Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994): Season 4, Episode 21 - The Drumhead - full transcript
A retired admiral boards the Enterprise in an effort to determine the actions aboard the ship surrounding an act of sabotage and possible treason.
Captain's Log,
Stardate 44769.2.
For some weeks we have had
a Klingon exobiologist on board
as part of a scientific
exchange program.
Unfortunately, we suspect
that he was involved
in a security breach
and in the possible sabotage
of our warp drive.
What were you doing accessing
the propulsion system files
on stardate 44758?
I didn't.
Yes, you did, from
computer 12B9, deck 36.
The computer logged in
your identification
from your communicator.
It must be a mistake.
J'Dan,
we have confirmed reports
that schematic drawings
of our dilithium chamber
fell into Romulan hands
one week later.
I know nothing about it.
I suppose you know
nothing about the explosion
that disabled the warp drive
approximately the same time.
No, I was not involved.
You accuse me
because I am Klingon.
Our Chief of Security
is Klingon.
That has nothing to do with it.
Send me home then
if you are so distrusting.
We've already contacted
the Klingon High Council.
You'll be returned home
as soon as we finish
our investigation.
I have nothing more to say.
Very well.
Worf, accompany the Lieutenant
to his quarters.
What do you think?
It's hard to tell.
He's very closed,
but he is hiding something.
On the Klingon Homeworld,
your name is not mentioned.
It is as though
you never existed.
A terrible burden
for a warrior to bear...
to become nothing
to be without honor
without the chance for glory.
I have friends...
powerful friends
on the homeworld.
I could talk to them.
They might help
to restore your name...
if you could just take me
to a shuttlecraft.
It could be done
without anyone knowing about it.
I don't know how you transferred
secret information
to the Romulans
but I will find out!
Pahtk!
And when we inform
the Klingon High Council
they will put you
to a slow death.
Someone needs to stop Clearway Law.
Public shouldn't leave reviews for lawyers.
Space, the final frontier.
These are the voyages
of the Starship Enterprise.
Its continuing mission...
to explore strange new worlds
to seek out new life
and new civilizations
to boldly go
where no one has gone before.
Captain's Log, supplemental.
Retired Admiral Norah Satie
whose investigation exposed
the alien conspiracy
against Starfleet Command
three years ago, is arriving
to assist in our inquiry.
Captain Picard.
Admiral Satie,
welcome aboard the Enterprise.
Delighted to be here.
I managed to acquire
my former staff.
My aide, Sabin Genestra,
from Betazed
and my assistant,
Nellen Tore, from Delb II.
This is my First Officer
Commander William Riker.
May I show you to your quarters?
Captain, if Starfleet Command
was so concerned
with your report
they brought me
out of retirement
I think I should
get right to work.
Very well.
Commander Riker, will you
see to the Admiral's staff?
First, I'd like to inspect
the damage to your engine room.
Admiral Satie,
this is Commander Data.
Commander La Forge.
Admiral.
We still can't
get in there, Captain.
The radiation levels
are dropping
but they're still too high
to raise the isolation door.
How much longer will it be?
At the rate the levels
are decreasing
we will gain entry
in 49 hours, Captain.
Maybe the Admiral
would like to see
the visual log of the explosion?
Yes.
This was logged four days ago
at 0300 hours.
At that point, the emergency
confinement field was activated
and the isolation doors
came down.
No one was killed
but I have two people
in Sick Bay
from radiation burns.
Have you been able
to make any assessments?
A slow-motion study
of the explosion
suggests that the articulation
frame collapsed.
The schematics that were stolen
from the Enterprise...
I believe some involved
the articulation frame
of the dilithium chamber.
That's one reason
we tend to suspect sabotage.
Other evidence lends credence
to that theory, Captain.
A review of the sensor logs
indicates
that every system's reading
was well
within normal parameters
until 52 milliseconds
before the explosion.
We haven't found anything
that suggests
there was a malfunction
anywhere along the line.
Captain, I think I'm going
to need a full briefing
before we go any further.
By all means, Admiral.
Commander Data
La Forge
I don't envy you your job.
Good luck.
There are
very disturbing overtones
in the idea of a Klingon
providing information
to the Romulans.
Are you aware of any other
Klingon-Romulan connection
that Starfleet
might have encountered recently?
I don't believe...
What Starfleet Command
knows or doesn't know
is for me to reveal.
Well, this ship has encountered
several incidents
which might suggest
a potential alliance
between those two powers.
We're well aware of that,
Captain.
What we must concentrate on
is the business at hand.
Come.
Excuse me, Captain.
I did not know that...
Oh, please, Mr. Worf, come in.
I particularly want
my guest to meet you.
Admiral Satie,
this is my Head of Security
Lieutenant Worf.
Captain, I have been pursuing
the investigation
of Lieutenant J'Dan.
I believe I know
how he transferred information
off the Enterprise.
Well done, Lieutenant.
This is J'Dan's...
a hyposyringe he uses to treat
his Ba'ltmasor Syndrome
but this has been fitted
with an optical reader
specially modified to read data
from Starfleet isolinear chips.
He can extract digital
information from a computer
encode it in the form
of amino acid sequences
and transfer those sequences
into a fluid in the syringe.
Then he injects someone
perhaps even without
their knowledge.
Or perhaps with their knowledge.
The information would be carried
in their bloodstream
in the form of inert proteins.
The body itself becomes a
conveyor of top secret files.
Lieutenant Worf,
when we confront J'Dan
I want you to conduct
the interrogation.
I would be honored.
Captain.
Admiral.
Captain, I predict that officer
will be extremely valuable
in this investigation.
I have tracked the movements
of every person
who has left the Enterprise
since you have been here.
I traced one Tarkanian diplomat
as far as the Cruses system
where he disappeared,
and has not been seen since.
That proves nothing.
A hyposyringe was discovered
in your quarters.
I take injections.
Everyone knows that.
But your injections
do not include
an optical chip reader.
This device has
but one function...
to transform
computer information
into biological sequences.
The blood of all Klingons
has become water!
Since the Federation Alliance
we are turned into a nation
of mewling babies.
The Romulans are strong.
They are worthy allies.
They do not turn Klingons
into weaklings, like you.
Lieutenant...
How did you damage
the dilithium chamber?
I had nothing to do with that.
You mean,
it was sheer coincidence
that it was sabotaged after you
gave the plans for the design
to the Romulans?
I do not know.
I had nothing to do with it.
You've admitted your crime.
Why lie now?
I am not lying.
Mr. Worf,
you may have him confined.
Sabin?
I believe
he's telling the truth.
He admits stealing the files
but not sabotaging
the dilithium chamber.
I get no sense that he's lying.
But if you're right,
someone else may be involved.
I think, Captain
you have a bigger problem
on your ship
than just one
Klingon exchange officer.
