Data: Throughout their history, the Yenrabi have always been a peaceful people. They have not been involved in any wars or conflicts in the past 8 centuries, except for a civil war 300 years ago. This is why they do not wish to join the Federation; despite our friendly relations with the Yenrabi, they consider us to be too militaristic. This is also why they are reluctant to allow us access to their dilithium. Picard: It seems that peace is a luxury that they can afford. After all, this is a very peaceful part of the galaxy. There are no Romulans or Ferengi around here to contend with. Mendoza: Thank God for that. I still remember my last contact with the Ferengi. I felt miserable for a week. Riker (chuckling): I don't think we have to worry about that this time. Mendoza: I must say, Commander. You did an excellent job in my place. You almost acquired the Barzan wormhole for the Federation. Riker: Almost. But we were apparently too warlike for the Barzans' taste. Picard: I think the Federation is very thankful that those negotiations did NOT succeed. Mr. Data, continue. Data: Physically, the Yenrabi resemble humans in almost every regard. However, there is a marked difference in the Yenrabi reproductive system. Picard: Explain. Data: Yenrabi are hermaphroditic. All Yenrabi possess what we would call male and female qualities, and all can bear children. However, it takes the union of two Yenrabi to produce a child. Riker: That doesn't seem too unusual. Data: The difference is that it takes the union of two Yenrabi males, or two Yenrabi females, to produce children. Even more interesting, the child of two males will always be female, and the child of two females will always be male. Picard: Fascinating. Data: One other interesting trait of the Yenrabi, is that the females are somewhat empathic. Troi: Empathic? Data: Yes, although it is a very primitive form of empathy, which is nowhere near as developed as Betazoid empathic abilities. Yenrabi empathy can only be used on other Yenrabi, and not on other species. In addition, it is limited to sensing the presence or absence of other Yenrabi. They cannot read one's emotions. Riker: In other words, Mr. Mendoza will be immune to any mind- probing by the Yenrabi negotiators. Data: That is correct. Troi (teasingly): Will. I don't detect a little jealousy, do I? Riker: Well... I... uh... Worf (on communicator): Captain. We are approaching K'narf Yenrab IV. Picard: On my way. Mr. Mendoza, would you accompany us on the bridge? Mendoza: I would be glad to. (Bridge. Picard, Riker, Data, Troi, and Mendoza enter from the turbolift. Worf is sitting in "the chair." There are various ensigns at the helm and at the science stations. Worf takes his place at communications station, Data at helm, Riker, Picard and Troi in command chairs.) Worf: Captain. We have reached K'narf Yenrab IV. Picard: Ensign. Go to impulse, standard orbit. Ensign: Aye, sir. Picard: Mr. Worf, open a channel. Worf: Channel open, the Yenrabi are responding. Picard: Onscreen. (the viewer shows the Yenrabi Council Chambers. President Gamron and an assistant are shown standing in front of their viewscreen. Gamron is a female Yenrabi, while the assistant is a male. Both bear a strong resemblance to humans, with only slightly different facial features.) Gamron: Greetings. I am President Hoork Gamron of K'narf Yenrab IV. This is my assistant and our chief negotiator, Pintok Bezna. On behalf of all Yenrabi, welcome. Picard: I am Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Federation starship Enterprise. With me here on the bridge is Mr. Mendoza, our chief negotiator. I am very pleased to make your acquaintance. On behalf of the entire United Federation of Planets, I am looking forward to getting to know you and your people better. Gamron: As am I. But let us dispense with the pleasantries and get down to business. Negotiator Bezna and several aides will be transporting to your ship immediately. Picard: Agreed. We will accommodate them in any way we can. Mr. Riker. Go greet our guests in transporter room 3. Riker: Aye, sir. Lieutenant? Mr. Mendoza? (Riker, Worf, and Mr. Mendoza leave through turbolift) Gamron: I am sure these negotiations well benefit both of our peoples. Picard: As am I. Picard out. (Transporter room 3. Riker and Worf are at the door, and O'Brien is at the controls.) O'Brien: The Negotiator and his aides are ready to transport aboard, sir. Riker: Is the biofilter set to screen out the virus causing the epidemic on the planet, Chief? O'brien: Yes, sir. Riker: Energize. (Three Yenrabi, two male and one female beam aboard the enterprise.) Riker: Greetings, negotiator. I am Commander William Riker, first officer of the Enterprise. This is Security Chief Lieutenant Worf,... Worf: I am honored to meet you, sir. Riker: ...Transporter Chief Miles O'Brien,... O'Brien: Welcome aboard the Enterprise. Riker: ...and the Federations chief negotiator, Mr. Mendoza. Mendoza: I have heard from my colleagues that you are a worthy adversary. Bezna: Likewise, Mr. Mendoza. Allow me to introduce myself and my associates. I am Pintok Bezna, chief negotiator for the Yenrabi people. This is Gaala, my assistant (pointing to the Yenrabi female). And this, (pointing to the other male), is my beautiful mate, Daarg Zandon. Zandon: I am honored to meet you, commander. Bezna: Lieutenant, forgive my curiosity, but I have never met one of your people before. Yenrabi space travel is not well developed, so we generally do not leave our constellation. Worf: I am a Klingon, sir. Bezna: Ah! A Klingon! A brave and noble people, I have heard. I have always wanted to have the honor of meeting one. You see, all Yenrabi look alike. There is not much distinction between our people. Thus it is a pleasure for me to meet others. That is why I became chief negotiator, so I can make contact with other worlds and other peoples. Worf: Thank you, sir. Bezna: Now, if you will show us to our quarters, Commander. Riker: Of course. (Riker, Worf, Mendoza, and the three Yenrabi leave the Transporter room.) (back to bridge. Sensor "beep-beep" goes off.) Data: Captain. There are two vessels entering our vicinity from the atmosphere of the planet. One appears to be chasing the other. Picard: On main viewer. (Viewer shows a medium-sized cruiser pursuing a small shuttle.) Data: Sir, the shuttle is hailing us. Picard: Onscreen, Mr. Data. Shuttle