Star Trek: The Next Generation s06e10 Episode Script
Chain of Command (1)
Captain's log, stardate 46357.
4.
We have rendezvoused|with the Starship Cairo, near the Cardassian border for an urgent|meeting with Vice Admiral Necheyev.
Come! - Capt Jean-Luc Picard.
|- Admiral, welcome aboard.
Thank you.
|That'll be all, Commander.
- Coffee? Tea?|- Thank you, no.
I'm afraid there's|no time for pleasantries.
I'm here to relieve you|of command of the Enterprise.
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 civilisations, .
.
to boldly go|where no one has gone before.
The Cardassian forces recently|withdrawn from the Bajoran Sector have been redeployed|along the Federation border.
They have mobilised three divisions and increased subspace|communications by 50 percent.
They may be preparing for|an incursion into Federation space.
Are the Cardassians ready for a war? I didn't say war.
I said incursion.
Intelligence reports suggest they'll try to seize|a disputed system on the border.
They may be gambling that|we won't go to war over one system.
Will we? I hope we won't need|to make that decision.
The Enterprise is to meet the|Cardassian representative for talks.
We hope the presence of|the Federation flagship on the border will send a message|about how seriously we view this.
Where's Capt Picard? The Captain, Chief Medical Officer|and Security Chief have been reassigned.
|That's all I can tell you.
- Do you know Edward Jellico?|- He's in command of the Cairo.
I've heard of him.
I don't know I'm giving him|command of the Enterprise.
Capt Jellico helped negotiate|the original armistice two years ago.
I believe he is the most qualified|person to lead this mission.
The change of command will|take place at 1300.
Thank you.
Admiral, with all due respect, Capt Jellico needn't be given command|just to conduct a negotiation.
I disagree.
The Enterprise|will be in a dangerous situation.
I want someone who has a lot of|experience with the Cardassians.
No offence, Commander,|but that's not you.
- Halt!|- Computer, freeze program.
You were five seconds slower|that time.
You increased the difficulty, sir.
It'll be more difficult|where we're going.
- Which is where exactly?|- I'm sorry, I can't tell you yet.
It would help|to know about our mission.
Mr Worf, I have my orders.
|I'm sure you understand.
Doctor, this deflector|wasn't set properly.
The emitter ray must block|the entire passage, or it's useless.
Sorry, I was busy escaping from|that Cardassian, or maybe it was the falling rocks.
I understand this is difficult.
|I can only ask you to trust me.
Alright, let's do it again.
Mr Worf, time the Doctor and me|through that first tunnel.
And this time, we're going|to pick up those five seconds.
Welcome aboard, sir.
I'm William T Riker, class of '57.
|I look forward to serving with you.
And I you.
I'm sure this change|has taken everybody by surprise.
Well, yes, sir.
It surprised me, too.
|I admit I miss the Cairo already.
But a Galaxy-class ship,|that's something special.
I see why you turned down|a command to stay aboard.
Yes, sir.
- How many duty watches do we stand?|- A standard three shifts.
I'd like to change to four,|starting tonight.
I also want to examine duty rosters|and crew evaluations right away.
I want readiness reports|from department heads by 1400 and a meeting of the senior staff|at 1500.
- Do you prefer Will or William?|- Will, sir.
- Where are my quarters, Will?|- Cabin 735, deck Deck seven.
|I'll see you at 1300 hours.
Yeah, I know.
Wearing these uniforms reminds me|of my first days at the Academy.
Attention to orders! "To Capt Jean-Luc Picard, Commanding Officer USS Enterprise,|stardate 46358.
1.
" "You are requested and required|to relinquish command to Capt Edward Jellico,|Commanding Officer, USS Cairo, as of this date.
Signed, Vice Admiral|Alynna Necheyev.
Starfleet Command.
" Computer, transfer all command codes|to Capt Jellico.
Voice authorisation,|Picard, Delta five.
Transfer complete.
USS Enterprise now under command|of Capt Edward Jellico.
- I relieve you, sir.
|- I stand relieved.
Dismissed.
I wonder how permanent|this is gonna be.
I don't know.
They don't usually go through|the ceremony if it's just temporary.
- Sore?|- Sore doesn't begin to describe it! I know.
I wish I could talk about it.
Most systems were changed|at the last overhaul.
They won't be a problem.
|But you might check the port I'll take care of the Enterprise,|Jean-Luc.
You don't have to mother me.
How's your team shaping up? Very well.
But I would prefer|more recent intelligence on the exact layout|of the installation.
Our most current information|is two years old.
Two years? I don't know|how Necheyev talked you into this.
She gave me no choice.
Well, maybe there's something|we can do to help.
We'll launch a class-five probe|just before we reach the border.
You could pick up the telemetry|aboard the shuttle.
Now that would be extremely helpful.
Will.
Captain.
Captain.
We're scheduled to arrive at the|Cardassian border during Delta shift.
Inform the Tactical Officer|I want to launch a class-five probe - just before we drop out of warp.
|- I wanted to talk about Delta shift.
