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Peak Performance
00:00:01Captain's log, Stardate 42923.4.
00:00:04Despite misgivings
00:00:06I have agreed to Starfleet's request
00:00:07that the Enterprise divert to the Braslota system
00:00:10to take part in a war game exercise.
00:00:12Joining us as observer and mediator
00:00:15is the Zakdorn master strategist, Sirna Kolrami.
00:00:31Mr. Kolrami.
00:00:32Captain Jean-Luc Picard. Welcome aboard.
00:00:34Captain, I bring you greetings from those at Starfleet Command.
00:00:38Would you care to be shown to your quarters?
00:00:41I require little rest, Captain.
00:00:42I prefer that we commence with our mission.
00:00:52Despite their reputations, this Zakdorn does not appear to be a very formidable warrior.
00:01:00In the game of military brinksmanship individual physical prowess is less important than the perception of a species as a whole.
00:01:08For over nine millennia potential foes have regarded the Zakdorns as having the greatest innately strategic minds in the galaxy.
00:01:15So no one is willing to test that perception in combat.
00:01:19Exactly.
00:01:23Then the reputation means nothing.
00:01:26The Braslota system.
00:01:29In orbit around the second planet is the 80-year-old Starcruiser Hathaway.
00:01:37He is still your first choice?
00:01:39Commander Riker will captain the Hathaway.
00:01:43You will have 48 hours to ready your vessel before the Enterprise attacks.
00:01:47And we'll experience actual battle conditions?
00:01:49Correct.
00:01:50Engineering will disconnect the Enterprise's weapons and link the system with a modified laser pulse beam.
00:01:57All hits will be recorded electronically.
00:01:59If the computer registers damage, it will act accordingly shutting down the affected areas for the appropriate repair time.
00:02:09Additional questions?
00:02:15Captain Picard, it is my understanding that you initially resisted
00:02:19Starfleet's request for this simulation.
00:02:22Yes.
00:02:24May I know why?
00:02:26Starfleet is not a military organization.
00:02:28Its purpose is exploration.
00:02:30Then why am I here?
00:02:34With the Borg threat
00:02:37I decided that my officers and I needed... to hone our tactical skills.
00:02:42In a crisis situation it is prudent to have several options.
00:02:46Ah.
00:02:48RIKER: I prefer brains over brawn, as well.
00:02:50I think it's a waste of effort to test our combat skills.
00:02:53It's a minor province in the makeup of a starship captain.
00:02:56Your objection is noted.
00:02:58Let us hope that your distaste for the exercise will not affect your strategic abilities.
00:03:07Mr. Kolrami, when I agree to do something,
00:03:10I do it.
00:03:13Would you care to surrender now, Captain?
00:03:39PICARD: Space, the final frontier.
00:03:44These are the voyages of the Starship Enterprise.
00:03:48Its continuing mission--
00:03:49to explore strange new worlds
00:03:53to seek out new life
00:03:55and new civilizations
00:03:58to boldly go where no one has gone before.
00:04:02♪♪
00:05:06Well, Number One, you are allowed a complement of 40 so select whom you will.
00:05:09Save, of course, Mr. Data who will serve as my First Officer during your absence.
00:05:13I had envisioned you defining the crew.
00:05:19On my ship, the leader of an away team has total control of the mission.
00:05:24If you want to judge leadership, why not start at the beginning?
00:05:28Very well
00:05:29Captain.
00:05:30Hmm.
00:05:32Oh, my.
00:05:34What a charmer.
00:05:35Doctor.
00:05:37Captain, he needs an attitude adjustment.
00:05:40The Zakdornian culture is replete with self-assuredness and confidence.
00:05:44Seldom is it undeserved.
00:05:46For example, Kolrami is a third-level grand master at the game of Strategema.
00:05:54Another millimeter.
00:05:56That's it. A little more.
00:05:58There.
00:05:59That's excellent.
00:06:01RIKER: Lieutenant.
00:06:02Yes, Commander.
00:06:03You've heard about the simulation aboard the Hathaway?
00:06:05Oh, yes, sir, and the best of luck to you.
00:06:07I've researched those old Avidyne engines.
00:06:08They're archaic by our standards, very touchy.
00:06:11Anticipating the worst do you think they can be whipped into shape in 48 hours?
00:06:15I've already taken the liberty of putting together a few necessities.
00:06:23( door chime )
00:06:30Enter!