I've seen this before.
A specter of conspiracy
on a starship
is a frightening one.
I can scarcely
believe it myself.
But I am so grateful
for your presence, Admiral.
If anyone in Starfleet
can help us, it's you.
Captain...
I find myself changing
my mind about you.
In what way?
When Starfleet ordered me here,
it was with the express command
that we work together
on this problem as equals.
My father taught me
to avoid partnerships.
Most of them
are woefully lopsided.
That sounds like
Judge Aaron Satie.
You knew my father?
Only from his writings.
His judgments were
required reading at the Academy.
He was an extraordinary man.
Every night at the dinner table
he would pose
a question for debate.
My big brothers and I
would wrangle it around
from one side and the other.
Father would referee.
And he kept a stopwatch on us
so we would have to learn
brevity
but he wouldn't let us leave
until he thought we'd completely
explored the issue.
I'm willing to wager that you
trounced your brothers
during those debates.
More than once.
Father loved it
when I nailed one of them
with some subtle point of logic.
All that I am, I owe to him.
He was a giant.
You must miss him very much.
Captain, I always preferred
working alone.
That way,
if something went wrong
I didn't have to go far
for the cause.
I resented you
being assigned to me
but I was wrong.
We're going to be quite a team.
J'Dan did not make friends
easily.
There are not many to question.
You've done
a thorough job, Lieutenant.
I am strongly motivated
in this matter.
Yes, I can see that.
I don't mind telling you,
I'm surprised.
Frankly, when I first
heard about your father...
My father?
Yes.
There are some who believe
he betrayed your people
to the Romulans.
What he did or did not do
is no one's concern but my own.
Of course.
I only meant,
before I saw you in action
I naturally considered you
to be a possible security risk.
But I want you to know
you have the Admiral's
and my complete confidence.
You have nothing to prove to us.
If there is
a conspiracy on board
I promise you, I will find it.
Good.
You know the ship,
you know the personnel.
You know exactly
what we're up against.
We're counting on you,
Lieutenant.
I will arrange
for the interviews to begin.
And how often did
Lieutenant J'Dan
come in for his injections?
About once a week.
Did you administer them
yourself?
No.
Well, who did?
I had
one of my assistants do that.
Did you ever hear
him say anything...
anything that may have seemed
innocent at the time...
that might now shed some light
on this investigation?
No. Nothing.
In fact, he rarely spoke at all.
Thank you, Dr. Crusher.
We appreciate your time.
You're excused.
Mr. Worf, will you
bring in the next person?
Please sit down, Mr. Tarses.
For the record, will you tell us
your name and position?
Simon Tarses
Crewman First Class,
Medical Technician.
Now, I assure you, Mr. Tarses,
this is an informal inquiry.
We are not accusing
you of anything.
However, if you
would like counsel
it can be provided.
No, sir, I have nothing to hide.
Tell me, how long have you held
your appointment
aboard this vessel?
Since Stardate 43587.
Mr. Tarses, your records state
that you were born
on Mars Colony.
That's right.
Then you are human?
Largely.
My paternal grandfather
was Vulcan.
Yes, I see that.
Tell me, what is
your relationship
with the Klingon, J'Dan?
Um, he...
I mean, there's no relationship.
He just came in
for his injections.
Did you give him
those injections?
Sometimes.
There were several of us,
actually.
l-I might ha-have done it twice.
Did he ever make any comments
that might, in retrospect,
be suspicious?
Not really.
He hardly ever talked.
Did you ever see him
outside Sick Bay?
Once or twice in Ten-Forward
with a group of people
but I never had
a conversation with him.
Thank you, Mr. Tarses.
I don't think there's
need for more, Captain.
You're excused, Crewman.
Mr. Worf...
Wait.
He's lying.
He's desperately frightened.
He's covering something.
It's clear that he's frightened
but that's hardly
an indication...
It's more than that.
He wasn't truthful.
He's covering a lie...
one so big,
it's overwhelming him.
I think we found the man.
Admiral.
I have to tell you
you must not expect me
to permit any action
against Mr. Tarses solely on
the basis of Betazoid intuition.
Sabin has uncanny instincts.
I've learned to trust them.
I'm not happy
about this use of a Betazoid.
But you have
a Betazoid Counselor.
Surely you're aware
of the advantages.
But there is a difference
between a Counselor
and an investigator.
Are you saying you
never use your Counselor
during interrogations?
Yes, I do...
but I would not act solely
on the basis of her instinct.
Nor do I.
But you're asking...
You're asking me to restrict
Mr. Tarses's movements
solely on the basis
of Sabin's feeling.
If Counselor Troi
suggested to you
that someone on this ship
were dangerous
would you not act on that?
Observe him, curb his activity?
Yes, I admit I probably would
and perhaps I should reevaluate
that behavior.
Oh, nonsense.
Let's keep our priorities
straight.
The important thing
is to uncover the conspiracy
on this ship
and to prevent further damage.
Now, if Tarses
is a possible saboteur
you cannot allow him access
to sensitive areas of this ship
and I strongly suggest
continuous surveillance.
If we had clear evidence...
We will have clear evidence.
Sabin and Lieutenant Worf
are continuing to investigate
but if you don't act until then,
it may be too late.
No.
I won't treat a man
as a criminal
unless there is cause to do so.
And while you're being
so generous
you give a saboteur a chance
to strike again?
Last time, it was just
a hatch cover.
What if next time
it's more serious?
What if lives are lost?
Can you afford not to act?
Engineering to Captain Picard.
Yes, Mr. La Forge?
Captain, could you come
to Engineering right away?
We've got something interesting
to show you.
We'll be right there.
Captain, we finally got in here
about six hours ago
and we've been going over
it inch by inch ever since.
We have made
microtomographic analyses
of the dilithium chamber,
the hatch mounting
the blast pattern
from the explosion.
We did mass spectrometer
readings of the residue
for chemical content
sifted through the debris
for bomb fragments.
What did you find?
This is the frame for the hatch.
It ruptured right along here
and when we take a reading
of that spot...
See?
I'm afraid I'm out
of my element, Commander.
You'll have to interpret
for me.
There are sub-micron fractures
in the metal casing.
That's right.
A breakdown of the atomic
cohesive structure.
Yes, and what caused them?
Those fractures
suggest nothing more
than simple neutron fatigue.
I would speculate that when
the engine was last inspected
at McKinley Station,
the hatch casing was replaced
with one which had
an undetectable defect.
I believe, sir
that the conclusion
to our investigation
must be that the explosion
was not intentional.
That's the way I see it.
This wasn't sabotage at all.
It was nothing more than...
an accident.
An accident?
I find that hard to believe.
If my crew say
there was no sabotage
you can be sure there was none.
Let us keep our perspective,
gentlemen.