Right now, Gamma shift will be on|duty on arrival.
I'll inform them.
Is there a problem with Delta shift,|Will? There is no Delta shift yet, sir.
I've spoken to department heads|about changing to four shifts and they assure me it'll cause|major personnel problems.
So you have not changed|the watch rotation? I was going to explain|after the ceremony, sir.
Tell the department heads|that, as of now, the Enterprise|is on a four-shift rotation.
I don't want to talk about it.
|Get it done.
Now, that means Delta shift will be|due to come on duty in two hours.
I expect you to have it fully manned|and ready when it does.
Is that clear? Yes, sir.
If you'll excuse me, sir.
Captain.
He was your first officer|for five years.
One of the finest officers|that I have ever served with.
Of course he is, Jean-Luc.
|I'm sure it'll all work out.
Captain's log, stardate 46358.
2.
We are on course for a rendezvous|with the Cardassian ship, Reklar.
Fortunately, I still have time to|prepare the crew for the task ahead.
We need a bypass between the phaser|array and the secondary generators.
Run the main deflector path|through the warp-power grid and the conduits|through the lateral relays.
You may have to reconfigure|the interface.
Sir, the interface was not designed|for that.
It will take seven hours.
Sir, our interface already routes|auxiliary power through three relays.
I'm aware of your current design.
|It's not good enough.
If the talks fail, we'll be at war.
|I want to be loaded for bear! - I'll get on it.
|- Good.
These stations should be devoted to|damage control and weapons status.
- See they are manned at all times.
|- Aye, sir.
Mr Data, how long|before we reach the rendezvous? We will arrive|in 51 hours, 32 minutes, sir.
Schedule four battle drills,|one for each shift.
Run a series of simulated attacks|from a Cardassian squadron.
I want you to conduct the exercises|personally, Will.
Get it done.
Get that fish out of the ready room.
|Data, you're with me.
Power transfer|must be upgraded by 20 percent.
Warp-coil efficiency is also poor.
It's well within specifications.
I'm not interested in the specs.
The|efficiency must rise by 15 percent.
That is an attainable goal.
We will have to realign the warp coil|and take the secondary grid off line.
Very good.
That's exactly|what I want you to do.
To take this grid off line, we'll have to shut down|the labs and geological research.
We're not on a research mission.
|Get it done in two days.
I believe that is also attainable.
If we utilise|the entire department, there should be|sufficient manpower to do it.
Sure, if nobody sleeps for two days! Then you'd better get to it, Geordi.
|You have some work to do.
Data.
Yes? - May I speak with you, Captain?|- Deanna.
Come in.
The latest masterpieces|from my son.
It's an elephant.
I think.
Definitely an elephant.
I'm glad you're here.
I'd like|to go over the duty roster with you.
I'd be happy to.
But first, I'd like to talk|about how the change in Command is affecting the crew.
I've noticed some resistance.
I wouldn't call it resistance.
|More like uncertainty.
Most of them had served under|Capt Picard for several years.
They knew him|and they knew what he expected.
Now they're being asked|to adjust to a new captain and a new way of doing things.
And they're uncertain how to react.
I see your point.
This can be very unsettling to them.
And to you.
Perhaps everyone just needs time.
Time for you to get to know|and trust the crew, and time for them to understand|how you want things done.
I'm glad you brought this|to my attention, Deanna.
Unfortunately, I don't have time|for a honeymoon with the crew.
You've clearly given this|a lot of thought.
I'd like you to take charge|of the morale situation.
Please see to it that they make|the adjustment quickly and easily.
I have a meeting with the new|security chief in five minutes.
The duty roster will have to wait.
|Thank you, Counsellor.
By the way, .
.
I prefer a certain formality|on the bridge.
I'd appreciate it if you wore|standard uniform while on duty.
Of course, sir.
He's asked me|to re-route half the power systems, change duty rosters,|realign the warp coils, and he's moved a third|of my crew to Security.
You're not alone.
He's made major|changes in every department on board.
I don't mind changes or hard work,|but the man isn't giving me time! Someone must make him see reason.
It won't be me.
He's made that clear.
Then can I make a suggestion?|Talk to Capt Picard.
Maybe he can do something.
|We just need time.
Alright.
Come! - Are you alright, sir?|- Yes, I am.
But the last time I had to train like|this was for the Academy marathon.
But I'm managing.
|What can I do for you? It's nothing urgent.
|I'm sorry I bothered you.
Goodnight.
I am to maintain radio silence|until the mission's complete.
Well, we'll monitor your channel|in case you do need to transmit.
Bridge to Captain.
We're at|the shuttle departure coordinates.
Did you launch the probe? Yes, sir.
I wasn't aware|you wanted to be informed.
Thank you.
Jellico out.
I can see why he's still|only a first officer.
Captain, I would just|like you to know that Cmdr Riker I've read your reports, Jean-Luc.
|I know you think highly of him.
Not just me.
He's been decorated|by Starfleet Command five times.
He's been offered his own ship|more than once.
