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: Jack fire phasers.
Lieutenant Mason inputs commands into the tactical console and presses the firing button.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Enterprise fires off a spread of phaser bolts as the Romulan vessel flies by the damaged Yorktown, as one of the blots scores a hit.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
LTJG. MASON (smiles): We just clipped their wing.
CAPT. BRANSON: Good shooting Jack, Julia hail them I want them focused on us. 
LTJG. SMITH: Aye, sir hailing now. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Keep firing. 
Jack inputs commands into the tactical console as T'Lar reports.
LTJG. T'LAR: Detecting a power increase they are getting ready to fire!
Captain Branson tenses up.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The forward section of the Romulan vessel powers up and a green energy cloud plums and lances towards the Enterprise.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Transparent viewer shows this.
CAPT. BRANSON: ALL HANDS BRACE FOR IMPACT!
Everyone on the bridge braces.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The plasma torpedo struck the underside of the saucer section causing the deflectors to flicker.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
WHUMPH! Shower of sparks erupts from the ceiling and one of the consoles, as John lost his balance but grabs the rail. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Damage report? 
LTJG. MASON: Ventral saucer section deflectors down to forty-seven percent. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Damage to Decks Six, Seven, and Nine. And weapon control is down. 
CAPT. BRANSON (confused): That should have destroyed us. How are we still standing? 
LTJG. T'LAR: They were shooting at a distance. Perhaps their plasma weapon is less effective when fired long range. 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: So the greater the distance the less energy it has to destroy its target.
Captain Branson turns to T'Lar.
CAPT. BRANSON: What's the status of the Yorktown?
Screen shows the damage to the Yorktown WARNING LIFE SUPPORT FAILURE IMMINENT as T'Lar reports.
LTJG. T'LAR: They have sustained heavy damage their life support is failing.
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Branson to transporter. Get the pads warmed up, Chief. We're about to test their upper limits.
John leaves the bridge as Commander Ivanova sits in the Captain's chair.
CUT TO:
INT-USS ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTER ROOM (RED ALERT)
Captain Jessica Smith and her senior staff are on the transporter pad as some are injured as a medical team helps them off the transporter pads, and take them to sickbay.
CAPT. SMITH: We need to talk now.
They leave the transporter room.
CUT TO:
INT-USS ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM (RED ALERT)
The pair enters the room.
CAPT. SMITH: You hesitated John you didn't take the chance to fire on the enemy vessel.
John turns to face his wife.
CAPT. BRANSON: I couldn't take the risk of hitting the Yorktown Jessica you guys were crippled and in the line of fire!
Jessica walks up to him.
CAPT. SMITH: I thought you wanted to cripple the Romulan vessel!
CAPT. BRANSON: I still do want to cripple them but not at your expense!
Captain Branson paces about.
CAPT. BRANSON: You must not get it Jessica you were in the line of fire I couldn't take the chance of hitting the Yorktown.
Jessica calms down a bit.
CAPT. SMITH: I know so what are we going to do?
CAPT. BRANSON: I'm not sure with the Yorktown crippled and down for the count, the Enterprise is the only remaining vessel along this section of the Neutral Zone border.
Then the com does its boatswain whistle as John walks over to his desk and presses the com panel.
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Branson here go ahead.
LTCMDR. IVANOVA (com voice): Sir we're getting an encoded transmission from Admiral Heihachiro Nogura
Captain Branson turns to his wife and then back to the com panel.
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Patch to my ready room Z.
A few minutes later Rear Admiral Heihachiro Nogura appears on the screen.
REAR ADM. NOGURA (monitor): Captain Branson report
CAPT. BRANSON: We've engaged a Romulan warbird along the zone after the destruction of three of our outposts along the Zone sir, the Yorktown is badly damaged and adrifted but can be recovered.
REAR ADM. NOGURA (monitor): Course of Romulan vessel?
CAPT. SMITH: She's on a heading of one eleven mark one four she's returning to the Neutral Zone their homeworld of Romulus.
Nogura tenses up after hearing that.
REAR ADM. NOGURA (monitor): I'm dispatching a battlegroup of Starfleet vessels but it will be awhile before they reach your position
CAPT. BRANSON: We understand sir and in the meantime what do you want us to do?
REAR ADM. NOGURA (monitor): Continue trailing the Romulan vessel but make no attempts to enter the Neutral Zone
CAPT. BRANSON: Aye, sir.