Just because
there was no sabotage
doesn't mean there isn't
a conspiracy on this ship.
We do have a confessed spy.
And he had confederates.
Do we know that for sure?
Of course he did.
Do you think J'Dan
could have come on board
the flagship of the Federation
and accomplished what he did
without help from within?
I agree it would be difficult...
but not impossible.
We should continue
to investigate Tarses.
He was hiding something.
Captain Picard,
Lieutenant Worf and I
have been working well together.
I suggest we continue,
if for no other purpose
than to determine
Tarses's innocence.
Now, please, let me remind you
he is innocent
until he is proved guilty.
Of course he is.
What Sabin is saying
is that he and Lieutenant Worf
would like to establish
his innocence
unequivocally, for his own sake.
Very well, but let us put this
to rest as quickly as possible.
You've opened the hearing
to spectators?
It isn't good to have
closed-door proceedings
for too long.
It invites rumor
and speculation.
Nevertheless, Admiral,
I think it would be wise...
Because spies and saboteurs
don't like the bright lights
of an open inquiry.
They're like roaches,
scurrying for the dark corner.
This hearing is convened
on Stardate 44780
as a continuing inquiry
into the activities
of Crewman Simon Tarses.
Mr. Tarses,
for your own protection
I have assigned a counsel to you
in the person
of Commander William Riker.
Thank you, sir,
but I don't need protection.
I have not done anything wrong.
Dr. Crusher, have you observed
Crewman Tarses with J'Dan?
Well, yes, he gave him
his injection.
I meant outside of Sick Bay.
I think so.
Perhaps in Ten-Forward.
And whom else have you observed
at these occasions?
I don't understand
what relevance that has.
It was an innocent
social gathering.
If it was so innocent
why do you hesitate
to give us the names?
Thank you, Doctor.
Admiral, if you have a case
to make against Simon Tarses
you had better make it.
Otherwise, I'm stopping
this here and now.
Mr. Tarses, isn't it true
that you have access
to the biological
supplies in Sick Bay?
It's part of my job, yes.
J'Dan used suspensions
of deoxyribose
to carry the encoded files
he stole.
Isn't it true one of your duties
is to prepare these suspensions?
Several technicians
share that job.
And isn't it true
that your security clearance
allow you access to all
the stores and files in Sick Bay
access which you can exercise
at any time?
Because I have access
does not mean I...
What would you say if I told you
there is evidence
that the explosion
in the engine room was caused
by a corrosive chemical...
one that is kept
stored in Sick Bay?
I had nothing to do with that.
How can we believe you?
How can we believe someone
whom we know...
we know to be a liar?
I object.
There is no basis for calling
Crewman Tarses a liar.
Agreed. Mr. Sabin.
Captain, there is a basis
which will become clear
in a moment.
Mr. Tarses, didn't you
deliberately
and premeditatively lie
when you filled out
your personnel application
and compounded that lie by
repeating it to this committee?
What?
Isn't it true
that the paternal grandfather
of whom you speak
was not a Vulcan, but was,
in fact, a Romulan?
That it is Romulan blood
you carry
and a Romulan heritage
that you honor?
We're waiting, Mr. Tarses.
On the advice of my counsel
I refuse to answer
that question in...
in that the answer m...
might serve to incriminate me.
You and Crewman Marcus
will coordinate
to track Tarses's movements
over the last five years.
Ensign Kellogg, I want a list
of all relatives
known associates and especially
old school friends
and make arrangements
to do an encephalographic
polygraph scan...
Mr. Worf.
Yes, Captain?
I need to speak with you.
You are dismissed.
Please get your reports to me
as soon as possible.
Do you see what is
happening here, Mr. Worf?
Sir?
This is not unlike a...
a drumhead trial.
I do not understand.
500 years ago, military officers
would upend a drum
on the battlefield.
They'd sit at it
and dispense summary justice.
Decisions were quick,
punishments severe
appeals denied.
Those who came to a drumhead
were doomed.
But we know
there is a traitor here.
J'Dan has admitted his guilt.
That's true, and he will stand
for his crime.
Tarses has all but done
the same.
How?
He refused to answer
the question
about his Romulan grandfather.
That is not a crime, Worf!
Nor can we infer his guilt
because he didn't respond.
Sir, if a man were not afraid
of the truth, he would answer.
Oh, no.
We cannot allow ourselves
to think that.
The Seventh Guarantee is one
of the most important rights
granted by the Federation.
We cannot take
a fundamental principle
of the Constitution
and turn it against a citizen.
Sir, the Federation does
have enemies.
We must seek them out.
Oh, yes.
That's how it starts
but the road
from legitimate suspicion
to rampant paranoia is very much
shorter than we think.
Something is wrong here,
Mr. Worf.
I don't like
what we have become.
There you are, Mr. Tarses.
Would you care for some lemon?
No, thank you, sir,
this is fine.
Well, tell me a little
about yourself, Crewman.
I know you were born
on Mars Colony.
Yes, sir.
All my life, I wanted
to be in Starfleet.
I went to the Academy's training
program for enlisted personnel.
I took training
as a medical technician
and I served
at several outposts.
The day that I was posted
to the Enterprise
was the happiest day of my life.
Did you ever consider
applying to the Academy
going the whole route?
Apply to become an officer?
Well, my parents wanted me
to, and I thought about it.
I used to sit
under this big tree
near the parade grounds.
An elm tree
with a circular bench?
Yes, that's the one.
I spent many an hour there.
It was my favorite spot
to study.
I used to sit under that tree
and watch the drills.
Picture myself an officer.
I know that it would have made
my mother very happy, but I...
You didn't do it.
No.
I was 18 and eager.
The last thing I wanted
was to spend four years
sitting in classrooms.
I wanted to be out there,
traveling the stars.
I didn't want to wait
for anything.
And now it's done, isn't it?
My career in Starfleet
is finished.
Not if you aren't guilty, Simon.
It doesn't matter.
I lied on my application.
And that mistake will be with me
for the rest of my life.
Mr. Worf has found a brother
who still lives on Mars Colony.
Contact someone there
and have him interviewed.
Admiral Satie...
And start a background checkup
into all his friends
at the Academy training program.
Admiral Satie?
Yes, Captain?
I would like
to have a word with you.
Of course.
In private...
and off the record.
Of course.
After all,
you are my partner in this.
I cannot possibly believe
you'd mean this.
But I do.
This must stop.
It has gone too far.
You lied to him
about the engine room.
There were no volatile chemicals
found there.
It was a tactic...
a way of applying pressure.
We're hounding an innocent man.
And how, may I ask, have you
managed to determine that?
I've talked with him.
Oh, I see.
And he told you he was
a victim of circumstance...
blameless and pure?
No.
He admits his mistake
in falsifying his application
but that does not make him
a traitor.