I think if you just gave him|a chance, you'd find him outstanding.
Jean-Luc,|let's be candid for a moment.
The Cardassians|won't listen to reason and the Federation|won't give in to their demands.
And the chances are you won't|be coming back from this mission.
I want this ship ready for action and I don't have time to give|Will Riker or anyone else a chance.
And forgive me for being blunt,|but the Enterprise is mine now.
Well, here's hoping|you beat the odds.
- Good hunting.
|- Thank you.
Jean-Luc.
I believe this is yours.
Shuttlecraft to Enterprise.
|We have cleared the shuttlebay.
Acknowledged.
Good luck.
Thank you, Enterprise.
Well, now that we're under way,|I can tell you about our mission.
Starfleet lntelligence|believes that the Cardassians are developing a metagenic weapon.
Oh, my God! I am not familiar with metagenics.
Genetically engineered viruses|designed to destroy whole ecosystems.
When metagenic toxins|enter an atmosphere, they mutate and seek out and destroy|all forms of DNA they encounter.
In a few days, everything is dead.
In a month, the agent breaks down|and dissipates completely, Ieaving every city, every road, every piece of equipment|perfectly intact.
Leaving the planet|safe to be conquered.
Wouldn't using such a weapon pose|as great a risk to the attacker? That's why biological weapons|were outlawed years ago.
Even the Romulans|abide by the agreements.
Starfleet lntelligence|believes the Cardassians are developing|a new delivery system, one that would protect them|from accidental exposure.
They believe the Cardassians are testing a way of launching|dormant metagenic material on a subspace carrier wave.
So they could activate the toxins|after the launch, avoiding exposure.
Because the subspace wave would|appear as background radiation, no one would realise what was|happening till it was too late.
Now, for the past few weeks, theta-band subspace emissions|have been detected from Celtris III.
These may indicate that a metagenic|delivery system is in operation.
- What do we know about Celtris III?|- Very little.
It was thought uninhabited|until these emissions began.
Starfleet believes the Cardassians|may have a secret research lab somewhere below|the planet's surface.
Our orders are|to penetrate this installation and determine if the Cardassians|are building a metagenic weapon.
- And if they are?|- Destroy it.
At any cost.
When I was on the Stargazer,|we tested theta-band carrier waves.
I'm here because of my familiarity|with methods of generating them.
Mr Worf, your presence is obvious.
Doctor, your job will be to locate|and destroy any biotoxins we find.
Celtris III is in Cardassian space.
How will we get there undetected? I know a way of acquiring|some discreet transport.
Mr Worf,|set a course for Torman V.
If he doesn't pay up, I know three large Ferengi|who will not be so forgiving.
- I didn't do it!|- I'm not accusing you of anything.
What do you want, then? We're looking for DaiMon Solok.
Why? We have a business proposition|to discuss.
Solok is a very busy,|very important man.
He isn't here.
But I could relay a message.
Good.
|Please will you tell DaiMon Solok that we are interested|in transportation to Celtris III.
That's a Cardassian planet.
Now, we understand|that DaiMon Solok runs cargo there from time to time.
Solok is no smuggler! Yes, but if Solok were to go to|Celtris III, for legitimate reasons, we would be interested in quietly|booking passage for the journey.
I don't think he would be interested|in dealing with Federation spies! You know, .
.
I heard that Solok was quite a man.
Well, yes! He is an extraordinary man! That's why we came here,|because only Solok could help us.
I guess there's some things|even Solok can't do.
It's too bad.
Because if he could, .
.
I would be very, - very|- Yes? .
.
grateful.
When do you want to leave? Beverly, make sure your tricorder|keeps a precise map of the route.
- We could easily get lost in here.
|- Right.
I'm picking up|some subspace signals, but I can't seem|to get a lock on them.
That's typical|of theta-band emissions.
We have to compress the detection|bandwidth to determine the fix.
The source emission|is 500 metres east of here.
And 700 metres below.
It's alright.
They're called lynars, a kind|of Celtrine bat.
They're harmless.
Bats! You're not afraid of bats,|are you Worf? Of course not! First Officer's log, supplemental.
|We've rendezvoused with the Reklar to begin diplomatic talks designed|to ease tension along the border.
Gul Lemec|is in the observation lounge.
Very good.
I'll be in my ready room.
Yes? I think there's been|a slight miscommunication.
Did you want|to meet with Gul Lemec in here? No, the observation lounge|is appropriate.
I see.
Lemec is a Cardassian, and|Cardassians are like timber wolves, predators, bold in large numbers,|cautious by themselves, and with an instinctive need to establish a dominant position|in any social gathering.
So you're establishing a dominant|position by making him wait for you? The trouble with wolves is that|sometimes in the fight for dominance, one of them ends up dead.
In that case, the trick is .
.
to be the wolf|that's still standing at the end.
The floor is over 500 metres down.
There doesn't seem to be a way round.
|We'll have to rappel from here.
This is sheer granite.
|We'll have to use fusing pitons.
We could try|to find another way down.
That would take several hours.
|We don't have the time.