00:06:41Am I disturbing you?
00:06:51Just finished.
00:06:54You know of the simulation, what do you think?
00:06:56Waste of time.
00:06:58It's just designed to be an exercise.
00:07:00Useless.
00:07:02If there is nothing to lose, no sacrifice then there is nothing to gain.
00:07:11You mean besides pride.
00:07:13Well, in this case, it doesn't matter.
00:07:16I probably haven't got a chance.
00:07:18There is always a chance.
00:07:20Slim.
00:07:21The Hathaway's most sophisticated weapons system-- even in a computer mock-up-- can't hope to defeat the Enterprise.
00:07:28Well, still...
00:07:29You're outmanned, you're outgunned, you're out-equipped.
00:07:31What else have you got?
00:07:39Guile.
00:07:42Join me.
00:07:47The honor is to serve.
00:07:56PICARD: Begin long-range scanning of all sectors within three light-years of Braslota.
00:08:00How's your crew shaping up?
00:08:01It's complete, but I would like to request an addition.
00:08:03Anyone in particular?
00:08:05With your permission I would like acting Ensign Crusher on board for educational observation.
00:08:15Thank you, Captain.
00:08:20It appears we'll have some time before reaching Braslota.
00:08:22I was wondering if you'd agree to play me in a game of Strategema.
00:08:27Although I'm intrigued by the audacity of your request
00:08:30I can't fathom why you would wish the encounter.
00:08:36I enjoy a challenge.
00:08:37Very well.
00:08:38An opponent of limited dimensions can often be quite diverting.
00:08:47Thank you.
00:08:54So you're going to beat him, huh?
00:08:55No.
00:08:57Well, then it's going to be a close one?
00:08:58Nope.
00:08:59But you have got a chance?
00:09:00Nah.
00:09:02Are you even going to bother to show up?
00:09:03Sure, Kolrami is the best ever at Strategema.
00:09:06Just to get to play him is a privilege.
00:09:07So, aside from your being privileged is there anything else I can look forward to?
00:09:10Nope.
00:09:11This is going to be exciting.
00:09:28Against an opponent of approximate skill
00:09:30Strategema can last well over 1,000 moves.
00:09:33I wouldn't bet on us being here that long.
00:09:36I have wagered heavily in the ship's pool that you will take him past the sixth plateau.
00:09:42And if I don't?
00:09:46I will be... irritated.
00:09:50Forever curious, this urge to compete.
00:09:54It's a human response.
00:09:55That inborn craving to gauge your capabilities through conflict.
00:09:59Doctor, there are other ways to challenge oneself.
00:10:02Well, perhaps, but they all lack a certain thrill.
00:10:05Data, humans sometimes find it helpful to have an outsider set the standard by which they're judged.
00:10:10To avoid deceiving oneself.
00:10:14Maybe you should challenge
00:10:16Kolrami to Strategema.
00:10:18Why, Doctor?
00:10:20Because, when someone is that smug you occasionally have to deflate them, just a little.
00:10:25Yeah, Data.
00:10:26I'd like to see your neural flecks tear him down a peg.
00:10:29To what end?
00:10:32WORF: Computer... actuation positions for Strategema.
00:10:36Ready?
00:10:37Begin.
00:10:40LA FORGE: Come on, Commander.
00:10:41Come on now.
00:10:42You can do it.
00:10:43You can get him.
00:10:44Come on, Commander, come on.
00:10:46You got him, you got him. Watch him now.
00:10:48( observers encouraging and commenting )
00:10:49( computer beeps )
00:10:56Hmm.
00:11:00That's it?
00:11:01I'm afraid so.
00:11:02But you only made 23 moves.
00:11:04Yes.
00:11:06Congratulations.
00:11:07Hmm, hmm-hmm.
00:11:19Commander Riker, there's your next challenge.
00:11:27WORF: Away team assembled and ready to transport, Commander.
00:11:30I may get over there and want to come right home.
00:11:33Good luck, Number One...
00:11:35Captain.
00:11:37The simulation will commence in 48 hours.
00:12:02LA FORGE: There should be some emergency bridge lighting here.
00:12:05( beeping )
00:12:10( whirring )
00:12:15Not good.
00:12:16Ah, you're wrong, Mr. Worf.
00:12:17It's fantastic.
00:12:19And it's ours.
00:12:24Mr. Worf.
00:12:32Sir...