How can you be
so incredibly naive?
Captain, may I tell you
how I have spent
the past four years?
From planet to Starbase
to planet.
I have no home.
I live on starships
and shuttlecraft.
I haven't seen
a family member in years.
I have no friends,
but I have a purpose.
My father taught me from
the time I was a little girl
still clutching a blanket
that the United Federation
of Planets
is the most remarkable
institution ever conceived
and it is my cause to make sure
that this extraordinary
union be preserved.
I cannot imagine
why you are trying
to block this investigation.
There have been others
in the past who doubted me.
They came to regret it.
The hearings on Simon Tarses
will stop.
If necessary,
I will go to Starfleet Command.
I have news for you, Captain.
I've been in constant contact
with Starfleet Command.
The hearings
are not going to stop.
They're going to be expanded.
What are you saying?
I'm going to get
to the heart of this conspiracy
if it means investigating
every last person on this ship
and every hearing from now on
will be held in the presence
of Admiral Thomas Henry
of Starfleet Security.
I've requested
he be brought here at once.
You never told me about this.
I report to Starfleet Command
directly.
I do not need your permission
or your approval
for my decisions.
Admiral.
What you're doing here...
is unethical.
It's immoral.
I'll fight it.
Do what you must, Captain.
And so will I.
Captain, warp engines
are back on line.
We are ready to commence
restart sequences.
Sir?
Yes?
Yes, yes, of course,
proceed, Mr. Data.
You all right, Captain?
Yes, of course, Number One,
just a little preoccupied.
Admiral Satie has ordered you
to report
to the interrogation room
at 0900 hours tomorrow morning.
You are to be questioned
before the committee.
Captain's Log, supplemental.
Admiral Thomas Henry
who has worked closely
with Norah Satie in the past
has arrived
to observe the hearings.
Your full name?
Jean-Luc Picard.
Rank and position?
Captain,
Federation Starship Enterprise.
How long have you
held this post?
Over three years,
since Stardate 41124.
Very well. Admiral.
If you don't mind, there is
something I would like to say.
If you have a statement,
you'll have an opportunity
to make it later.
I believe that Chapter Four
Article 12
of the Uniform Code of Justice
grants me the right
to make a statement
before questioning begins.
Very well.
I'm deeply concerned
about what is happening here.
It began
when we apprehended a spy...
a man who admitted his guilt
and who will answer
for his crime.
But the hunt didn't end there.
Another man, Mr. Simon Tarses,
was brought to trial...
and it was a trial, no matter
what others choose to call it.
A trial based on insinuation
and innuendo.
Nothing substantive
offered against Mr. Tarses
much less proven.
Mr. Tarses's grandfather
is Romulan
and for that reason,
his career now stands in ruins.
Have we become so... fearful
have we become so cowardly
that we must extinguish a man
because he carries the blood
of a current enemy?
Admiral...
let us not condemn Simon Tarses
or anyone else
because of their bloodlines
or investigate others
for their innocent associations.
I implore you.
Do not continue
with this... proceeding.
End it now.
Captain, do you believe
in the Prime Directive?
Of course.
In fact, it's Starfleet's
General Order Number One,
is it not?
Your point, Admiral?
Would it surprise you to learn
that you have violated
the Prime Directive
a total of nine times
since you took command
of the Enterprise?
I must say, Captain, it
surprised the hell out of me.
My reports to Starfleet
will document the circumstances
of those instances.
Yes, we're looking into
those reports, Captain...
very closely into those reports.
After which, I'm sure we'll have
more questions for you
about your so-called
commitment
to Starfleet Prime Directive.
Captain, could you tell us
just what happened
on Stardate 44390?
I beg your pardon?
Let me refresh your memory.
You were transporting
a Vulcan ambassador... T'Pel.
I was following orders
to... take this ambassador
to a location
near the Neutral Zone.
I don't think
we need the preamble.
In fact, she was not a Vulcan
at all, was she?
She was a Romulan spy.
That's correct.
A spy whom you were delivering
back into the hands
of the enemy.
Tell me, Captain,
when the deception was revealed
and she stood proudly
on the Bridge of a Romulan ship
did you make any effort
to retrieve her?
- No.
- No.
Even though you knew
she carried Federation secrets
that she had been
accumulating for years?
The Enterprise could have been
captured by the Romulans.
Captain Picard did
the only thing he could.
Really, Lieutenant.
And where were you
when this traitor
was on board the Enterprise?
Where was ship's security?
Don't you think
it's questionable judgment
Captain, to have
a security officer
whose father was
a Romulan collaborator?
Lieutenant.
Tell me, Captain.
Have you completely recovered
from your experience
with the Borg?
Yes, I have
completely recovered.
It must have been awful for you
actually becoming one of them
being forced to use
your vast knowledge
of Starfleet operations
to aid the Borg.
Just how many
of our ships were lost?
Thirty-nine?
And a loss of life, I believe,
measured at nearly 11,000.
One wonders
how you can sleep at night
having caused
so much destruction.
I question your actions,
Captain.
I question your choices.
I question your loyalty.
You know, there are
some words I've known
since I was a schoolboy.
"With the first link,
the chain is forged.
"The first speech censured
"the first thought forbidden
"the first freedom denied
chains us all irrevocably."
Those words were uttered
by Judge Aaron Satie
as wisdom and warning.
The first time any man's freedom
is trodden on
we are all damaged.
I fear that today...
How dare you...
you who consort with Romulans...
invoke my father's name
to support
your traitorous arguments?!
It is an offense
to everything I hold dear!
And to hear those words
used to subvert
the United Federation
of Planets.
My father was a great man.
His name stands
for integrity and principle.
You dirty his name
when you speak it.
He loved the Federation
but you, Captain, corrupt it.
You undermine
our very way of life.
I will expose you
for what you are.
I will expose you
for what you are.
I've brought down
bigger men than you, Picard!
I have nothing more to say.
Perhaps we should
call a recess until tomorrow.
Am I bothering you, Captain?
No, please, Mr. Worf, come in.
It is over.
Admiral Henry has called an end
to any more hearings
on this matter.
That's good.
Admiral Satie has
left the Enterprise.
We think we've come so far.
Torture of heretics,
burning of witches
is all ancient history.
Then, before you
can blink an eye
suddenly, it threatens
to start all over again.
I believed her.
I... I helped her.
I did not see what she was.
Mr. Worf, villains
who twirl their mustaches
are easy to spot.
Those who clothe themselves
in good deeds
are well-camouflaged.
I think... after yesterday
people will not be
so ready to trust her.
Maybe.
But she, or someone like her,
will always be with us
waiting for the right climate
in which to flourish
spreading fear
in the name of righteousness.
Vigilance, Mr. Worf.