occupant: Federation vessel. Help! Help! Data: Sir, the cruiser is firing phasers at the shuttlecraft. A direct hit on the starboard thruster. Picard: Riker! Worf! Report to the bridge immediately! Mr. Data. Go to yellow alert, and scan the shuttle. Data: Scanning... Two life forms. One Yenrabi male, one Yenrabi female. The shuttle has no weapons or shields, and appears to be heavily damaged. Troi: I sense great fear in the shuttle, Captain. Picard: Mr. Data, hail the cruiser. Data: Hailing frequencies--no response. Picard: Ensign. Set course to intercept the shuttle. Bridge to engineering. Prepare to raise shields and extend around that shuttlecraft. Geordi (in Engineering): Aye, sir. Data: Sir, the cruiser is firing again. (viewer shows cruiser making direct hit on shuttle, completely destroying it.) End of Teaser. ACT I: (Bridge. Riker and Worf enter from turbolift.) Riker: Captain. What happened? Picard: That Yenrabi cruiser just attacked and destroyed a small shuttlecraft. Why it did, I don't know. Mr. Worf. Hail the cruiser. Word: The cruiser is hailing US, sir. Picard: Well, I believe we are about to find out. Onscreen. (viewer shows bridge of cruiser.) Captain of cruiser: Federation vessel. I am Captain Kolgar of the Yenrabi Cruiser Unity. Please explain your actions. Picard: I am Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Enterprise. It seems that you are the one who needs to do some explaining. Kolgar: No, Captain, it is YOU has explaining to do. You have attempted to interfere in our internal affairs. You are in orbit above OUR planet, and you will follow OUR laws. Out of the goodness of my heart, I will forgive this incident. Picard: I am very gratified to hear that, Captain. Now tell me. Why did you destroy that shuttlecraft? If you are pursuing criminals, we have the ability to capture them, and turn them over to you alive. Kolgar: You will mind your own business, Captain, and not meddle in what is not your concern. Kolgar out! (pause) Worf: Captain, the cruiser is returning to the planet's surface. Picard: Cancel yellow alert. Your feelings, Counsellor? Troi: I sense a deep hostility. Not just anger, Captain, but pure, unadulterated hate. It almost seems like, he enjoyed firing on that shuttlecraft. Picard: Very strange. The Yenrabi are supposed to be a peaceful people. I find it hard to believe that those feelings would come from one of them. Data: Maybe so. But Kolgar is right, sir. We do not have any right to interfere in their affairs. Picard: I know, Commander. Its just that my intuition tells me something is not right. Picard to Engineering. Geordi: Yes, Captain? Picard: Mr. Laforge, please analyze the sensor logs of the incident that just occurred. I want to know everything about what happened. Capabilities of the Yenrabi battle cruisers, trajectories of both vessels, damage of the shuttlecraft, everything. Have Dr. Crusher work with you to analyze the medical status of the crew. Prepare to report to the senior staff tonight, at 2100 hours. Geordi: You got it, sir. Riker: Is that necessary, sir? I am sure that the Yenrabi are quite capable of handling their own internal affairs. Picard: This isn't for the Yenrabi, Number One. I smell a rat, and I want to get to the bottom of this. Riker: Understood, Sir. Picard: Anyway, we are having a banquet tonight for our guests. I would suggest that we all get ready. Riker: Agreed, sir. In the meantime, I will conduct them on a tour of the Enterprise. Picard: Good idea, Number One. Mr. Data, you have the bridge. (Picard, Riker, and Troi exit via the turbolift.) (Engineering. Geordi, Barkley, and several other crew members are at their stations. Riker, Bezna, and Bezna's party enter.) Riker: And this is our Engineering section. Over there is the dilithium crystal chamber. Bezna: So. That's what you do with those funny rocks you so dearly want. Riker: That's it. Come over here; there's someone I would like you to meet. Bezna: I would be delighted to. Riker: Mr. Bezna, this is Lt. Commander Geordi LaForge, our chief engineer. And this is Lieutenant Reginald Barkley, one of his able assistants. Gentlemen, this is Mr. Pintok Bezna, the chief negotiator for the Yenrabi. Geordi: Welcome to the Enterprise. Barkley: I-it is a p-p-pleasure to m-meet you, sir. Bezna: It is a pleasure to meet you too, gentlemen. With me are Gaala and Daarg Zandon. Zandon: This is quite remarkable, Commander. Geordi: Thank you! Bezna: Commander, if you don't mind me asking. What species are you? Geordi: Why, I'm human. Just like Commander Riker here. Bezna: But you look so...different. Geordi: You mean my skin color? (laughing). No, that doesn't mean anything, just like the color of your eyes. We humans are a very diverse race. Bezna: I can see that. Tell me, commander. Does it make you feel different? Do others treat you differently? Geordi: No, I'm just as human as everyone else. Several hundred years ago, people worried about such things. But not anymore. Bezna: I see. And what about that thing on your eyes? Geordi (removing visor): This? This is my visor. Without it, I am blind. (replaces visor.) Bezna: Amazing. I find your technology very impressive, Commander. Riker and Laforge together: Thank you--sir. Riker: Now if you'll just follow me, sir. We have a banquet planned in your honor. Bezna: I would be delighted. (Riker, Bezna, Gaala, and Zandon leave Engineering) Barkley: V-very-- interesting. Geordi: Yes, they are. (Ten-Forward. A banquet is being held for the Yenrabi delegation. Bezna, Gaala, Zandon, Picard, Riker, Troi, Worf, and Mendoza are seated around the main table. A fine meal featuring roast turkey is on the table.) Bezna: This is DELICIOUS! What do you call this? Picard: This is turkey, a bird which is indigenous to the planet Earth. It is eaten primarily in ceremonial functions, and is considered to be a delicacy by some. Unfortunately, tonight we have to settle for food prepared by our replicator. Gaala: Replicator? Picard: The replicator is a device which converts matter from one form to another. We use it to synthesize whatever chemicals or materials we need--medicine, research equipment, anything. However, it has never been able to do justice to food. But-- (reaches under chair, pulls out bottle of wine) THIS is the real thing. My brother back on Earth made this--it is quite remarkable. (passes wine around.) Be careful. It does have an