- Not afraid of heights, are you?|- Of course not.
Remember to control your descent.
|And don't get the lines tangled.
I'll remember! Alright? I've been waiting for over an hour I'm Capt Jellico.
You know|Cmdr Riker.
This is Lt Cmdr Troi.
Let's get to it.
This is a deliberate insult.
I have been kept waiting|for over an hour! Then I'm sure you're ready to talk.
I did not agree|to allow others into this meeting.
If it alarms you,|I can ask them to leave.
I am not alarmed, but we did not A great many people are depending|on our efforts, Gul Lemec.
Let's not quibble over minutiae.
I have come to negotiate|a Federation withdrawal, not to be dictated to|by some mere captain.
I can see you're not serious|about these talks.
If the Cardassian Union|truly wishes to discuss peace, they can send someone who can|negotiate in a civilised manner.
Captain on the bridge.
Let him stew for a minute, then tell him you've convinced me|to meet him once more.
Tell him he needs to be|more reasonable, because I'm so unreasonable.
Lemec will want|his own aides on board.
Pretend to worry that I'll object, then grudgingly agree to two aides.
|No more.
- Understood?|- Aye, sir.
Well, I'll say this for him.
|He's sure of himself.
No, he's not.
The installation should be|about 300 metres this way.
I don't suppose we'll find|another way back up there.
- I doubt it.
|- That's what I thought.
There's a lava tube beyond here|that runs for 75 metres.
Then it connects with another|chamber.
We need to get through here.
This tube opens up beyond this crack.
We could widen the opening, then we should be able|to crawl through.
Mr Worf.
A phaser at level 16 should suffice.
Make it so.
Well done, Mr Worf.
Gul Lemec, a pleasure.
May I present my aides,|Glinn Corak and Glinn Tajor? Welcome aboard.
For three weeks,|you've been massing troops, assembling strike forces|and pulling ships from their patrols.
We will not stand for|this clearly provocative behaviour.
I see the Federation spy network has again provided|faulty information.
We are conducting routine training|operations, nothing more.
Then I'm sure you won't mind if we send a few starships in|for our own training operations.
Your fleet deployments|do not concern us.
However, we are very concerned by your refusal to vacate territories|which are clearly Cardassian.
You gave up your claims|when you signed the armistice! You couldn't take those worlds|by force.
Now you want us to give you them.
Captain, please,|we should listen to them.
Gul Lemec, the systems are still|under negotiation under the treaty.
Negotiations|which we have pursued in good faith.
Unfortunately, the Federation|has not been as forthcoming.
So, to speed things up,|you prepare for war! We are preparing|to defend ourselves.
- The Federation won't start a war.
|- That has always been your position.
However, I have heard reports|that a small Federation team has already been sent|into our territory.
Of course, I don't believe it.
Such an attempt|would almost certainly fail.
And, even if it succeeded, it would trigger|a very serious response on our part.
I don't know|what you're talking about.
Then there's no need for worry.
A brief recess|would seem to be in order.
Very well.
Where is Capt Picard? Reassigned.
Well, I hope his new assignment|is not too dangerous.
It would be a shame if something|were to happen to such a Such a noted officer.
Yes, .
.
it would.
Only a few more metres.
Beverly! Get out of there! Beverly! I have her! - Are you alright?|- I think so.
Next time,|you try bringing up the rear.
We're nearly there.
|Can you continue? Looks like a maintenance hatch|to the installation.
I'm picking up|three proximity sensors around it.
Sensor echoes established, but the false image|will only last a few minutes.
The hatch is magnetically sealed,|but I believe I can bypass it.
I can't get a scan through|the hatch.
It's been shielded.
We have no choice.
Remember,|aim low.
Short controlled bursts.
Ready.
Now! There's no one here.
There's no lab.
It's a trap! Come on! Captain! Let's go! - The Captain!|- No! There are five more of them|heading this way.
Come on! Now! Come on! Captain on the bridge.
What have you got, Will? We're getting coded messages from|a Cardassian planet on the border.
- Which planet?|- Celtris III.
Can you detect|any theta-band emissions? There are residual traces.
It seems|there were emissions until just now.
Open a secure channel|to Admiral Necheyev.
- Priority two.
In my ready room.
|- Aye, sir.
- Captain?|- Those emissions have just stopped.
I'd say, one way or another,|our friends have finished.
Have you heard from our friends? No.
Let me know if you do.
I would very much|like to see them again.
So would l, Admiral.
A challenge! You should prove|an interesting challenge.
Possibly the most interesting|to come through that door in years.
- What do you want?|- Why, you, of course.
Picard! Jean-Luc.
Serial number, SP-937-215.
Son of Maurice and Yvette Picard.
Born in Labarre, France.
Formerly Captain of the Stargazer, where you conducted studies on|theta-band subspace carrier waves.
Don't look so surprised.
How could we lure the Captain|of the Federation flagship unless we knew|something of his background? So, you concocted an elaborate ruse|to bring me here.
Why? In this room,|you do not ask questions.
