Post by magicmuggle01 on Jun 25, 2019 10:10:06 GMT
As the House of Duras is nearing victory over Worf and the forces of Gowron, Starfleet, led by Picard, works to expose Romulan interference in the Klingon Civil War. (Season premiere)
Summary
The Hegh'ta under attack
Kurn's ship, the Hegh'ta, with Worf now aboard as tactical officer, is narrowly escaping destruction by two other Birds-of-Prey near a sun. Most of the bridge crew lie dead, and the Hegh'ta is losing shield strength fast. With no weapons left to fight, Kurn instead uses a clever technique of engaging warp drive near a star's surface, causing a large solar flare which destroys the two pursuers.
Meanwhile, Captain Picard meets with several senior Starfleet flag officers, including Fleet Admiral Shanthi, to discuss the Klingon civil war at Starbase 234. Picard briefs the admirals on three engagements occurring in the past two weeks that were won by ships loyal to the Duras family. Shanthi reminds Picard that none of those facts are the Federation's concern because the Klingon civil war is by definition an internal matter of the Empire. Picard says that would be true if the civil war were entirely internal, but if the Duras family is being aided by the Romulan Empire then it is very much a concern of the Federation. Picard points out that the Romulans have tried to destroy the Klingon-Federation Alliance for the last 20 years and the Duras family has been secretly conspiring with them at the same time. Picard asks her if it seems strange that the Duras' are able to overpower Gowron's forces at almost every turn. Shanthi speculates that the Duras family may have better leadership but Picard states it's also possible that they're getting help. Picard reminds the admiralty that the Romulans are willing to take huge risks to gain any advantage they can over the Federation and now, with the future of the Klingon Empire in the balance, can the Federation seriously believe that the Romulans are content to just stand by and watch it unfold?
Discussing the war with Starfleet.
Convinced of his argument, Shanthi asks Picard what he is proposing. The captain says that they must stop the flow of supplies and equipment from the Romulans to the Duras family. He proposes to the admiral that they send a fleet to the Klingon-Romulan border, engaging in no offensive action, but creating a blockade to intercept any Romulan supplies that attempt to cross the border. When Admiral Shanthi asks how they'll be able to overcome the problem of detecting ships equipped with cloaking devices, Picard answers that his chief engineer has developed a way that will counter their cloaking advantage: the tachyon detection grid. He explains to her that each ship will send out an active tachyon beam to each other; the theory is that any cloaked vessel that passes through it will be detected. Admiral Shanthi tells Picard that she'll have to clear it with the Federation Council first, but in the meantime he is to go ahead and assemble his fleet. Commander Riker smiles at his captain but also wonders if Picard knows what he's doing – a feeling the captain shares himself.
Act One
The plan is approved easily enough, but requires many vessels to cover the entire Romulan-Klingon border, which is proving most difficult. During a briefing, Riker explains to Picard that Starfleet is stretched pretty thin over the quadrant, with only 12 ships within a day's warp from their location. La Forge also points out that most of the ships in this area are either in drydock for repairs or have not been completed yet, but both don't even have full crews. Riker summarizes that they can spare seven to eight more starships. When asked if they can work the network with 20 ships, La Forge acknowledges that while the nets can work with that many ships, the more ships means they can cover a wider area. Satisfied, Picard rounds up 23 vessels in total, including the USS Endeavour, the USS Akagi, the USS Tian An Men, the USS Hermes, the USS Hood, the USS Excalibur, the USS Hornet, and the USS Sutherland. Picard adds that the Tian An Men, the Sutherland and the Hermes may not be completely ready as far as the yard superintendent is concerned but they're going anyway. He first assigns Data to select a group of experienced Enterprise officers to augment the crew of those three ships. Then Picard assigns Riker and La Forge to the Excalibur as captain and first officer as their crew was reassigned when the ship put in for repairs. Picard tells them that he wants the fleet ready by 0900 hours and La Forge and Riker then depart. Data remains for a moment and asks Picard why he wasn't assigned a command. Picard tells him that he thought he would need Data still on the Enterprise. Data comments on how Picard has mentioned a lack of senior officers that are available for this assignment. At first, Data thinks that Picard may not consider it time for an android to command a starship, despite his 26 years of service in Starfleet so as he plans on setting out ways to improve himself; Picard, chagrined at the exposure of his unconscious prejudice, interrupts him and tells him that the Sutherland is in need of a captain and he can't think of anyone better for the job.
Meanwhile, Worf and Kurn celebrate the war by drinking with a number of Klingons, many of whom support the House of Duras. Worf arrives and Kurn introduces him to Captain Larg, who commanded the squadron that tried to destroy them the day before. Larg insults Worf by implying that Worf isn't worthy of wearing a Klingon uniform. Worf is incensed and tries to attack Larg but Kurn restrains him, telling him that the capital city is neutral ground and that Larg's men are all around them, as are Kurn's. Kurn and Larg then both pick up a glass of bloodwine and tell each other to die well, then throw the glasses away and then Larg leaves. Worf asks Kurn if he really is drinking with their enemies. Kurn ask him how many of these warriors are with them and how many with the Duras family. Kurn tells them when they meet in battle they will fight to the death but here in the capital city they are all Klingons, all warriors. Worf starts to give Kurn a status report on the repair of the Hegh'ta's stabilizers but Kurn asks him if only duty is in his heart then tells him that they all have duties and responsibilities but at the same time he reminds Worf that they are all Klingons, all warriors, fighting in a glorious war. Kurn asks Worf to contemplate the fact that they will fight battles soon that others can only dream of and it is time to celebrate, for tomorrow they all may die. Kurn asks Worf to forget the status report and go with him and let them live the night together as if it were their last. Worf agrees and goes into the group of Klingons with Kurn. Over in a corner Lursa and B'Etor notice this and note that Worf is trying to be more like Kurn but that it's not working very well.
