Path: moe.ksu.ksu.edu!zaphod.mps.ohio-state.edu!mips!sdd.hp.com!hp-cv!hplabs!hpda!hpcuhb!hpindda!mears@hpindda.cup.hp.com From: mears@hpindda.cup.hp.com (David Mears) Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative Subject: Games People Play Message-ID: <101470002@hpindda.cup.hp.com> Date: 9 Mar 92 01:18:01 GMT Organization: HP Information Networks, Cupertino, CA Lines: 3086 Well, I got my most recently submitted script back from Paramount with the standard rejection letter. And so, I thought I would make the script available to those of you out there who might find it entertaining. Even though the first script I submitted was actually submitted by myself and another person, and therefore I'm not sure if Paramount would consider this the second rejection of a script from me, I doubt I'll be sending in any more. At this point, I think I'll spend my creative energies (small though they've been for the last year or so) on getting a short story published in a magazine. I had submitted this script in the late spring/early summer time frame last year, in hopes it would be early enough for consideration of the entire season. The rejection letter that came back with the script was dated from the middle of August, though the postmark on the return envelope was dated from the middle of November. I guess it either got lost in the Paramount mail room, or they're so busy reading scripts it takes a while to get the rejected ones to the mail room. At the time I got it back, I decided to wait until after the holidays and the news group reorganization before posting the script. My only excuse for the extra time before finally posting it now is a combination of being both busy and lazy. It's too bad they didn't like this script (well, other than the obvious fact that I'd've liked to get a script accepted!) because with a few small changes, I think this story could've worked into the story line they used for Unification. Of course, I didn't know what Unification would look like or be about at the time I wrote this. If you like the story, or have useful constructive criticisms, feel free to send them to me. If you want to duplicate this script in some other publication (electronic or printed), I have three rules: 1) Ask me before you do it. I will most likely say yes, but I ask that you give me the opportunity to say no. 2) Keep all copyright notices and disclaimers attached. 3) Send me a copy of the publication. If it's an electronic only publication, email is fine. Otherwise, I'd like a printed copy. When you email asking for permission, I'll send you an address where you can mail it. For whomever has been keeping the Star Trek FTP site, you hereby have my permission, as per 1) above, to keep a copy of this there. Just let me know you're doing so. And now, without further ado, here is ``Games People Play.'' Enjoy! ---------- Copyright 1988, 1991 by David B. Mears. All Rights Reserved. STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION "Games People Play" TEASER FADE IN: INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM PICARD is alone, standing by the viewport staring out at the stars going by in standard warp effect. He is holding and sipping from a cup of steaming liquid. PICARD (V.O.) Captain's Log, Stardate 45407.7 The Enterprise is returning from a full month patrol mission at the Romulan Neutral Zone. Reconstruction of the Fleet following the Borg incident is now complete, and it's hoped these extra patrols will soon no longer be needed. The past month has been particularly difficult for those members of my crew separated from families left behind with the saucer section at Omega Ceti Seven. Having now rejoined with them, we are on our way to Star Base twenty nine where we all look forward to some much needed rest and relaxation. A communicator chirp is heard. WORF'S COM VOICE Captain, we are receiving a priority message from Starfleet Command. PICARD Thank you, Lieutenant. I'll be right there. (to himself) There's just no rest for the weary. INT. BRIDGE WORF, RIKER, TROI, DATA and other assorted bridge personnel are present. Picard enters from his Ready Room. WORF The message is from Admiral Calavicci. Picard motions to Worf and the viewscreen changes to show a large man. CALAVICCI'S IMAGE Captain Picard. I'm aware the Enterprise is on her way to Star Base twenty nine for a well deserved rest, and I wouldn't interrupt that if I had any other choice, but I need you to divert to the Theta Niobe system to pick up Federation Under-Secretary Wilson. He'll be waiting when you arrive, and you'll be given full details then. Calavicci out. The viewscreen returns to the standard star image. PICARD Mister Data, set course and speed for Theta Niobe, Warp seven. DATA Aye, Sir. PICARD Well, Number One, it appears our time off will have to wait. When we arrive at Theta Niobe, bring Lieutenant Worf and meet me in transporter room five. Until then, I'll be in my quarters. EXT. ENTERPRISE Standard shot of Enterprise traveling through stars at Warp speed. INT. CAPTAIN'S QUARTERS Picard is lying on his bed in the darkened room, eyes open, thinking about recent events. An intercom chirp is heard. RIKER'S COM VOICE Captain, we're approaching the Theta Niobe system. PICARD Thank you, Commander. INT. SHIP'S CORRIDOR Picard is walking briskly toward the door to the Transporter Room just ahead. Riker and Worf are seen approaching from the opposite direction. PICARD Good timing, Number One. INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM O'BRIEN is manning the transporter controls. Picard, Riker and Worf enter. O'BRIEN Theta Niobe Seven reports Under- Secretary Wilson ready for transport, sir. PICARD Then let's not keep him waiting. Energize. Wilson beams aboard. Throughout the following exchanges, he maintains a very jovial and relaxed demeanor. WILSON Captain Picard, Commander Riker, and Lieutenant Worf. Excellent! I'm so very pleased to have the opportunity to finally meet all of you. You've each developed quite a reputation, from that little Borg adventure to all of your other various exploits. Picard shakes his hand. PICARD Welcome aboard, Mister Secretary. Can you tell us what this is about? Or would you prefer we return to my Ready Room for some privacy? WILSON You weren't told, Captain? I assure you the secrecy was not intentional. One of the foibles of the bureaucracy, no doubt. WORF (sarcastically) No doubt. WILSON Well Captain, I would be most pleased if you would get me to Olympia as quickly as possible. RIKER Olympia? That's where the Federation Games are being played. WILSON Quite right, Commander. I was on my way, passing by little Theta Niobe here, when my transport ship broke down. As you can imagine, a small data station is ill prepared to attempt star drive repairs. I asked the Federation Council to have Starfleet send the nearest and fastest Starship available to pick me up, and here you are. WORF Then there is no emergency. You only want a ride to the Games. WILSON It's more of an emergency than I've made clear, Lieutenant. You see, my position in the Federation is Under-Secretary, Department of State, in Charge of Treaty and Other non-Federation Contact Affairs. This year the Games have been opened to non-Federation worlds, and it's critical, from a diplomatic point of view, that I be there. PICARD Of course. We're happy to be of service. (tapping com badge) Picard to bridge. Data, set course for Olympia, best possible speed. DATA'S COM VOICE Aye, Sir. WILSON I was told, Captain, that you were on your way to Star Base twenty nine for some recreation. If you'd change your mind and join me on Olympia instead, I can provide passes for the officers and crew and I believe you'll enjoy the Games as much as anything at Star Base twenty nine. PICARD Yes, and more so I'm sure, Mister Secretary. We'll be delighted to take you up on your offer. WILSON And I'd feel more comfortable with the Enterprise staying at Olympia. In addition to the several non- aligned worlds participating this year, the Federation has also invited the Romulans to come as observers, as a prelude to