Captain's Log, Stardate 42695.3.
We're the first manned vessel
to enter the Selcundi Drema sector.
Unmanned probes have recorded unusual levels
of geological activity in all five planetary systems.
I am hoping the Enterprise
will find the answer to this enigma.
Commander, I have been reviewing the unmanned probe scans.
At some point during the last 150 years
the fifth planet of Selcundi Drema has shattered
forming an asteroid belt.
I'd call that geological instability.
Is there any indication that this is the work
of an unknown intelligence?
This is geology, not malevolence.
These planets live fast and die hard.
The question is why.
You sure you won't reconsider?
No, I'll just watch you and be impressed.
Optimistic vote of confidence from the non-rider.
You know, I never particularly thought of you
as an animal person.
Small animals, no
but horses...
Computer, program the holodeck for a woodland setting
with a bridle path and an appropriate mount.
COMPUTER: Type of mount--
Andorian zabathu, Klingon sark...?
Horse. Earth horse.
Breed?
Arabian.
The Arabs believed that Allah
gathered the south wind and made the horse.
On the holodeck, we've made that legend come true.
Hmm.
I like that.
Oh, yes.
Computer, English tack
and I will control the animal myself.
Enter when ready.
So you like horses for the romance.
Oh, it goes deeper than that.
A fine war-horse would sleep in a Bedouin's tent
carry him into battle
feed his children with her milk.
There's a bond which is created by mutual need.
Hello, beautiful.
Now I understand.
You don't want the comfort of a pet
you want a companion.
Thank you.
I don't want to anthropomorphize anything.
It seems that some creatures have the capacity
to fill spaces you never knew were empty.
I had a Betazoid kitten once.
My mother and the cat reacted badly to one another.
You sure you don't want to try?
It's very relaxing.
We can find you something that will be quiet and gentle.
No, I prefer a mode of transportation
that doesn't have a mind of its own.
Strange.
I would expect Betazoids to be outstanding animal trainers.
We become too involved in the thoughts
and shifting passions of the beast.
We lose our way, and get swept up in emotion.
I would have thought the shifting passions of this beast
would be far more terrifying.
RIKER: Captain.
Yes, Number One?
We've entered the first system.
I think you might want to come to the Bridge.
Something interesting?
Spectacular, and a little terrifying.
( sighs )
I'm on my way.
( door opens )
The first long-range reading, magnification ten to the sixth.
Quite impressive.
And deadly.
The last unmanned probe showed a thriving ecosystem.
Now, there's nothing.
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.
This is Commander Riker's meeting.
I'll need your advice and your recommendations.
As you know, I've been given the responsibility
of overseeing Wesley's education.
To further that goal
I would like to put him
in charge of the planetary mineral surveys.
That's a big job with a lot of responsibility.
Well, the game isn't big enough unless it scares you a little.
To do the job, Wesley's going to need a team.
It takes command presence to lead.
You think he's ready for that?
Leadership grows from self-confidence
which is also part of a Starfleet officer's education.
All of this is true
but there's an old horse trainer's adage
about putting too much weight on a young back.
We don't want him to break under pressure.
PULASKI: We seem to be shifting the focus here.
Are we talking about a young officer
on the fast track to the academy
or are we talking about a young man
that we are guiding
through adolescence and into adulthood?
TROI: You can't guide
someone into adulthood.
The experiences are unique to each person.
Whether Wes succeeds or fails
he will learn from the experience.
I agree.
I'm just questioning the speed at which we're moving.
You think we're pushing him too hard?
I think that's a valid concern.
Tempering is taken to extremes.
He is a boy, not a sword.
Who will one day become a man.
And, to extend the metaphor, will need a fine edge
that won't dull at the first touch of resistance.
Sooner or later, he'll have to feel the burden of command.
Ensign Crusher
report to the observation lounge.
RIKER: Wesley
I've assigned you the command
of the planetary mineral surveys.
Sir?
Thank you, sir.
Well, you may not thank me
after you see how much work it entails.
Assemble a team
take a look at the records of the Drema Quadrant.
There's a mystery here.
We've got to solve it.
Yes, sir.
A team, sir?
Ensign, this is a serious responsibility.
I know, sir.
These officers are here to assist you.
Not judge
help you.
Now, you should make use of them.
They are a valuable resource.
And, by the way, I respect an officer
who is prepared to admit ignorance and ask a question
rather than one who, out of pride
will blunder blindly forward.
I understand, sir.
Ensign.
You're dismissed.
I'll try not to disappoint you.
WORF: Is this part of your regular duties?
No, it is a personal project.
I have reset the sensors to scan for frequencies
outside their usual range.
Such as?
The dips and peaks
of the galaxy's magnetic field
organic molecules in nebular clouds
energetic cosmic rays.