In drydock, the Sutherland is preparing to depart for the fleet. The ship's senior officer, Lieutenant Commander Chris Hobson oversees preparations for the ship to be ready for the fleet. Data enters the bridge and introduces himself to Hobson, as well as the bridge crew, and announces he is taking command of the vessel by order of Starfleet. Noting a lack of confidence, Hobson requests a transfer, stating his reasons, with the main one being his belief that he doesn't think an android would be a good captain. Data sympathizes with Hobson, but denies his transfer.
Picard's armada departs the
starbase
Manning tactical, Chief O'Brien informs Picard that the last assigned ship in the fleet, the USS Endeavour; has arrived and orders the fleet to get underway. The Enterprise heads towards the Klingon-Romulan border, with other Federation starships right behind.
Act Two
B'Etor shows impatience with Commander Sela, the Romulan commander who bears a strong resemblance to the late USS Enterprise-D security chief Natasha Yar. The convoy with supplies is late, but Sela gives them good news that Gowron's forces suffered another defeat in the Mempa system, and will not trouble their forces there. She assures her that the supplies will arrive. Lursa enters the room and informs Sela that a Federation fleet has left Starbase 234 on a course to Klingon territory, led by Picard. Toral becomes panic-stricken as he fears that the Federation might be preparing to help Gowron. Sela hushes him and orders her aide, General Movar, to return to Romulus with all available ships to a set of coordinates she provides to him. Lursa believes Starfleet is bluffing, since 20 starships are not enough for an invasion, but Sela speculates that Picard has an ulterior motive for this armada.
On Gowron's side, Gowron is given the news in the High Council chambers about the loss of a key sector. Furious, he says that they destroyed that supply base weeks ago. Kurn says that the Duras must be getting help, but another Klingon warrior, Kulge, steps in and declares non-confidence in his ability to lead, and challenges him. Gowron rises and accepts the challenge, with Worf objecting, stating that the enemy is the Duras. Worf intervenes in the challenge by attempting to separate Gowron and Kulge, unwittingly allowing Gowron to run Kulge through with his d'k tahg ending the challenge, and then Gowron gleefully declares: "Now the war can continue!"
Elsewhere, the Federation fleet arrives at the coordinates. O'Brien picks up unusual patterns on his sensors, which Picard speculates could be cloaked Romulan ships. He hails the Excalibur and orders Riker to deploy the fleet and spread the net.
On the Sutherland, Hobson informs Data they've reached the designated coordinates. Before the crew can play their role, the ship's starboard power coupling overloads, flooding several decks with radiation, a sign that the ship was nowhere near ready for deployment. Hobson takes the phasers and torpedoes off-line, but is countermanded by Data, who reminds him that he cannot suggest a course of action without consulting his commanding officer. Hobson replies that he is trying to save the lives of the people on the decks, but reactivates the weapons, only to have them deactivated again by Data's orders.
Starfleet vessels form the tachyon detection
grid to prevent the Romulans to supplying the
Duras.
With the fleet in position, Picard asks La Forge how long it will take for the Romulans to detect the grid. Since their sensors are as good as theirs, not long. Picard orders the network to be activated.
On board the Romulan ship, Sela and General Movar pick up the increased in tachyon emissions from the Federation ships, and reminds Sela that they will be detected, cloaked or not. Sela advises her aide that she will have to convince Picard to withdraw.
O'Brien picks up activity, and informs that a Romulan Warbird is decloaking, and asks to raise shields. Picard says no and the Romulan ship hails the Enterprise, which Picard responds. As Sela's image appears, Picard starts and answers with one word. "Tasha?", with Deanna Troi looking on, as if she has just seen a ghost. Sela introduces herself and tells Picard that the woman he knew as Tasha Yar, was her mother.
Act Three
Sela threatens Picard, telling him that deploying a fleet of this nature along their border is a clear act of aggression, and that he has 20 hours to take the fleet back to Federation space or risk a Romulan attack. In the conference lounge, Troi senses no deception and believes Sela's claim of being Tasha's daughter. Beverly Crusher, on the other hand, has no medical records of Yar ever being pregnant. Troi and Crusher both suspect she may be a clone or was surgically altered to look Romulan. Picard decides to maintain the blockade and leave the next move to the Romulans. As soon as Troi and Crusher leave, Guinan arrives and converses with Picard about Sela. She then asks him if he remembers what happened to the previous starship Enterprise. Picard recalls the Enterprise-C defending a Klingon outpost on Narendra III from the Romulans. He even acknowledges hearing stories about survivors being taken prisoner on Romulus, but believes they're only rumors. Guinan confirms that there were survivors and Tasha Yar was one of them. Furthermore, Guinan believes he may be responsible for the birth of Sela in the first place. Just as with the Narendra III massacre, Picard insists that what Guinan is suggesting is impossible, but Guinan simultaneously acknowledges the impossibility of what happened and insists that it did in fact happen and that Picard can't dismiss this. As a result, Picard then decides to arrange a meeting with Commander Sela.
Worf argues with Kurn, saying that Gowron should forbid anymore challenges until the war is ended, but Kurn states that it's their way, and asks if he would challenge Gowron, which Worf flatly refuses. Kurn also tells him not to speak of it and reminds him that he convinced him to follow Gowron, and suggests that if it doesn't seem right, then he made the wrong choice to wear the uniform. Kurn stomps out of the room, while supporters of the Duras capture Worf.
Act Four
Sela meets with Picard in the conference lounge and reminds him that time is short. Picard assures her that Starfleet has no hostile intentions, which is real comfort to Sela, and mocks that she can tell her superiors that a Federation fleet is at their border for humanitarian assistance. Picard baits her to try to run the blockade, but Sela knows he didn't bring her here to discuss their military situation and answers the one question on his mind: "How could Tasha Yar be [her] mother?"