00:12:33Lieutenant La Forge is a superior officer.
00:12:36The honor should be his.
00:12:37Worf, this is a battle simulation.
00:12:39You're my tactical officer.
00:12:40Discussed this with Geordi, and we agreed.
00:12:43I need you by my side.
00:12:44LA FORGE: Besides, Worf, if Engineering is anything like the Bridge
00:12:46I'm going to have my hands full.
00:12:58( ship's whistle sounds )
00:13:01Attention crew of the USS Hathaway.
00:13:03This is your Captain.
00:13:05Over the next two days, you might lose a lot of sleep but with your skill and your stamina we'll have this old lady ready to fly.
00:13:15I want hourly progress reports from all stations.
00:13:19Riker out.
00:13:44( generators coming on-line )
00:13:56( engines powering up )
00:14:01Nice job, Geordi.
00:14:03Now what are the possibilities of warp drive?
00:14:11Hmm... not good.
00:14:16There are only a few dilithium fragments left in the holding clamps.
00:14:20Even if we had crystals that were intact there's no antimatter to fuel the drive.
00:14:23RIKER: Any recommendations?
00:14:26No, sir.
00:14:27We haven't got a prayer.
00:14:29Would you like to transfer back to the Enterprise, Mr. Crusher?
00:14:34No, sir.
00:14:37Wes, remember our purpose is to improvise.
00:14:41It's the effort that counts.
00:14:47Open.
00:14:50I believe the rules are understood by all.
00:14:54Weapons conversion, Lieutenant Burke?
00:14:56Complete, Captain.
00:14:57Signal received.
00:14:58Locked on.
00:15:00She's really been stripped down, Captain.
00:15:02The only offensive systems you'll need will be simulated by computer.
00:15:05What's the Zakdornian word for mismatch?
00:15:08Challenge.
00:15:09We do not whine about the inequities of life.
00:15:11And how you perform in a mismatch is precisely what is of interest to Starfleet.
00:15:17After all, when one is in the superior position one is expected to win.
00:15:25Screen off.
00:15:26You have the Bridge, Mr. Data. Aye, sir.
00:15:28Lieutenant Commander Data, I'm intrigued by your challenge.
00:15:32Dr. Pulaski informed me of your desire to play a game of Strategema.
00:15:39But I expressed no such interest.
00:15:42What Commander Data means is that he would never have asked you himself.
00:15:46But I know that he's very interested in pitting his skill against yours.
00:15:49Play against a machine. Hmm.
00:15:53Why should I wish to?
00:15:55I don't blame you.
00:15:56It's no fun going into a game when you know you're going to lose.
00:15:59But I wouldn't lose.
00:16:00Now you're no doubt going to tell me that I have to prove it to you.
00:16:04Come on, Data, you can't let that pass.
00:16:07Indeed, I...
00:16:08( inaudible )
00:16:11Cannot.
00:16:12Then you will play for the honor of your ship.
00:16:15Hmm, hmm-hmm.
00:16:19The honor of the ship?
00:16:21It's your reputation that's on the line.
00:16:32With my knowledge of the Enterprise's security override we may be able to convince the sensors that an enemy ship is approaching.
00:16:42Their instruments would... lie to them.
00:16:45If you can pull that off, Mr. Worf you might give us the edge we're looking for.
00:16:49But what about the viewscreen?
00:16:52If I am successful, the computer will project a false image of the enemy ship on the main viewscreen.
00:16:58So unless someone runs to a window and looks out...
00:17:01They're going to fall for it.
00:17:19The lining's still smooth.
00:17:22We should be able to do something with these dilithium fragments we scavenged.
00:17:25Sure, the system's functional but, without antimatter, what difference does it make?
00:17:34Geordi, I have to return to the Enterprise.
00:17:36Wes, we've only got 32 hours.
00:17:38This is important.
00:17:39And this isn't?
00:17:42Attempt the routing bypass here.
00:17:46If it works, they will be surprised.
00:17:49Where I'm I going to get the opti-cable?
00:17:55Anywhere.
00:18:02Captain.
00:18:03I left an experiment running back on the Enterprise.
00:18:05May I go back and shut it down?
00:18:08It's that important?
00:18:09Well, it has to be monitored.
00:18:10And it is my final grade in plasma physics.
00:18:17Message from the Hathaway, sir.
00:18:19On screen.
00:18:21RIKER: Request permission for Ensign Crusher to reboard the Enterprise.