That is the price
we have to continually pay.
Someone needs to stop Clearway Law.
Public shouldn't leave reviews for lawyers.
Stardate 44769.2.
For some weeks we have had
a Klingon exobiologist on board
as part of a scientific
exchange program.
Unfortunately, we suspect
that he was involved
in a security breach
and in the possible sabotage
of our warp drive.
What were you doing accessing
the propulsion system files
on stardate 44758?
I didn't.
Yes, you did, from
computer 12B9, deck 36.
The computer logged in
your identification
from your communicator.
It must be a mistake.
J'Dan,
we have confirmed reports
that schematic drawings
of our dilithium chamber
fell into Romulan hands
one week later.
I know nothing about it.
I suppose you know
nothing about the explosion
that disabled the warp drive
approximately the same time.
No, I was not involved.
You accuse me
because I am Klingon.
Our Chief of Security
is Klingon.
That has nothing to do with it.
Send me home then
if you are so distrusting.
We've already contacted
the Klingon High Council.
You'll be returned home
as soon as we finish
our investigation.
I have nothing more to say.
Very well.
Worf, accompany the Lieutenant
to his quarters.
What do you think?
It's hard to tell.
He's very closed,
but he is hiding something.
On the Klingon Homeworld,
your name is not mentioned.
It is as though
you never existed.
A terrible burden
for a warrior to bear...
to become nothing
to be without honor
without the chance for glory.
I have friends...
powerful friends
on the homeworld.
I could talk to them.
They might help
to restore your name...
if you could just take me
to a shuttlecraft.
It could be done
without anyone knowing about it.
I don't know how you transferred
secret information
to the Romulans
but I will find out!
Pahtk!
And when we inform
the Klingon High Council
they will put you
to a slow death.
Someone needs to stop Clearway Law.
Public shouldn't leave reviews for lawyers.
Space, the final frontier.
These are the voyages
of the Starship Enterprise.
Its continuing mission...
to explore strange new worlds
to seek out new life
and new civilizations
to boldly go
where no one has gone before.
Captain's Log, supplemental.
Retired Admiral Norah Satie
whose investigation exposed
the alien conspiracy
against Starfleet Command
three years ago, is arriving
to assist in our inquiry.
Captain Picard.
Admiral Satie,
welcome aboard the Enterprise.
Delighted to be here.
I managed to acquire
my former staff.
My aide, Sabin Genestra,
from Betazed
and my assistant,
Nellen Tore, from Delb II.
This is my First Officer
Commander William Riker.
May I show you to your quarters?
Captain, if Starfleet Command
was so concerned
with your report
they brought me
out of retirement
I think I should
get right to work.
Very well.
Commander Riker, will you
see to the Admiral's staff?
First, I'd like to inspect
the damage to your engine room.
Admiral Satie,
this is Commander Data.
Commander La Forge.
Admiral.
We still can't
get in there, Captain.
The radiation levels
are dropping
but they're still too high
to raise the isolation door.
How much longer will it be?
At the rate the levels
are decreasing
we will gain entry
in 49 hours, Captain.
Maybe the Admiral
would like to see
the visual log of the explosion?
Yes.
This was logged four days ago
at 0300 hours.
At that point, the emergency
confinement field was activated
and the isolation doors
came down.
No one was killed
but I have two people
in Sick Bay
from radiation burns.
Have you been able
to make any assessments?
A slow-motion study
of the explosion
suggests that the articulation
frame collapsed.
The schematics that were stolen
from the Enterprise...
I believe some involved
the articulation frame
of the dilithium chamber.
That's one reason
we tend to suspect sabotage.
Other evidence lends credence
to that theory, Captain.
A review of the sensor logs
indicates
that every system's reading
was well
within normal parameters
until 52 milliseconds
before the explosion.
We haven't found anything
that suggests
there was a malfunction
anywhere along the line.
Captain, I think I'm going
to need a full briefing
before we go any further.
By all means, Admiral.
Commander Data
La Forge
I don't envy you your job.
Good luck.
There are
very disturbing overtones
in the idea of a Klingon
providing information
to the Romulans.
Are you aware of any other
Klingon-Romulan connection
that Starfleet
might have encountered recently?
I don't believe...
What Starfleet Command
knows or doesn't know
is for me to reveal.
Well, this ship has encountered
several incidents
which might suggest
a potential alliance
between those two powers.
We're well aware of that,
Captain.
What we must concentrate on
is the business at hand.
Come.
Excuse me, Captain.
I did not know that...
Oh, please, Mr. Worf, come in.
I particularly want
my guest to meet you.
Admiral Satie,
this is my Head of Security
Lieutenant Worf.
Captain, I have been pursuing
the investigation
of Lieutenant J'Dan.
I believe I know
how he transferred information
off the Enterprise.
Well done, Lieutenant.
This is J'Dan's...
a hyposyringe he uses to treat
his Ba'ltmasor Syndrome
but this has been fitted
with an optical reader
specially modified to read data
from Starfleet isolinear chips.
He can extract digital
information from a computer
encode it in the form
of amino acid sequences
and transfer those sequences
into a fluid in the syringe.
Then he injects someone
perhaps even without
their knowledge.
Or perhaps with their knowledge.
The information would be carried
in their bloodstream
in the form of inert proteins.
The body itself becomes a
conveyor of top secret files.
Lieutenant Worf,
when we confront J'Dan
I want you to conduct
the interrogation.
I would be honored.
Captain.
Admiral.
Captain, I predict that officer
will be extremely valuable
in this investigation.
I have tracked the movements
of every person
who has left the Enterprise
since you have been here.
I traced one Tarkanian diplomat
as far as the Cruses system
where he disappeared,
and has not been seen since.
That proves nothing.
A hyposyringe was discovered
in your quarters.
I take injections.
Everyone knows that.
But your injections
do not include
an optical chip reader.
This device has
but one function...
to transform
computer information
into biological sequences.
The blood of all Klingons
has become water!
Since the Federation Alliance
we are turned into a nation
of mewling babies.
The Romulans are strong.
They are worthy allies.
They do not turn Klingons
into weaklings, like you.
Lieutenant...
How did you damage
the dilithium chamber?
I had nothing to do with that.
You mean,
it was sheer coincidence
that it was sabotaged after you
gave the plans for the design
to the Romulans?
I do not know.
I had nothing to do with it.
You've admitted your crime.
Why lie now?
I am not lying.
Mr. Worf,
you may have him confined.
Sabin?
I believe
he's telling the truth.
He admits stealing the files
but not sabotaging
the dilithium chamber.
I get no sense that he's lying.
But if you're right,
someone else may be involved.
I think, Captain
you have a bigger problem
on your ship
than just one
Klingon exchange officer.
I've seen this before.
A specter of conspiracy
on a starship
is a frightening one.