She explains that a Romulan general saw Tasha, who was about to be executed along with other survivors of the Enterprise-C, and became enamored with her. He offered Tasha an agreement: the others' lives would be spared if she would become his consort. A year later, Sela was born. Then, four years afterward, Tasha attempted to take Sela away from her home. As soon as Sela realized what was happening, she screamed for attention and foiled Tasha's plan. Sela couldn't accept what her mother tried to do, after she was given a home and a child. As a result, she was executed. Everything Human about Sela died that day with her mother: now she's only Romulan. However, Picard doesn't believe her story and it will not influence his judgment the next time they meet. Sela then warns him he has 14 hours to leave the border, and returns to her ship.
Meanwhile, Lursa and B'Etor offer Worf to join them so that together, they could rule the Klingon Empire, but he refuses, knowing the Duras family never cared about honor or loyalty, only power. A moment later, Sela appears on the viewscreen, demanding to know the strengths and capabilities the Federation fleet has. She then has one of her officers take Worf away for interrogation.
Picard updates Gowron on the situation and informs him that they will be forced to withdraw from the border or fight the Romulan fleet in 13 hours - and have that long to expose their involvement. Picard proposes to Gowron that if he were to launch a full-scale attack on the forces of Duras, they will call for supplies, the Duras sisters will call for help, and the Romulans would have no choice but to cross the line to grant assistance, and they'll be waiting for them. Gowran adds that support will fall away from Lursa and B'Etor once the Romulan connection is revealed and will make preparations; but closes the communique by telling Picard that Worf was captured by the Duras family and hopes "he dies well".
Riker is brought on board from the Excalibur and Picard explains that when Gowran makes his attack, Starfleet will make their move: the Excalibur will fall back with engine problems while taking the Akagi and the Hornet to a position chosen by Picard. This will allow a small hole in the network, which would create a window opportunity for Sela's forces to move in; considering they're aware of the net. Once they come across, the Enterprise and the Tian An Men will swoop in and close the gap, exposing the Romulan connection. Riker smiles at the plan and returns to the Excalibur to execute it wishing the captain good luck.
In the meantime, Sela is informed that Gowron's loyalist forces have attacked three Duras controlled sectors and the sisters are nearing defeat. Annoyed, she asks if there's a way to circumvent Starfleet's detection grid, and Movar tells her that by flooding a point in the grid with a massive tachyon pulse, they could disrupt that portion of the grid. Just then, they see one of the starships leave the blockade line, which Sela sees that Picard is struggling maintaining the net, thus creating a window to allow the ships to go through. Picard's window to be exact, as Sela sees right through his strategy, and doesn't take it. Instead, she directs the pulse at the weakest spot: the point location of the Sutherland, which Sela says is commanded by the "android captain".
Act Five
The attack on Duras works, and the Romulans cross the line with 15 cloaked ships. Picard signals the fleet to standby, smiling triumphantly that his strategy worked. But that triumph is stopped by Sela as she initiates the pulse and disrupts the network. O'Brien points to the Sutherland and Picard informs Data about the situation. The resulting disruption makes the network ineffective in a radius of ten million kilometers around the Sutherland. Realizing that's where the Romulans will go, Picard orders the fleet to fall back and regroup at Gamma Eridon.
Hobson receives the orders and Data signals the acknowledgment and orders the helmsman to engage at warp 9.3. While the ship is en route, Data heads to a nearby LCARS terminal, and begins searching through the database. A curious Hobson sits beside him and asks questions. The resulting disruption may have caused the Romulan ships to be tagged with a residual tachyon signature – a theory that the Sutherland can't prove, according to Hobson. Data then orders all stop and returns to his command chair. Hobson protests, reminding him that the fleet was ordered to Gamma Eridon. Data explains to the commander that those signatures won't last long and it will be too late once the fleet is deployed, and orders him to reconfigure the sensors to detect ionized particle traces, which Hobson says that the entire area's been flooded with tachyon particles, making it impossible to find whatever they're looking for. Data acknowledges the difficulty, and also adds an order to bring the phasers back online. That draws another protest by Hobson, indicating that doing so will flood three decks with radiation. Data says when necessary, they will initiate radiation protocol. That's when Hobson angrily objects to the orders, saying that Data "doesn't give a damn about the lives he's throwing away". Data snaps back at Hobson, threatening to relieve him of duty if he doesn't carry out his orders. Hobson reluctantly agrees to carry them out.
Back on the Enterprise, O'Brien informs Picard that the Sutherland has come to a complete stop, which seems to annoy Picard. He orders the chief to open a channel to the Sutherland.
Hobson asks Data if he's going to answer the Enterprise, but Data ignores the hail, and instead orders a sensor sweep of the area, and focuses on the tachyon signatures. This task seems pointless according to Hobson, who says it "could be anything", and that they have no way of knowing if the Romulans are out there. Determined, Data orders the photon torpedo warhead yields reconfigured to high energy burst level six. According to Hobson, this level won't do any damage, but Data orders him to do it. Once the torpedoes are ready, they receive a message from Picard, reminding him he was ordered to rendezvous with the fleet at Gamma Eridon. Data asks the captain to standby, and orders Hobson to fire. The commander ignores his orders, but Data sharply turns and demands Hobson to fire. Annoyed, the commander complies.
Defeated by an android captain.
The Sutherland fires three photon torpedoes and scores a hit on three cloaked Romulan Warbirds, causing them to reveal themselves before the Nebula-class starship. The connection is revealed! Defeated, Sela orders the fleet to return to Romulan territory. Distressed, Movar asks what he is supposed to tell the Duras sisters. Sela curtly replies, "They're on their own."
Data looks over Hobson's console and finds the Romulans are heading back to Romulus. Data orders a full report to the flagship, the phasers off-line for radiation cleanup and immediate medical treatment for all crewmembers exposed to the radiation. Hobson complies with new-found respect for Data, and referring to him for the first time as "Captain."
