Home > Star Trek: The Next Generation

The Neutral Zone

00:00:02

First Officer's Log, Stardate 41986.0.

00:00:06

We are awaiting the return of Captain Picard

00:00:07

who was summoned to Starbase 7-1-8

00:00:10

for an emergency conference.

00:00:11

Meanwhile, our sensors have been monitoring

00:00:13

an ancient capsule floating in our vicinity,

00:00:16

which appears to be from Earth.

00:00:18

I wonder how it got out here.

00:00:20

At its present speed and heading it will eventually enter the Kazis binary system and will certainly be destroyed.

00:00:26

I could attach a tractor beam and adjust its heading.

00:00:29

I think not, Mr. Worf.

00:00:30

It's just a piece of space debris.

00:00:32

If we hadn't been sitting here, waiting for the Captain we wouldn't have noticed it.

00:00:34

Let it be.

00:00:36

Let nature take its course.

00:00:37

How long until Captain Picard returns?

00:00:39

The last communication indicated it would be several hours.

00:00:42

Commander-- request permission to investigate this vehicle.

00:00:46

Why, Data?

00:00:47

It's just a derelict.

00:00:48

It is a piece of history.

00:00:49

The opportunity to examine such an ancient vehicle does not come around very often.

00:00:53

And, as you pointed out we do have the time.

00:00:56

Very well.

00:00:58

Be prepared to beam back before the Captain returns.

00:01:01

Thank you, sir.

00:01:02

Lieutenant Worf, go with him.

00:01:03

Aye, sir.

00:01:21

Minimal oxygen atmosphere.

00:01:26

An ancient solar generator-- still operating.

00:01:34

WORF: Commander, look at this.

00:01:38

The on-board computers have ceased functioning.

00:01:41

I may be able to download this old-style disk drive back to the Enterprise.

00:01:45

( beeping )

00:01:48

( distant clanging )

00:01:52

( grunting )

00:01:57

Must be sealed.

00:01:59

Probably with age.

00:02:02

Ah, not necessary.

00:02:40

The seal has been broken and the environment corrupted.

00:02:46

Here's another.

00:02:57

This one is empty.

00:03:04

Commander look at this.

00:03:38

Space, the final frontier.

00:03:42

These are the voyages of the Starship Enterprise.

00:03:47

Its continuing mission--

00:03:48

to explore strange new worlds

00:03:52

to seek out new life and new civilizations

00:03:57

to boldly go where no one has gone before.

00:05:27

Were they frozen for an extended journey?

00:05:30

If that were the purpose, there would be evidence of a more sophisticated monitoring system.

00:05:34

These containers were designed solely for refrigeration.

00:05:39

The Captain's shuttle is approaching the main Shuttle Bay, sir.

00:05:42

Enterprise, this is the Captain.

00:05:43

Number One, I want to get underway as soon as the shuttle is secure.

00:05:46

Aye, sir.

00:05:47

We'll make all preparations.

00:05:48

Commander Data-- return to the Enterprise, immediately.

00:05:51

DATA: We have run into an unusual situation, sir.

00:05:53

There are people on board-- frozen.

00:05:56

Frozen? How many?

00:05:58

Three.

00:06:00

The vehicle has suffered severe damage.

00:06:02

Most of her systems have failed.

00:06:04

Are you suggesting they be transferred to the Enterprise?

00:06:08

I do not believe we should leave them here, sir.

00:06:11

With your permission we will be returning with three containers.

00:06:15

RIKER: Whatever you do, do it quickly.

00:06:24

Mr. La Forge, set course zero-five-eight mark one-seven-three.

00:06:27

Laying it in, sir.

00:06:28

Number One, I want a staff meeting on the Observation Deck.

00:06:31

Captain those coordinates will take us right into the Neutral Zone.

00:06:39

That is correct, Mr. La Forge.

00:06:41

Warp factor eight.

00:06:43

Aye, sir. Warp eight.

00:06:45

Engage.

00:06:51

Two Federation outposts in sector three-zero have been destroyed.

00:06:58

There's been no communication with Federation starbases in sector three-one since Stardate 41903.2.

00:07:09

Romulans.

00:07:11

That's the assumption.

00:07:13

There's been no direct contact with the Romulans since the Tomed incident.

00:07:19

The questions are: why now?

00:07:20

What's their objective?

00:07:23

For 50 years, there's barely a whisper out of them and now, for no apparent reason they seem to be back with a roar.

00:07:28

Everything we know about them is based on rumor or conjecture.

00:07:32

The strategic decision is to send one ship.