I ask them, you answer.
If I am not satisfied|with your answers, you will die.
4.
We have rendezvoused|with the Starship Cairo, near the Cardassian border for an urgent|meeting with Vice Admiral Necheyev.
Come! - Capt Jean-Luc Picard.
|- Admiral, welcome aboard.
Thank you.
|That'll be all, Commander.
- Coffee? Tea?|- Thank you, no.
I'm afraid there's|no time for pleasantries.
I'm here to relieve you|of command of the Enterprise.
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 civilisations, .
.
to boldly go|where no one has gone before.
The Cardassian forces recently|withdrawn from the Bajoran Sector have been redeployed|along the Federation border.
They have mobilised three divisions and increased subspace|communications by 50 percent.
They may be preparing for|an incursion into Federation space.
Are the Cardassians ready for a war? I didn't say war.
I said incursion.
Intelligence reports suggest they'll try to seize|a disputed system on the border.
They may be gambling that|we won't go to war over one system.
Will we? I hope we won't need|to make that decision.
The Enterprise is to meet the|Cardassian representative for talks.
We hope the presence of|the Federation flagship on the border will send a message|about how seriously we view this.
Where's Capt Picard? The Captain, Chief Medical Officer|and Security Chief have been reassigned.
|That's all I can tell you.
- Do you know Edward Jellico?|- He's in command of the Cairo.
I've heard of him.
I don't know I'm giving him|command of the Enterprise.
Capt Jellico helped negotiate|the original armistice two years ago.
I believe he is the most qualified|person to lead this mission.
The change of command will|take place at 1300.
Thank you.
Admiral, with all due respect, Capt Jellico needn't be given command|just to conduct a negotiation.
I disagree.
The Enterprise|will be in a dangerous situation.
I want someone who has a lot of|experience with the Cardassians.
No offence, Commander,|but that's not you.
- Halt!|- Computer, freeze program.
You were five seconds slower|that time.
You increased the difficulty, sir.
It'll be more difficult|where we're going.
- Which is where exactly?|- I'm sorry, I can't tell you yet.
It would help|to know about our mission.
Mr Worf, I have my orders.
|I'm sure you understand.
Doctor, this deflector|wasn't set properly.
The emitter ray must block|the entire passage, or it's useless.
Sorry, I was busy escaping from|that Cardassian, or maybe it was the falling rocks.
I understand this is difficult.
|I can only ask you to trust me.
Alright, let's do it again.
Mr Worf, time the Doctor and me|through that first tunnel.
And this time, we're going|to pick up those five seconds.
Welcome aboard, sir.
I'm William T Riker, class of '57.
|I look forward to serving with you.
And I you.
I'm sure this change|has taken everybody by surprise.
Well, yes, sir.
It surprised me, too.
|I admit I miss the Cairo already.
But a Galaxy-class ship,|that's something special.
I see why you turned down|a command to stay aboard.
Yes, sir.
- How many duty watches do we stand?|- A standard three shifts.
I'd like to change to four,|starting tonight.
I also want to examine duty rosters|and crew evaluations right away.
I want readiness reports|from department heads by 1400 and a meeting of the senior staff|at 1500.
- Do you prefer Will or William?|- Will, sir.
- Where are my quarters, Will?|- Cabin 735, deck Deck seven.
|I'll see you at 1300 hours.
Yeah, I know.
Wearing these uniforms reminds me|of my first days at the Academy.
Attention to orders! "To Capt Jean-Luc Picard, Commanding Officer USS Enterprise,|stardate 46358.
1.
" "You are requested and required|to relinquish command to Capt Edward Jellico,|Commanding Officer, USS Cairo, as of this date.
Signed, Vice Admiral|Alynna Necheyev.
Starfleet Command.
" Computer, transfer all command codes|to Capt Jellico.
Voice authorisation,|Picard, Delta five.
Transfer complete.
USS Enterprise now under command|of Capt Edward Jellico.
- I relieve you, sir.
|- I stand relieved.
Dismissed.
I wonder how permanent|this is gonna be.
I don't know.
They don't usually go through|the ceremony if it's just temporary.
- Sore?|- Sore doesn't begin to describe it! I know.
I wish I could talk about it.
Most systems were changed|at the last overhaul.
They won't be a problem.
|But you might check the port I'll take care of the Enterprise,|Jean-Luc.
You don't have to mother me.
How's your team shaping up? Very well.
But I would prefer|more recent intelligence on the exact layout|of the installation.
Our most current information|is two years old.
Two years? I don't know|how Necheyev talked you into this.
She gave me no choice.
Well, maybe there's something|we can do to help.
We'll launch a class-five probe|just before we reach the border.
You could pick up the telemetry|aboard the shuttle.
Now that would be extremely helpful.
Will.
Captain.
Captain.
We're scheduled to arrive at the|Cardassian border during Delta shift.
Inform the Tactical Officer|I want to launch a class-five probe - just before we drop out of warp.
|- I wanted to talk about Delta shift.
Right now, Gamma shift will be on|duty on arrival.