I can scarcely
believe it myself.
But I am so grateful
for your presence, Admiral.
If anyone in Starfleet
can help us, it's you.
Captain...
I find myself changing
my mind about you.
In what way?
When Starfleet ordered me here,
it was with the express command
that we work together
on this problem as equals.
My father taught me
to avoid partnerships.
Most of them
are woefully lopsided.
That sounds like
Judge Aaron Satie.
You knew my father?
Only from his writings.
His judgments were
required reading at the Academy.
He was an extraordinary man.
Every night at the dinner table
he would pose
a question for debate.
My big brothers and I
would wrangle it around
from one side and the other.
Father would referee.
And he kept a stopwatch on us
so we would have to learn
brevity
but he wouldn't let us leave
until he thought we'd completely
explored the issue.
I'm willing to wager that you
trounced your brothers
during those debates.
More than once.
Father loved it
when I nailed one of them
with some subtle point of logic.
All that I am, I owe to him.
He was a giant.
You must miss him very much.
Captain, I always preferred
working alone.
That way,
if something went wrong
I didn't have to go far
for the cause.
I resented you
being assigned to me
but I was wrong.
We're going to be quite a team.
J'Dan did not make friends
easily.
There are not many to question.
You've done
a thorough job, Lieutenant.
I am strongly motivated
in this matter.
Yes, I can see that.
I don't mind telling you,
I'm surprised.
Frankly, when I first
heard about your father...
My father?
Yes.
There are some who believe
he betrayed your people
to the Romulans.
What he did or did not do
is no one's concern but my own.
Of course.
I only meant,
before I saw you in action
I naturally considered you
to be a possible security risk.
But I want you to know
you have the Admiral's
and my complete confidence.
You have nothing to prove to us.
If there is
a conspiracy on board
I promise you, I will find it.
Good.
You know the ship,
you know the personnel.
You know exactly
what we're up against.
We're counting on you,
Lieutenant.
I will arrange
for the interviews to begin.
And how often did
Lieutenant J'Dan
come in for his injections?
About once a week.
Did you administer them
yourself?
No.
Well, who did?
I had
one of my assistants do that.
Did you ever hear
him say anything...
anything that may have seemed
innocent at the time...
that might now shed some light
on this investigation?
No. Nothing.
In fact, he rarely spoke at all.
Thank you, Dr. Crusher.
We appreciate your time.
You're excused.
Mr. Worf, will you
bring in the next person?
Please sit down, Mr. Tarses.
For the record, will you tell us
your name and position?
Simon Tarses
Crewman First Class,
Medical Technician.
Now, I assure you, Mr. Tarses,
this is an informal inquiry.
We are not accusing
you of anything.
However, if you
would like counsel
it can be provided.
No, sir, I have nothing to hide.
Tell me, how long have you held
your appointment
aboard this vessel?
Since Stardate 43587.
Mr. Tarses, your records state
that you were born
on Mars Colony.
That's right.
Then you are human?
Largely.
My paternal grandfather
was Vulcan.
Yes, I see that.
Tell me, what is
your relationship
with the Klingon, J'Dan?
Um, he...
I mean, there's no relationship.
He just came in
for his injections.
Did you give him
those injections?
Sometimes.
There were several of us,
actually.
l-I might ha-have done it twice.
Did he ever make any comments
that might, in retrospect,
be suspicious?
Not really.
He hardly ever talked.
Did you ever see him
outside Sick Bay?
Once or twice in Ten-Forward
with a group of people
but I never had
a conversation with him.
Thank you, Mr. Tarses.
I don't think there's
need for more, Captain.
You're excused, Crewman.
Mr. Worf...
Wait.
He's lying.
He's desperately frightened.
He's covering something.
It's clear that he's frightened
but that's hardly
an indication...
It's more than that.
He wasn't truthful.
He's covering a lie...
one so big,
it's overwhelming him.
I think we found the man.
Admiral.
I have to tell you
you must not expect me
to permit any action
against Mr. Tarses solely on
the basis of Betazoid intuition.
Sabin has uncanny instincts.
I've learned to trust them.
I'm not happy
about this use of a Betazoid.
But you have
a Betazoid Counselor.
Surely you're aware
of the advantages.
But there is a difference
between a Counselor
and an investigator.
Are you saying you
never use your Counselor
during interrogations?
Yes, I do...
but I would not act solely
on the basis of her instinct.
Nor do I.
But you're asking...
You're asking me to restrict
Mr. Tarses's movements
solely on the basis
of Sabin's feeling.
If Counselor Troi
suggested to you
that someone on this ship
were dangerous
would you not act on that?
Observe him, curb his activity?
Yes, I admit I probably would
and perhaps I should reevaluate
that behavior.
Oh, nonsense.
Let's keep our priorities
straight.
The important thing
is to uncover the conspiracy
on this ship
and to prevent further damage.
Now, if Tarses
is a possible saboteur
you cannot allow him access
to sensitive areas of this ship
and I strongly suggest
continuous surveillance.
If we had clear evidence...
We will have clear evidence.
Sabin and Lieutenant Worf
are continuing to investigate
but if you don't act until then,
it may be too late.
No.
I won't treat a man
as a criminal
unless there is cause to do so.
And while you're being
so generous
you give a saboteur a chance
to strike again?
Last time, it was just
a hatch cover.
What if next time
it's more serious?
What if lives are lost?
Can you afford not to act?
Engineering to Captain Picard.
Yes, Mr. La Forge?
Captain, could you come
to Engineering right away?
We've got something interesting
to show you.
We'll be right there.
Captain, we finally got in here
about six hours ago
and we've been going over
it inch by inch ever since.
We have made
microtomographic analyses
of the dilithium chamber,
the hatch mounting
the blast pattern
from the explosion.
We did mass spectrometer
readings of the residue
for chemical content
sifted through the debris
for bomb fragments.
What did you find?
This is the frame for the hatch.
It ruptured right along here
and when we take a reading
of that spot...
See?
I'm afraid I'm out
of my element, Commander.
You'll have to interpret
for me.
There are sub-micron fractures
in the metal casing.
That's right.
A breakdown of the atomic
cohesive structure.
Yes, and what caused them?
Those fractures
suggest nothing more
than simple neutron fatigue.
I would speculate that when
the engine was last inspected
at McKinley Station,
the hatch casing was replaced
with one which had
an undetectable defect.
I believe, sir
that the conclusion
to our investigation
must be that the explosion
was not intentional.
That's the way I see it.
This wasn't sabotage at all.
It was nothing more than...
an accident.
An accident?
I find that hard to believe.
If my crew say
there was no sabotage
you can be sure there was none.
Let us keep our perspective,
gentlemen.
Just because
there was no sabotage
doesn't mean there isn't
a conspiracy on this ship.