intoxicating affect if consumed in large quantities. Bezna: (sipping) Excellent, Captain. My compliments to your brother. Picard: Thank you, Mr. Bezna. I will pass the word along. Now, I would like to propose a toast to the friendship between the Yenrabi and the Federation. Bezna: To friendship. (clink) Zandon: Captain, I must say. I am very impressed by your ship. Picard: So am I, Mr. Zandon. And I like to consider myself a difficult man to please. Bezna: I am likewise difficult to please. You will find that out tomorrow when the negotiations begin, Mr. Mendoza. (laughter) Mendoza: From what I have heard about you, I would be disappointed if that were not true. Picard: Well, I am sure that Mr. Mendoza will rise to the challenge. I hear that you have taken an interest in some of the members of my crew, Mr. Bezna Bezna: Yes, I have. On my world, we only have Yenrabi. But this ship--is amazing. So many different people, from so many different worlds. At this table alone, we have four different races represented. Do you have any more surprises for me, Captain? Picard: As a matter of fact, I do. (taps communicator.) Mr. Data. Would you please come to Ten Forward? Data: Aye, sir. On my way. Bezna: Who is this Mr. Data? Picard: He is my second officer, and probably the most unique individual on this ship. Bezna: Well, I can't wait to meet him. (several minutes later. Data enters 10-forward) Picard: Won't you join us, Mr. Data. Data: Certainly, Sir. Picard: Data, this is Chief Negotiator Pintok Bezna of K'narf Yenrab IV, his assistant, Gaala, and his companion, Zandon. And this, is Lt. Commander Data. Bezna (wide-eyed): I am very pleased to meet you, Mr. Data. Tell me, what species are you? Picard: Mr. Bezna is fascinated with the diversity of life on this ship, Mr. Data. Naturally, I had to introduce you. Data: I am very pleased to meet you. As for your inquiry, I am not a species. I am an android. Zandon: An android? Data: Yes. An artificial life form, created by the late Dr. Noonian Soong. Gaala: So, you are like a robot? Data: No, not a robot. I am a fully functional, sentient being. I am capable of writing and modifying my own program. I am capable of storing over 4 trillion bits of memory, and... Picard: Enough, Data. I suggest that you return to your station, now. Data: Aye, sir. (Data leaves.) Picard: Mr. Bezna, there is a serious matter that I would like to discuss with you. Bezna: Of course, Captain. Picard: Shortly after you beamed aboard, two Yenrabi vessels entered the area. One was a Yenrabi defense cruisers, the other a small shuttlecraft. The cruiser fired on and destroyed the shuttle, right in front of us. While I realize that technically this is not the Federation's concern, I think that anything which can have an affect on tomorrow's negotiations needs to be brought out. Bezna: To tell you the truth, Captain-- I have no idea what happened. I've--never heard of anything like that before. Gaala: Even if we knew, Captain, we would not be allowed to talk. It is not wise to discuss such matters with outsiders. Zandon: It was probably an escaped prisoner, or something like that. However, let's not let this incident interfere with the negotiations. I am sure that it was nothing. Picard: Of course. Well, the negotiations start early tomorrow morning, so I suggest that we all get some sleep. Bezna: Agreed. Again, Captain, I must say that this has been quite an enjoyable dinner. Perhaps I will be able to prepare Yenrabi cuisine for you some day. Picard: I would like that very much. Shall we, tomorrow night? Bezna: Tomorrow then, after the negotiations. We shall dine on the best of what K'narf Yenrab IV has to offer. Gaala, transmit a request for the necessary materials to the planet. Gaala: Yes sir. Riker: Until tomorrow! (bridge. Picard, Worf, Troi, and Riker enter from turbolift. Data is in command, various ensigns are performing their duties.) Data: Sir. How was the banquet? Picard: Very productive, Mr. Data, not to mention delicious. We are all expecting the negotiations to go exactly as planned tomorrow. Data: That is good to hear. Sir, the Yenrabi appeared to have an extraordinary fascination with me. Picard: Well, Mr. Data, you are quite a fascinating person to behold. The Yenrabi get very little contact with outside worlds. When they do make contact with outsiders, they want to learn as much as possible. Data: I see. Picard: You are not the only one they have taken an interest in, Commander. Picard to Engineering. Geordi: Go ahead, Captain. Picard: Is that report ready, Geordi? Geordi: I've got it right here. Picard: Report to the conference room immediately, then. Geordi: On my way, sir. Picard: Picard out. Mr. Riker, Mr. Worf, Mr. Data, Counsellor. Will you please join me in the conference room? You have the bridge, ensign. Ensign: Aye, Sir. End Act I Act II Captain's Log, supplemental. The negotiations for the Yenrabi dilithium begin tomorrow, and already we have a mystery on our hands. A Yenrabi battle cruiser attacked a small shuttlecraft, destroying it and killing its two occupants. I have requested Commander LaForge to prepare a report on this incident, so that we may hopefully get down to the bottom of this. (Conference room. Picard, Riker, Data, Worf, Geordi, Crusher, and Troi are sitting around table. Geordi is giving his report on the incident between the cruiser and the shuttlecraft.) Geordi: The Yenrabi battle cruiser is not a particularly powerful spacecraft. It is armed only with phasers, and has a projected maximum speed of Warp 3. Thus in a conflict, it would be no match for the Enterprise. However, it is more than adequate enough to protect Yenrabi shipping from the pirates which inhabit this sector. Worf: It is also adequate enough to destroy unarmed shuttlecraft. Geordi: The shuttle was a short-range, low-orbit craft, incapable of escaping the gravitational pull of K'narf Yenrab IV's completely. Scans of the area report numerous shuttles of this type circling the planet. Apparently, the Yenrabi use them to transport goods from one point on the planet to another. It is apparently faster than surface travel. Riker: Then why would someone steal one hoping to escape? Geordi: I'm not sure escape was the intent. Picard: Explain. Geordi: The shuttle propelled itself to an altitude of 186 kilometers, then its engines shut off. Without power, it assumed a standard elliptical