00:07:38

The Enterprise.

00:07:39

We could get out there and find ourselves greatly overmatched.

00:07:43

True enough.

00:07:44

It's a gamble.

00:07:45

This first encounter-- coming so suddenly after all this time-- we have to assume it's a setup.

00:07:51

If force is necessary, we will use it but that will mean we have failed.

00:07:55

Our goal here is to establish some kind of relations with the Romulans.

00:07:59

If we don't succeed then, to convince them of our resolve.

00:08:03

The general feeling at Starfleet is that they are seeking confrontation.

00:08:07

They may want to test themselves in battle against a Federation starship.

00:08:13

See how far we have advanced.

00:08:15

If that is the case, then I need to know it.

00:08:17

Counselor, I shall need a full profile on them.

00:08:19

There is limited information but I will prepare something.

00:08:22

Computer, estimated time of arrival at the Neutral Zone?

00:08:26

19 hours, 28 minutes.

00:08:28

Let's reassemble in six hours.

00:08:32

Stay sharp, no surprises.

00:08:34

I would rather outthink them than outfight them.

00:08:37

Questions?

00:08:48

What is it, Doctor?

00:08:49

It's the people from the capsule.

00:08:51

Capsule? People? What people?

00:08:53

The people Data beamed over.

00:08:54

I wasn't aware that he had.

00:08:56

Well, he did and they were frozen.

00:08:59

I thawed them.

00:09:00

You what?

00:09:01

Well, I didn't know what else to do.

00:09:03

The crypts in which they were frozen were literally falling apart.

00:09:07

So, what's their condition?

00:09:09

Right now, they're all sleeping.

00:09:12

Each of them needed minor medical attention.

00:09:14

Minor now but, then, their conditions were obviously terminal.

00:09:18

One had a heart problem another, an advance case of emphysema with extensive liver damage.

00:09:24

You know, the most surprising thing of all is that each of them had been frozen after they died.

00:09:30

After they died?

00:09:32

Cryonics.

00:09:34

It was a kind of fad in the late 20th century.

00:09:37

People feared dying.

00:09:39

It terrified them.

00:09:41

So, at the moment of death they would be frozen so that later, sometime in the future presumably, when medical science had found a cure for whatever killed them-- they could be thawed back to life, healed and sent on about their business.

00:09:54

Well, in the case of this group, it apparently worked.

00:10:02

Mr. Data, will you report to Sick Bay...

00:10:05

...immediately.

00:10:15

Look, I am never critical of any member of my staff being curious, but... it's just that the timing is so...

00:10:24

I could not leave them there, Captain.

00:10:25

The condition of their vehicle was deteriorating.

00:10:27

But, Data, they were already dead.

00:10:31

I mean, what more could have happened to them?

00:10:34

I see your point, Captain but, at the time, it seemed the proper thing to do.

00:10:40

Well, they're alive now.

00:10:43

We're going to have to treat them as living human beings.

00:10:46

Alive and well and ready to be awakened.

00:10:49

Look, before you wake them up

00:10:50

I want to have security here.

00:10:52

Lieutenant Worf, report to Sick Bay.

00:10:55

I have them sedated now but they should be up and about as soon as possible.

00:11:00

Well, then we have no other choice.

00:11:04

None that I can see.

00:11:57

Welcome to the 24th century.

00:12:05

I was able to retrieve some information from the ancient disk I removed from the module's computer.

00:12:10

Her name is Clare Raymond-- age 35 occupation, homemaker.

00:12:17

Must be some kind of construction work.

00:12:19

She died of an embolism.

00:12:21

It probably happened very suddenly.

00:12:23

Otherwise, her physical condition was excellent.

00:12:31

His name is Ralph Offenhouse-- age, 55; occupation, financier.

00:12:38

Advanced cardiomyopathy.

00:12:40

Inoperable at the time but easily correctable now.

00:12:44

He must have known his condition was terminal for quite some time.

00:12:49

Much of his file, we could not retrieve.

00:12:52

His name is L.Q. Sonny Clemonds.

00:12:55

Apparently, his occupation had something to do with music.

00:12:58

CRUSHER: There was marked deterioration in every system of his body.

00:13:01

Probably from massive chemical abuse.

00:13:04

Unbelievable.

00:13:05

Sounds like someone who hated life yet he had himself frozen, presumably so he could go through it all again.

00:13:11

Too afraid to live, too scared to die.

00:13:15

Well, Doctor, this seems to be a situation more suited to your talents.

00:13:18

I'll leave it with you.

00:13:19

I'll be on the Bridge.