00:18:25Why?
00:18:27Apparently, he was so anxious to join the away team he left a very critical experiment unattended.
00:18:33Do you have any objection?
00:18:34He should be escorted and have no contact with anything save his research.
00:18:40Permission granted.
00:18:42Mr. Burke, will you handle that?
00:18:43Aye, sir.
00:18:45I saw no sense in Riker choosing him anyway.
00:18:47He's just a noncommissioned child.
00:18:54I can't believe I forgot about this.
00:18:55It's a good lesson not to let excitement cloud your judgment.
00:18:57Yeah.
00:18:59This is very delicate.
00:19:00I spent six weeks setting this up.
00:19:02That's a lot of work.
00:19:03Oh, no. This is ruined.
00:19:06That's too bad.
00:19:08Look, uh, is this going to take much longer?
00:19:11I'm going to have to dispose of this safely.
00:19:12This is very volatile.
00:19:16I'll beam it off the Enterprise and leave it particalized.
00:19:18That's fine. Let's just do it.
00:19:20All right, I'll transfer the coordinates to the Transporter Room.
00:19:38( clinks )
00:19:53( inaudible whisper )
00:19:58In the present context what did she mean by "bust him up"?
00:20:03In her own way
00:20:04Dr. Pulaski was instructing you to take the shortest route to victory.
00:20:09As opposed to what?
00:20:16Ready?
00:20:19Begin.
00:20:20( observers calling out encouragement )
00:20:25WOMAN: Good, good.
00:20:26MAN: Oh, look at them.
00:20:27Good, Data.
00:20:28WOMAN: Oh...
00:20:29MAN: Harder, harder.
00:20:30WOMAN: Look.
00:20:31MAN: Watch it, watch it.
00:20:32WOMAN: One more, one more.
00:20:33There.
00:20:35MAN: Come on.
00:20:36( computer beeps )
00:20:40I can't believe it.
00:20:42A computer beaten by flesh and blood?
00:20:45( hissing )
00:20:47You advanced quite far against such a worthy opponent.
00:20:50Thoroughly enjoyable, Mr. Data.
00:20:54I'm at your disposal for a rematch.
00:20:57Thank you, but what would be the point?
00:21:00Hmm, hmm-hmm.
00:21:04How can you lose?
00:21:06You're supposed to be infallible.
00:21:09Obviously, I am not.
00:21:20Ensign, where is Commander Data?
00:21:22He has temporarily removed himself from Bridge duty, sir.
00:21:27Your crew is excellently trained, Captain.
00:21:29A tribute to your leadership.
00:21:32Although I doubt their extensive preparation will be needed.
00:21:37Why is that?
00:21:39I do not expect "Captain" Riker will present much of a challenge.
00:21:46Mr. Kolrami, may I speak with you in private?
00:21:59I would like to know the root of your prejudice for my First Officer. Oh, Captain, I don't...
00:22:03Mr. Kolrami, you have been nothing but denigrating and abusive of Commander Riker since coming aboard this ship.
00:22:10Now, I would like some explanation.
00:22:13Having studied William Riker's file prior to this assignment
00:22:18I have found him... wanting.
00:22:21In what regard?
00:22:24His work record is exemplary.
00:22:28But, as you know a Starship Captain is not manufactured.
00:22:34He or she is born from-from inside from the character of the individual.
00:22:42My interviews have revealed a man who displays circumstantially inappropriate joviality belying the seriousness of his station.
00:22:55Don't confuse style with intent.
00:23:00Only a fool would question
00:23:01Commander Riker's dedication to Starfleet and the men and women under his command.
00:23:06He is simply the finest officer with whom I have ever served.
00:23:10We shall see if your faith is well-founded.
00:23:16The test is whether the crew will follow where Commander Riker leads.
00:23:20His...
00:23:23His joviality is the means by which he creates that loyalty.
00:23:29And I will match his command style with your statistics anytime.
00:23:34Hmm.
00:23:40( door chime )
00:23:41Come in, please.
00:23:46Data.
00:23:48Counselor is something the matter?
00:23:51That was going to be my question.
00:23:54With my repository of knowledge
00:23:56I expected to perform better against a humanoid life-form.
00:24:00You know, some of our greatest advances have come from analyzing failure.
00:24:06While it can be ego-bruising...
00:24:08But, Counselor, I do not have an ego.
00:24:11Yes.