The Duras' stronghold is under bombardment as an anxious Toral wonders what is keeping them. The Duras sisters barge in and admit defeat, indicating the Romulans never came. The Romulan soldier brings in Worf, coughing and weakened from his interrogation. B'Etor spits in his face, and Lursa orders the Romulan to kill him. Unexpectedly, Worf attacks the guard and the ensuing struggle allows B'Etor and Lursa to transport out before they are captured by Gowron's forces, leaving Toral stranded and at the mercy of Kurn, who is the first Klingon to break through the door, seeing both Worf and the unconscious Romulan lying beside him.
While the Enterprise is en route to Qo'noS, after sending the rest of the fleet back to Federation space, Data presents himself for disciplinary action in Picard's ready room, stating that, while his actions ultimately won the day, he is still guilty of disobeying a direct order. However, Picard says that Starfleet is not interested in officers who blindly follow orders – such officers have caused too many tragedies in history. Data made a careful analysis of the situation in front of him, and acted on it; his actions were appropriate, and Picard has noted as much in Data's record. He also congratulates Data by saying "nicely done".
In the High Council chamber, Picard presents a full report to the High Council about Starfleet's encounter with the Romulans. Gowron thanks him for his help, then asks him to stay and witness a rare event. Toral is brought into the chamber, and grants Worf the "honor" of killing him, in revenge for his family's crimes against the House of Mogh. But Worf stuns the chamber by refusing to kill a boy who, despite his other failings, is innocent of his father's crimes. Kurn asks him what is wrong, "it's the Klingon way!" Worf quietly replies, "I know, but it is not my way." Gowron says that Kurn may do it instead, and Kurn appears all too eager to, before Worf interjects that Gowron gave him Toral's life, and Worf has chosen to spare it. Stunned, Gowron accepts Worf's wishes, and Toral is allowed to go free. He then turns to Picard and asks to return to duty. Picard happily grants the request, and the two walk out of the Great Hall.
Log entries
"Captain's log, Stardate 45020.4. We have arrived at Starbase 234, where I have taken the opportunity to make a proposal to Fleet Admiral Shanthi."
"Captain's log, Stardate 45021.3. Convincing Starfleet Command to establish a blockade was relatively painless. Implementing that plan is proving more troublesome."
"Captain's Personal Log, stardate 45025.4. It is with a profound sense of relief that I have ordered the fleet back to Federation territory following the Romulan withdrawal and the news of Gowron's victory. We have arrived at the Klingon homeworld where I will present the High Council with a full report on our encounter with the Romulans."
Memorable quotes
"You always did have fools working for you, Larg. Now you don't have as many."
"You are lucky, Kurn, but luck always runs out. Someday, I will stand over your broken corpse and drink to the victory of the Duras!"
- Kurn and Captain Larg
"We cannot win. We must withdraw!"
"Keep your place!"
- Worf and Kurn while the Hegh'ta is under attack
"Nicely done. I hope we know what we're doing."
"So do I, Number One."
- Riker and Picard, after Shanthi approves Picard's blockade plan
"Good to drink with you, Kurn. May you die well."
"Die well, Larg."
- Kurn and Captain Larg
"You and I will fight battles that others can only dream of. The time for glory is here. It is not a time to worry about stabilizers. It is a time to celebrate, for tomorrow, we all may die! Come! Let us, the sons of Mogh, live this night as if it were out last!"
- Kurn, to Worf
"I understand your concerns... request denied."
- Data, refusing Christopher Hobson's request for transfer because of Data being an android
"What is it you propose, captain?"
- Fleet Admiral Shanthi, to Captain Picard
"Silence the child, or send him away!"
- Sela, on Toral
"Some would call it good leadership."
"And some would say they must be getting help."
- Fleet Admiral Shanthi and Captain Picard, on the Duras family's numerous victories in the Klingon civil war
"Maybe they have better leaders! I say you have failed as our leader, Gowron!"
- Kulge
"The enemy is the Duras! We are at war!"
(Worf enters the fight, Gowron stabs his opponent)
"Now the war... can continue!"
- Worf and Gowron
"Everything in me that was Human died that day with my mother. All that's left now is Romulan. Never doubt that."
(smiling) "Doubts? I'm full of them. But nothing you have told me today can convince me that what you are saying is true."
- Sela and Picard
"Worf has been captured by the Duras sisters. I hope he dies well."
- Gowron, to Picard
"Enough, Lursa. You have failed. I need to know the strength and capabilities of the Federation fleet. I don't have time for this!"
- Sela, to Lursa
"Worf is not like his brother."
"No. He tries to be but he's still unsure of himself."
"Perhaps he needs something to help restore his confidence."
"I think he'll find our offer appealing."
"I'll make sure he does."
- B'Etor and Lursa, sizing up Worf
"You don't give a damn about the people whose lives you're throwing away; we're not just machines!"
- Hobson, to Data
"Mr. Hobson! You will carry out my orders or I will relieve you of duty!"
"...Yes, sir."
- Data, reprimanding Hobson for challenging his authority
"Another message coming in; it's Captain Picard."
(Picard over speakers) "Mr. Data, you were ordered to rendezvous with the fleet at Gamma Eridon. Acknowledge."
"Stand by, captain. Mr. Hobson, prepare to fire."
"Didn't you hear?! Captain Picard wants us –"
"Fire."
(Hobson stares at Data. Data looks expectantly back at him)
"Fire!"
- Hobson, Picard and Data
"The claim, 'I was only following orders' has been used to justify too many tragedies in our history. Starfleet does not want officers who will blindly follow orders without analyzing the situation. Your actions were appropriate for the circumstances, and I have noted that in your record."
(Data turns to leave)
"And Mr. Data? Nicely done!"
- Captain Picard, to Data
"The Duras family will one day rule the Empire!"
"Perhaps... but not today."
- Toral and Gowron
"What's wrong? Kill him!"
"No!"
"But it is our way! It is the Klingon way!"
"I know. But it is not my way."
- Kurn and Worf, on the latter's refusal to kill Toral
"This boy has done me no harm, and I will not kill him for the crimes of his family!"