orbit around the planet. It was still drifting like this when it was destroyed. Riker: Did they run out of fuel? Geordi: No, sensors indicate that they had plenty of fuel left. It's as if the pilot just cut his thrusters. Picard: Your analysis, Mr. Data. Data: Cutting one's engines while being pursued by a battle cruiser is hardly a rational act. It would suggest that indeed, escape was not the motive. Perhaps, the pilots were mentally or physically impaired, or otherwise incapable of piloting a shuttle. Worf: Perhaps it was a suicide. Riker: I doubt it. Why would they have asked the Enterprise for help? Picard: I don't know, number one. feelings, Counsellor? Troi: All I sensed from the shuttle was fear. It was no suicide. Crusher: The shuttle occupants' vital signs do not support the hypothesis that they were incapacitated, Jean-Luc. Heart rate, respitory function, synoptic activity, and body temperature readings were all consistent with healthy, rational beings who were simply terrified for their lives. Picard: And they apparently had good right to be. If it wasn't an escape, if it wasn't a suicide, if the pilots were healthy, what could it be? Mr. Laforge. Did the cruiser ever attempt to contact the shuttle? Geordi: There was no attempted voice contact recorded, Captain. There, however, was a short burst of zeta frequencies transmitted by the cruiser at time index 4.63. I don't know what that would do, though. Riker: Computer. Replay visual log of shuttle, stopping at time index 4.63. (computer replays) Picard: Computer. Replay visual log, from time index 4.60 to 4.67, one tenth speed. (computer replays) Picard: Now synchronize this time index with the emission of zeta frequencies by the cruiser. (computer complies.) Geordi: Amazing. Data: It appears that the engines shut down precisely .6 milliseconds after the emission of zeta frequencies. Since the engines were in perfect working condition, and since we have no other evidence of any abnormalities, it is reasonable to assume that these zeta frequencies somehow caused the shutdown of the shuttles thrusters. Riker: Yes, but how? That's impossible! Data: Zeta frequencies are extremely high-frequency, low-energy emissions. It is unlikely that they would have any effect on any known propulsion systems. The thrusters used on the Yenrabi shuttle are very similar to those used on our own shuttles. Geordi: Unless-- the shuttles were programmed to shut down. Computer. Using the data from the sensor logs, analyze the piloting systems of the shuttle. Computer: Processing. Unable to comply. Geordi: Computer. Analyzing the physical movements of the occupants of the shuttle, and assuming the control console of the Yenrabi shuttle is similar to our own, determine the pilot's intentions. Computer: Processing. After analyzing the given data, it appears that the pilot was attempting to navigate the shuttlecraft. Geordi: Bingo. Captain, I think that they set that shuttle up to be destroyed. Picard: But why destroy it? Once the shuttle is disabled, couldn't they simply lock on tractor beams, and capture the occupants? Troi: I think they wanted to destroy it, Captain. I sensed...a feeling of malice. Kolgar appeared to enjoy destroying that shuttle. In addition, when we asked Bezna about the incident, I sensed it again. Picard: From Bezna? Troi: I'm not sure, Captain. Yenrabi minds are extremely hard to read. I can sense emotions, but I cannot pinpoint them. Riker: It still doesn't make sense. Crusher: Maybe, Captain, it was an execution of some sort. Worf: An execution? Riker: Why go to all of this trouble to execute somebody? Picard: Mr. Data. Access the Yenrabi cultural files, and report all information concerning capital punishment. Data: Accessing. Sir, the Yenrabi have no death penalty, nor are there any capital crimes. Crusher: Maybe this was some sort of political assassination. Data: Unlikely. Yenrabi politics have been stable for the past 2 centuries. There is no known record of any prominent politicians or public figures dying under suspicious circumstances. Picard: The governments which appear the cleanest are often in fact the most corrupt. They are just the best at hiding their dirty laundry. Troi: I don't think it was strictly political, Captain. The hatred I felt was so intense... it was personal. Picard: Well, all that we know for sure is that two Yenrabi are dead, and that our guests know what is going on. However, in the interests of prudence, I don't want anybody to discuss this with them any further. If there is a political conspiracy, I don't want these negotiations threatened by it. However, if you see anything unusual, by all means report it. This meeting is adjourned. Now, I want you all to go and get a good night's sleep. Riker: Aye, sir. (all leave Conference Room) (Bezna's quarters. Bezna and Zandon are discussing the incident.) Bezna: Daarg, do you think that they know? Zandon: Know? About what? Bezna: Know about the Purification? Zandon: Possibly. After all, Pintok, they apparently witnessed it. Why do you ask? It is Yenrabi business, not theirs. Bezna: Yes, but you know that we need these negotiations to succeed, Daarg. Zandon: I know. But why would they care about the Purification? Besides, they are engaged in several struggles around the Galaxy. They need our dilithium as much as we need their trade, Pintok. You sound as if the Purification is something we should be ashamed of. Bezna: It is. Zandon: Is it? What is so shameful about eliminating people who pollute our society, our culture, our entire way of life? Bezna: They are Yenrabi. Their blood is yellow, just like yours and mine, Daarg. Zandon (enraged): They are NOT Yenrabi. They are Magra. Such people do not deserve to call themselves children of K'narf Yenrab IV! They foul everything that our people stand for! Bezna (calmly): As Chief Negotiator for our people, I have seen many other people, many other cultures, Daarg. I have had dealings with the Federation before, although none on this magnitude. One thing that they value above all else is the sanctity of life, in ALL forms. Many Federation citizens, especially the Terrans, would be appalled by the Purification, as am I. They might not want to deal with us if they were to know of this! Zandon: Do they not punish their criminals? Do they not execute their traitors?!? Bezna: I know little about their ways of justice. What I do