00:24:13Well, um... a loss can be disheartening...
00:24:17But, Counselor, I do not have a...
00:24:18Data.
00:24:22You can handle defeat in two ways.
00:24:25You can lose confidence or you can learn from your mistakes.
00:24:29That is what troubles me.
00:24:31I made no mistakes.
00:24:34I have conducted a diagnostic check of all of my programs.
00:24:37I'm now cross-checking with the ship's computer.
00:24:40Is that all necessary?
00:24:42I believe so.
00:24:43I have proven to be vulnerable.
00:24:46At the present time, my deductions should be treated with skepticism.
00:24:50So, that's why you haven't been on the Bridge.
00:24:52Yes.
00:24:54The Captain would be ill-advised to rely upon my judgment.
00:25:00I think you're overreacting.
00:25:01I'm sure you're all right.
00:25:04I, however, am not sure.
00:25:17Easy now.
00:25:19Is that it?
00:25:20Yeah.
00:25:22Good work.
00:25:24All right.
00:25:25Hand me that connector on the kit.
00:25:34RIKER: What is that?
00:25:35My experiment from the Enterprise.
00:25:37Wes.
00:25:39It deals with high-energy plasma reactions with antimatter.
00:25:45You went back to the Enterprise for that?
00:25:49Wes, you cheated.
00:25:50No, sir.
00:25:51You told me to improvise.
00:25:53LA FORGE: The hard part is going to be calibrating the thermal curve necessary to start a controlled reaction.
00:26:00Assuming you can, can you regulate the reaction?
00:26:07There's just enough crystal left to do it.
00:26:12We plan to channel the reaction through the chips.
00:26:15Are we good?
00:26:16You're better than good.
00:26:17Great, brilliant.
00:26:19It's going to be fun.
00:26:20Carry on.
00:26:26( door chime )
00:26:28Come in, please.
00:26:32All right, Data, enough of this.
00:26:35Doctor?
00:26:36How long are you going to sit sulking like Achilles in his tent?
00:26:39I'm conducting diagnostic...
00:26:41You may be able to sell Troi that story but not me.
00:26:44Now, you're smarting because you were beaten.
00:26:46Well, it happens.
00:26:48No, Doctor, this is not about ego.
00:26:51I am concerned about giving the Captain unsound advice.
00:26:56I wish I had never maneuvered you into playing that game.
00:27:00I'm sorry.
00:27:02Why, Doctor?
00:27:03It is done, and perhaps just as well.
00:27:06This has indicated that I am damaged in some fashion.
00:27:09I must find the malfunction.
00:27:24RIKER: The simulation begins in one hour.
00:27:25You'll have warp drive, Captain though it may not be what you expected.
00:27:29I think that deserves some kind of explanation.
00:27:30We'll have warp 1 for about...
00:27:33Just under two seconds.
00:27:34That's not long enough or an escape but, used as a surprise it may give a strategic advantage.
00:27:38Sir, all of this is theoretical.
00:27:40And if your theory fails to pay off?
00:27:42Have you ever driven a Grenthemen water hopper? Sure.
00:27:45Ever popped the clutch?
00:27:46You're saying we're going to stall the Hathaway?
00:27:48And the Enterprise will waltz right over and pulverize us.
00:28:04Now, let me try to understand.
00:28:06You're saying that Commander Data is suffering from a profound loss of confidence and that you believe that only I can restore the balance?
00:28:16Yes, sir.
00:28:17Both Deanna and I have tried but we're not getting through to him.
00:28:22Don't you think you both might be overreacting?
00:28:25Data is not capable of the emotions which you're assigning him.
00:28:28The effects are the same whether they're caused by human emotions or android algorithms.
00:28:34Data's not on the Bridge, and I don't think
00:28:35Data's going to be on the Bridge until we find some way to address his problem.
00:28:42I'm less than one hour away from a battle simulation and I have to handhold an android.
00:28:48The burdens of command.
00:28:57( door chime )
00:28:58Come in, please.
00:29:02Commander, I require your presence on the Bridge.
00:29:04Captain, with all due respect perhaps it would be better if you choose another to serve as your First Officer.
00:29:10Data, you are my First Officer.
00:29:13I have not been able to isolate the problem, sir.
00:29:16I might make a mistake.
00:29:19Yes, you might but that does not alter your duty to me and to this ship.
00:29:25Now, do you know how to formulate a premise?