00:13:28

Number One, kindly take charge of our guests until we have time to decide what we are going to do with them.

00:13:34

Aye, sir.

00:13:35

And, Number One-- keep them out of my way.

00:13:49

I know this is all very confusing to you so I'll attempt to explain.

00:13:53

You are on the starship USS Enterprise

00:13:56

American?

00:13:57

No, it's a vessel of the United Federation of Planets and Earth is a member.

00:14:02

Uh, what year is this?

00:14:05

By your calendar--

00:14:06

2364.

00:14:10

What?

00:14:14

My heart, is it...

00:14:16

It's perfectly fine.

00:14:18

In fact, all of you are now in excellent health.

00:14:23

It worked.

00:14:24

I made it.

00:14:28

What is that?

00:14:31

An android.

00:14:34

You mean a robot?

00:14:36

Actually, there is a distinct difference between an android and a robot.

00:14:40

And him-- the one I saw before with the head?

00:14:44

She means Worf.

00:14:47

He's a Klingon.

00:14:48

That takes a little more explanation.

00:14:50

Now, listen, guys.

00:14:52

I paid some idiot a lot of money to freeze me when I died and I just got to hear the words.

00:14:58

Am I alive?

00:14:59

Oh, yes, absolutely.

00:15:01

And the liver that was about to explode in my face?

00:15:04

Perfectly sound.

00:15:07

Excuse me.

00:15:08

Could someone please tell me what's going on here?

00:15:11

About 370 years ago, you died of a massive embolism.

00:15:19

I don't remember anything about that.

00:15:21

You and the others were frozen.

00:15:25

Cryonics-- you know, it's freeze you now and heal you later.

00:15:29

Yeah, I've heard of it.

00:15:30

I just never gave it much thought.

00:15:33

How did we get here?

00:15:35

You were in a space module.

00:15:36

The whacko that sold me this scam said that by putting us in orbit there wasn't going to be no chance of a brownout.

00:15:42

Yes, several cryonics companies fell into disrepute because of power failures which adversely affected their refrigeration system.

00:15:50

Their stocks were severely depressed.

00:15:53

The whole deal was a long shot but, I figured, what the hell might as well give them the dough instead of leaving it to my ex-wives.

00:15:59

( Sonny laughs )

00:16:02

But, you know, son, I just figured it was all a bunch of hooey.

00:16:06

"Hooey?"

00:16:08

Ah, as in hogwash, malarkey, jive-- an intentional fabrication.

00:16:13

There you go.

00:16:14

Now you got it.

00:16:18

Now, if you didn't contract for this, who did?

00:16:21

It must have been my husband, Donald.

00:16:24

If it was new and foolish, he would have popped for it.

00:16:27

Well, I'll say this for it-- it's the first thing he's ever bought into that worked.

00:16:32

I, for one, never had a doubt.

00:16:34

My stock in this company must have split at least a dozen times by now.

00:16:39

Actually, the process of cryonics was never more than a fad and did not continue much beyond the mid-21st century.

00:16:46

Uh-huh.

00:16:48

I need to make a phone call as soon as possible.

00:16:51

A phone call?

00:16:52

Yes, I have provided for myself.

00:16:54

I have a substantial portfolio.

00:16:56

It's critical that I check on it.

00:16:58

Let the bank know that I'm alive and well.

00:17:01

Uh, that's going to be a little difficult right at the moment.

00:17:05

Well, do you at least have a copy of the Wall Street Journal?

00:17:10

I think we should take the Doctor's advice.

00:17:13

Take this very slowly until we've all adjusted.

00:17:16

And then we'll talk to the Captain.

00:17:19

As you know, sir, there is very little available on the Romulans.

00:17:22

Counselor, anything will be helpful.

00:17:25

They seem to be creatures of extremes.

00:17:27

One moment, violent beyond description the next, tender.

00:17:31

They are related to Vulcans but, as each race developed their differences grew wider.

00:17:38

They're intensely curious.

00:17:40

Their belief in their own superiority is beyond arrogance.

00:17:45

For some reason, they have exhibited a fascination with humans and it is that fascination, more than anything else that has kept the peace.

00:17:54

One other thing, they will not initiate anything.

00:17:58

They will wait for you to commit yourself.

00:18:02

Counterpunches.

00:18:04

Thank you, Counselor.

00:18:05

That's quite valuable.

00:18:11

Talk.

00:18:13

I'd like me a thick Kansas City steak and some country-fried potatoes and a mess of greens.