know, is that they do not have anything as vile as the Purification! Zandon: The Purification is not vile. It is one of the CORNERSTONES of our people! Bezna: THEN WHAT DOES THAT SAY ABOUT US AS A PEOPLE! (pauses) I hope that this so-called glorious institution does not work to destroy us. If I did not so strongly believe in all other aspects of our ways--- Zandon: You'd what? Bezna: I don't know. I know that I am not a rebel, Daarg. I just want these negotiations to not be hurt by this. Zandon: Nor do I. I would suggest that we get some sleep, and not argue about something on which we have no chance of agreement. The negotiations are the most important thing, not the Purification, and you had better be in your finest form tomorrow. Goodnight, Pintok. Bezna: Goodnight, Daarg. (lights dim.) (main conference room, next morning. Picard, Riker, Worf, Troi, Mendoza, Bezna, Gaala, and Mr. Mendoza's assistant are all present at a reception, preparing for the negotiations.) Picard: As host to these negotiations, I will now explain the procedures. When the negotiations begin, only Mr. Bezna, Mr. Mendoza, and one assistant for each side shall be allowed in the room. The replicators and the computer will provide all you need. You may contact me at any time, and you have my assurances you will not be disturbed unless there is an emergency, a contingency we do not expect. If you require a mediator, Commander Data will be assigned to mediate. As he is an android, he is incapable of passion or subjectivity, and is trained in the arts of negotiation. Are there any questions? Mendoza: The Federation representative has no questions. Bezna: The Yenrabi representative has no questions. Picard: In that case, let the negotiations begin. Mr. Worf, post a guard outside the door. Do not let anyone disturb the negotiations under any circumstances. Worf: Aye, sir. Picard: Well, gentlemen, good luck! (Picard, Riker, Worf, and Troi leave. A security guard stands at the door. They walk down the corridor towards the turbolift.) Picard: It is certainly good to get to know the Yenrabi. I only wish that we could visit the planet. The crew could use a little shore leave. Riker: As could the Captain. Picard: Why is it, Number One, that you are constantly trying to get me to take a vacation? Riker: Just trying to ensure the Captain's health and safety, sir. Troi: You haven't had a vacation since we last visited Earth, sir. Picard: Then tomorrow would still be to soon for the next one. Riker: Counsellor, I think that he is relaxed most when he is on the bridge. Worf: The place for a warrior, after all, is on his battleship. Troi: I agree. He seems to enjoy the leisure of staring down a Romulan warbird. Worf: I would. Picard (jokingly): Please remember, Mr. Riker, that you are my first officer, not my travel agent. Likewise for you, Counsellor. (enter turbolift.) Riker (chuckling): Understood, sir. Picard: Bridge. Riker: Deck 10. Would you care to join me in Ten Forward, Counsellor? Troi: I would love to, Commander. (BIG smile) (bridge. Picard enters via turbolift.) Picard: Your report, Mr. Data. Data: Nothing unusual has happened, sir. And we have no more leads on that incident. Ensign: Captain, there are two vessels entering a low-altitude orbit below us. One appears to be pursuing the other. Picard: Onscreen. (A Yenrabi cruiser pursuing a shuttle appears on viewer.) Worf: Sir, the shuttle is sending us a distress call on all frequencies. Picard: Damn! Data: Captain, the cruiser is firing on the shuttle. A direct hit, sir. The shuttle is damaged. Picard: Mr. Data, scan the shuttle for life. Data: Scanning. There are two Yenrabi aboard, one male, and one female. Both are injured. Sir, the cruiser is re-energizing its phasers. Picard: Go to yellow alert. Bridge to Transporter Room. O'Brien: Yes, Captain. Picard: When that cruiser fires again, beam any humanoid on board directly to sick bay. Do you copy, Doctor? Crusher: I copy, sir. Data: The cruiser is firing again. O'brien: Energizing... I've got them, Captain. Data: The shuttle is destroyed, Captain. Picard: Beverly, do you have them? Crusher: Yes, Jean-Luc. Both are severely injured, but they shall be OK. (pause) Worf: Sir, the Yenrabi battle cruiser is returning to the surface. Picard (relieved) Thank you, Lieutenant. Cancel yellow alert. End of Act II. Act III (the main conference room. Mendoza and Bezna are busily negotiating, and Mendoza's aid and Gaala are taking transcripts.) Mendoza: Thus, in addition to all of the commodities listed above, the Federation is willing to offer the Yenrabi people 15% of all revenue from new mining explorations, for the next 10 years. Based on revenue from the past 5 Earth years, that projects to an extremely large sum (fancy chart appears on screen) Bezna: I must say, Mr. Mendoza. Your offer is very enticing; it is a good start. But you are a long way from acquiring our dilithium. Mendoza: That's what I was afraid of. The Federation is willing to negotiate on most of those points. But Mr. Bezna, if we are going to use the dilithium in defense of the Federation, we would like to have some of the Federation left to defend. (both chuckle.) Bezna: I suppose I better make you a counter-offer. First, the mining explorations. The President himself has requested at least 35% of new developments, in addition to 5% of current developments. Next, we would like... Computer: Attention. Yellow Alert. Bezna: What was that? Mendoza: Yellow alert is the Federation's standard medium alert status. It means that there is a hazard present, but that there is no immediate threat to the Enterprise, and that no extreme measures need be taken. Bezna: So, we're not in any danger? Mendoza: No. Shall we continue? Bezna: Of course. The Yenrabi would also like access to a fleet of Federation transport ships, to convey our exports and imports wherever we need. Of course, Federation personnel would command these ships, we would not request access to any confidential areas, and they would be used strictly for civilian purposes. But we will require a fleet of high-speed ships at our disposal. Mendoza: That would have to be negotiated after I contact my superiors. I am bound, of course, by our Prime Directive. Bezna: Of course. Next, we would like...