Transmission ends.
CAPT. SMITH: So we're not going to cross the border?
CAPT. BRANSON: Per his orders Jessica.
They walks out of the ready room.
CUT TO:
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
They walk onto the bridge as Commander Ivanova vacates the command chair and assumes her station.
CAPT. BRANSON: T'Lar report?
LT. T'LAR: The vessel is still on course for Romulus.
Captain Branson turns to Julia.
CAPT. BRANSON: Julia open a channel to the Romulan vessel on subspace bands, and languages.
CAPT. SMITH: What are you doing?
He turns to his wife.
CAPT. BRANSON: I'm going to have a chat with the Romulan Commander.
LTJG. SMITH: Channel opened sir.
Captain Branson walks up to the transparent viewer.
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): This is Captain John Branson of the USS Enterprise. Our two cultures have been at war for 100 years. Long enough that we don't even question it. But I believe we can make another choice. Right now. I'm offering you a temporary cease-fire, so that we can talk. For the first time in 100 years.
Captain Branson does the throat slash gesture and she ends the transmission as Captain Smith walks over to her husband.
CAPT. SMITH: John there's no way this is going to work.
CAPT. BRANSON: It will Jess trust me.
Then Lieutenant Smith reports.
LTJG. SMITH: Captain we're being hailed by the Romulans.
Captain Branson looks at his wife then at the transparent viewer.
CAPT. BRANSON: On screen.
Transparent viewer shows the bridge of the Romulan vessel.
ROMULAN COMMANDER (transparent viewer): Captain Branson, its good to finally meet you
Everyone tenses up at the sight of the Romulan Commander.
(END OF ACT TWO, FADE OUT)
===Act Three===
FADE IN
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Captain Branson still facing the viewer.
CAPT. BRANSON: Commander. I know your ships attacked our outposts on the edge of the Neutral Zone. But I also know that our two cultures have been at war for generations without ever having been face-to-face. 
INT-ROMULAN BIRD OF PREY MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON (viewer): But I also know that our two worlds have been at war for over a decade, and we're both still paying the bills that they had piled up for decades long before you and me were even born
ROMULAN COMMANDER: Are peoples are indeed different Captain not sure if your words are a show of force or weakness or.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
The Romulan Commander is on the viewer as the bridge crew are tensed up wondering what the Romulan Commander is going to do. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER (viewer): A way of distracting us in time to make repairs and destroy my vessel, but I am interested in what you have to propose 
CAPT. BRANSON: Well your cloak is unstable that will leave you wide open to our weapons, and we'd blow you out of the sky and return to our side of the border before your people appear and blow us out of the water. 
INT-ROMULAN MAIN BRIDGE 
Transparent viewer shows the bridge of the Enterprise and Captain Branson. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER: Or? 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: Or, A cease-fire both our ships are damaged and our weapons are off-line, now we can sit here and allow you to return to the Romulan side of the zone and make fun of our people calling them weak and not ready for a war with the Star Empire. 
Sarah has her arms crossed. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER (viewer): A cease-fire?
CAPT. BRANSON: We both know that we're damaged and we can barely fight each other, you've already showed us what you can do with your brand new plasma torpedo launchers. 
INT-ROMULAN MAIN BRIDGE 
The Romulan Commander thinks. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER: Very well then two hours. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT) 
CAPT. BRANSON (nods): Two hours and Commander I'm glad we had a chance to chat. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER (viewer): Same here 
Transmission ends as Jessica looks at her husband. 
CAPT. SMITH: So that's it we're just going to let them repair their weapons and let them blow us out of the sky? 
John looks at her. 
CAPT. BRANSON: No, we're also going to be repairing our weapons and deflectors. 
As he's walking to his command chair Lieutenant Mitchell turns to him. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Captain. They are lying. Romulans can't be trusted. They shot Yorktown right in front of us. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Stand down Ty. 
He pushes more. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: YOU CAN'T LET THEM GET AWAY WITH THAT! 
CAPT. BRANSON (frustrated): STAND DOWN LIEUTENANT! Or I will have you removed from the bridge am I clear. 
LTJG. MITCHELL: Crystal sir. 
He turns back to his station. 
LTJG. T'LAR: Sensor readings suggest the Romulans have stopped forward movement. 
Jessica still standing next to her husband's command chair. 