"Then it falls to Kurn!"
"No! No, you gave me his life, and I have spared it."
"As you wish."
- Worf and Gowron
Summary
The Hegh'ta under attack
Kurn's ship, the Hegh'ta, with Worf now aboard as tactical officer, is narrowly escaping destruction by two other Birds-of-Prey near a sun. Most of the bridge crew lie dead, and the Hegh'ta is losing shield strength fast. With no weapons left to fight, Kurn instead uses a clever technique of engaging warp drive near a star's surface, causing a large solar flare which destroys the two pursuers.
Meanwhile, Captain Picard meets with several senior Starfleet flag officers, including Fleet Admiral Shanthi, to discuss the Klingon civil war at Starbase 234. Picard briefs the admirals on three engagements occurring in the past two weeks that were won by ships loyal to the Duras family. Shanthi reminds Picard that none of those facts are the Federation's concern because the Klingon civil war is by definition an internal matter of the Empire. Picard says that would be true if the civil war were entirely internal, but if the Duras family is being aided by the Romulan Empire then it is very much a concern of the Federation. Picard points out that the Romulans have tried to destroy the Klingon-Federation Alliance for the last 20 years and the Duras family has been secretly conspiring with them at the same time. Picard asks her if it seems strange that the Duras' are able to overpower Gowron's forces at almost every turn. Shanthi speculates that the Duras family may have better leadership but Picard states it's also possible that they're getting help. Picard reminds the admiralty that the Romulans are willing to take huge risks to gain any advantage they can over the Federation and now, with the future of the Klingon Empire in the balance, can the Federation seriously believe that the Romulans are content to just stand by and watch it unfold?
Discussing the war with Starfleet.
Convinced of his argument, Shanthi asks Picard what he is proposing. The captain says that they must stop the flow of supplies and equipment from the Romulans to the Duras family. He proposes to the admiral that they send a fleet to the Klingon-Romulan border, engaging in no offensive action, but creating a blockade to intercept any Romulan supplies that attempt to cross the border. When Admiral Shanthi asks how they'll be able to overcome the problem of detecting ships equipped with cloaking devices, Picard answers that his chief engineer has developed a way that will counter their cloaking advantage: the tachyon detection grid. He explains to her that each ship will send out an active tachyon beam to each other; the theory is that any cloaked vessel that passes through it will be detected. Admiral Shanthi tells Picard that she'll have to clear it with the Federation Council first, but in the meantime he is to go ahead and assemble his fleet. Commander Riker smiles at his captain but also wonders if Picard knows what he's doing – a feeling the captain shares himself.
Act One
The plan is approved easily enough, but requires many vessels to cover the entire Romulan-Klingon border, which is proving most difficult. During a briefing, Riker explains to Picard that Starfleet is stretched pretty thin over the quadrant, with only 12 ships within a day's warp from their location. La Forge also points out that most of the ships in this area are either in drydock for repairs or have not been completed yet, but both don't even have full crews. Riker summarizes that they can spare seven to eight more starships. When asked if they can work the network with 20 ships, La Forge acknowledges that while the nets can work with that many ships, the more ships means they can cover a wider area. Satisfied, Picard rounds up 23 vessels in total, including the USS Endeavour, the USS Akagi, the USS Tian An Men, the USS Hermes, the USS Hood, the USS Excalibur, the USS Hornet, and the USS Sutherland. Picard adds that the Tian An Men, the Sutherland and the Hermes may not be completely ready as far as the yard superintendent is concerned but they're going anyway. He first assigns Data to select a group of experienced Enterprise officers to augment the crew of those three ships. Then Picard assigns Riker and La Forge to the Excalibur as captain and first officer as their crew was reassigned when the ship put in for repairs. Picard tells them that he wants the fleet ready by 0900 hours and La Forge and Riker then depart. Data remains for a moment and asks Picard why he wasn't assigned a command. Picard tells him that he thought he would need Data still on the Enterprise. Data comments on how Picard has mentioned a lack of senior officers that are available for this assignment. At first, Data thinks that Picard may not consider it time for an android to command a starship, despite his 26 years of service in Starfleet so as he plans on setting out ways to improve himself; Picard, chagrined at the exposure of his unconscious prejudice, interrupts him and tells him that the Sutherland is in need of a captain and he can't think of anyone better for the job.
Meanwhile, Worf and Kurn celebrate the war by drinking with a number of Klingons, many of whom support the House of Duras. Worf arrives and Kurn introduces him to Captain Larg, who commanded the squadron that tried to destroy them the day before. Larg insults Worf by implying that Worf isn't worthy of wearing a Klingon uniform. Worf is incensed and tries to attack Larg but Kurn restrains him, telling him that the capital city is neutral ground and that Larg's men are all around them, as are Kurn's. Kurn and Larg then both pick up a glass of bloodwine and tell each other to die well, then throw the glasses away and then Larg leaves. Worf asks Kurn if he really is drinking with their enemies. Kurn ask him how many of these warriors are with them and how many with the Duras family. Kurn tells them when they meet in battle they will fight to the death but here in the capital city they are all Klingons, all warriors. Worf starts to give Kurn a status report on the repair of the Hegh'ta's stabilizers but Kurn asks him if only duty is in his heart then tells him that they all have duties and responsibilities but at the same time he reminds Worf that they are all Klingons, all warriors, fighting in a glorious war. Kurn asks Worf to contemplate the fact that they will fight battles soon that others can only dream of and it is time to celebrate, for tomorrow they all may die. Kurn asks Worf to forget the status report and go with him and let them live the night together as if it were their last. Worf agrees and goes into the group of Klingons with Kurn. Over in a corner Lursa and B'Etor notice this and note that Worf is trying to be more like Kurn but that it's not working very well.