possible future diplomatic talks. FADE OUT. END OF TEASER ACT ONE FADE IN: INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM Picard and Wilson are present. WILSON Captain, I have more reasons to want the Enterprise at Olympia than just the Romulans. There've been rumors a terrorist group may try to disrupt the Games and I wanted the best ship Starfleet could send to help protect against that. PICARD Terrorists? Within Federation space? WILSON Much as we'd like to think otherwise, Captain, it can happen. In any case, we must protect against even the possibility. The Games are much too important not to take any threat seriously, especially with non-Federation worlds, and the Romulans, present. PICARD The Enterprise was hardly intended for police work. WILSON I have every confidence in your ability to bring this mission to a satisfactory conclusion, Captain. PICARD My senior staff should be hearing this. WILSON What I've told you should be considered need-to-know only, Captain. PICARD The Enterprise does not function with a cloak-and-dagger mentality, Mister Secretary. Whatever the Enterprise' mission, my senior staff always has a need to know. WILSON My apologies, Captain. It is your ship, and I don't want to interfere with the way you run it. Notify your senior staff as you feel appropriate, but do limit the knowledge to the minimum you can feel comfortable with. (pauses) Captain, I can't stress enough the importance of this mission. The Federation lost more than just ships and men in the Borg attack. It lost credibility. Many members are questioning the ability of the Federation to protect them. The stability of the entire Federation is very precarious right now. It's the main reason we're willing to try to negotiate with the Romulans for peace. PICARD The Romulans have never given any indication in the past they'd be willing to consider negotiations, and they respect only strength. If they were to suspect this overture were based on a position of weakness ... WILSON I agree it's a major risk, Captain, but it's one we must pursue. PICARD And what of the Klingons? I assume they know? WILSON No, Captain, they don't. At least, not yet. That's another reason I must get to Olympia. I had planned to discuss the issue with Ambassador Krell before the Romulans have a chance to arrive. PICARD How do you think the Klingons will react? WILSON I don't know. Publically, the Klingons decry the Romulans as their worst enemy, but there have been rumors of Klingons who would rather be allied with the Romulans than the Federation. Getting both camps together, and forging a Peace Treaty acceptable to all will not be easy. PICARD It's a job I certainly wouldn't want to have to deal with. EXT. ENTERPRISE The Enterprise is approaching a class M planet. There are many ships in orbit around it. INT. BRIDGE Riker, Data, GEORDI, and others are present. The planet is seen on the viewscreen. Several ships of various sizes are already in various orbits. Wilson and Picard enter from the Ready Room. DATA Entering standard orbit now, Captain. Defensive shields and weapons systems disabled as required by the Olympian Contract. WILSON I'll be transporting down immediately, Captain. There are some important details that need attending to. I'll see to it preparations are made for you and your crew to enjoy the Games. PICARD Commander Riker will be heading the first shoreleave party. I have a few things I must do first, but I'll join you as soon as I can. GEORDI Captain. PICARD Yes, Commander? GEORDI For a moment, I thought I'd picked up the signature of a ship running under cloak, but now it's gone. WILSON As I was afraid, Captain. There IS a terrorist ship out there. RIKER Aren't you jumping a bit fast to your conclusions, Mister Secretary? PICARD Could it be the Romulans, Geordi? GEORDI Even the best Romulan cloak can't mask the mass of a ship and its effect on the surrounding space. If you know where to look for it, a cloaked vessel can't hide. Whatever I thought I saw, there's definitely nothing there now. WILSON Could they be using the gravitational field of the moon to hide their mass? GEORDI They could try, and the number of other ships out there would add to the sensor clutter and make it more difficult, but I'd be able to find a Romulan cloak if it were there. WILSON Then what about a terrorist cloak? RIKER Cloaking technology is kept under the tightest control by every major galactic confederation that has access to it. Even the Ferengi aren't stupid enough to sell that kind of technology to fringe groups. It would be impossible for a terrorist ship to have a cloak. WILSON Surely your chief engineer wouldn't have mentioned it if there wasn't something out there. PICARD It's standard operating procedure aboard the Enterprise to report anything out of the ordinary, even if there's very little chance of it being important. We don't like surprises. WILSON Nevertheless, Captain, perhaps it would be best if your senior staff were to stay aboard the Enterprise for a while, until you've determined just what you did see out there. PICARD I can assure you, if my chief engineer says there's nothing there, then there's nothing there. And even if there were, you'd want my staff planetside to help safeguard the Games. WILSON As you think best, Captain, as I said before, it is your ship. I'd best be getting down there to do my job. Wilson leaves the bridge through the aft turbolift. PICARD Number One, you should be getting down to the planet yourself to scout around. I'll join you soon. Riker motions to them and leaves with Worf, Geordi, and Data. EXT. ENTERPRISE Shot of Enterprise orbiting planet. INT. SHIP'S CORRIDOR Riker, Troi, Data, Worf, Geordi and BEVERLY are walking together down the corridor. All are dressed in casual clothing except Data who is still in uniform. Troi is not wearing a communicator badge. RIKER Everyone decided which events they're going to? GEORDI For me, handball, volleyball, that sort of thing. TROI I just want to lose myself in the hustle and bustle of the crowds for awhile. Then I'll decide if I want to attend any specific event. Care to come get lost with me, Beverly? BEVERLY I appreciate the offer, Deanna, but I want to be sure to get to the Medical facilities. Sports medicine has always been something of a hobby and I want to see the latest developments. Perhaps I'll find you later. RIKER Now, now, Doctor. We're here for fun, not work. BEVERLY My work is fun, to me, Commander. Any doctor who would tell you otherwise shouldn't be in the profession. DATA I find the human concept of fun to be quite intriguing. It has been said that as the complexity of an organism increases, so does the need for play. TROI That's true, Data. People need to let off steam from time to time. DATA As a highly complex and organized unit myself, it seems appropriate that I research the methods humans have created for play. I plan to attend as many events as possible. RIKER You've been unusually quiet since you found we were coming to the Games, Worf. Where do your interests lie? WORF The martial arts competitions. Lieutenant Yar had been preparing to participate in the Games the next time they were played. RIKER I'm sure she would have done very well. WORF I also plan to visit the Klin Zha exhibitions. TROI Klin Zha? WORF It is a ... (slight pause) contest from the Klingon Empire. DATA I have read about the Klin Zha. It is similar to the human game of chess, except it is played with real people instead of board pieces. WORF The Klin Zha is a learning for combat, and a test of wills. Only the most rudimentary of children's variations have any similarity to chess. RIKER The Klin Zha, Data, is more than a game. It's a simulation of and preparation for life itself for the Klingon warrior. WORF You understand much of Klingon culture, Commander. They arrive at the Transporter Room door. INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM The door opens and the six enter the room and mount the transporter platform. Chief O'Brien is manning the transporter controls. RIKER We'll separate once we get to the