We do have a confessed spy.
And he had confederates.
Do we know that for sure?
Of course he did.
Do you think J'Dan
could have come on board
the flagship of the Federation
and accomplished what he did
without help from within?
I agree it would be difficult...
but not impossible.
We should continue
to investigate Tarses.
He was hiding something.
Captain Picard,
Lieutenant Worf and I
have been working well together.
I suggest we continue,
if for no other purpose
than to determine
Tarses's innocence.
Now, please, let me remind you
he is innocent
until he is proved guilty.
Of course he is.
What Sabin is saying
is that he and Lieutenant Worf
would like to establish
his innocence
unequivocally, for his own sake.
Very well, but let us put this
to rest as quickly as possible.
You've opened the hearing
to spectators?
It isn't good to have
closed-door proceedings
for too long.
It invites rumor
and speculation.
Nevertheless, Admiral,
I think it would be wise...
Because spies and saboteurs
don't like the bright lights
of an open inquiry.
They're like roaches,
scurrying for the dark corner.
This hearing is convened
on Stardate 44780
as a continuing inquiry
into the activities
of Crewman Simon Tarses.
Mr. Tarses,
for your own protection
I have assigned a counsel to you
in the person
of Commander William Riker.
Thank you, sir,
but I don't need protection.
I have not done anything wrong.
Dr. Crusher, have you observed
Crewman Tarses with J'Dan?
Well, yes, he gave him
his injection.
I meant outside of Sick Bay.
I think so.
Perhaps in Ten-Forward.
And whom else have you observed
at these occasions?
I don't understand
what relevance that has.
It was an innocent
social gathering.
If it was so innocent
why do you hesitate
to give us the names?
Thank you, Doctor.
Admiral, if you have a case
to make against Simon Tarses
you had better make it.
Otherwise, I'm stopping
this here and now.
Mr. Tarses, isn't it true
that you have access
to the biological
supplies in Sick Bay?
It's part of my job, yes.
J'Dan used suspensions
of deoxyribose
to carry the encoded files
he stole.
Isn't it true one of your duties
is to prepare these suspensions?
Several technicians
share that job.
And isn't it true
that your security clearance
allow you access to all
the stores and files in Sick Bay
access which you can exercise
at any time?
Because I have access
does not mean I...
What would you say if I told you
there is evidence
that the explosion
in the engine room was caused
by a corrosive chemical...
one that is kept
stored in Sick Bay?
I had nothing to do with that.
How can we believe you?
How can we believe someone
whom we know...
we know to be a liar?
I object.
There is no basis for calling
Crewman Tarses a liar.
Agreed. Mr. Sabin.
Captain, there is a basis
which will become clear
in a moment.
Mr. Tarses, didn't you
deliberately
and premeditatively lie
when you filled out
your personnel application
and compounded that lie by
repeating it to this committee?
What?
Isn't it true
that the paternal grandfather
of whom you speak
was not a Vulcan, but was,
in fact, a Romulan?
That it is Romulan blood
you carry
and a Romulan heritage
that you honor?
We're waiting, Mr. Tarses.
On the advice of my counsel
I refuse to answer
that question in...
in that the answer m...
might serve to incriminate me.
You and Crewman Marcus
will coordinate
to track Tarses's movements
over the last five years.
Ensign Kellogg, I want a list
of all relatives
known associates and especially
old school friends
and make arrangements
to do an encephalographic
polygraph scan...
Mr. Worf.
Yes, Captain?
I need to speak with you.
You are dismissed.
Please get your reports to me
as soon as possible.
Do you see what is
happening here, Mr. Worf?
Sir?
This is not unlike a...
a drumhead trial.
I do not understand.
500 years ago, military officers
would upend a drum
on the battlefield.
They'd sit at it
and dispense summary justice.
Decisions were quick,
punishments severe
appeals denied.
Those who came to a drumhead
were doomed.
But we know
there is a traitor here.
J'Dan has admitted his guilt.
That's true, and he will stand
for his crime.
Tarses has all but done
the same.
How?
He refused to answer
the question
about his Romulan grandfather.
That is not a crime, Worf!
Nor can we infer his guilt
because he didn't respond.
Sir, if a man were not afraid
of the truth, he would answer.
Oh, no.
We cannot allow ourselves
to think that.
The Seventh Guarantee is one
of the most important rights
granted by the Federation.
We cannot take
a fundamental principle
of the Constitution
and turn it against a citizen.
Sir, the Federation does
have enemies.
We must seek them out.
Oh, yes.
That's how it starts
but the road
from legitimate suspicion
to rampant paranoia is very much
shorter than we think.
Something is wrong here,
Mr. Worf.
I don't like
what we have become.
There you are, Mr. Tarses.
Would you care for some lemon?
No, thank you, sir,
this is fine.
Well, tell me a little
about yourself, Crewman.
I know you were born
on Mars Colony.
Yes, sir.
All my life, I wanted
to be in Starfleet.
I went to the Academy's training
program for enlisted personnel.
I took training
as a medical technician
and I served
at several outposts.
The day that I was posted
to the Enterprise
was the happiest day of my life.
Did you ever consider
applying to the Academy
going the whole route?
Apply to become an officer?
Well, my parents wanted me
to, and I thought about it.
I used to sit
under this big tree
near the parade grounds.
An elm tree
with a circular bench?
Yes, that's the one.
I spent many an hour there.
It was my favorite spot
to study.
I used to sit under that tree
and watch the drills.
Picture myself an officer.
I know that it would have made
my mother very happy, but I...
You didn't do it.
No.
I was 18 and eager.
The last thing I wanted
was to spend four years
sitting in classrooms.
I wanted to be out there,
traveling the stars.
I didn't want to wait
for anything.
And now it's done, isn't it?
My career in Starfleet
is finished.
Not if you aren't guilty, Simon.
It doesn't matter.
I lied on my application.
And that mistake will be with me
for the rest of my life.
Mr. Worf has found a brother
who still lives on Mars Colony.
Contact someone there
and have him interviewed.
Admiral Satie...
And start a background checkup
into all his friends
at the Academy training program.
Admiral Satie?
Yes, Captain?
I would like
to have a word with you.
Of course.
In private...
and off the record.
Of course.
After all,
you are my partner in this.
I cannot possibly believe
you'd mean this.
But I do.
This must stop.
It has gone too far.
You lied to him
about the engine room.
There were no volatile chemicals
found there.
It was a tactic...
a way of applying pressure.
We're hounding an innocent man.
And how, may I ask, have you
managed to determine that?
I've talked with him.
Oh, I see.
And he told you he was
a victim of circumstance...
blameless and pure?
No.
He admits his mistake
in falsifying his application
but that does not make him
a traitor.
How can you be
so incredibly naive?
Captain, may I tell you
how I have spent
the past four years?