00:29:28Yes, sir. Then formulate this one.
00:29:30How do I deal with Commander Riker and the Hathaway?
00:29:34I will await your answer on the Bridge.
00:29:38And, Commander... it is possible to commit no mistakes and still lose.
00:29:47That is not a weakness.
00:29:49That is life.
00:29:54I believe I understand, sir.
00:29:56And, Data, will you leave your hesitation and self-doubt here in your quarters.
00:30:13I have several examples of Commander Riker's battle technique.
00:30:17At the Academy, he calculated a sensory blind spot on a Tholian vessel and hid within it during a battle simulation.
00:30:25And, as a Lieutenant aboard the Potemkin his solution to a crisis was to shut down all power and hang over a planet's magnetic poles thus confusing his opponent's sensors.
00:30:36And from these specifics what general conclusion can you extrapolate?
00:30:42Only 21% of the time does he rely on traditional tactics.
00:30:47So... the Captain must be prepared for unusual cunning.
00:30:54Counselor, Commander Riker will assume we have made this analysis and knowing that we know his methods he will alter them.
00:31:03But knowing that he knows that we know that he knows he might choose to return to his usual pattern.
00:31:09Wait, wait, you're overanalyzing, Data.
00:31:14One cannot deny human nature.
00:31:17What kind of a man is Commander Riker?
00:31:22A fighter?
00:31:23Yes.
00:31:26The weaker his position the more aggressive will be his posture.
00:31:29And he won't give up.
00:31:32Then, despite whatever options he is given he must be...
00:31:37The man that he is. Exactly.
00:31:43Is that a failing in humans?
00:31:48You'll have to decide that for yourself.
00:32:02On screen.
00:32:07The hunt begins, Number One.
00:32:09We're ready.
00:32:10Just remember, Enterprise
00:32:12Captain Riker's never lost.
00:32:15KOLRAMI: Begin now.
00:32:18Screen off.
00:32:19Set course 2-2-3 mark 3-5-7, full impulse power.
00:32:24Initiate Kumeh maneuver.
00:32:31Kumeh maneuver?
00:32:32Why would they start out with such a recognizable ploy?
00:32:34He's teasing.
00:32:36He wants us to reveal our tactics on his terms.
00:32:38Mr. Worf?
00:32:39Counter with the Talupian maneuver on instrument sighting.
00:32:42Agreed. Three-quarter impulse, full on my command.
00:32:44Ensign Nagel, maximum shields.
00:32:46Mr. Worf, prepare your little surprise.
00:32:49Aye, sir.
00:32:51PICARD: Set course 3-1-7 mark 7-3.
00:32:54Present minimal aspect.
00:32:56Ready warp 1.
00:32:58Optimal spread on simulated torpedoes.
00:33:01BURKE: Captain
00:33:02Romulan warship approaching fast from astern.
00:33:04What the...
00:33:05He came out of nowhere, sir.
00:33:07Bring us about, Ensign. Maximum shields.
00:33:09( alarm sounding )
00:33:10Full weapon systems. DATA: Disengage...
00:33:11Lock on, open a hailing frequency.
00:33:13I can't, sir. There's nothing there.
00:33:15( loud electronic beeps )
00:33:22Warp 3, evasive.
00:33:23Stand by.
00:33:24Disengage weapons and shields.
00:33:27Reengage modified beam.
00:33:29He's quite good.
00:33:30He's the best.
00:33:32Computer reports simulated damage to several aft decks, sir.
00:33:35Repair time 3.6 Days.
00:33:37How did he do that?
00:33:39Mr. Worf must have overridden the sensor codes played some holographic games.
00:33:44Mr. Data, input a new code.
00:33:47Attack posture, circumvental attitude.
00:33:51Prepare beams for photon mode.
00:33:58( quietly): Bye-bye, Hathaway.
00:34:02Computers report heavy damage to the Enterprise.
00:34:03WESLEY: They're moving off, sir.
00:34:04Why not go after them?
00:34:06Because they're not through coming after us.
00:34:07Wesley, Geordi, prepare to warp jump.
00:34:09There are no guarantees here, sir.
00:34:11There never are, Lieutenant.
00:34:12I'm going to trust your expertise.
00:34:13Secure your stations.
00:34:15Stand by for my signal.
00:34:18Ready the photon torpedoes.
00:34:20Captain, sensors picking up a Ferengi warship closing at warp 5.