00:18:20

Oh, hell, just forget all that and give me a martini straight up with two olives... for the vitamins.

00:18:47

Whoo.

00:18:49

Is something wrong?

00:18:51

Wrong?

00:18:53

Well, only that your computer here fixed about the best martini I ever had.

00:18:57

I might just get to like this place.

00:18:59

Let's see if the Braves are on.

00:19:01

How do you cut on this TV?

00:19:03

TV?

00:19:04

Yeah, the boob tube.

00:19:06

I'd like to see how the Braves are doing after all this time.

00:19:08

Probably still finding ways to lose.

00:19:11

I believe he means television, sir.

00:19:15

That particular form of entertainment did not last much beyond the year 2040.

00:19:21

Well, what do you guys do?

00:19:23

I mean, you don't drink and you ain't got no TV.

00:19:26

Must be kind of boring, ain't it?

00:19:30

PICARD: Number One.

00:19:35

Riker here.

00:19:37

Would you and Mr. Data report to the Bridge?

00:19:39

At once, sir.

00:19:40

Uh, with whom were you speaking?

00:19:44

The Captain.

00:19:46

Good, would you tell him that I would like to see him as soon as it's convenient.

00:19:51

What's going to happen to us?

00:19:52

Do we stay here with you?

00:19:54

Do we go back to Earth?

00:19:55

That will all be up to the Captain.

00:19:57

Well, get him in here.

00:19:59

I have to phone Geneva right away about my accounts.

00:20:02

( chuckles )

00:20:04

Why, the interest alone could be enough to buy this ship.

00:20:07

The Yankee's right.

00:20:08

Let's get the big boy in here.

00:20:10

I'll pass along your request.

00:20:12

If you'll excuse us.

00:20:13

Duty calls-- hey, I understand.

00:20:16

Why don't you come back later on, and you and me will find us a couple low-mileage pit woffies and help them build a memory.

00:20:31

What is to be done with them, sir?

00:20:33

I don't know.

00:20:36

Commander-- "a low-mileage pit woffie"?

00:20:39

This time you've got me.

00:20:40

I haven't a clue.

00:20:42

They are the most unusual humans

00:20:43

I have ever encountered.

00:20:45

Well, from what I've seen of our guests there's not much to redeem them.

00:20:48

Makes one wonder how our species survived the 21st century.

00:20:58

Report.

00:20:59

We are six hours from the Neutral Zone.

00:21:01

I've been unable to establish communications with any Federation colony or station in this vicinity.

00:21:06

How many outposts are there in this sector?

00:21:08

Nine.

00:21:09

I think we should work under the assumption that they've all been destroyed.

00:21:12

By the Romulans?

00:21:14

It fits their historical pattern.

00:21:17

DATA: Since we have had no contact with the Romulans for 53 years, seven months, 18 days we must consider that the information we do have is out of date.

00:21:25

RIKER: The positive side of that is that the information they have about us is also out of date.

00:21:29

Captain, I think it's that lack of information that this is all about.

00:21:32

Go on.

00:21:34

In my opinion, the Romulans want a confrontation specifically with us.

00:21:38

The Enterprise?

00:21:39

Well, not by name, but the Federation.

00:21:42

They know that the Federation will send their best.

00:21:44

That will give them a perfect chance to see firsthand how far we've advanced both in technology and technique.

00:21:50

What are you recommending?

00:21:52

I'm not sure I have a specific recommendation.

00:21:54

Perhaps, we should assume the initiative.

00:21:56

WORF: I agree with Commander Riker.

00:21:58

This may be our only opportunity.

00:22:00

We should seize it.

00:22:05

Mr. Data?

00:22:06

The strategy is built on a single premise-- the hostile intent of the Romulans.

00:22:11

If the premise is sound, so is the proposal.

00:22:16

LA FORGE: If their intention isn't hostile what is it?

00:22:20

OFFENHOUSE: Captain Picard!

00:22:23

This is Captain Picard.

00:22:24

To whom am I speaking?

00:22:26

Ralph Offenhouse.

00:22:27

I need to talk to you.

00:22:29

What is going on here, Number One?

00:22:31

Did you give him permission to contact me?

00:22:33

Of course not, he must have seen me use the com panel.

00:22:36

Ah, listen, Mr., um, Offenhouse we're in a very important conference right now.

00:22:41

I'm sick and tired of being put off by you and your staff.

00:22:44

This is the worst run ship I have ever been on.

00:22:48

You should take some lessons from the Q.E. II.

00:22:50

Now that's an efficient operation.

00:22:52

Data, identify.

00:22:53

What is a "Q.E. II"?