surface to get a quick overview. Then, meet back at the beamdown point in two hours to regroup and compare notes. (to O'Brien) Ready, Chief. Energize. O'Brien works the controls and the six disappear. After they leave, a strange signal appears on the control panel. O'Brien presses several controls but is unable to affect it. He goes to a small cabinet in the wall to look for a tool, but can't find it. O'BRIEN Engineers. They never put their tools away when they're done with them. O'Brien leaves the transporter room to find it elsewhere. A few moments later, the transporter activates and a man transports aboard. He is wearing grey athletic style clothing and is carrying what appears to be a small specialized tricorder device. Throughout the following, he acts very calm and deliberate. He presses some buttons on his device and the transporter warning indicator stops. He then checks the device and cautiously exits to the corridor. INT. SHIP'S CORRIDOR Checking the device in his hand, the man heads off down the corridor. Still checking the device, as he comes to a junction, he suddenly stops and hides in a doorway. Almost immediately, several crewmen come by talking to themselves. When they have gone by, the man once again starts off. Using the device as a direction finder, he locates the nearest turbolift and enters it. INT. TURBOLIFT The man presses some controls on the device in his hand and the turbolift takes off. After some moments, he checks something on the device, then sets it on the hand rail, presses some buttons on it and the device dematerializes. Within moments, the turbolift comes to a halt and the doors open to the bridge. INT. BRIDGE Picard is present, but with only a skeleton bridge crew. From this point on, the man acts animated and excited. He exits the turbolift and quickly and purposefully strides down to stand in front of where Picard is seated. As he does so, Picard, startled, stands up. PICARD What the ...? LORIEN Captain Picard? I would like to place myself in your custody and ask that you, as a representative of your Federation, grant me political asylum aboard the Enterprise until such time as you can transport me to a Federation planet for processing. PICARD How the devil did you get here? (tapping com badge) Security! LORIEN I saw no security on my way here, Captain. I am Lathe Lorien, a member of the athletic delegation from the planet Himsa, here to participate in your Federation Games. PICARD I was warned terrorists might try to disrupt the Games. Why should I believe you're not a distraction intended to mask such terrorist activity? LORIEN You could trust me, Captain. Or you could contact the Himsan delegation and ask them about me, though I'd prefer you didn't do that just yet. They'd be very unhappy to know I'm no longer with them. An unhappy Zildex can cause much more havoc than any terrorist. PICARD Zildex? LORIEN The head of the security delegation from Himsa, here ostensibly to make sure the Himsan athletes are protected, though kept under guard would be a more accurate way of putting it. PICARD Even assuming for the moment I'm willing to give you the benefit of the doubt, I have more pressing concerns to deal with right at the moment. LORIEN What's more important to the Federation than personal freedom? PICARD Granting political asylum isn't a simple matter. There are many difficulties to overcome and steps to be taken, including dealing with your local governmental representatives. LORIEN Before you talk with them, Captain, I'd like the opportunity to give you my side of the story. The turbolift doors open and two security men enter the bridge. PICARD Very well. You'll wait in our Observation Lounge until I can assemble the rest of my staff. The security men escort Lorien into the lounge. FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE ACT TWO FADE IN: INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE Picard and Lorien are seated, but silent. The security guards are standing on either side behind Lorien's chair. Beverly, Worf, Data, Geordi, and Riker enter from the bridge entrance. Worf goes to the security guards and briefly talks with them before sitting down. As Riker enters, Picard stands and speaks softly to him. PICARD Where's Counselor Troi? RIKER I don't know, Captain. We split up after beaming down so we weren't together when you called. When I put out the call to return, she didn't respond. PICARD I was planning on being able to use her empathic skills right now. (tapping com badge) Ensign Burlet, have you been able to contact Secretary Wilson yet? BURLET'S VOICE No, Captain. PICARD Keep trying, and see if you can get some help to locate Counselor Troi. BURLET'S VOICE Yes, sir. RIKER (so everyone can hear) I take it, Captain, this conference has something to do with our unknown guest? PICARD Yes, it does. But I'll let him explain why he's here. LORIEN As I've already told your Captain, my name is Lathe Lorien, and I'm a member of the Himsan athletic delegation to your Federation Games. I've come to ask for political asylum in your Federation. RIKER Himsa's not a member of the Federation? The name sounds familiar. DATA Although Himsa is not a member of the Federation, there is a Federation scientific outpost on a moon of the fourth planet in the Himsan system. RIKER Ah yes. The Himsan system is the only planetary system near the Mutara Remnant. A research station was established there for scientific study. BEVERLY But that's within Federation space. Why is Himsa not a member? PICARD They were asked to join, Doctor, but they declined. Remember, unlike some galactic powers, the Federation doesn't create membership by force. RIKER Weren't you responsible for the negotiations, Captain? PICARD I was a member of the negotiating team that lead to the establishment of Marcus Station, but I was hardly in charge. It was one of the first diplomatic assignments of my career. RIKER Political asylum is a rather extraordinary request, Mister Lorien. Do you really believe it necessary? LORIEN The government of Himsa is a brutally oppressive dictatorship, Commander. While the ranking state officials enjoy great wealth and luxury, the masses are wracked with poverty and disease. There are a few, such as the athletic teams, who are granted some small favor in exchange for presenting an acceptable front to outside worlds, but even we do not have personal freedoms. We are controlled by the government in everything we do or say. Most are content to live the lie in order to escape the poverty. I found I could not. RIKER Economic hardship, while deplorable, isn't grounds for granting asylum. LORIEN I must find a way to let other worlds know what is happening to Himsa. BEVERLY What about the scientists at Marcus Station? Aren't they close enough to be aware of what's going on? LORIEN The Himsan government has taken great pains to cut the planet off from any outside contact in order to preserve the secrecy of their atrocities. They neither allow offworlders to visit the planet, nor any unauthorized communication out from the planet. PICARD The Himsans insisted negotiations for the station be carried out on the moon it was to occupy. Even establishing first contact with the Himsans to begin negotiations was difficult because their planet is completely shielded by an energy field which blocks all electromagnetic radiation and sensor probes. Nothing gets in or out unless they want it to. (addressing Lorien) Which will make it difficult to get independent corroboration for any claims. Do you have solid evidence to present? LORIEN I'm afraid I have nothing I can share with you, Captain. PICARD Then I'm afraid there's nothing we can do for you regarding asylum. If the Himsans have no objection, you are certainly free to stay with us and find a new home in the Federation. However, if they object ... LORIEN (interrupting) They will, Captain, they can't afford to let me leave with what I know. PICARD We are forbidden by our Prime Directive from interfering in the internal affairs of any sovereign world. There's nothing more we can do for you. Lorien now