CAPT. SMITH: I wonder what they're doing? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Hopefully the same thing that we are repairing our vessel. 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
Both the Romulan Commander and his first officer are working as the Sub-Lieutenant is a bit annoyed.
SUB-COMMANDER: A cease-fire? This is Federation weakness. Is it not the Romulan way to attack when we are given advantage like this? 
ROMULAN COMMANDER: We are engaged in a cease-fire, Sub-commander. We have two hours. Put all hands to repair our engines. If we do not, we will not make it back to Romulus. 
SUB-COMMANDER (annoyed): Sir, we should commit all hands to weapons repair. The Federation has given us the advantage. We can strike before this ridiculous cease-fire is completed. 
They walk away from ear shot. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER: This is your fourth mission, is it not, Sub-commander? 
SUB-COMMANDER: Third sir. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER: I served with your Uncle Tarqan during the Reman campaign, did you know that, Sub-commander? 
SUB-COMMANDER: I did. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER: His death was a great victory for Romulus. Yes, he was brave. His commander, however, was a fool. He forced him to fight after we'd lost weapons, and the only logical choice was retreat. He did not have to die.
SUB-COMMANDER: Sir? 
ROMULAN COMMANDER: His death was a waste. And it was stupid. It left us weaker. Now, I can say that because I'm old enough and I don't care what people think of me. Pride is not something we can afford. We look at the world clearly on my ship. We do not make choices based on ego. Engines first. Then, weapons. That is my order. Or are you so arrogant you think you know better than your Commander? 
SUB-COMMANDER: No, sir. 
ROMULAN COMMANDER: Good. 
He walks away as the Sub-Commander can't believe that his commanding officer isn't going to destroy the Enterprise.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN BORDER
The Enterprise remains at station keeping.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM/SITUATION ROOM (RED ALERT)
Captain Branson is thinking when the doors chimed. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Come. 
Doors opened and Commander Ivanova enters holding a PADD. 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA (re: PADD): A repair report from Commander Pierce. 
She hands it to him and reviews it. 
CAPT. BRANSON (re: PADD): How long till we have tactical systems? 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: He estimates that we'll have phasers in a few hours but he's having issues with the primary couplings that control the phasers. 
Captain Branson puts the PADD down as he is worried. 
CAPT. BRANSON: He gave us one hour for both vessels to complete our repairs. 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: You took a bold move to hail them John. 
He looks at his xo. 
CAPT. BRANSON: History 101 Z know your enemy and how to talk to him both me and Kyle learned that at the Academy, I've made it a point to remember that course even in this situation. 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: I hope we get back up soon. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Me too Z, me too. 
John tenses up a bit then the doors opened and Jessica walks into the ready room. 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: If you'll excuse me I'm going to give Steph a hand repairing the phasers. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Keep me posted. 
She nods and leaves as Jessica walks over to her husband's desk. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Are you going to yell at me some more about my command style? 
Jessica sits in the chair in front of the desk. 
JESSICA: No, I was surprised that you took a big risk contacting the Romulan vessel John. 
JOHN: I took the risk of doing that I know you want me to change tack, but pride is just not something we can afford. You want me to tell you that I wouldn't have tried to blow those Romulans out of the sky? 
JESSICA: Well, I would have. But it wasn't my call. Okay. We're here, now. And the truth is I don't know these Romulans can't be trusted. But I also don't know if they can. And neither do you. 
JOHN: Fair enough. 
JESSICA: I'd like to explore a backup plan. If you'll give me the resources. 
JOHN: I'm listening. 
JESSICA: Look, the Romulans just bought themselves some time. Sure, they can use that time to make repairs. But remember, they're on the edge of the Neutral Zone. They could also use it to call for reinforcements. 
John looks at her. 
JOHN: True, they could but the Romulan Commander gave his word that we'd have a two hour cease-fire. 
JESSICA: John, I'd like to suggest that we call for reinforcements as well. 
JOHN: Jessica Admiral Nogura has assured me that a battlegroup is on its way to us. 
JESSICA: What if I intercept them quickly and inform them of what's going on? 
JOHN: What do you need? 
JESSICA: Captain Branson I'd like to borrow a shuttle. 
CUT TO:
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
A class-F shuttle flies out of the shuttle bay and leaps into warp.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE WEAPONS CONTROL ROOM (RED ALERT)
Commander Ivanova and Lieutenant Williams are helping Lieutenant Commander Tomlinson and his staff get the weapons back on-line. 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: Try it now. 