00:22:55

It was a passenger liner which mostly traveled Earth's Atlantic Ocean during the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

00:23:02

He's comparing the Enterprise to a cruise ship?

00:23:05

Captain Picard, I demand that you see me!

00:23:09

I think I have been very, very patient.

00:23:13

I demand a phone or a radio or whatever else you have but frankly, enough is enough.

00:23:19

Especially under the circumstances and considering what I paid for this procedure.

00:23:24

I must make contact with my law...

00:23:26

( door opens )

00:23:30

I'm Captain Picard.

00:23:31

Excellent.

00:23:34

Now maybe we'll be able to get some things straightened out.

00:23:36

We may indeed.

00:23:38

Those com panels are for official ship business.

00:23:40

Well, if they're so important why don't they need an executive key?

00:23:45

Aboard a starship vessel, that is not necessary.

00:23:48

We are all capable of exercising self-discipline.

00:23:51

Now, you will refrain from using them.

00:23:53

Now, just a minute.

00:23:54

We are in a very serious and potentially dangerous situation.

00:23:59

I'm sure whatever it is seems very important to you but my situation is far more critical.

00:24:06

I don't think you are aware of your situation or of how much time has passed.

00:24:11

Believe me, I am fully cognizant of where I am and when.

00:24:15

It is simply that I have more to protect than a man in your position could possibly imagine.

00:24:21

No offense meant, but a military career has never been considered to be upwardly mobile.

00:24:27

I must contact my lawyer.

00:24:30

Your lawyer has been dead for centuries.

00:24:33

Yes, of course I know that but he was a full partner in a very important firm.

00:24:38

Rest assured, that firm is still operating.

00:24:47

That's what all this is about.

00:24:50

A lot has changed in the past 300 years.

00:24:53

People are no longer obsessed with the accumulation of things.

00:24:58

We've eliminated hunger, want, the need for possessions.

00:25:03

We've grown out of our infancy.

00:25:06

You've got it all wrong.

00:25:07

It has never been about possessions-- it's about power.

00:25:12

Power to do what?

00:25:13

To control your life, your destiny.

00:25:18

That kind of control is an illusion.

00:25:22

Really?

00:25:24

I'm here, aren't I?

00:25:26

I should be dead but I'm not.

00:25:29

( sobbing )

00:25:34

What is it?

00:25:38

I don't know, it just started, and it won't stop.

00:25:43

I keep thinking about my boys.

00:25:49

Counselor Troi, will you report to the guest lounge?

00:25:52

RIKER: Captain, we are approaching Science Station Delta Zero-Five.

00:25:57

Slow to half-impulse.

00:25:58

I'm on my way.

00:26:03

CLEMONDS: Captain, I need to see that pretty little doctor of yours.

00:26:08

I'll inform her.

00:26:10

Captain, I didn't mean to come on so strong.

00:26:13

It's just that I've built my whole life on knowing what's going on and for the first time, I feel... completely out of touch.

00:26:22

It's, uh, making me crazy.

00:26:24

You can understand that?

00:26:26

It's the first thing you've said I do understand.

00:26:29

I'll see what I can do.

00:26:30

And please stay off the com panels.

00:26:42

Counselor, will you get those people under control.

00:26:46

We cannot afford this continuing distraction.

00:26:48

Yes, sir.

00:26:51

( door chimes )

00:26:56

Hello.

00:27:00

My name's Deanna.

00:27:02

They sent you here to settle me down?

00:27:06

I'm the Ship's Counselor.

00:27:09

I thought you might want to talk.

00:27:16

The local shrink?

00:27:18

I'm sorry, I'm not familiar with that term.

00:27:21

It doesn't matter.

00:27:25

You're feeling profoundly sad.

00:27:29

I can't stop crying.

00:27:32

I miss my sons.

00:27:34

And then I think, "I'm here, but they're gone."

00:27:40

Donald-- that's my husband--

00:27:43

I love that man but, good intentions aside, he'd mess up a free lunch.

00:27:49

Why on Earth he ever decided to do this.

00:27:53

He must have thought you would have wanted it.

00:27:56

No, I can tell you exactly what happened.

00:27:59

He couldn't think about going on alone.

00:28:02

I died, and he couldn't face it, so... he figured he'd have me frozen and then, in his mind, I wasn't really gone.

00:28:13

Sounds crazy but you'd have to know Donald.

00:28:19

I wish I knew what happened to my children.

00:28:22

Did they get married?

00:28:23

Did they have kids?

00:28:26

Let's see if we can find out.