takes on a manner of anxiety. LORIEN Captain, do you know what it feels like to be controlled by a power so much greater than yourself, your individuality and identity are stripped from you, and you lose everything there is that makes you a unique person? PICARD I can empathize with you, Mister Lorien, but there are larger issues here to consider, unless you can give me something more substantial. LORIEN If you send me back, Captain, they will kill me. People on Himsa have a tendency to disappear without a trace. PICARD Proof, Mister Lorien? LORIEN What if I told you there were spies at Marcus Station? The Himsan government is anxious to learn of Federation scientific secrets they can use to further their power. What if I told you the Himsans are planning to ask the Romulans to establish a base on Himsa in exchange for the power they seek? BEVERLY Himsa is deep within Federation territory. They can't allow the Romulans in, can they? DATA While there is no precedent in Federation history, Federation law does allow every independent governing body within Federation space to affiliate with any other governing structure they so choose. Although this situation was undoubtedly unforeseen by the Federation founders, it is possible. RIKER A Romulan base within Federation space? PICARD What can you give me in the way of evidence, Mister Lorien? LORIEN (after short pause) I'm afraid I have nothing I can share with you, Captain. PICARD Then there's little more we can do for you. We'll do what we can, but I wouldn't get my hopes too high. Until things are resolved, you can stay in our guest accommodations. A security guard will escort you there. LORIEN Am I to consider myself a prisoner on your ship, Captain? PICARD Any time you wish to leave, you need only ask. However, considering how you came to us, would you have me give you free run of the ship without supervision? LORIEN No, you're right, Captain. I understand completely. I'll be waiting to hear from you, hopefully with positive news. Lorien and the security guards leave via the door to the outside hallway. Data, Geordi and Riker return through the door to the bridge. Beverly stays seated, and Worf stops to talk to Picard before leaving for the bridge. WORF Captain, I wish to place myself on report. PICARD For what, Lieutenant? WORF As Chief of Security, it was my responsibility to prevent unauthorized access to the Enterprise and to the bridge. I failed in my duty. PICARD You weren't even aboard at the time, Lieutenant. WORF I am still responsible for the actions or inactions of my men. PICARD Very well, Mister Worf, consider yourself on report. Just make sure it doesn't happen again! WORF Yes, Sir! Worf leaves and returns to the bridge. Beverly gets up and comes to talk to Picard. BEVERLY You're not going to let them get their hands on him, are you? PICARD You know I'm sympathetic to his supposed plight, Doctor, and I'd like to believe him, and let him stay in the Federation, but my hands are going to be tied. If his people ask for him back, I have no choice but to return him. BEVERLY You hide it from nearly everyone, Jean Luc, but I know you too well. You still haven't fully gotten over what the Borg put you through. How can you calmly send him back, knowing what kind of environment he'd be subjected to? PICARD You don't understand, Beverly. There are more things going on here than you're aware of. BEVERLY What I do understand is that he'll be killed if we return him. PICARD And what of the hundred or so people at Marcus Station? The treaty establishing the station disallowed all weapons, either offensive or defensive. If we upset the Himsans, those people could be in danger. BEVERLY I've never believed in trading one life for many. It may be an interesting philosophical discussion if you're the one volunteering for the sacrifice, but do you have the moral right to make that decision for someone else? PICARD Do you have the moral right to make that decision for the station scientists, Doctor? BEVERLY You don't know for sure they'd be in any real danger. PICARD We don't know for sure Lorien would be killed. We don't know any of what he told us is true. BEVERLY I know people, Captain, and I can feel in my heart he's right. PICARD As much as I value your opinion, Doctor, you're not Counselor Troi. Sometimes, Beverly, you think entirely too much with your heart. BEVERLY As Chief Medical Officer aboard this ship, it's part of my job description. Look it up. PICARD Why can't you look at things from a more rational viewpoint, just once? BEVERLY Because, my dear Jean Luc, that's your job. Beverly leaves to return to her duties, leaving Picard to ponder. INT. BRIDGE Data and an unnamed Ensign are seated at Ops and Conn. Worf is at the tactical station, and Riker is in the Captain's chair. Picard enters the bridge from the Observation lounge, and Riker moves to let him sit down. PICARD Any word yet on Secretary Wilson or Counselor Troi? WORF No sir, but we are receiving a message from the planet's surface. PICARD On screen. The main view screen changes to show an attractive petite woman wearing a dark suit that looks something like a uniform as well. Behind her are two very large men wearing similar suits. ZILDEX' IMAGE Captain Picard, I believe? PICARD And you are? ZILDEX' IMAGE Colonel Zildex, commander Himsan Protective Forces. Captain, we seem to have, um, temporarily misplaced one of our fine athletes, one by the name of Lathe Lorien. Have you, by any chance, seen him? PICARD The Enterprise is not at Olympia to run a lost and found service for missing athletes, Colonel. ZILDEX' IMAGE Don't play games with me, Captain. I know Lorien illegally made his way aboard your vessel and has probably by now tried to trick you with some fantastic story. Unfortunately, we didn't realize until after arriving at Olympia that he's a very sick man, suffering from delusional behavior. He's dangerous to you and to himself and we must have him back. You will return him to us immediately. PICARD Colonel Zildex, I'm sure you command great respect on your own world, but one does not address the Captain of a Starfleet vessel demanding anything. Mister Lorien is here as a guest of the Federation and will remain so until all the details of his situation have been determined and a final decision has been made. ZILDEX' IMAGE Decision? What decision? PICARD Mister Lorien has asked permission to stay within the Federation. ZILDEX' IMAGE We cannot allow that, Captain. PICARD I assure you, Colonel, the Federation has no intention of interfering with the internal affairs of any lawful world government. Unless we find reason to do otherwise, Mister Lorien will be returned to you at the earliest possible convenience. ZILDEX' IMAGE Very well, Captain, we can be patient, but only to a point. Do not delay what you know is inevitable. Contact your superiors, make your decisions, and return him to us. The viewscreen image returns to the planet. RIKER It's a shame to waste such beauty on such an unpleasant personality. PICARD I'm sure she's considerably more formidable than appearances would indicate, Number One. We mustn't allow ourselves to become complacent. FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO ACT THREE FADE IN: INT. BRIDGE The same people are present as before. WORF I have finally been able to contact Secretary Wilson, Captain. The screen changes to show the image of Wilson. WILSON'S IMAGE I was expecting your call, Captain. I apologize for not being able to answer you earlier, but I had some other matters to attend to first. I suppose you're calling now about the Lorien affair. PICARD Then you're aware of what's going on? WILSON'S IMAGE Colonel Zildex contacted me a few minutes ago and gave me her side of the story. I can pretty well guess the other side as well. PICARD Are you aware that Lorien has officially asked for political asylum in the Federation? WILSON'S IMAGE No, I wasn't. What did you tell him? PICARD That we would look into the matter, but we're unlikely to be able to accommodate him. I told him if the Himsans asked for his return, we'd have