Lieutenant Williams works at one of the consoles. 
LT. WILLIAMS: That's the one. This is where the auto repair was getting hung up. She's very fused. 
Commander Ivanova gets up from underneath one of the consoles just wearing her vest while her gold uniform jacket is on the console. 
LTCMDR. IVANOVA: I don't need to remind you that we have less than two hours to restore phaser control to working order. 
LT. WILLIAMS (sighs): I'm an engineer not a miracle worker Commander. 
Then Commander Tomlinson comes up with an idea. 
LTCMDR. TOMLINSON: Then we should try a bypass of the severed relays then Martine see if you can get a bypass to the secondary phaser couplings. 
LT. MARTINE (nods): Aye, sir.
Lieutenant Martine gets to work. 
CUT TO:
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT) 
CAPT. BRANSON: Time? 
LTJG. MITCHELL: We're almost at the time allotted.
LTJG. MASON: Weapons are still down sir.
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Branson to Weapons Control Room Status report?
LTCMDR. TOMLINSON (com voice): Working on it Captain, working on it
LTJG. SMITH: And mark.
Captain Branson gets up from the Captain's chair.
CAPT. BRANSON: Open a channel to the Romulan vessel.
Lieutenant Smith inputs commands into the communications console.
Transparent viewer changes to the bridge of the Romulan vessel. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Have you repaired your ship, Commander? 
INT-ROMULAN VESSEL MAIN BRIDGE
CMDR. R'LOK: Have you repaired yours, Captain? 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT) 
CAPT. BRANSON: Conventional wisdom suggests that our next move is to resume hostilities. To fight. You yourself told me that in your culture to do anything else would be a sign of weakness. But let me tell you a way in which humans are not weak. Our strength comes from our willingness to see a partner instead of an enemy. In our culture, that is an act of faith and strength, not a failure of character. Do Romulans have that kind of strength? 
INT-ROMULAN WARBIRD MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CMDR. R'LOK: I too tire of endless war.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
[INTERMITTENT BEEPING] 
[ALARM BLARING] 
[Everyone starts working on their console as the aft monitor shows: PERIMETER ALERT and shows a bunch of Romulan symbols.]
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The camera pushes back from the Enterprise as it shows the entire Romulan battlegroup emerge from warp one at a time. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT) 
Transparent viewer shows the entire Romulan battlegroup as the crew is tensed up and Captain Branson is shocked seeing this. 
(END OF ACT 3, FADE OUT)
===Act Four===
FADE IN
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER 
The Enterprise is facing down a Romulan battlegroup.
INT-ROMULAN BIRD OF PREY MAIN BRIDGE 
Screens show the Romulan battlegroup around the bird of prey as the Commander R'Lok is shocked by this. 
CMDR. R'LOK (shocked & surprised): Why is the fleet here? I did not call for them. 
ROMULAN SUB-COMMANDER: I alerted them of our situation, Commander. The Federation showed weakness. It is the Romulan way to strike. You were not going to. I took matters into my own hands. 
Commander R'Lok looks at his officer. 
CMDR. R'LOK (frustrated & angry): You disobeyed a direct order. 
ROMULAN SUB-COMMANDER: Had you not negotiated with the Federation, I would not have needed to. We undertook this mission to test the strength of the Federation. They showed us they lack it. We should have destroyed them the moment they did. 
CMDR. R'LOK: You don't remember a time without war. But I do. Who wins an endless war with the Federation? 
ROMULAN SUB-COMMANDER: We will, Commander. 
CMDR. R'LOK: An endless war, by definition, can never be won. Captain Branson will not trust my word now. 
ROMULAN SUB-COMMANDER: What does that matter? He will be dead soon. 
Commander R'Lok gets out his disruptor and shot the Sub-Commander vaporizing him in front of the entire crew as the Commander R'Lok is worried.
CUT TO:
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Transparent viewer shows this as Captain Branson remains standing as Lieutenant Smith reports. 
LTJG. SMITH: Sir we're being hailed its the Romulan flagship. 
CAPT. BRANSON: On screen. 
Transparent viewer shows the bridge of the Romulan flagship as a female Romulan wearing the robes of a Romulan Praetor. 
ROMULAN PRAETOR (viewer): Human I'm here to demand your surrender
CAPT. BRANSON: Well hello to you as well I'm Captain John Branson of the Federation Starship USS Enterprise and I didn't catch your name? 