(Gaala interrupts him) Yes, Gaala? Gaala: Mr. Bezna, I must speak with you in private. Bezna: Excuse us, Mr. Mendoza, but I must confer with my assistant. (they enter a small soundproof chamber installed for the negotiations) Bezna: Yes, Gaala? Gaala: Mr. Bezna, I sense...two additional presences on this ship. Bezna: What do you mean? Gaala: It is...two more Yenrabi have just beamed aboard. Bezna: Probably bringing the food and supplies for tonight's banquet. We are going to prepare Yenrabi cuisine for the Terrans as a gesture of friendship. Gaala: I know. The food was delivered last night. They aren't delivering food. Bezna: Then what is it? Gaala: They are scared....hurt. That yellow alert... Bezna: Can you tell anything? Gaala: ...one male...one female...Pintok! They have beamed two Magra on board this vessel! Bezna: Magra? Gaala: They must have interrupted a Purification. You must report this! Bezna: And condemn them to die? Gaala: Of course. The Magra deserve to die. Bezna: How can you say that? Gaala: I speak the truth. Bezna: Gaala, I will not sacrifice any Yenrabi to die. And neither will you. You are my employee, and I command you not to speak a word about this to anybody. Gaala: But.. Bezna: I COMMAND it! Gaala (pausing): I will be silent. Bezna: Good. Now let us resume the negotiations! (bridge. Riker has joined the others on the bridge.) Picard: Bridge to sick bay. How are our patients doing? Crusher: Both are doing fine. They both suffered from broken bones, slight burns, a few bumps and bruises, and a concussion, but they should make a full recovery. Picard: When will I be able to interview them? Crusher: They should be alert in about two hours, Jean-Luc. Picard: Thank you, Dr. Crusher. Picard out. Riker: Sir, by beaming these Yenrabi aboard the Enterprise, aren't we playing fast and loose with the Prime Directive? Picard: Of course not, Number One. After all, they did send us a distress call. We are obligated to come to their aid. Riker: But we are in Yenrabi territory, sir. Data: Apparently not, Commander. Due to an ancient custom, Yenrabi law extends only to the upper limits of the breathable atmosphere. Thus, our level of orbit is technically interplanetary space, and thus the Captain is correct in stating that we are obliged to answer distress calls. Riker: Ah. I see! (big smile) Picard: Really, Number One. Do you think that I would knowingly violate the Prime Directive? Riker: Of course not, Captain. Picard: If there are no further questions, then I shall retire to my quarters to enjoy a good book. Number One, you have the bridge. Riker: Aye, sir. (Picard leaves) (Picard's quarters. Picard is reading a book on his couch. The "doorbell" sounds.) Picard: Come. (Bezna enters) Bezna: Hello, Captain. Picard: Mr. Bezna. What a surprise! How are the negotiations going? Bezna: So far, so good. Picard: I don't know if that is good news or bad, considering it is coming from the opposing negotiator. Bezna (laughing): I think that both sides will benefit, Captain. Right now we are in recess. But it is not the negotiations I have come to discuss with you. Picard: What brings you here, then? Bezna: An issue of grave importance for my people. Picard: Go on. Bezna: Last night, at dinner, you asked about that shuttle that was destroyed... Picard: Yes? Bezna: ... a-a-and I told you I knew nothing about it. That was a lie, and I feel ashamed for telling it. Picard: No need to feel ashamed, Mr. Bezna. I've lied before in my time, and I am afraid I'll do it again. Bezna: Not for the lie, Captain. After all, lies and deceit are part of my job. I feel ashamed for the atrocious crimes that I was helping to conceal. Picard: What crimes, Mr. Bezna? Bezna: The crime that was committed against the shuttle occupants yesterday, and that would have been committed again this morning, had you not beamed them upon your ship. Picard: You know about that? Bezna: Yes, I do. But don't worry; your secret is safe with me. My aide Gaala, being a female, can sense the presence of other Yenrabi. When the number aboard this ship grew from three to five, we quickly figured out what happened. Picard: She knows, too? Bezna: Yes, she does. But she will not tell, as I have ordered her to stay silent. I trust her; she has been a faithful employee for many years. Picard: And Zandon? Bezna: I don't think he knows anything. Picard: That's reassuring. Tell me, Mr. Bezna. Why are these people being slaughtered? Bezna: They are Magra, a minority on my planet which has been deemed undesirable. Thus, the government instituted a program called the Purification, to eliminate them from our society. Picard: It sounds like genocide to me. Bezna: Exactly. Over the years, tens of thousands of Magra have been ruthlessly exterminated, and the majority of Yenrabi approve. Picard: Sounds like much of the history of my planet, Earth. Tell me, Mr. Bezna. Why do they send them up in a shuttlecraft? Isn't that a waste of your planet's resources? Bezna: The reason is because executions are illegal on K'narf Yenrab IV. Even murderers lives' are spared. However, Yenrabi law does not extend to orbit. Thus, the government can do whatever it wishes there. Picard: And the government wishes for them to die. Bezna: Yes. Picard (gets up, walks around): Nothing is more disturbing than to have one's perceptions shattered. Bezna: Yes, I know. Most people respect our people for our peacefulness, our intellect, our resourcefulness. But most people do not know about the Purification. Tell me, Captain. What can you do about this? Picard: Not much, I am afraid. You see, the Federation's Prime Directive forbids me to interfere in the social development of any culture, no matter my opinion. Bezna: Can't you make an exception for the slaughter of thousands? Picard: I wish I could, Mr. Bezna. There have been many times where I wished that the Prime Directive is flexible. But it is absolute. We are even skirting it by rescuing those two Magra, or whatever you call them. Believe me. If there was any way I could legally put a stop to this, I could. Bezna: I don't understand. Is the Federation afraid to take a stand on difficult issues? Picard: No, that is not the reason. About 5 centuries ago on my planet, there were over 150 separate countries, each with its own agenda and cause. There was constant warfare. Countries would invade each other, using any justification they could. Peoples were conquered and colonized. Entire cultures were destroyed. The Prime Directive was made the Federation's supreme law