In drydock, the Sutherland is preparing to depart for the fleet. The ship's senior officer, Lieutenant Commander Chris Hobson oversees preparations for the ship to be ready for the fleet. Data enters the bridge and introduces himself to Hobson, as well as the bridge crew, and announces he is taking command of the vessel by order of Starfleet. Noting a lack of confidence, Hobson requests a transfer, stating his reasons, with the main one being his belief that he doesn't think an android would be a good captain. Data sympathizes with Hobson, but denies his transfer.
Picard's armada departs the
starbase
Manning tactical, Chief O'Brien informs Picard that the last assigned ship in the fleet, the USS Endeavour; has arrived and orders the fleet to get underway. The Enterprise heads towards the Klingon-Romulan border, with other Federation starships right behind.
Act Two
B'Etor shows impatience with Commander Sela, the Romulan commander who bears a strong resemblance to the late USS Enterprise-D security chief Natasha Yar. The convoy with supplies is late, but Sela gives them good news that Gowron's forces suffered another defeat in the Mempa system, and will not trouble their forces there. She assures her that the supplies will arrive. Lursa enters the room and informs Sela that a Federation fleet has left Starbase 234 on a course to Klingon territory, led by Picard. Toral becomes panic-stricken as he fears that the Federation might be preparing to help Gowron. Sela hushes him and orders her aide, General Movar, to return to Romulus with all available ships to a set of coordinates she provides to him. Lursa believes Starfleet is bluffing, since 20 starships are not enough for an invasion, but Sela speculates that Picard has an ulterior motive for this armada.
On Gowron's side, Gowron is given the news in the High Council chambers about the loss of a key sector. Furious, he says that they destroyed that supply base weeks ago. Kurn says that the Duras must be getting help, but another Klingon warrior, Kulge, steps in and declares non-confidence in his ability to lead, and challenges him. Gowron rises and accepts the challenge, with Worf objecting, stating that the enemy is the Duras. Worf intervenes in the challenge by attempting to separate Gowron and Kulge, unwittingly allowing Gowron to run Kulge through with his d'k tahg ending the challenge, and then Gowron gleefully declares: "Now the war can continue!"
Elsewhere, the Federation fleet arrives at the coordinates. O'Brien picks up unusual patterns on his sensors, which Picard speculates could be cloaked Romulan ships. He hails the Excalibur and orders Riker to deploy the fleet and spread the net.
On the Sutherland, Hobson informs Data they've reached the designated coordinates. Before the crew can play their role, the ship's starboard power coupling overloads, flooding several decks with radiation, a sign that the ship was nowhere near ready for deployment. Hobson takes the phasers and torpedoes off-line, but is countermanded by Data, who reminds him that he cannot suggest a course of action without consulting his commanding officer. Hobson replies that he is trying to save the lives of the people on the decks, but reactivates the weapons, only to have them deactivated again by Data's orders.
Starfleet vessels form the tachyon detection
grid to prevent the Romulans to supplying the
Duras.
With the fleet in position, Picard asks La Forge how long it will take for the Romulans to detect the grid. Since their sensors are as good as theirs, not long. Picard orders the network to be activated.
On board the Romulan ship, Sela and General Movar pick up the increased in tachyon emissions from the Federation ships, and reminds Sela that they will be detected, cloaked or not. Sela advises her aide that she will have to convince Picard to withdraw.
O'Brien picks up activity, and informs that a Romulan Warbird is decloaking, and asks to raise shields. Picard says no and the Romulan ship hails the Enterprise, which Picard responds. As Sela's image appears, Picard starts and answers with one word. "Tasha?", with Deanna Troi looking on, as if she has just seen a ghost. Sela introduces herself and tells Picard that the woman he knew as Tasha Yar, was her mother.
Act Three
Sela threatens Picard, telling him that deploying a fleet of this nature along their border is a clear act of aggression, and that he has 20 hours to take the fleet back to Federation space or risk a Romulan attack. In the conference lounge, Troi senses no deception and believes Sela's claim of being Tasha's daughter. Beverly Crusher, on the other hand, has no medical records of Yar ever being pregnant. Troi and Crusher both suspect she may be a clone or was surgically altered to look Romulan. Picard decides to maintain the blockade and leave the next move to the Romulans. As soon as Troi and Crusher leave, Guinan arrives and converses with Picard about Sela. She then asks him if he remembers what happened to the previous starship Enterprise. Picard recalls the Enterprise-C defending a Klingon outpost on Narendra III from the Romulans. He even acknowledges hearing stories about survivors being taken prisoner on Romulus, but believes they're only rumors. Guinan confirms that there were survivors and Tasha Yar was one of them. Furthermore, Guinan believes he may be responsible for the birth of Sela in the first place. Just as with the Narendra III massacre, Picard insists that what Guinan is suggesting is impossible, but Guinan simultaneously acknowledges the impossibility of what happened and insists that it did in fact happen and that Picard can't dismiss this. As a result, Picard then decides to arrange a meeting with Commander Sela.
Worf argues with Kurn, saying that Gowron should forbid anymore challenges until the war is ended, but Kurn states that it's their way, and asks if he would challenge Gowron, which Worf flatly refuses. Kurn also tells him not to speak of it and reminds him that he convinced him to follow Gowron, and suggests that if it doesn't seem right, then he made the wrong choice to wear the uniform. Kurn stomps out of the room, while supporters of the Duras capture Worf.
Act Four
Sela meets with Picard in the conference lounge and reminds him that time is short. Picard assures her that Starfleet has no hostile intentions, which is real comfort to Sela, and mocks that she can tell her superiors that a Federation fleet is at their border for humanitarian assistance. Picard baits her to try to run the blockade, but Sela knows he didn't bring her here to discuss their military situation and answers the one question on his mind: "How could Tasha Yar be [her] mother?"