INT-ROMULAN FLAGSHIP BRIDGE
ROMULAN PRAETOR: You may address me as Praetor and it is customary to bow before your Praetor. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: Seeing how we're not Romulans and this isn't a Romulan vessel you'll forgive us if we don't, and also we're holding to our side of the zone as are you and yet you demand my surrender? 
INT-ROMULAN FLAGSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
ROMULAN PRAETOR (scoff): Typical human arrogates as always even though we almost 
defeated you in the last war. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: Praetor if I remember correctly we won that war because of the arrogates of the last Romulan Praetor and his lust for power. 
INT-ROMULAN FLAGSHIP MAIN BRIDGE 
ROMULAN PRAETOR: Captain we've have you surrounded and you will surrender or we will destroy you have one minute to comply. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Transmission ends as Captain Branson turns to face the bridge crew. 
CAPT. BRANSON: You know I don't like her. 
Then sensors beep as T'Lar reports. 
LTJG. T'LAR: Sir, sensors are picking another warp cluster behind us. 
Captain Branson turns to her. 
CAPT. BRANSON: More Romulans? 
T'Lar checks her console read out.
LTJG. T'LAR: Starfleet. 
Captain Branson turns to the viewer. 
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Federation eighth battlegroup emerges from warp one at a time 23 Syracuse-Class destroyers, 12 Shepard-class destroyers, 15 Walker-Class vessels, 3 Anton-Class vessels, 5 Constitution-Class Heavy cruiser vessels and in the lead is the USS Venture a Korlev-Class heavy cruiser. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
LTJG. MITCHELL: Its about damn time.
Lieutenant Smith has her two fingers on her ear receiver and reports. 
LTJG. SMITH: I've got a secure channel from the lead ship, its Commodore Branson. 
Captain Branson remains facing the viewer. 
CAPT. BRANSON: On screen. 
Transparent viewer shows the bridge of the USS Venture and his father Commodore James Branson. 
COMM. BRANSON (viewer): Sorry we're late
CAPT. BRANSON: Its alright sir just glad you're here. 
INT-USS VENTURE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
COMM. BRANSON: Reinforcements are coming towards our position but we're not sure how long it will be till they get here. 
CAPT. BRANSON (viewer): Well we better hope they hurry up
COMM. BRANSON: Me to son. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
John walks back to his command chair. 
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Bridge to weapons control we really could use some phasers right about now. How's it going down there? 
CUT TO:
INT-USS ENTERPRISE WEAPONS CONTROL (RED ALERT) 
LT. WILLIAMS (to com): We're making progress. The conduits are severely damaged we're attempting to bypass the damaged relays but it may take sometime. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Work faster, Lieutenant. We're going to need weapons soon or we're not going to need them at all. 
Then Lieutenant Smith reports. 
LTJG. SMITH: Sir we're being hailed by the Romulan Praetor. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Keep a secure channel open for the Commodore so he can listen in. 
LTJG. SMITH (nods): Aye, sir. 
Captain Branson walks back to the main viewer as the image of his father shrinks a bit and the Romulan Praetor appears again. 
CAPT. BRANSON: What can I do for you now? 
ROMULAN PRAETOR (viewer): A Federation battlegroup? 
CAPT. BRANSON: Well you didn't like my idea. 
INT-ROMULAN FLAGSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
ROMULAN PRAETOR (frustrated): This is an act of unwanted aggression on the border of our territory Captain. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: No, just a standard training maneuver that happened to land our fleet here the same time as yours. You want to know what actually is an act of unparalleled aggression? A Romulan Bird-of-Prey using cloaking technology destroying our Neutral Zone outposts. 
INT-ROMULAN FLAGSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
The Romulan Praetor thinks then smirks. 
ROMULAN PRAETOR: I know nothing of which you speak of. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT) 
CAPT. BRANSON: We'll send you a recording of it de-cloaking right before destroying Outpost Four. 
He turns to Lieutenant Smith and nods she transmits the recording. 
INT-ROMULAN PRAETOR FLAGSHIP
She sees the recording and smirks. 
ROMULAN PRAETOR: I see. 
She then wordlessly issuing an order to the tactical officer. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Ensign Carlson reports. 
ENS. CARLSON: Romulan ship is de-cloaking and breaking formation. Heading our way. 
Captain Branson turns to the viewer. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Praetor what is this? 