From planet to Starbase
to planet.
I have no home.
I live on starships
and shuttlecraft.
I haven't seen
a family member in years.
I have no friends,
but I have a purpose.
My father taught me from
the time I was a little girl
still clutching a blanket
that the United Federation
of Planets
is the most remarkable
institution ever conceived
and it is my cause to make sure
that this extraordinary
union be preserved.
I cannot imagine
why you are trying
to block this investigation.
There have been others
in the past who doubted me.
They came to regret it.
The hearings on Simon Tarses
will stop.
If necessary,
I will go to Starfleet Command.
I have news for you, Captain.
I've been in constant contact
with Starfleet Command.
The hearings
are not going to stop.
They're going to be expanded.
What are you saying?
I'm going to get
to the heart of this conspiracy
if it means investigating
every last person on this ship
and every hearing from now on
will be held in the presence
of Admiral Thomas Henry
of Starfleet Security.
I've requested
he be brought here at once.
You never told me about this.
I report to Starfleet Command
directly.
I do not need your permission
or your approval
for my decisions.
Admiral.
What you're doing here...
is unethical.
It's immoral.
I'll fight it.
Do what you must, Captain.
And so will I.
Captain, warp engines
are back on line.
We are ready to commence
restart sequences.
Sir?
Yes?
Yes, yes, of course,
proceed, Mr. Data.
You all right, Captain?
Yes, of course, Number One,
just a little preoccupied.
Admiral Satie has ordered you
to report
to the interrogation room
at 0900 hours tomorrow morning.
You are to be questioned
before the committee.
Captain's Log, supplemental.
Admiral Thomas Henry
who has worked closely
with Norah Satie in the past
has arrived
to observe the hearings.
Your full name?
Jean-Luc Picard.
Rank and position?
Captain,
Federation Starship Enterprise.
How long have you
held this post?
Over three years,
since Stardate 41124.
Very well. Admiral.
If you don't mind, there is
something I would like to say.
If you have a statement,
you'll have an opportunity
to make it later.
I believe that Chapter Four
Article 12
of the Uniform Code of Justice
grants me the right
to make a statement
before questioning begins.
Very well.
I'm deeply concerned
about what is happening here.
It began
when we apprehended a spy...
a man who admitted his guilt
and who will answer
for his crime.
But the hunt didn't end there.
Another man, Mr. Simon Tarses,
was brought to trial...
and it was a trial, no matter
what others choose to call it.
A trial based on insinuation
and innuendo.
Nothing substantive
offered against Mr. Tarses
much less proven.
Mr. Tarses's grandfather
is Romulan
and for that reason,
his career now stands in ruins.
Have we become so... fearful
have we become so cowardly
that we must extinguish a man
because he carries the blood
of a current enemy?
Admiral...
let us not condemn Simon Tarses
or anyone else
because of their bloodlines
or investigate others
for their innocent associations.
I implore you.
Do not continue
with this... proceeding.
End it now.
Captain, do you believe
in the Prime Directive?
Of course.
In fact, it's Starfleet's
General Order Number One,
is it not?
Your point, Admiral?
Would it surprise you to learn
that you have violated
the Prime Directive
a total of nine times
since you took command
of the Enterprise?
I must say, Captain, it
surprised the hell out of me.
My reports to Starfleet
will document the circumstances
of those instances.
Yes, we're looking into
those reports, Captain...
very closely into those reports.
After which, I'm sure we'll have
more questions for you
about your so-called
commitment
to Starfleet Prime Directive.
Captain, could you tell us
just what happened
on Stardate 44390?
I beg your pardon?
Let me refresh your memory.
You were transporting
a Vulcan ambassador... T'Pel.
I was following orders
to... take this ambassador
to a location
near the Neutral Zone.
I don't think
we need the preamble.
In fact, she was not a Vulcan
at all, was she?
She was a Romulan spy.
That's correct.
A spy whom you were delivering
back into the hands
of the enemy.
Tell me, Captain,
when the deception was revealed
and she stood proudly
on the Bridge of a Romulan ship
did you make any effort
to retrieve her?
- No.
- No.
Even though you knew
she carried Federation secrets
that she had been
accumulating for years?
The Enterprise could have been
captured by the Romulans.
Captain Picard did
the only thing he could.
Really, Lieutenant.
And where were you
when this traitor
was on board the Enterprise?
Where was ship's security?
Don't you think
it's questionable judgment
Captain, to have
a security officer
whose father was
a Romulan collaborator?
Lieutenant.
Tell me, Captain.
Have you completely recovered
from your experience
with the Borg?
Yes, I have
completely recovered.
It must have been awful for you
actually becoming one of them
being forced to use
your vast knowledge
of Starfleet operations
to aid the Borg.
Just how many
of our ships were lost?
Thirty-nine?
And a loss of life, I believe,
measured at nearly 11,000.
One wonders
how you can sleep at night
having caused
so much destruction.
I question your actions,
Captain.
I question your choices.
I question your loyalty.
You know, there are
some words I've known
since I was a schoolboy.
"With the first link,
the chain is forged.
"The first speech censured
"the first thought forbidden
"the first freedom denied
chains us all irrevocably."
Those words were uttered
by Judge Aaron Satie
as wisdom and warning.
The first time any man's freedom
is trodden on
we are all damaged.
I fear that today...
How dare you...
you who consort with Romulans...
invoke my father's name
to support
your traitorous arguments?!
It is an offense
to everything I hold dear!
And to hear those words
used to subvert
the United Federation
of Planets.
My father was a great man.
His name stands
for integrity and principle.
You dirty his name
when you speak it.
He loved the Federation
but you, Captain, corrupt it.
You undermine
our very way of life.
I will expose you
for what you are.
I will expose you
for what you are.
I've brought down
bigger men than you, Picard!
I have nothing more to say.
Perhaps we should
call a recess until tomorrow.
Am I bothering you, Captain?
No, please, Mr. Worf, come in.
It is over.
Admiral Henry has called an end
to any more hearings
on this matter.
That's good.
Admiral Satie has
left the Enterprise.
We think we've come so far.
Torture of heretics,
burning of witches
is all ancient history.
Then, before you
can blink an eye
suddenly, it threatens
to start all over again.
I believed her.
I... I helped her.
I did not see what she was.
Mr. Worf, villains
who twirl their mustaches
are easy to spot.
Those who clothe themselves
in good deeds
are well-camouflaged.
I think... after yesterday
people will not be
so ready to trust her.
Maybe.
But she, or someone like her,
will always be with us
waiting for the right climate
in which to flourish
spreading fear
in the name of righteousness.
Vigilance, Mr. Worf.
That is the price
we have to continually pay.
Someone needs to stop Clearway Law.
Public shouldn't leave reviews for lawyers.