00:34:25Did you input that new code?
00:34:26Aye, sir.
00:34:29Mr. Worf, I didn't give you enough credit.
00:34:33Continue the simulation.
00:34:35Divert all power to shields.
00:34:37Sever modified beams.
00:34:38Stay between the Ferengi and the Hathaway.
00:34:40Engage phasers and target.
00:34:41PICARD: Fire when ready.
00:34:45That's no ghost attacking the Enterprise.
00:34:47That's real.
00:34:48We must assist, sir.
00:34:49With what?
00:34:50We have no offensive weapons.
00:34:52Where are my weapons?
00:34:53BURKE: Unavailable, sir.
00:34:55We cannot disengage the modified beams.
00:34:56The connections have been fused.
00:35:02We must retreat.
00:35:03Unacceptable.
00:35:04The Ferengi have broken off their attack.
00:35:06Drop shields, transport the away team aboard.
00:35:08Transporter functions gone, sir.
00:35:10Shields reduced to 1/5 intensity.
00:35:12Use their moment of indecision to escape.
00:35:14I have 40 crew members onboard the Hathaway...
00:35:16Who should be sacrificed to save a thousand.
00:35:18Acceptable tactical losses, considering the circumstances.
00:35:22Not to me.
00:35:24Notify Starfleet, priority.
00:35:25Hail the Ferengi on my command.
00:35:26Formulate alternatives.
00:35:27As the Starfleet observer
00:35:29I am ordering you to withdraw.
00:35:31I am the Captain of this vessel.
00:35:32Your order is nullified.
00:35:35Ferengi on main viewscreen.
00:35:42I am Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Federation Starship USS Enterprise.
00:35:47Why have you attacked my vessel?
00:35:49Why was your ship combative with another Federation vessel of lesser design?
00:35:56Why do you now protect your former target?
00:36:00What is its value to you?
00:36:03Our probes indicate you were aware of our approach, yet took no action.
00:36:08Your answers will dictate our response.
00:36:15We have refrained from launching a counterattack in the hope that this can be resolved peacefully.
00:36:21Our probes indicate that you are crippled and the ship you protect has no weaponry no light-speed drive and only a scarce crew.
00:36:32This makes no sense to us.
00:36:35Unless it contains something very valuable.
00:36:39I am Bractor, leader of the Ferengi attack vessel Kreechta.
00:36:45I will have the secret of the other Federation ship.
00:36:49Surrender it to me and I will allow your Enterprise to leave unharmed.
00:37:02You have ten of your minutes.
00:37:08Sir, they're massing a surge of power.
00:37:10We're being scanned.
00:37:11They've locked on.
00:37:16Data?
00:37:17Our shields will not withstand another assault, sir.
00:37:20Then there are no options.
00:37:22Retreat... or die.
00:37:34Captain's log, supplemental.
00:37:36Due to a miscalculation on my part
00:37:38the Enterprise has been subjected
00:37:40to a surprise attack by the Ferengi.
00:37:43I find myself with little time to decide the fate
00:37:46of 40 of my crew stranded aboard the derelict Hathaway.
00:37:50I am open to suggestions.
00:37:52Captain, we are now capable of launching a limited number of photon torpedoes.
00:37:57I've already given you my advice, Captain.
00:37:59The Hathaway is expendable.
00:38:01Commander Riker is hailing, sir.
00:38:04On screen.
00:38:07Number One, have you been monitoring communications?
00:38:09Yes, sir. Kolrami's right.
00:38:11You've got to save the Enterprise.
00:38:13That would leave you defenseless.
00:38:15When Bractor closes in, we'll hit our warp drive.
00:38:19Take our chances.
00:38:21Your what?
00:38:23We have a limited two-second warp capability.
00:38:25Impossible! That ship was rendered warp inactive.
00:38:28I told you he was the best.
00:38:32I'd like to hear more about this, Number One, later.
00:38:35Right now, I have to work something out with Mr. Data.
00:38:38Premise-- the Ferengi wish to capture the Hathaway believing it to be of value.
00:38:43Therefore, we must remove the ship from their field of interest.
00:38:46And they will soon relocate it after a two second warp...
00:38:49There is a way.
00:38:51Number One, can you hear this?
00:38:52Yes, sir, we're all here.
00:38:54Waiting for you to pull another rabbit out of your hat.
00:38:56Mr. Data?