INT-ROMULAN PRAETOR FLAGSHIP MAIN BRIDGE 
ROMULAN PRAETOR: This is a culling, Captain. That commander should not have allowed himself to be caught. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
ENS. CARLSON: Sir, its the bird of prey we've been chasing. 
Captain Branson turns to Lieutenant Smith. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Julia get me the Romulan Commander. 
She inputs commands into the communications console. 
CUT TO:
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE 
CMDR. R'LOK: Captain. So, we see each other once again, after all. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: What are you doing? 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
CMDR. R'LOK: I never called for that armada. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: We can beam you and your crew to the Enterprise, you don't need to do this. 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
CMDR. R'LOK: It is not our way. I regret that we meet in this way. You and I are of a kind. In a different reality, I could've called you friend. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
CAPT. BRANSON: What purpose would it serve to die? 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
CMDR. R'LOK: We are creatures of duty, you and I. Just one more duty to perform. Do not be upset. I have accepted my fate. Perhaps, someday, my sacrifice will lead to an end to this conflict between us. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
The bridge crew can't believe this. 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE 
Returning to his station, the commander and his bridge crew brace themselves. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
LTJG. MASON: They're powering weapons. 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
The Romulan Commander closes his eyes. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
The Romulan armada opens fire. 
INT-ROMULAN WARSHIP MAIN BRIDGE
[EXPLOSIONS ERUPT] 
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Romulan warship explodes into a thousand pieces. 
INT-USS VENTURE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Commodore Branson is surprised by this as well as his daughter in law and crew. 
COMM. BRANSON: Come on John keep your cool son. 
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
LTJG. SMITH: The Romulan Praetor is hailing us again. 
Captain Branson sits in the command chair. 
CAPT. BRANSON: On screen. 
Transparent viewer shows the bridge of the Praetor appears on the viewer. 
ROMULAN PRAETOR (Viewer): Our fleet is stronger now. And I am ready to accept your surrender
CAPT. BRANSON: This is really how you want to end 100 years of peace? 
ROMULAN PRAETOR (viewer): What do Romulans care of peace? It means nothing to us. And your apparent affinity for it has sealed your fate. Thank you, Captain Branson. If not for your weakness, we would never have known what easy targets your Federation would be. Goodbye
Transmission ends as Lieutenant Mason reports. 
LTJG. MASON: They're powering weapons again. 
Everyone is tensed up. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Evasive pattern Kara Zeta seven.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
A hail of phaser and disruptor fire fills the darkness of space as the Enterprise is dodging weapons fire as a plasma torpedo whizzes by and destroys a Sheppard-class destroyer.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Bright flash as Lieutenant Smith turns to report.
LTJG. SMITH: Sir, Commodore Branson is ordering all ships to depart the Icarus system.
CAPT. BRANSON: Inform him we copy and we'll depart.
ENS. CARLSON: Sir, warp drive will not engage.
CAPT. BRANSON: What?
ENS. CARLSON: I'm not sure sir.
He toggles the com button.
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Branson to Engineering Steph what's going on with warp drive?
CUT TO:
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN ENGINEERING (RED ALERT)
LT. WILLIAMS (to com): We've got a bit of a power surge going on down here sir we're fixing it now.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
LTJG. T'LAR: Sir, 14 starships are moving in around us.
CAPT. BRANSON (to com): Dad what are you going?
INT-USS VENTURE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
COMM. BRANSON (to com): Covering your escape get those engines fixed John helm evasive pattern omega.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
Several ships in the fleet form a wall as they fire at the Romulan vessels.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
LTJG. MITCHELL: He's putting the other Starfleet vessels between us and the Romulans.
Captain Branson sits in his command chair observing the battle.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Romulan flagship fires its plasma torpedo as a Syracuse-class destroyer is between the plasma torpedo and the Enterprise, as the torpedo strikes the vessel destroying it the wave rocks the Enterprise as her deflectors took the brunt of it.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Huge shower of sparks erupt from the ceiling and one of the consoles as the bridge crew are thrown from their consoles as Captain Branson is flung from his command chair as klaxons blare and they get up as power hums back on as Ensign Carlson reports.
ENS. CARLSON: We've got engines back.
LTJG. T'LAR: Picking up another power increase!
CAPT. BRANSON: Hit it!
Ensign Carlson activates the warp drive.
EXT-FEDERATION/ROMULAN NEUTRAL ZONE BORDER
The Enterprise starts to wake up as debris floats around her as the Romulan flagship powers up another plasma torpedo and launches it but the Enterprise was able to enter warp.