to oblige them. WILSON'S IMAGE You've done the right thing, Captain. We can't afford to have the Himsans making a fuss right now. Just the appearance of meddling, even if untrue, could seriously jeopardize everything we're working so hard for. PICARD Lorien has said he has information vital to the security interests of the Federation. He claims the Himsans are planning to allow the Romulans to set up a base within the Himsan system. WILSON'S IMAGE (concerned) If this becomes widely known, it could jeopardize the negotiations. Did he provide you with any evidence? PICARD No. WILSON'S IMAGE (relieved) Then I think we can safely ignore it as rumor. He must be returned to the Himsans to avoid an incident. PICARD I was afraid that would be the case. I'd hoped, however, you might be able to give me a viable alternative. WILSON'S IMAGE If there were anything I could do, Captain, to give Mister Lorien a way to escape his captors, I would. It's an unpleasant situation, but such is the nature of this job. I do have the utmost confidence in you, Captain. The viewscreen image returns to the planet. PICARD Lieutenant Worf, please contact Mister Lorien and have him report to the bridge, then get Colonel Zildex on main viewer. WORF There's no response from guest quarters. PICARD Not there? Or not answering? WORF Captain, I now have an intruder alert in main engineering. PICARD Lorien? WORF Unknown. PICARD Very well. I'll go to Engineering to see about our intruder. You stay here and try to contact Lorien's guard. (tapping com badge) Chief O'Brien. We have uninvited guests in main engineering. Be prepared to remove them on my signal. O'BRIEN'S COM VOICE You've got it. PICARD Commander Riker, you have the bridge. WORF Captain, I ... PICARD Don't worry, Lieutenant, this time you caught them. Picard leaves the bridge through the aft turbolift. INT. MAIN ENGINEERING Geordi, Zildex, her two companions, and two security guards are present. The two guards have phasers trained on the Himsans. Geordi is holding some objects. Picard enters and confronts Zildex. PICARD Zildex! UNNAMED GUARD We found them as they were trying to leave engineering. GEORDI (holding up objects) And we found these planted at the base of the fusion couplers. PICARD Thermite bombs. GEORDI They wouldn't have done much real damage, but they'd've produced quite a diversion, assuming that's what they intended. PICARD A cover to try to sneak around the Enterprise to find Lorien, Colonel? You've made a grave miscalculation this time. ZILDEX No, Captain, it's you who've miscalculated. We told you our patience had limits. We will have Lorien. PICARD You're in no position to demand anything any more, Colonel. For your information, I was preparing to contact you to make the arrangements for Lorien's return when you pulled this little stunt. Now, I'm no longer sure I want to do that. ZILDEX You must, Captain. There are many worlds that will not look kindly on the Federation interfering in Himsan internal affairs. PICARD And how will they react to an illegal boarding party of Himsans making an armed assault on a Federation starship? ZILDEX We are not armed, Captain. PICARD (pointing to the bombs) Then how do you explain these? ZILDEX Planted by Lorien, for whatever twisted goals he has in mind. UNNAMED GUARD We also found these on them, Captain. The guard holds up some crude old style phasers. ZILDEX Planted on us by your own guards, Captain, to make us look bad. PICARD Do you expect anyone will actually believe that, Colonel? ZILDEX If only one world believes, Captain, it will be enough. Why not just make things simple for yourself and release Lorien to us. If you do that, we promise to forget the entire incident. PICARD Colonel, I have more important issues to deal with than your petty little games. Picard is interrupted by an intercom chirp. RIKER'S COM VOICE Captain Picard, we've just received a message from Chief Magistrate Harlaw of Central City. PICARD Regarding Counselor Troi? RIKER'S COM VOICE No, she's still missing, but Harlaw reports Secretary Wilson has been kidnapped. PICARD Kidnapped? More of your tricks, Colonel? ZILDEX Captain, you wound us. Why can't you believe we are a peaceful people and would never seek to harm anyone? PICARD You've given me every reason to believe otherwise, Colonel. ZILDEX We are not responsible for Secretary Wilson's disappearance. However, Captain, do let me put your mind at ease about your missing counselor. PICARD What have you done with her, Colonel? If you think holding Troi prisoner will help you get Lorien back, you're sadly mistaken. It will only make things worse. ZILDEX Troi a prisoner, Captain? Oh no, no, no! Counselor Troi is an honored guest of the Himsan government and is enjoying the finest hospitality we can provide. PICARD Let me speak with her. ZILDEX She asked not to be interrupted, Captain, while she's being entertained. But perhaps if you would allow us to return with Lorien now, she would wish to celebrate the occasion back aboard your ship with her friends. PICARD If you harm her in any way, Colonel ... ZILDEX Captain Picard, you accuse us unjustly, yet who is making the threats? PICARD (tapping com badge) Chief O'Brien, our Himsan guests wish to leave. Now! The transporter effect removes the three Himsan security personnel. Captain Picard begins to leave to return to the bridge. PICARD Mister LaForge, be sure there are no more little gifts from the Himsans left behind. Red Alert klaxons begin to sound. WORF'S COM VOICE Captain Picard. A Romulan Warbird has just decloaked and is taking up orbit around Olympia. INT. BRIDGE Worf, Riker, Data and others are present. Picard returns to the bridge through the aft turbolift. PICARD Status, Mister Worf. WORF Sensors say his weapons and shields are disabled, as required, but I do not trust him. PICARD Very well, go to yellow alert. And get me the commander of that Warbird on screen. WORF He is already asking for you, Captain. The main view screen changes to show the interior of the Warbird and its commander. PICARD So, Tomalak. What's the meaning of this? TOMALAK'S IMAGE We were invited to observe the Games by your own Federation, Picard. We're here on peaceful, and officially sanctioned, business. PICARD That doesn't give you the right to arrive cloaked and show up unannounced, Commander. TOMALAK'S IMAGE It is the way Romulans arrive. Do not try to sidestep the issue, Picard. We are the ones being wronged here. Olympian officials have been most uncooperative placing us in contact with Federation Under-Secretary Wilson. PICARD The Secretary is temporarily indisposed. TOMALAK'S IMAGE It would be most unfortunate, Captain, if Secretary Wilson were unwilling to meet with us after we've traveled all this way to see him. PICARD He's merely unavailable at the moment. I can assure you he'll be most anxious to talk to you as soon as he's able. In the mean time, if you'd care to discuss matters with me, ... TOMALAK'S IMAGE We are not pleased, Captain. We will wait for Wilson. For a short time. Do not keep us waiting long. The screen image returns to the planet. WORF Captain, Ambassador Krell is asking for you now. PICARD On screen. The viewscreen changes to show the Klingon Ambassador. KRELL'S IMAGE A Romulan Warbird has just taken up orbit around Olympia and you have done nothing to challenge it, Picard? PICARD Ambassador Krell, hasn't Secretary Wilson contacted you about this? KRELL'S IMAGE We have not seen the Secretary. PICARD I don't understand. Secretary Wilson was supposed to meet with you as soon as he arrived to let you know about the Romulans. The Federation has invited them to act as observers at the Games in hopes of beginning negotiations on a Peace Treaty. KRELL'S IMAGE There can never be peace between Klingons and Romulans. PICARD Not more than seventy years ago, the same was said about Klingons and the Federation, by both sides, yet here we are, Mister Ambassador. KRELL'S IMAGE This incident will be reported to the Klingon High Council, Captain. I can not promise what their response will be. PICARD I'm certain Secretary Wilson will