exactly to prevent this from happening again. That is the reason it is absolute--the second we start making exceptions, the easier it becomes for the cycle of conquest and colonization to begin anew. Bezna: I see, Captain. And they won't intervene when people are being slaughtered? Picard: No. If the Purification is to stop, it must be stopped by the Yenrabi themselves. Not by Starfleet, or by anybody else. Bezna: I suppose you are right, Captain. Unfortunately, if the Purification can be stopped only by the Yenrabi people, then many more Yenrabi must die. Picard: I am truly sorry, Mr. Bezna. Bezna: I know. Crusher: Sick bay to Captain Picard Picard: Go ahead, Beverly. Crusher: Captain, the two Yenrabi are awake and alert. Picard: On my way, Doctor. Picard to Counsellor Troi. Report to sick bay immediately. Would you like to accompany me, Mr. Bezna? Bezna: I would appreciate it very much, Captain. (they leave) (Bezna's quarters. Gaala is alone, accessing a computer.) Gaala: Special agent Gaala contacting Security Chief Kal-Zad. Access code Alpha Alpha 3 9 7 Zeta Phi. Kal-Zad (on computer screen): Go ahead, Agent. Gaala: The last two Magra to be Purified--are here. End Act III. Act IV (Sick bay. Crusher and several assistants are present. Picard, Troi, and Bezna enter.) Crusher: There you are, Captain. The two Yenrabi are in the room over there. You may go in. However, they were extremely hysterical when they were revived, so I did have to sedate them. Picard: Understood, Doctor. (Picard, Troi, and Bezna enter the adjoining room. Two Yenrabi, one male and one female, are in the room.) Both Yenrabi: Please, don't hurt us! Please! Troi: Don't be frightened! Nobody is going to hurt either of you. We're here to help you. Female: Then why did you bring HIM? (points to Bezna) Bezna: I will not harm you. I am not like the others. Please. I beg your trust. Male: How can we trust anyone when our own people wish to exterminate us? Troi: Please. Calm down. I'm Deanna Troi, ships's counsellor aboard the Enterprise. Female: The Enterprise? Picard: This starship you are on is the U.S.S. Enterprise, of the United Federation of Planets. I am her captain, Jean-Luc Picard. Bezna: And I, my brother and sister, am chief negotiator Pintok Bezna. You were rescued from the Purification shuttlecraft by this ship. You are safe here. Male: I am Andak Maalda. This is Telan Viird. If this is true, then we must thank you, Captain. Viird (female): We owe you are lives. Picard: You both are certainly most welcome. But please tell me. Why does your government want you dead? Maalda (male): Because, Captain, we are Magra. Picard: Yes, yes, I understand that. But what is a Magra? You look like any other Yenrabi I've seen. Viird: Magra do not look different from other Yenrabi. It is because of what we do that make us Magra, that makes them want to persecute us. Maalda: Our crime is that I, a male Yenrabi, and Telan, a female, have taken each other as mates. Bezna: Nobody knows why certain Yenrabi become Magra. Some people think it is a recessive genetic trait, and others think it is the result of environmental factors. Still others think that they do it by choice. But the fact is, that about 5% of all Yenrabi are Magra, and for this, they often pay with their lives. Troi: Captain. That is reprehensible! Picard: I know, Counsellor. But given the history of humans, its not altogether surprising that such bigotry would rear its ugly head on other planets. Ever since humanity has existed, people have searched for any excuse to eliminate those they despise. Troi: Why? Picard: Usually, Counsellor, it springs from a political need. A leader will often require a scapegoat to blame his peoples' problems on, to cover his own inadequacies. So he seeks out a minority, a small group of people who are different, and persecutes them, often claiming divine justification. Sometimes, it is a different religion, other times, a different race. Often it is even more insignificant than that. All it takes is a subtle distinction, that the masses can rile against, and countless numbers of innocent people are doomed. Unfortunately, when the leader dies or is overthrown, the hatred lingers for centuries, passed down from father to son like a family heirloom. This goes on so long, that it gets to a point where nobody can even remember why they hate the people that they do. It is positively frightening that one man can have such a disastrous effect for such a long time. Bezna: That is the way it happened on our planet. Three centuries ago, our people fought a war with each other. Millions died, millions of others were left homeless. Someone had to be blamed. Viird: The leader of the losing side was a Magra. The victor, facing the aftermath of war, had to blame the carnage on somebody. Thus, he chose a highly visible minority, one of the few minorities that exist on my planet, and the slaughter began. Maalda: Before the war, the word Magra was never even used. People just didn't worry about such things. Troi: And now, being a Magra is a capital crime. (a few seconds of silence) Maalda: So, Captain. Can you help us? (pause) Picard: One of the most heart-wrenching duties of a Starfleet officer is to turn a blind eye to tyranny. I'm sorry, but I am not allowed to interfere with your planet's social development. In this instance, I definitely wish that I were. Bezna: Starfleet's Prime Directive forbids him to interfere in any way. Viird: We understand. Does that mean that we will be turned over to the Yenrabi government? Picard: Hopefully not. I doubt that they know that you are here. Maalda: And if they find out? Picard: Then I must surrender you to them. Troi: Captain. They could request asylum aboard the Enterprise. Picard: Unless of course, you request political asylum. Thank you, Counsellor! (pauses) However, I think that they believe that you were destroyed in that shuttlecraft. (RED ALERT klaxxon goes off.) Picard: Then again, maybe not. Picard to bridge. What's going on, Number One? Riker: We have two Yenrabi cruisers surrounding us, Captain, with their weapons armed. Captain Kolgar is demanding to speak to you. Picard: On my way. Would you four accompany me to the bridge? (bridge. Picard, Troi, and the three Yenrabi enter from Turbolift.) Worf: Sir, the two cruisers have their phasers locked on us. Shields have been raised. Picard: You three go wait in my ready