00:28:32

Computer, this is Counselor Troi.

00:28:35

Request personal history on...

00:28:37

What are their names?

00:28:40

Tommy-- he's eight and Eddie's five.

00:28:43

COMPUTER: Full names, date and place of birth.

00:28:47

Um, they were born in Secaucus.

00:28:49

That's in Jersey.

00:28:51

Can this really work?

00:28:53

Can this tell me what's happened to them?

00:28:54

Well, there must be a record somewhere.

00:28:56

There's a good chance we can find it.

00:28:59

Well, whether we do or not, I want to thank you... for trying.

00:29:07

Date of birth--

00:29:09

Tommy was born February 17.

00:29:12

Well, I just got to have a little something to jump-start the morning and a little something else to shut down the night.

00:29:16

You have no medical need.

00:29:19

Well, it ain't a matter of "need" darling.

00:29:21

It's a matter of survival.

00:29:23

Sorry. Not to worry.

00:29:25

Ol' Wade Toss'll scuffle along the best way he can.

00:29:27

How do I get hold of that fella with the strange-looking face?

00:29:31

I beg your pardon.

00:29:32

What's his name-- that, uh, android fella.

00:29:36

You mean Lieutenant Commander Data?

00:29:38

That's the one.

00:29:39

I'll let him know you're looking for him.

00:29:41

Much obliged.

00:29:42

You know, you just about the prettiest little ol' doctor I ever seen.

00:29:49

Much obliged.

00:29:55

This is amazing.

00:29:56

It's all right here.

00:29:58

Ten generations of your progeny.

00:30:02

Everyone I've ever known is dead.

00:30:09

Do you mind?

00:30:11

I'd like to be alone.

00:30:13

No, not at all.

00:30:25

( door chimes )

00:30:28

You asked to see me?

00:30:29

Hey, look, I'm about to go out of my mind for something to do.

00:30:32

I mean, sitting here alone just don't get it.

00:30:34

Now, what say you and I put together a little party.

00:30:37

A celebration?

00:30:38

No, nothing that fancy.

00:30:39

Just some folks, some suds and some sounds.

00:30:41

Why, hell, it ain't nothing but something to do.

00:30:45

I will speak to the Captain.

00:30:46

Great, you do that.

00:30:47

Inquiry.

00:30:49

You do not seem to be having as much difficulty adjusting to your current circumstances as the others.

00:30:54

You mean being here on this tub

00:30:55

400 years from where I started?

00:30:58

Oh, heck, it's the same dance, it's just a different tune.

00:31:01

You think anybody here's got a guitar I could borrow?

00:31:04

No, but the computer can replicate such an instrument.

00:31:07

I was kind of hoping to get one while I still remembered the chords.

00:31:10

RIKER: Commander Data, we are approaching the Neutral Zone.

00:31:13

Report to the Bridge.

00:31:14

I must leave now.

00:31:17

What's this "neutral zone"?

00:31:19

It is a buffer between the Romulan Empire and the Federation.

00:31:23

Why does that make me nervous?

00:31:26

I do not know.

00:31:27

Well, we won't be inviting these Romulans to our party, will we?

00:31:31

No, that would not be... appropriate.

00:31:42

Captain's Log, supplemental.

00:31:43

We have arrived at the edge of the Neutral Zone

00:31:46

where we will now have an opportunity

00:31:48

to learn firsthand what happened

00:31:50

to our distant outposts.

00:31:52

Captain, there is nothing left of Outpost Delta Zero-Five.

00:31:58

Must have been one hell of an explosion.

00:32:01

Sensors indicate no evidence of conventional attack.

00:32:06

Can you determine what happened?

00:32:09

The outpost was not just destroyed.

00:32:11

It is as though some great force just scooped it off the face of the planet.

00:32:16

Could it have been a natural phenomenon?

00:32:19

Insufficient information, sir.

00:32:24

Mr. La Forge.

00:32:26

Sir?

00:32:27

Set course for the next closest station.

00:32:30

Aye, sir.

00:32:38

I have spent my entire career being able to tell when the other guy's mouth is dry.

00:32:45

There is something going on here.

00:32:47

Something serious.

00:32:49

The tension level on this ship has jumped up.

00:32:53

CLEMONDS: Well, even if you're right what can we do about it?

00:32:55

And besides, these ol' boys here don't need us tellin' 'em where the bear sits.

00:32:59

Look here what that young fella made for me.

00:33:05

How did he do that?

00:33:07

He called it a pattern replication.

00:33:09

It plays real good, too.