I'll inform them.
Is there a problem with Delta shift,|Will? There is no Delta shift yet, sir.
I've spoken to department heads|about changing to four shifts and they assure me it'll cause|major personnel problems.
So you have not changed|the watch rotation? I was going to explain|after the ceremony, sir.
Tell the department heads|that, as of now, the Enterprise|is on a four-shift rotation.
I don't want to talk about it.
|Get it done.
Now, that means Delta shift will be|due to come on duty in two hours.
I expect you to have it fully manned|and ready when it does.
Is that clear? Yes, sir.
If you'll excuse me, sir.
Captain.
He was your first officer|for five years.
One of the finest officers|that I have ever served with.
Of course he is, Jean-Luc.
|I'm sure it'll all work out.
Captain's log, stardate 46358.
2.
We are on course for a rendezvous|with the Cardassian ship, Reklar.
Fortunately, I still have time to|prepare the crew for the task ahead.
We need a bypass between the phaser|array and the secondary generators.
Run the main deflector path|through the warp-power grid and the conduits|through the lateral relays.
You may have to reconfigure|the interface.
Sir, the interface was not designed|for that.
It will take seven hours.
Sir, our interface already routes|auxiliary power through three relays.
I'm aware of your current design.
|It's not good enough.
If the talks fail, we'll be at war.
|I want to be loaded for bear! - I'll get on it.
|- Good.
These stations should be devoted to|damage control and weapons status.
- See they are manned at all times.
|- Aye, sir.
Mr Data, how long|before we reach the rendezvous? We will arrive|in 51 hours, 32 minutes, sir.
Schedule four battle drills,|one for each shift.
Run a series of simulated attacks|from a Cardassian squadron.
I want you to conduct the exercises|personally, Will.
Get it done.
Get that fish out of the ready room.
|Data, you're with me.
Power transfer|must be upgraded by 20 percent.
Warp-coil efficiency is also poor.
It's well within specifications.
I'm not interested in the specs.
The|efficiency must rise by 15 percent.
That is an attainable goal.
We will have to realign the warp coil|and take the secondary grid off line.
Very good.
That's exactly|what I want you to do.
To take this grid off line, we'll have to shut down|the labs and geological research.
We're not on a research mission.
|Get it done in two days.
I believe that is also attainable.
If we utilise|the entire department, there should be|sufficient manpower to do it.
Sure, if nobody sleeps for two days! Then you'd better get to it, Geordi.
|You have some work to do.
Data.
Yes? - May I speak with you, Captain?|- Deanna.
Come in.
The latest masterpieces|from my son.
It's an elephant.
I think.
Definitely an elephant.
I'm glad you're here.
I'd like|to go over the duty roster with you.
I'd be happy to.
But first, I'd like to talk|about how the change in Command is affecting the crew.
I've noticed some resistance.
I wouldn't call it resistance.
|More like uncertainty.
Most of them had served under|Capt Picard for several years.
They knew him|and they knew what he expected.
Now they're being asked|to adjust to a new captain and a new way of doing things.
And they're uncertain how to react.
I see your point.
This can be very unsettling to them.
And to you.
Perhaps everyone just needs time.
Time for you to get to know|and trust the crew, and time for them to understand|how you want things done.
I'm glad you brought this|to my attention, Deanna.
Unfortunately, I don't have time|for a honeymoon with the crew.
You've clearly given this|a lot of thought.
I'd like you to take charge|of the morale situation.
Please see to it that they make|the adjustment quickly and easily.
I have a meeting with the new|security chief in five minutes.
The duty roster will have to wait.
|Thank you, Counsellor.
By the way, .
.
I prefer a certain formality|on the bridge.
I'd appreciate it if you wore|standard uniform while on duty.
Of course, sir.
He's asked me|to re-route half the power systems, change duty rosters,|realign the warp coils, and he's moved a third|of my crew to Security.
You're not alone.
He's made major|changes in every department on board.
I don't mind changes or hard work,|but the man isn't giving me time! Someone must make him see reason.
It won't be me.
He's made that clear.
Then can I make a suggestion?|Talk to Capt Picard.
Maybe he can do something.
|We just need time.
Alright.
Come! - Are you alright, sir?|- Yes, I am.
But the last time I had to train like|this was for the Academy marathon.
But I'm managing.
|What can I do for you? It's nothing urgent.
|I'm sorry I bothered you.
Goodnight.
I am to maintain radio silence|until the mission's complete.
Well, we'll monitor your channel|in case you do need to transmit.
Bridge to Captain.
We're at|the shuttle departure coordinates.
Did you launch the probe? Yes, sir.
I wasn't aware|you wanted to be informed.
Thank you.
Jellico out.
I can see why he's still|only a first officer.
Captain, I would just|like you to know that Cmdr Riker I've read your reports, Jean-Luc.
|I know you think highly of him.
Not just me.
He's been decorated|by Starfleet Command five times.
He's been offered his own ship|more than once.
I think if you just gave him|a chance, you'd find him outstanding.
Jean-Luc,|let's be candid for a moment.