She explains that a Romulan general saw Tasha, who was about to be executed along with other survivors of the Enterprise-C, and became enamored with her. He offered Tasha an agreement: the others' lives would be spared if she would become his consort. A year later, Sela was born. Then, four years afterward, Tasha attempted to take Sela away from her home. As soon as Sela realized what was happening, she screamed for attention and foiled Tasha's plan. Sela couldn't accept what her mother tried to do, after she was given a home and a child. As a result, she was executed. Everything Human about Sela died that day with her mother: now she's only Romulan. However, Picard doesn't believe her story and it will not influence his judgment the next time they meet. Sela then warns him he has 14 hours to leave the border, and returns to her ship.
Meanwhile, Lursa and B'Etor offer Worf to join them so that together, they could rule the Klingon Empire, but he refuses, knowing the Duras family never cared about honor or loyalty, only power. A moment later, Sela appears on the viewscreen, demanding to know the strengths and capabilities the Federation fleet has. She then has one of her officers take Worf away for interrogation.
Picard updates Gowron on the situation and informs him that they will be forced to withdraw from the border or fight the Romulan fleet in 13 hours - and have that long to expose their involvement. Picard proposes to Gowron that if he were to launch a full-scale attack on the forces of Duras, they will call for supplies, the Duras sisters will call for help, and the Romulans would have no choice but to cross the line to grant assistance, and they'll be waiting for them. Gowran adds that support will fall away from Lursa and B'Etor once the Romulan connection is revealed and will make preparations; but closes the communique by telling Picard that Worf was captured by the Duras family and hopes "he dies well".
Riker is brought on board from the Excalibur and Picard explains that when Gowran makes his attack, Starfleet will make their move: the Excalibur will fall back with engine problems while taking the Akagi and the Hornet to a position chosen by Picard. This will allow a small hole in the network, which would create a window opportunity for Sela's forces to move in; considering they're aware of the net. Once they come across, the Enterprise and the Tian An Men will swoop in and close the gap, exposing the Romulan connection. Riker smiles at the plan and returns to the Excalibur to execute it wishing the captain good luck.
In the meantime, Sela is informed that Gowron's loyalist forces have attacked three Duras controlled sectors and the sisters are nearing defeat. Annoyed, she asks if there's a way to circumvent Starfleet's detection grid, and Movar tells her that by flooding a point in the grid with a massive tachyon pulse, they could disrupt that portion of the grid. Just then, they see one of the starships leave the blockade line, which Sela sees that Picard is struggling maintaining the net, thus creating a window to allow the ships to go through. Picard's window to be exact, as Sela sees right through his strategy, and doesn't take it. Instead, she directs the pulse at the weakest spot: the point location of the Sutherland, which Sela says is commanded by the "android captain".
Act Five
The attack on Duras works, and the Romulans cross the line with 15 cloaked ships. Picard signals the fleet to standby, smiling triumphantly that his strategy worked. But that triumph is stopped by Sela as she initiates the pulse and disrupts the network. O'Brien points to the Sutherland and Picard informs Data about the situation. The resulting disruption makes the network ineffective in a radius of ten million kilometers around the Sutherland. Realizing that's where the Romulans will go, Picard orders the fleet to fall back and regroup at Gamma Eridon.
Hobson receives the orders and Data signals the acknowledgment and orders the helmsman to engage at warp 9.3. While the ship is en route, Data heads to a nearby LCARS terminal, and begins searching through the database. A curious Hobson sits beside him and asks questions. The resulting disruption may have caused the Romulan ships to be tagged with a residual tachyon signature – a theory that the Sutherland can't prove, according to Hobson. Data then orders all stop and returns to his command chair. Hobson protests, reminding him that the fleet was ordered to Gamma Eridon. Data explains to the commander that those signatures won't last long and it will be too late once the fleet is deployed, and orders him to reconfigure the sensors to detect ionized particle traces, which Hobson says that the entire area's been flooded with tachyon particles, making it impossible to find whatever they're looking for. Data acknowledges the difficulty, and also adds an order to bring the phasers back online. That draws another protest by Hobson, indicating that doing so will flood three decks with radiation. Data says when necessary, they will initiate radiation protocol. That's when Hobson angrily objects to the orders, saying that Data "doesn't give a damn about the lives he's throwing away". Data snaps back at Hobson, threatening to relieve him of duty if he doesn't carry out his orders. Hobson reluctantly agrees to carry them out.
Back on the Enterprise, O'Brien informs Picard that the Sutherland has come to a complete stop, which seems to annoy Picard. He orders the chief to open a channel to the Sutherland.
Hobson asks Data if he's going to answer the Enterprise, but Data ignores the hail, and instead orders a sensor sweep of the area, and focuses on the tachyon signatures. This task seems pointless according to Hobson, who says it "could be anything", and that they have no way of knowing if the Romulans are out there. Determined, Data orders the photon torpedo warhead yields reconfigured to high energy burst level six. According to Hobson, this level won't do any damage, but Data orders him to do it. Once the torpedoes are ready, they receive a message from Picard, reminding him he was ordered to rendezvous with the fleet at Gamma Eridon. Data asks the captain to standby, and orders Hobson to fire. The commander ignores his orders, but Data sharply turns and demands Hobson to fire. Annoyed, the commander complies.
Defeated by an android captain.
The Sutherland fires three photon torpedoes and scores a hit on three cloaked Romulan Warbirds, causing them to reveal themselves before the Nebula-class starship. The connection is revealed! Defeated, Sela orders the fleet to return to Romulan territory. Distressed, Movar asks what he is supposed to tell the Duras sisters. Sela curtly replies, "They're on their own."
Data looks over Hobson's console and finds the Romulans are heading back to Romulus. Data orders a full report to the flagship, the phasers off-line for radiation cleanup and immediate medical treatment for all crewmembers exposed to the radiation. Hobson complies with new-found respect for Data, and referring to him for the first time as "Captain."
The Duras' stronghold is under bombardment as an anxious Toral wonders what is keeping them. The Duras sisters barge in and admit defeat, indicating the Romulans never came. The Romulan soldier brings in Worf, coughing and weakened from his interrogation. B'Etor spits in his face, and Lursa orders the Romulan to kill him. Unexpectedly, Worf attacks the guard and the ensuing struggle allows B'Etor and Lursa to transport out before they are captured by Gowron's forces, leaving Toral stranded and at the mercy of Kurn, who is the first Klingon to break through the door, seeing both Worf and the unconscious Romulan lying beside him.