be able to clarify things once we find him. KRELL'S IMAGE He is missing? PICARD So I've been told. I haven't yet had time to contact Magistrate Harlaw for the details. KRELL'S IMAGE Very well, Captain. As we are within Federation territory, we will do nothing for the moment. I assure you, however, we will be watching the Romulans very closely. If they make even the slightest move to arm their weapons systems, we will make sure they have no opportunity to use them. The viewscreen image changes to the planet. FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE ACT FOUR FADE IN: INT. BRIDGE The same people are present. WORF I have Magistrate Harlaw for you, Captain. The main viewscreen changes images to show a short, fat, balding, nervous looking man seated behind a cluttered desk, with beads of sweat on his forehead and upper lip. PICARD Magistrate Harlaw, you're no doubt aware that a Romulan Warbird has just entered orbit around your planet. HARLAW'S IMAGE Yes, Captain, they've already contacted me, looking for Secretary Wilson. PICARD What can you tell us about the Secretary's disappearance? HARLAW'S IMAGE Not much, Captain. We received a message indicating that Secretary Wilson had been taken hostage and that further information would be sent at a later time. PICARD Could the message have come from the Romulans? HARLAW'S IMAGE I don't think so. It came quite some time before they arrived, and at least outwardly, they've been nothing but polite. PICARD Were you able to trace the message? HARLAW'S IMAGE No, Captain, not really. It was sent in milliburst and we weren't able to absolutely pinpoint its origin, though we were able to determine it came from planetary orbit. There are, however, no ships in the general area where we believe it originated, so we may be mistaken. PICARD Could it have come from the Himsans? HARLAW'S IMAGE Definitely not from their planetary delegation. I'm not as sure about their ship, but I don't believe so. It's in a different orbital position than the general area our sensors detected the message coming from. PICARD I was just talking with Colonel Zildex and she denied any knowledge of Wilson's disappearance, but they have been threatening and I don't trust her. HARLAW'S IMAGE I don't either, Captain, but I have no evidence that would implicate her in this. PICARD Are you absolutely certain Wilson's been taken? HARLAW'S IMAGE After we got the message, we checked the office the Secretary was using, and he wasn't there. There was no sign of a struggle, though, Captain, so we don't believe he was taken by force from that location. We've been unable to locate him in any of the other places he might be expected to be. PICARD And what of Counselor Troi? HARLAW'S IMAGE We've had no luck in finding her either, Captain, but there are millions of people here for the Games and she could realistically be anywhere among them. PICARD Colonel Zildex claimed she was with the Himsans someplace, but she wouldn't say where. HARLAW'S IMAGE We can provide no evidence one way or the other, Captain. We will continue our search concentrating on areas where the Himsans are located, but we have no authority to pursue the search into their private compounds. In fact, Captain, we have very little authority to do much of anything even if we were to find her in their custody. This is a small world, established primarily for the Games, and our offices aren't prepared for anything more than simple administrative chores. PICARD Thank you, Magistrate, I know you're doing all you can, and we do appreciate it. HARLAW'S IMAGE We'll let you know if we find anything, Captain. The view screen image reverts to the planet. PICARD Lieutenant Worf, until we can find Wilson, there's little else we can do with the Romulans but keep a watchful eye on them. Mister Data, Olympian officials may not have the authority to physically search Himsan compounds, but there's nothing to prevent us from focusing our own sensor search for her there. DATA Yes, sir. Data begins making adjustments on the control board in front of him as he searches. After a short while, he responds. DATA There appear to be no persons in or near any of the known Himsan compounds matching the physical characteristics of Counselor Troi. If they are indeed holding her captive, it is somewhere else. RIKER Their ship perhaps? Data makes some more adjustments. DATA I am unable to get any life readings at all from within their ship. It is surrounded by a field which prevents sensor access. RIKER Shielded, like their planet. The aft turbolift doors open and Lorien and his security guard enter the bridge. LORIEN I understand you were looking for me, Captain. It was to deliver good news, I hope. PICARD No, I'm afraid not. I was about to let you know we were going to return you to your people, when we had an intruder alert in Engineering. LORIEN And you suspected me, so you were checking up. You still don't trust me, Captain? PICARD Trust must be earned, Mister Lorien, and so far you've done nothing to earn it. However, I do tend to believe you've been honest with us so far, for other reasons. LORIEN Well, Captain, I suppose that is something. PICARD Why weren't you in the guest quarters? LORIEN You told me I wasn't a prisoner, Captain. I assumed that meant I wasn't to be confined to quarters either. I wanted some time to reflect and I asked my companion here if he could escort me to your Botanical Gardens. GUARD I didn't think it would be a problem, Captain, since it's not in a restricted area. PICARD No, it's all right, normally it wouldn't have been a problem at all. The timing was just unfortunate. LORIEN And your intruder, Captain? PICARD Colonel Zildex, come to try to take you by force. LORIEN She's even bolder than I expected. Letting me get away must put her in more trouble than I imagined. PICARD And now, we're not only missing a member of my crew, but someone has claimed to have abducted a Federation official. LORIEN Zildex? PICARD Colonel Zildex claims to know nothing of Wilson, but she does claim our Counselor is a guest of the Himsan government. She no doubt believes she can force us to trade you for her. LORIEN Can she, Captain? PICARD No. The Federation does not deal with terrorists, even if they're representatives of an officially recognized government. Every member of my crew knows and accepts the risks that come with their job. LORIEN You are an honorable people indeed, Captain. I never intended to place your ship or your crew in any jeopardy. Perhaps I should leave your ship and take my chances eluding Zildex. PICARD I appreciate the gesture, Mister Lorien, but ... WORF (interrupting) Captain, we are being hailed. On the viewscreen, a small scout ship suddenly decloaks in front of them. PICARD On screen, Lieutenant. The viewscreen shows the interior of the small scout ship. There are several people who are wearing costumes and masks which hide their faces and bodies. Wilson can be seen seated in a chair with two of the costumed people in back of him guarding him. The voice of the terrorist is electronically altered. TERRORIST IMAGE As you can see, Captain Picard, Secretary Wilson is safe with us. PICARD (quietly) Data, what can you tell me about that ship or the people on it? DATA (working controls) There is a force shield surrounding their ship our sensors cannot penetrate. PICARD Does it match the Himsan sensor shields? DATA While there are some similar properties, they are not identical. LORIEN That doesn't look like any Himsan vessel I've even seen, Captain. RIKER With a cloaking device like that, they must be Romulan. TERRORIST IMAGE Captain Picard, you are ignoring us. PICARD What is it you want? TERRORIST IMAGE We want you to send us the Himsan fugitive. Once we have him, Secretary Wilson will be free to join you. WILSON'S IMAGE Don't do it, Picard. You know the Federation can't bargain with terrorists. PICARD What would you possibly want with Mister Lorien? TERRORIST IMAGE Why we wish him to join us is of no concern to you, Captain. Suffice it to say we simply do. He's not a member of your crew, or even of the