The Cardassians|won't listen to reason and the Federation|won't give in to their demands.
And the chances are you won't|be coming back from this mission.
I want this ship ready for action and I don't have time to give|Will Riker or anyone else a chance.
And forgive me for being blunt,|but the Enterprise is mine now.
Well, here's hoping|you beat the odds.
- Good hunting.
|- Thank you.
Jean-Luc.
I believe this is yours.
Shuttlecraft to Enterprise.
|We have cleared the shuttlebay.
Acknowledged.
Good luck.
Thank you, Enterprise.
Well, now that we're under way,|I can tell you about our mission.
Starfleet lntelligence|believes that the Cardassians are developing a metagenic weapon.
Oh, my God! I am not familiar with metagenics.
Genetically engineered viruses|designed to destroy whole ecosystems.
When metagenic toxins|enter an atmosphere, they mutate and seek out and destroy|all forms of DNA they encounter.
In a few days, everything is dead.
In a month, the agent breaks down|and dissipates completely, Ieaving every city, every road, every piece of equipment|perfectly intact.
Leaving the planet|safe to be conquered.
Wouldn't using such a weapon pose|as great a risk to the attacker? That's why biological weapons|were outlawed years ago.
Even the Romulans|abide by the agreements.
Starfleet lntelligence|believes the Cardassians are developing|a new delivery system, one that would protect them|from accidental exposure.
They believe the Cardassians are testing a way of launching|dormant metagenic material on a subspace carrier wave.
So they could activate the toxins|after the launch, avoiding exposure.
Because the subspace wave would|appear as background radiation, no one would realise what was|happening till it was too late.
Now, for the past few weeks, theta-band subspace emissions|have been detected from Celtris III.
These may indicate that a metagenic|delivery system is in operation.
- What do we know about Celtris III?|- Very little.
It was thought uninhabited|until these emissions began.
Starfleet believes the Cardassians|may have a secret research lab somewhere below|the planet's surface.
Our orders are|to penetrate this installation and determine if the Cardassians|are building a metagenic weapon.
- And if they are?|- Destroy it.
At any cost.
When I was on the Stargazer,|we tested theta-band carrier waves.
I'm here because of my familiarity|with methods of generating them.
Mr Worf, your presence is obvious.
Doctor, your job will be to locate|and destroy any biotoxins we find.
Celtris III is in Cardassian space.
How will we get there undetected? I know a way of acquiring|some discreet transport.
Mr Worf,|set a course for Torman V.
If he doesn't pay up, I know three large Ferengi|who will not be so forgiving.
- I didn't do it!|- I'm not accusing you of anything.
What do you want, then? We're looking for DaiMon Solok.
Why? We have a business proposition|to discuss.
Solok is a very busy,|very important man.
He isn't here.
But I could relay a message.
Good.
|Please will you tell DaiMon Solok that we are interested|in transportation to Celtris III.
That's a Cardassian planet.
Now, we understand|that DaiMon Solok runs cargo there from time to time.
Solok is no smuggler! Yes, but if Solok were to go to|Celtris III, for legitimate reasons, we would be interested in quietly|booking passage for the journey.
I don't think he would be interested|in dealing with Federation spies! You know, .
.
I heard that Solok was quite a man.
Well, yes! He is an extraordinary man! That's why we came here,|because only Solok could help us.
I guess there's some things|even Solok can't do.
It's too bad.
Because if he could, .
.
I would be very, - very|- Yes? .
.
grateful.
When do you want to leave? Beverly, make sure your tricorder|keeps a precise map of the route.
- We could easily get lost in here.
|- Right.
I'm picking up|some subspace signals, but I can't seem|to get a lock on them.
That's typical|of theta-band emissions.
We have to compress the detection|bandwidth to determine the fix.
The source emission|is 500 metres east of here.
And 700 metres below.
It's alright.
They're called lynars, a kind|of Celtrine bat.
They're harmless.
Bats! You're not afraid of bats,|are you Worf? Of course not! First Officer's log, supplemental.
|We've rendezvoused with the Reklar to begin diplomatic talks designed|to ease tension along the border.
Gul Lemec|is in the observation lounge.
Very good.
I'll be in my ready room.
Yes? I think there's been|a slight miscommunication.
Did you want|to meet with Gul Lemec in here? No, the observation lounge|is appropriate.
I see.
Lemec is a Cardassian, and|Cardassians are like timber wolves, predators, bold in large numbers,|cautious by themselves, and with an instinctive need to establish a dominant position|in any social gathering.
So you're establishing a dominant|position by making him wait for you? The trouble with wolves is that|sometimes in the fight for dominance, one of them ends up dead.
In that case, the trick is .
.
to be the wolf|that's still standing at the end.
The floor is over 500 metres down.
There doesn't seem to be a way round.
|We'll have to rappel from here.
This is sheer granite.
|We'll have to use fusing pitons.
We could try|to find another way down.
That would take several hours.
|We don't have the time.
- Not afraid of heights, are you?|- Of course not.