00:33:11

I am trying to tell you that there is a situation developing on this vessel that directly affects us and all you can talk about is that stupid guitar.

00:33:19

Hey, now these folks don't need us swimming in their soup.

00:33:23

So, why don't you just relax and let them do their jobs?

00:33:26

Well, that may be all right for you but I am not willing to allow my fate to be decided by others.

00:33:32

I, at least, want to know what is going on.

00:33:40

We are approaching Tarod Nine.

00:33:43

The condition is identical, Captain.

00:33:46

Everyone and everything is gone.

00:33:48

RIKER: Captain--

00:33:49

I strongly recommend that we go to red alert.

00:33:51

If the Romulans have improved their cloaking device-- and we'd be fools to believe they haven't-- we should assume a more defensive posture.

00:33:59

I agree, Captain.

00:34:00

I recommend we go immediately to battle stations.

00:34:03

I appreciate your advice and concern but this is not the time for rash actions.

00:34:06

We are still investigating.

00:34:08

There are three other stations in this sector we have to visit.

00:34:10

Let's proceed in a calm and orderly manner.

00:34:13

If not battle stations, may we at least take the ship to yellow alert?

00:34:16

Yes, Number One, that would be prudent.

00:34:18

Make it so.

00:34:21

( beeping )

00:34:23

COMPUTER: All decks, yellow alert.

00:34:46

Um... let's see, uh...

00:34:52

I want to go to the, uh... to the, um...

00:34:58

Where would the Captain be? ( beeping )

00:35:00

COMPUTER: Captain Picard is located on the Main Bridge.

00:35:04

Well then, take me to the Main Bridge.

00:35:07

Captain, my sensors indicate a disturbance.

00:35:10

It is large and moving, but I cannot get a positive lock.

00:35:12

Nor can I get it on the viewscreen.

00:35:15

Shields up.

00:35:16

WORF: Aye, sir.

00:35:18

Captain, I recommend we transfer all power to the phasers and arm the photon torpedoes.

00:35:21

Wait, if that is a Romulan ship, they will read our intent.

00:35:25

It will force them into taking up a similar posture.

00:35:28

We don't want to engage in battle.

00:35:29

Captain, this is sufficient evidence.

00:35:32

Outposts have been destroyed.

00:35:33

Countless lives have been lost.

00:35:35

WORF: I have a positive lock.

00:35:37

They're disengaging their cloaking device.

00:35:39

They'll only be vulnerable for an instant as they become visible.

00:35:43

Captain, this may be our only chance.

00:35:47

No.

00:35:52

Where are they?

00:35:53

WORF: The signal is weakening.

00:35:56

I've lost them.

00:36:00

Damn.

00:36:04

Mr. Data, your sensors picking up anything?

00:36:07

You should be detecting a disturbance.

00:36:10

Negative, sir.

00:36:11

We wanted to know if they had improved the cloaking device.

00:36:14

Guess we have our answer.

00:36:16

They were trying to determine our intent.

00:36:18

They wanted to see if we would fire.

00:36:21

Who the hell are "they?"

00:36:23

Get that man off the Bridge now.

00:36:27

I'm not going anywhere.

00:36:28

WORF: Captain!

00:36:29

They're back.

00:36:59

Amazing.

00:37:00

I never thought I'd see a Romulan vessel.

00:37:02

Not this close.

00:37:03

The last time we encountered them was decades ago.

00:37:06

It cost thousands of lives.

00:37:09

I can believe that.

00:37:12

Stay calm, everyone.

00:37:14

Open hailing frequencies.

00:37:16

Captain, these are Romulans.

00:37:20

They are without honor.

00:37:23

They killed my parents in an attack on Khitomer when they were supposed to be our allies.

00:37:28

They believe humans and Klingons are a waste of skin.

00:37:32

Lieutenant, control your emotions.

00:37:35

Please open hailing frequencies.

00:37:42

Hailing frequencies open.

00:37:44

Romulan vessel, this is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the USS Enterprise.

00:37:51

Sensors indicate all of their systems are armed, sir.

00:37:55

But they have not fired.

00:37:59

I am Commander Tebok.

00:38:03

Commander, you have crossed the Neutral Zone.

00:38:07

This is Federation territory.

00:38:10

It was necessary.

00:38:12

It might be viewed as an act of aggression.

00:38:14

If our intent were aggression you would not be here now.

00:38:18

If we go to war let us be sure it is for the right reason.

00:38:24

We are here because our outposts which border on the Neutral Zone were also attacked.

00:38:31

Destroyed in the exact same manner as your own.