room, so you will not be visible on the Yenrabi's viewscreen. Is a channel open? Worf: Affirmative, sir. Picard: Onscreen (viewer activates. Captain Kolgar's face appears, on the bridge of the Unity.) Kolgar: Captain Picard. I thought we agreed that you would stay out of our affairs. Picard: I demand to know why you have locked your weapons on my ship, Kolgar! Kolgar: I believe you know why, Pee-card. Picard: I would appreciate being enlightened. Kolgar: You have illegally transported two criminals onto your ship. I demand the return of both, and the return of the traitor Bezna. Picard: And why is Bezna being branded a traitor? He has represented your people quite well. Kolgar: Too well. He has failed in his duty to report your illegal actions. You shall beam them aboard my ship immediately, or we will open fire. (Picard gestures to cut off the audio.) Worf: Mute, sir. Picard: What do you think, Counsellor. Troi: He's serious, Captain. If it comes to it, he will fire. Riker: They wouldn't stand a chance against us, sir. Data: Commander Riker is correct. They are armed only with phasers, and their maximum power output is much lower.. Picard: Enough, Data. I know, Number One. But if we fire upon their ships, it may have serious repercussions. Worf: I recommend we fire a warning shot, sir. Picard: No, Lieutenant. There is no need to further complicate the situation. Mr. Bezna. Would you come in, and bring our two guests with you? Bezna: Of course, Captain. (the three Yenrabi enter the bridge.) Picard: Restore audio, Mr. Worf. Worf: Audio restored, Sir. Kolgar: Why are you allowing such vermin on your bridge, Captain? Don't you have any standards of decency? Picard: Apparently not. Mr. Maalda and Mrs. Viird have something to say to you, Kolgar. Maalda: Captain, we formally request political asylum aboard the Enterprise. Picard: And you, Telan? Viird: I agree with Andak. I request full protection, based on political persecution. Kolgar: That ploy will not work, Picard. You seized them from our territory. You violated OUR laws. You cannot grant asylum to someone seized illegally. Picard: But they were not seized illegally. The jurisdiction of your laws does not extend to orbit. I was simply answering a distress call, as I am obligated to do so. None of your laws was violated; you have no claim on these two. Kolgar: I then demand you transport back EX-negotiator Bezna and his party. Bezna: Captain, I must also request asylum aboard the Enterprise. Picard: As you surely know, Captain, I am required to honor all requests for asylum. Kolgar: Your superiors will here of this, Picard. And you and your Federation can forget about acquiring one gram of our dilithium! Picard: I would appreciate it if you did notify my superiors, Kolgar. It would save me a bit of explaining to do. And now that we have this matter settled, I demand that you power down your weapons IMMEDIATELY! Kolgar: You will regret this, Picard! Picard: It might come to pass, Kolgar, that I will regret the consequences of my actions. But I will never regret what I am doing here today. Kolgar (pause): Captain. Please transport Mr. Zandon and Mrs. Gaala on board my ship. At least there are some loyal Yenrabi on your vessel. Picard: They are currently getting ready to leave. I will transport them to the planet's surface when they are. Picard out. (viewscreen switches to view of cruisers.) Worf: Sir, the Yenrabi cruisers are powering down their weapons, and returning to the surface. Picard: Cancel red alert, lower shields. Mr. Worf, send a subspace communique to Starfleet Command informing them of what happened, and assign quarters to our new shipmates. Worf: Aye, sir. Riker: You certainly seemed to enjoy that, Captain. Troi: I sensed great pleasure in him, Will. Picard: Indeed I did, Number One. And now that my vacation is over, I would appreciate it if you two do not bother me about it for several months, at least! (laughter all over bridge) End Act IV Act V Captain's Log, supplemental. As a result of the happenings of the past two days, the Yenrabi government has suspended negotiations with the Federation. Starfleet has granted Bezna, Maalda, and Viird's request for asylum, and they will stay on the Enterprise until we dock at a starbase. Bezna's aide, Gaala, who turned out to be a government agent, has already transported back to the planet. Bezna's companion, Mr. Zandon, is preparing to transport back, after which we will proceed to the Ursa system to do research on cosmic radiation. (transporter room. Zandon, Bezna, Picard, and Chief O'Brien are there.) Zandon: I am sorry that you can't come back with me, Pintok. Bezna: I know. But I have apparently been judged a traitor, thus I can't go back. Zandon: I understand. Although I will never agree with you about the Magra, I understand and respect your position, and what you did. No man who does what he believes is right for his people is ever a traitor. Bezna: Thank you, Daarg. Maybe, someday, there will come a time where we can see each other again. I will always miss you. (they embrace) Zandon: Chief, I am ready. (Zandon is transported back to K'narf Yenrab IV) Picard: I know how you feel, Mr. Bezna. The other two have each other. Bezna: And I, have nobody. (they leave transporter room, walk down corridor). Picard: There is a position open, Mr. Bezna, on the Federation negotiating team. As you have more than demonstrated your skill as a negotiator, I suggest you apply for the position. Of course, you would be working under Mr. Mendoza. Bezna: I have great admiration for him as an adversary. I would be honored to have him as an associate. Picard: He has said the same about you. If you want it, I can all but guarantee that the job is yours. Bezna: Thank you, Captain. (pauses.) Tell me. Do you think I will ever be able to go home again? Picard: Mr. Bezna, if there are more Yenrabi like you, I am sure of it. Bezna: I just hope that you are correct, both for me, and for people like Maalda and Viird. Picard: So do I. Say, Mr. Bezna. I believe you promised to prepare Yenrabi cuisine for us tonight. Bezna: I believe you are correct, Captain. That is one promise that I intend to keep. Picard: Well I, for one, would like to learn how. Would you show me? Bezna: I would be glad to, Captain. Lead the way. We shall be eating well tonight! (They walk down the corridor, round a corner, and disappear.) The End.