Remember to control your descent.
|And don't get the lines tangled.
I'll remember! Alright? I've been waiting for over an hour I'm Capt Jellico.
You know|Cmdr Riker.
This is Lt Cmdr Troi.
Let's get to it.
This is a deliberate insult.
I have been kept waiting|for over an hour! Then I'm sure you're ready to talk.
I did not agree|to allow others into this meeting.
If it alarms you,|I can ask them to leave.
I am not alarmed, but we did not A great many people are depending|on our efforts, Gul Lemec.
Let's not quibble over minutiae.
I have come to negotiate|a Federation withdrawal, not to be dictated to|by some mere captain.
I can see you're not serious|about these talks.
If the Cardassian Union|truly wishes to discuss peace, they can send someone who can|negotiate in a civilised manner.
Captain on the bridge.
Let him stew for a minute, then tell him you've convinced me|to meet him once more.
Tell him he needs to be|more reasonable, because I'm so unreasonable.
Lemec will want|his own aides on board.
Pretend to worry that I'll object, then grudgingly agree to two aides.
|No more.
- Understood?|- Aye, sir.
Well, I'll say this for him.
|He's sure of himself.
No, he's not.
The installation should be|about 300 metres this way.
I don't suppose we'll find|another way back up there.
- I doubt it.
|- That's what I thought.
There's a lava tube beyond here|that runs for 75 metres.
Then it connects with another|chamber.
We need to get through here.
This tube opens up beyond this crack.
We could widen the opening, then we should be able|to crawl through.
Mr Worf.
A phaser at level 16 should suffice.
Make it so.
Well done, Mr Worf.
Gul Lemec, a pleasure.
May I present my aides,|Glinn Corak and Glinn Tajor? Welcome aboard.
For three weeks,|you've been massing troops, assembling strike forces|and pulling ships from their patrols.
We will not stand for|this clearly provocative behaviour.
I see the Federation spy network has again provided|faulty information.
We are conducting routine training|operations, nothing more.
Then I'm sure you won't mind if we send a few starships in|for our own training operations.
Your fleet deployments|do not concern us.
However, we are very concerned by your refusal to vacate territories|which are clearly Cardassian.
You gave up your claims|when you signed the armistice! You couldn't take those worlds|by force.
Now you want us to give you them.
Captain, please,|we should listen to them.
Gul Lemec, the systems are still|under negotiation under the treaty.
Negotiations|which we have pursued in good faith.
Unfortunately, the Federation|has not been as forthcoming.
So, to speed things up,|you prepare for war! We are preparing|to defend ourselves.
- The Federation won't start a war.
|- That has always been your position.
However, I have heard reports|that a small Federation team has already been sent|into our territory.
Of course, I don't believe it.
Such an attempt|would almost certainly fail.
And, even if it succeeded, it would trigger|a very serious response on our part.
I don't know|what you're talking about.
Then there's no need for worry.
A brief recess|would seem to be in order.
Very well.
Where is Capt Picard? Reassigned.
Well, I hope his new assignment|is not too dangerous.
It would be a shame if something|were to happen to such a Such a noted officer.
Yes, .
.
it would.
Only a few more metres.
Beverly! Get out of there! Beverly! I have her! - Are you alright?|- I think so.
Next time,|you try bringing up the rear.
We're nearly there.
|Can you continue? Looks like a maintenance hatch|to the installation.
I'm picking up|three proximity sensors around it.
Sensor echoes established, but the false image|will only last a few minutes.
The hatch is magnetically sealed,|but I believe I can bypass it.
I can't get a scan through|the hatch.
It's been shielded.
We have no choice.
Remember,|aim low.
Short controlled bursts.
Ready.
Now! There's no one here.
There's no lab.
It's a trap! Come on! Captain! Let's go! - The Captain!|- No! There are five more of them|heading this way.
Come on! Now! Come on! Captain on the bridge.
What have you got, Will? We're getting coded messages from|a Cardassian planet on the border.
- Which planet?|- Celtris III.
Can you detect|any theta-band emissions? There are residual traces.
It seems|there were emissions until just now.
Open a secure channel|to Admiral Necheyev.
- Priority two.
In my ready room.
|- Aye, sir.
- Captain?|- Those emissions have just stopped.
I'd say, one way or another,|our friends have finished.
Have you heard from our friends? No.
Let me know if you do.
I would very much|like to see them again.
So would l, Admiral.
A challenge! You should prove|an interesting challenge.
Possibly the most interesting|to come through that door in years.
- What do you want?|- Why, you, of course.
Picard! Jean-Luc.
Serial number, SP-937-215.
Son of Maurice and Yvette Picard.
Born in Labarre, France.
Formerly Captain of the Stargazer, where you conducted studies on|theta-band subspace carrier waves.
Don't look so surprised.
How could we lure the Captain|of the Federation flagship unless we knew|something of his background? So, you concocted an elaborate ruse|to bring me here.
Why? In this room,|you do not ask questions.
I ask them, you answer.
If I am not satisfied|with your answers, you will die.