Federation, why should you care what happens to him? PICARD I'm responsible for the welfare of everyone aboard my ship, be they crew, family or guest, and I will do everything in my power to see they all remain safe. TERRORIST IMAGE It really doesn't matter, Captain. The only way Secretary Wilson will be returned to you is in exchange for the Himsan. You have one hour to decide. We will contact you then. PICARD One hour or one year will make no difference. Secretary Wilson is expendable, if necessary, and he knows and accepts that, as does every other Starfleet or Federation representative. We will not deal with threats. TERRORIST IMAGE One hour, Captain. The viewscreen image fades and the scout ship has disappeared. WORF If we could find them, we could disable them and take Secretary Wilson from them. PICARD Geordi, can we find them? GEORDI I'm trying, Captain, but I don't think so. I don't know if it's interference from the other ships, or if the Romulans have had a tremendous breakthrough in cloaking technology, but I can find no trace of them. PICARD Mister Worf, even if we could find them, how do you propose we disable them with our weapons systems disarmed? WORF We must activate all systems. Without our shields, we are open to attack from the terrorist ship. PICARD And if we do activate shields, the Romulans will surely detect it and react. It could be the beginning of galactic war. WORF Captain, the Romulans are contacting us again. The viewscreen shows the interior of the Romulan ship. TOMALAK'S IMAGE Captain, what is the meaning of this? If you have lured us here to demonstrate some new Federation weapon, you will be sorry indeed. PICARD I assure you, Commander, this is not a Federation plot. It could, however, very easily be a Romulan plan to disrupt the Games and endanger the negotiations between our two governments. TOMALAK'S IMAGE Does the Federation desire war with the Romulan Empire so fervently, Picard, or is it just you who do? PICARD No one wants war, Tomalak. And if you truly know nothing about that ship out there, then you have nothing to fear. We will contact you when Secretary Wilson is ready to talk with you. Until that time, please stand by. Picard motions to have the connection cut off. LORIEN Captain Picard, I've already told you I had no intention of letting your ship or crew become endangered because of me. I can do no less for an official of the Federation. I will turn myself over to these people so you can get your friend back. RIKER From what you've told us and everything we've seen, those terrorists are almost certainly Romulans. They don't want you telling the Federation about their plans any more than Colonel Zildex does. And they won't be any kinder to you than she would. PICARD Absolutely not, Mister Lorien, it's too dangerous. LORIEN You were perfectly willing to turn me over to Zildex a little while ago, Captain. I'd be dead within minutes of getting into her clutches. Whatever the terrorists do to me could be no worse than that. RIKER You don't know the Romulans. LORIEN Regardless of what you believe, I have no proof they are Romulans and I'd much rather take my chances with the unknown than Zildex. PICARD There's no guarantee they'll release Secretary Wilson even if I do let you go. I'm sorry, Mister Lorien, but I cannot permit you to jeopardize yourself. LORIEN (angrily) You cannot allow me? I'm not a member of your crew that you can order to do, or not to do. You've told me repeatedly I'm not a prisoner here, yet you continue to treat me as if I were. Are you going to prevent me from doing this? PICARD (reluctantly) No. But I don't like it. It sets a bad precedent to deal with terrorists. LORIEN You're not, Captain. I'm doing this of my own free will. The Federation has nothing to do with this. RIKER Colonel Zildex won't like this one little bit. LORIEN (smiling) All the more reason to do it. Shall we tell her, Captain? FADE OUT. END OF ACT FOUR ACT FIVE FADE IN: INT. BRIDGE The same people are present as before. WORF I have Colonel Zildex, now, Captain. The viewscreen changes to show Zildex and her two companions. ZILDEX' IMAGE So, Captain, I see you have Lorien there with you. You are ready to turn him over to us? PICARD Not exactly. LORIEN For some unknown reason, Zildex, the people who kidnapped Wilson want me in exchange for him. The Captain once told me I'd done nothing to earn his trust. I'm about to change that. ZILDEX' IMAGE You can't do that, Picard. Lorien belongs to us. PICARD So long as Mister Lorien is aboard a Federation vessel, he is a free man and belongs to no one. Now that he's asked to be permitted to do this, there's nothing within Federation law that would allow me to stop him. Of course, once he's left our ship, you may feel free to attempt to negotiate with the kidnappers for his return to you. ZILDEX' IMAGE And just how do you expect me to do that, Picard? I don't even know who or what they are. PICARD At that point, it will no longer be Federation business. ZILDEX' IMAGE The galaxy will not take kindly to Federation interference, Captain. PICARD On the contrary, Colonel, the Federation has nothing to do with it. ZILDEX' IMAGE If you ever expect to see your Counselor again, Picard ... At that moment, the aft turbolift opens and Counselor Troi enters the bridge and calmly sits down in her seat. TROI I see we have a visitor, Captain. PICARD Counselor! ZILDEX' IMAGE (worried) Counselor? RIKER Deanna, are you all right? PICARD How did you escape? TROI Escape what, Captain? I've been on Olympia enjoying the crowds and the Games. When I couldn't find any of the other members from the shoreleave party, I decided to return to the Enterprise. PICARD But we couldn't contact you by communicator. TROI I left it in my cabin. We ARE supposed to be on vacation, Captain. PICARD Zildex! ZILDEX' IMAGE Uh, Captain, we seem to be having some technical difficulties in our communications. We'll have to contact you at a later time. The viewscreen image returns to the planet. PICARD It is good to see you, Counselor! You can't imagine what's been going on here in your absence. I'm afraid it'll take some time to explain. WORF We are being hailed. RIKER Whoever they are, they're punctual. PICARD On screen. The viewscreen changes to show the inside of the scout ship as it was seen before. TERRORIST IMAGE Have you made your decision, Captain? PICARD As I told you before, the Federation does not make deals with terrorists. TERRORIST IMAGE That is truly unfortunate, Captain. PICARD However, Mister Lorien has requested I allow him to come to you on a voluntary basis and I've agreed. TERRORIST IMAGE That's much better, Captain. I knew you wouldn't let me down. PICARD I want you to understand this decision was Mister Lorien's alone and as such is not an officially sanctioned position by myself or the Federation. TERRORIST IMAGE I really don't care, Captain, I have what I want. If you wish to wash your hands of it, that's your business. PICARD How do we know you'll keep your word and return Secretary Wilson to us once Mister Lorien is aboard your ship? TERRORIST IMAGE You don't. You'll just have to trust us. You have no other choice. PICARD I believe we do. If you'll permit, my Transporter Chief can rig a bidirectional transporter lock. Wilson and Lorien will be transported simultaneously, and each of us will be able to abort the transfer if either detects any tricks by the other. TERRORIST IMAGE Very well, Captain. You may have your bidirectional transporter lock. We will be monitoring until you're ready for transfer. The viewscreen changes to the planet image. LORIEN Captain, I'd like to speak with you, privately, before I go, if I may. PICARD We can speak in my Ready Room. Picard and Lorien exit the bridge and enter the Captain's Ready Room. INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM Picard and Lorien have just entered the room. LORIEN Is this room equipped with a security field, Captain? PICARD That won't be necessary. My crew would never violate my trust by spying. LORIEN As you think best, Captain, it is your ship and your