00:38:35

Even so, what gives them the right to enter Federation space?

00:38:38

Silence your dog, Captain.

00:38:42

Lieutenant Worf's question is valid.

00:38:45

To even ask such a question implies that we need permission.

00:38:49

We do not.

00:38:51

Do you think that we attacked your outposts?

00:38:54

Once we realized the level of destruction we knew it could not have been you.

00:39:03

Who is responsible?

00:39:08

They haven't got a clue.

00:39:11

They're hoping you know but they're too arrogant to ask.

00:39:16

You're out of line, mister.

00:39:18

Yes, but it's a correct assessment.

00:39:21

We do not know who is responsible.

00:39:25

Why entire outposts on both sides have been carried off.

00:39:31

I would like to offer a proposal.

00:39:33

An alliance?

00:39:35

Between the Romulans and the Federation?

00:39:38

Nothing so grandiose.

00:39:40

Just this... cooperation.

00:39:45

There was an intent here.

00:39:46

Whoever or whatever did this is more powerful than either of us.

00:39:51

Let's collaborate.

00:39:53

Let's share whatever we learn about what has happened here.

00:39:58

Agreed, on this one issue and only if it is convenient and appropriate at the time.

00:40:08

Captain Picard because your actions are those of a thoughtful man

00:40:13

I'll tell you this.

00:40:15

Matters more urgent caused our absence.

00:40:20

Now, witness the result.

00:40:24

Outposts destroyed expansion of the Federation everywhere.

00:40:32

Yes, we have indeed been negligent, Captain but no more.

00:40:40

Commander, we have made some progress here.

00:40:42

Let's not ruin it with unnecessary posturing.

00:40:45

Your presence is not wanted.

00:40:49

Do you understand my meaning, Captain?

00:40:53

We are back.

00:41:04

I think our lives just became a lot more complicated.

00:41:15

Get him off my Bridge.

00:41:30

I found something.

00:41:35

I've been able to locate a family living just outside of Indianapolis.

00:41:39

The man's name is Thomas Raymond.

00:41:42

That's my son's name.

00:41:43

My son's name is Tommy.

00:41:46

Computer, let us see Thomas Raymond.

00:41:51

RAYMOND: Oh, my God.

00:41:53

That's Donald.

00:41:55

That's my husband.

00:41:56

Actually, it's your great, great, great, great, great grandson.

00:42:03

He's the spitting image.

00:42:05

Well, I have his address.

00:42:07

When you get back to Earth you can go and see him.

00:42:10

No, I'll be out of time.

00:42:13

A relic.

00:42:15

Perhaps.

00:42:17

But it's a place to start.

00:42:19

After all, he is family.

00:42:24

There's no denying that.

00:42:28

Here's what I propose.

00:42:30

You can't stay on the Enterprise but I have arranged for us to rendezvous with the USS Charleston bound for Earth.

00:42:35

They will deliver you there.

00:42:37

Then what will happen to us?

00:42:39

There's no trace of my money.

00:42:41

My office is gone.

00:42:43

What will I do?

00:42:44

How will I live?

00:42:47

This is the 24th century.

00:42:49

Material needs no longer exist.

00:42:54

Then what's the challenge?

00:42:59

The challenge, Mr. Offenhouse, is to improve yourself to enrich yourself.

00:43:06

Enjoy it.

00:43:09

Well, one good thing is since everybody has forgotten everything I ever did it will all be brand spanking new.

00:43:16

I'll be a bigger hit than I ever was.

00:43:20

Perhaps so.

00:43:21

Anything is possible.

00:43:23

What say, son?

00:43:25

You'd make a hell of a sideman.

00:43:28

That offer does present a certain fascination.

00:43:39

Captain, I've plotted a course to intercept the Charleston but they've just informed me that they'll be making an extended stop at Arloff Nine.

00:43:46

Your point, Mr. La Forge?

00:43:48

Well, at warp eight, we could have our guests at Starbase 39 Sierra in five days.

00:43:53

Take months off their journey.

00:43:56

But they'll benefit from the extended time it will allow them to acclimate before returning to Earth.

00:44:00

RIKER: It's a pity we can't take them there ourselves.

00:44:02

Having them on board is like a visit from the past.

00:44:06

That would take us in the wrong direction.

00:44:09

Our mission is to go forward and it's just begun.

00:44:13

Set velocity warp six, Mr. La Forge.

00:44:18

Aye, sir. Warp six.

00:44:21

There is still much to do.

00:44:23

Still so much to learn.

00:44:28

Mr. La Forge, engage.