00:38:58On the Captain's command we will fire four photon torpedoes directly at the Hathaway.
00:39:03One millisecond after its detonation the computer will trigger your warp jump.
00:39:08I think I hate this plan.
00:39:09Data, we're not even sure our warp jump will work.
00:39:12If the warp engines fail to function the result could be... unfortunate.
00:39:18WORF: Very unfortunate.
00:39:21We will be dead.
00:39:22PICARD: Captain Riker
00:39:24I cannot order you to do this.
00:39:26What the hell, nobody said life was safe.
00:39:29The advantage is that it will appear from the Kreechta's perspective as though... as though you were destroyed in the explosion.
00:39:40That will deceive them only for a few minutes.
00:39:43Their sensors will soon locate us.
00:39:45We'll only need a few minutes, Mr. Worf because you're going to prepare another surprise for them.
00:39:50PICARD: Then we're agreed.
00:39:53On my mark, four minutes.
00:39:55DATA: Remember, Geordi... if the implementation is off by one millisecond the Hathaway will not survive.
00:40:01Data, that's the one part of this plan that we're all absolutely sure about.
00:40:14Are we ready, Number One?
00:40:16Ready, Captain. Ready, Captain.
00:40:19Good luck to both of you.
00:40:23Bractor.
00:40:29I will wait no longer, Picard.
00:40:31You needn't.
00:40:32The answer is no.
00:40:33Your actions have been wholly criminal.
00:40:35You will not profit by them.
00:40:37You are a fool.
00:40:40How can you stop us?
00:40:42You believe the Hathaway has value?
00:40:45We deny you your prize.
00:40:47Fire.
00:40:54Destroy your own rather than suffer the ignominy of defeat and capture?
00:40:59I did not think the Federation had such iron.
00:41:03You had no claim on that vessel.
00:41:05It was ours to destroy.
00:41:07As you are ours to destroy.
00:41:11You can try.
00:41:15Enterprise targeted, Leader.
00:41:17Leader, there is another Federation ship closing.
00:41:22A starship.
00:41:23Maximum shields.
00:41:26We have been outmaneuvered.
00:41:27Retreat.
00:41:33Captain, our sensors show no Federation starship nearby.
00:41:36RIKER: Of course not, Mr. Burke.
00:41:38That was Klingon guile.
00:41:39You made it, Number One.
00:41:42Smooth ride?
00:41:43Well, it certainly was different.
00:41:45We'll lock on and pick you up.
00:41:48With pleasure, Captain.
00:41:54Uh... I must admit, your Commander Riker acquitted himself quite admirably.
00:42:05And so, Captain have you.
00:42:09My report to Starfleet will be most favorable.
00:42:14Thank you.
00:42:15Hmm, hmm-hmm.
00:42:18Initiate recovery procedures.
00:42:19Continue repairs.
00:42:22Plot a course for the nearest Starbase.
00:42:28Captain's log, supplemental.
00:42:30With the transporter repaired and my crew safely back aboard
00:42:33we have officially ended
00:42:35our first Starfleet battle simulation.
00:42:38( excited voices in the distance )
00:42:48Come on, come on.
00:42:49Don't lose it. Don't lose it.
00:42:50Come on. You've got him.
00:42:51Come on, Data. Come on, Data.
00:42:53Come on, Data. Come on.
00:42:55( encouragement continues )
00:43:21( exclamation of disgust )
00:43:24Why have you suspended the game?
00:43:25Because this is not a rematch.
00:43:28You have made a mockery of me.
00:43:34Data, you beat him.
00:43:35No, sir, it is a stalemate.
00:43:37No game of Strategema has ever gone this high.
00:43:40What did you do?
00:43:41I simply altered my premise for playing the game.
00:43:43Explain.
00:43:44Working under the assumption that Kolrami was attempting to win it is reasonable to assume that he expected me to play for the same goal.
00:43:51You didn't.
00:43:52No, I was playing for a standoff.
00:43:55A draw.
00:43:57While Kolrami was dedicated to winning
00:43:59I was able to pass up obvious avenues of advancement and settle for a balance.
00:44:04Theoretically, I should be able to challenge him indefinitely.
00:44:07Then you have beaten him.
00:44:10It is a matter of perspective, Doctor.
00:44:12In the strictest sense, I did not win.
00:44:15Data. Data.
00:44:18I busted him up.
00:44:19( all cheering )
00:44:37♪♪