crew. (pauses) I'm violating my most basic instinct by talking to you here, but I believe you deserve to know some of the truth. Nothing of what is said, or not said, here must ever leave this room. PICARD You have my word. LORIEN I can tell you're still concerned about my safety and that of your friend. PICARD I have no reason to trust those people, and every reason not to. LORIEN Do you feel you can trust me, yet? PICARD I believe so. LORIEN Then believe me, Captain, when I tell you now that I guarantee I will be well taken care of when I leave your ship, and Secretary Wilson will be returned having suffered nothing for the ordeal. PICARD You can't guarantee that unless you're working with the terrorists. (pauses looking for reaction) And if that were the case, you've been involved in an operation that put at risk the life of an important Federation official. Under those circumstances, I have no choice but to place you in custody. LORIEN Secretary Wilson was never in any danger and has cooperated at every step. PICARD Are you suggesting this was a Federation operation? LORIEN Officially, I can make no such suggestion. PICARD Then the advanced cloaking technology on that ship is of Federation origin? I'd not even heard rumors of such breakthroughs in Federation science. LORIEN There are many things in the Federation that are not widely discussed. I was placed into Himsan society a long time ago to find out what they would be so eager to hide. I now have that information and it's absolutely vital to Federation security interests. What I told you about them inviting the Romulans to set up a base was true. PICARD You also said you had no positive proof. LORIEN I said I had no proof I could give you. PICARD The Federation would never spy on another government as you suggest. It would be a blatant violation of the Prime Directive. The Federation is an open society, it does not spy. LORIEN When you make first contact with an emerging planet, you send in spies to scout things out. PICARD People are sent to gather needed information so that problems can be prevented during the actual contact, but they're not spies. LORIEN They go in, unknown, to gather information. You may call it something else, but how is it different from spying? PICARD It's entirely different. We do not interfere in the planet's evolution or government. The goal is entirely different. The Federation is a peaceful society. LORIEN If the Federation loves peace so dearly, why create a warship such as the Enterprise and a military such as Starfleet? PICARD The Enterprise is not a warship, it is a ship of exploration and peace. LORIEN Then it must be the most heavily armed ship of exploration in history. Do you need to be able to destroy a planet in order to explore it? PICARD We never use our weapons in an offensive capacity. LORIEN Then why have them? PICARD Not every society believes in peace as the Federation does. We must be able to defend ourselves when necessary. The use of force is a choice never to be taken lightly, but it sometimes is the only choice available to us. LORIEN Exactly, Captain. And sometimes the rules of a civilized society can be too restrictive when dealing with those who don't play by the rules. It is a choice never to be taken lightly, but it sometimes is the only choice available. (slight pause) There are many types of games, Captain. There are those played on Olympia, with wreaths and medals for prizes. And there are much more deadly games where the stakes are much higher. PICARD I'm still not convinced I can agree with your position, Mister Lorien, but you certainly do present an interesting argument. LORIEN I should be going now, Captain. Am I still free to do so? PICARD It's against my better judgement, but I suppose I owe it to you anyway. Picard and Lorien leave the Captain's Ready Room. INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM O'Brien is present. The door opens and Picard and Lorien enter. Lorien takes his place on the transporter platform. LORIEN It's been quite an experience, Captain Picard. And you're quite an exceptional man. Perhaps someday, if things turn out well, we'll meet again and we can continue our discussion. PICARD I would look forward to that. O'BRIEN Two-way lock established, Captain. PICARD Thank you Mister O'Brien. Energize. The transporter effect occurs over two pads, removing Lorien and bringing in Wilson on an adjacent pad. PICARD Welcome aboard the Enterprise, again, Mister Secretary. WILSON It's good to be back, Captain. An intercom chirp sounds. RIKER'S COM VOICE The terrorist ship has disappeared, Captain. And the Romulans are getting very restless. Is Secretary Wilson safely aboard? WILSON I've never felt better, Commander. RIKER'S COM VOICE That's good to hear, Mister Secretary. Captain, Colonel Zildex has contacted us again and asked for political asylum. She doesn't want to return to Himsa having failed in her mission. PICARD What did you tell her, Number One? RIKER'S COM VOICE I told her we'd be unable to help her, as it would interfere with the internal affairs of the Himsan government, but that perhaps she could try the Romulans. She didn't seem very happy. WILSON (laughing) I don't imagine she would be. RIKER'S COM VOICE What now, Captain? WILSON I do apologize for the difficulties you've had to endure since coming here, Captain, but my original offer still stands. Please join me on Olympia and enjoy the Games. Picard pauses, uncertainly. WILSON (continuing) I promise, Captain, I expect no more unpleasant surprises. PICARD Very well. Number One, start organizing the shore parties. RIKER'S COM VOICE Yes, sir! Right away. PICARD If I didn't know better, Mister Secretary, I'd almost be led to think this entire incident was well planned in advance. WILSON Ah, but Captain, you do know better, don't you? I can see we have some things to discuss. PICARD Would you care to join me for a drink in our Ten Forward lounge? WILSON I think your Ready Room would be more appropriate. Picard and Wilson exit the transporter room. INT. CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM Picard and Wilson are present. WILSON I want to thank you, Captain, for everything you've done to resolve this crisis. PICARD But I didn't really do anything. WILSON Precisely, Captain. Sometimes that's the best possible choice in a crisis. I knew you'd carefully examine all options and would make no rash decisions. We've been able to keep the Federation pretty much out of this incident and I think things will not go poorly for us as a result. PICARD Even with popular opinion on our side, and Colonel Zildex out of the picture, the Himsan government may still seek to take revenge on the scientists at Marcus Station. WILSON The USS Excalibur is at Marcus Station now delivering supplies. They can stay there as long as necessary to prevent any problems. PICARD Everything's been accounted for, hasn't it? But you took an awful chance having the Romulans here. And why didn't you prepare the Klingons for their arrival as you said? WILSON I'll tell you the truth, Captain, even though we invited them, we never really expected the Romulans to show up. And I didn't want to put any strain on our Alliance with the Klingons if it wasn't necessary. PICARD So when the Romulans did show up, it was a risk you hadn't planned on. We all believed they were behind the kidnapping. WILSON When Tomalak showed up, I did consider calling the whole thing off. I probably would have if you hadn't told me about the Romulan base. Until that point, we had no idea what Lorien had discovered. PICARD When I practically accused Tomalak of being involved with the terrorists ... WILSON It certainly did make things more interesting, and my job more difficult, but I thrive on a challenge, Captain. It's too early to tell, but things could turn out better than we expected. Wilson suddenly becomes jovial again. WILSON (continuing) And when this is over, I WILL take you up on that drink offer. I hear you have quite an interesting hostess in your Ten Forward. I look forward to meeting her. FADE OUT. END OF ACT FIVE THE END.