INT-USS ENTERPRISE MAIN BRIDGE (RED ALERT)
Smoke is everywhere around the bridge as Captain Branson stands up.
CAPT. BRANSON: Damage report?
LTJG. MITCHELL: Reports coming from all decks.
LTJG. MASON: Sickbay is reporting heavy causalities sir.
CAPT. BRANSON: Kara, set course for Starbase Medical Outpost 14 best speed.
ENS. CARLSON: Aye, sir.
LTJG. MITCHELL: Decks 5, 11, 12, and 22 are all reporting hull breaches. Weapons systems took a direct hit.
CAPT. BRANSON: Z, T'Lar you've got the bridge.
John gets up from the command chair and enters the lift and toggles the lever.
CAPT. BRANSON: Medical.
CUT TO:
INT-USS ENTERPRISE SICKBAY (RED ALERT)
Doors opened as wounded are being rushed to bio-beds or to surgery as Captain Branson looks around surveying the injured among his crew, he walks over to one of the bio-beds and sees Lieutenant Martine who is next to the bio-bed as her husband lies there dead. 
DR. CARLSON: A plasma conduit explodes caught him right in the face there was nothing I could of done to save him. 
Doctor Carlson pats the young woman on her shoulder as she's holding her husband's lifeless hand crying as John walks out of sickbay. 
EXT-FEDERATION SPACE
The battered and half strength eighth battlegroup approaches the Frontier-Class Starbase with the Yorktown in tow. 
INT-STARBASE 98 REAR ADMIRAL NOGURA'S OFFICE
Rear Admiral Nogura is sitting behind his desk. 
REAR ADM. NOGURA: Its sadden that we lost Outpost four and the other three outposts along the Neutral Zone border. 
CAPT. BRANSON: We didn't just lose those I lost 5 crewmen sir including the groom of the bride on my ship. 
REAR ADM. NOGURA: I heard please give her my conducle Captain. 
CAPT. BRANSON: Aye, sir. 
REAR ADM. NOGURA: Dismissed. 
Captain Branson leaves the Admiral's office. 
INT-STARBASE 98 MESS HALL
Jessica is wearing a nice dress as John walks over to her. 
JOHN: Hey I'm glad that you got my call. 
JESSICA: I almost didn't come after what happened in your ready room. 
They sit at the table. 
JOHN: Yeah about that Jess you were right the Romulans can't be dealt with by talking to them, they only know one thing and that's war and I hope you can forgive me for being a jerk to you. 
She takes his hand. 
JESSICA (smiles): I've already forgiven you John. 
He smiles. 
EXT-FEDERATION SPACE
An established shot of Starbase 98. 
(END OF ACT FOUR, FADE OUT, ENDING CREDITS) 
==Cast==
===Starring===
*Jarvis Davidson as Captain John Branson
*Felecia Linkous as Lieutenant Commander |Zhasa Ivanova
===Also Starring===
*Kevin Regan as Lieutenant Junior Grade Jack Mason
*Sadie Brickhouse-Waymire as Lieutenant Junior Grade Julia Smith
*Blake Waymire as Lieutenant Junior Grade Tyson Mitchell
*Delena Lusk as Ensign Kara Carlson
*Jacob Elliot as Doctor Steven Carlson
*Ferne Myers as Lieutenant Commander Stephanie Williams
*Becky Elliot as Lieutenant T'Lar
===Guest Stars===
*TBA as Nurse Christine Chapel
*TBA as Security officer Joshua Holiday
*TBA as Chief Kayla Mackenzie
*TBA as Romulan Subcommander
*TBA as Groom
*TBA as Bride
*TBA as Commander Hansen Al-Salah
===Special Guest Stars===
*Michael L. King as Commodore James Branson
*David Cheng as Rear Admiral Heihachiro Nogura
*Ashley M. Kalfas as Captain Jessica Smith
*TBA as Yorktown crewmember
*TBA as Commander T'Var
*TBA as Lieutenant Junior Grade Sara Jones
*TBA as Lieutenant Elizabeth Palmer
*TBA as Ensign Samuel Larson
*TBA as Doctor Ashley Peterson
==Trivia notes==
===Background information===
*This episode was inspired by the TOS episode Balance of Terror and the Strange New Worlds season 1 finale episode A Quality of Mercy.
*A John focus episode.