While the Enterprise is en route to Qo'noS, after sending the rest of the fleet back to Federation space, Data presents himself for disciplinary action in Picard's ready room, stating that, while his actions ultimately won the day, he is still guilty of disobeying a direct order. However, Picard says that Starfleet is not interested in officers who blindly follow orders – such officers have caused too many tragedies in history. Data made a careful analysis of the situation in front of him, and acted on it; his actions were appropriate, and Picard has noted as much in Data's record. He also congratulates Data by saying "nicely done".
In the High Council chamber, Picard presents a full report to the High Council about Starfleet's encounter with the Romulans. Gowron thanks him for his help, then asks him to stay and witness a rare event. Toral is brought into the chamber, and grants Worf the "honor" of killing him, in revenge for his family's crimes against the House of Mogh. But Worf stuns the chamber by refusing to kill a boy who, despite his other failings, is innocent of his father's crimes. Kurn asks him what is wrong, "it's the Klingon way!" Worf quietly replies, "I know, but it is not my way." Gowron says that Kurn may do it instead, and Kurn appears all too eager to, before Worf interjects that Gowron gave him Toral's life, and Worf has chosen to spare it. Stunned, Gowron accepts Worf's wishes, and Toral is allowed to go free. He then turns to Picard and asks to return to duty. Picard happily grants the request, and the two walk out of the Great Hall.
Log entries
"Captain's log, Stardate 45020.4. We have arrived at Starbase 234, where I have taken the opportunity to make a proposal to Fleet Admiral Shanthi."
"Captain's log, Stardate 45021.3. Convincing Starfleet Command to establish a blockade was relatively painless. Implementing that plan is proving more troublesome."
"Captain's Personal Log, stardate 45025.4. It is with a profound sense of relief that I have ordered the fleet back to Federation territory following the Romulan withdrawal and the news of Gowron's victory. We have arrived at the Klingon homeworld where I will present the High Council with a full report on our encounter with the Romulans."
Memorable quotes
"You always did have fools working for you, Larg. Now you don't have as many."
"You are lucky, Kurn, but luck always runs out. Someday, I will stand over your broken corpse and drink to the victory of the Duras!"
- Kurn and Captain Larg
"We cannot win. We must withdraw!"
"Keep your place!"
- Worf and Kurn while the Hegh'ta is under attack
"Nicely done. I hope we know what we're doing."
"So do I, Number One."
- Riker and Picard, after Shanthi approves Picard's blockade plan
"Good to drink with you, Kurn. May you die well."
"Die well, Larg."
- Kurn and Captain Larg
"You and I will fight battles that others can only dream of. The time for glory is here. It is not a time to worry about stabilizers. It is a time to celebrate, for tomorrow, we all may die! Come! Let us, the sons of Mogh, live this night as if it were out last!"
- Kurn, to Worf
"I understand your concerns... request denied."
- Data, refusing Christopher Hobson's request for transfer because of Data being an android
"What is it you propose, captain?"
- Fleet Admiral Shanthi, to Captain Picard
"Silence the child, or send him away!"
- Sela, on Toral
"Some would call it good leadership."
"And some would say they must be getting help."
- Fleet Admiral Shanthi and Captain Picard, on the Duras family's numerous victories in the Klingon civil war
"Maybe they have better leaders! I say you have failed as our leader, Gowron!"
- Kulge
"The enemy is the Duras! We are at war!"
(Worf enters the fight, Gowron stabs his opponent)
"Now the war... can continue!"
- Worf and Gowron
"Everything in me that was Human died that day with my mother. All that's left now is Romulan. Never doubt that."
(smiling) "Doubts? I'm full of them. But nothing you have told me today can convince me that what you are saying is true."
- Sela and Picard
"Worf has been captured by the Duras sisters. I hope he dies well."
- Gowron, to Picard
"Enough, Lursa. You have failed. I need to know the strength and capabilities of the Federation fleet. I don't have time for this!"
- Sela, to Lursa
"Worf is not like his brother."
"No. He tries to be but he's still unsure of himself."
"Perhaps he needs something to help restore his confidence."
"I think he'll find our offer appealing."
"I'll make sure he does."
- B'Etor and Lursa, sizing up Worf
"You don't give a damn about the people whose lives you're throwing away; we're not just machines!"
- Hobson, to Data
"Mr. Hobson! You will carry out my orders or I will relieve you of duty!"
"...Yes, sir."
- Data, reprimanding Hobson for challenging his authority
"Another message coming in; it's Captain Picard."
(Picard over speakers) "Mr. Data, you were ordered to rendezvous with the fleet at Gamma Eridon. Acknowledge."
"Stand by, captain. Mr. Hobson, prepare to fire."
"Didn't you hear?! Captain Picard wants us –"
"Fire."
(Hobson stares at Data. Data looks expectantly back at him)
"Fire!"
- Hobson, Picard and Data
"The claim, 'I was only following orders' has been used to justify too many tragedies in our history. Starfleet does not want officers who will blindly follow orders without analyzing the situation. Your actions were appropriate for the circumstances, and I have noted that in your record."
(Data turns to leave)
"And Mr. Data? Nicely done!"
- Captain Picard, to Data
"The Duras family will one day rule the Empire!"
"Perhaps... but not today."
- Toral and Gowron
"What's wrong? Kill him!"
"No!"
"But it is our way! It is the Klingon way!"
"I know. But it is not my way."
- Kurn and Worf, on the latter's refusal to kill Toral
"This boy has done me no harm, and I will not kill him for the crimes of his family!"
"Then it falls to Kurn!"
"No! No, you gave me his life, and I have spared it."
"As you wish."
- Worf and Gowron