Interesting.
Would these scans also detect artificial transmissions
as well as naturally occurring signals?
Of course.
Good.
Those signals are very faint
and difficult to distinguish from background noise.
That is why I am boosting the power.
I will be removing that equipment to my quarters.
Good.
Hi. Can I walk with you?
Yes.
I need a little advice.
Well, it's free.
Walking or advice?
Both.
It's about my team.
I'm considering so many factors I'm confusing myself.
What have you done so far?
Well, I've broken down the tasks
and picked the best people in those disciplines.
So, who have you got so far?
I've got Prixus in mineralogy and metallurgy.
Alans and Hildebrandt for volcanology and geomechanics
I want Davies for geochemistry, but...
TROI: But they're all much older than you are.
Right, and it makes me feel strange.
I mean, what do I do about personality conflicts?
Completely irrelevant.
These people are professionals.
If there is a personality conflict--
you're in charge, you settle it.
So, you not only have to understand the job
you also have to be a ship's counselor?
Sometimes.
Well, thank you.
Captain's Log, Stardate 42696.3.
We are entering the second Selcundi star system
where acting Ensign Crusher
will begin his planetary mineral survey
the results of which may help unlock the geological puzzle.
Ensign Davies?
You got him.
Wesley Crusher.
I've been put in charge
of the planetary geological surveys
and I'd like you on my team.
Sounds great.
Who else is on it?
I have Prixus, and Alans and Hildebrandt.
Aw, it's a shame you didn't talk to me first.
It's just personal opinion
but I like to break up married teams.
Mm.
I hadn't thought of that.
Don't worry.
They'll probably work out fine.
And, uh, if you need any help, just give me a signal
and I'll take over for you.
We don't want you to get too beat up
on your first command.
Uh... thanks, but I'm pretty sure I'll be all right.
Computer, identify please.
Sensors indicate low-level RF waves.
Is there a pattern?
Affirmative.
Naturally occurring?
Negative.
Key universal translator, please.
Unable to comply.
Weak signal.
Lock on com link and boost.
Lock on complete.
Read, please.
( staticky pulses )
Insufficient signal strength.
Enhance, please.
GIRL: Is anybody out there?
Yes.
Wes?
Hi, Dr. Pulaski.
There trouble behind that door?
My team's in there.
I've got to assign planets, set a schedule...
It sounds like you've got everything under control.
Well, I haven't had to deal with them yet.
I mean, not together, not professionally.
Wes, the minute you walk through that door, they're your team.
You have nothing to prove.
You've got the authority.
That's just because Commander Riker says I do.
It's up to you to hang on to it.
Now you better get in there.
And, Wes...
for whatever it's worth
I think you're going to do just fine.
Captain's Log, Stardate 42737.3.
It has been six weeks since our entrance
into the Selcundi Drema sector.
Each system has revealed
the same disturbing geological upheavals on every planet.
It seems to me, at this point
we can expect the greatest tectonic stresses.
I agree. Nice job.
Here are the results on my scan on the third Selcundi system.
It's just the same old song.
Now, didn't you tell me
that UV absorptions like these
are indicative of traker deposits?
And where there's traker, there's generally dilithium?
Yes, I did.
So don't you think we ought to run an ico-spectrogram?
Well, Wes, these traker readings are really faint.
It's probably just a fool's echo.
Well, I think I'd still run an ico-gram.
Wesley, it's a major undertaking to set up the scanner.
We're looking at five hours, minimum.
I know, I know.
I don't want to do a halfway job.
Well, Wes, there's being thorough
and then there's wasting time.
It's also the mark of a good officer
to recognize the difference.
Maybe you're right.
Computer, please access
all volcanic and tectonic plate activity in Drema IV.
Accessing.
Computer, locate Captain Picard.
Captain Picard is on Holodeck 3.
Data.
An excellent steed, sir.
Sorry to disturb you, Captain.
It's quite all right.
It must be important, or you wouldn't be here.
Yes, sir, it is important.
Very.
Eight weeks ago, I received a transmission--
a simple four-word message, "Is anybody out there?"
I answered it.
There is a...
a loneliness
inherent in that whisper from the darkness.
Yes, sir.
I am glad you understand, sir.
But it didn't end there.
No, sir.
We speak often.
It is a young female, humanoid.
Their society is aware
that there is interstellar life.
No, sir.
Oops.
Just where does she think you're calling from?
I've kept that somewhat vague, sir
but Sarjenka--
that is her name--
has been quite specific
telling me details of her family and friends.
And interspersed among these confidences
have been some alarming references.
Go on.
Drema IV has been enduring the same geological stresses
we have found in the other systems.
And your friend is in trouble.
Yes, sir.
Well, what are you proposing?
If we can determine the cause of these geological disturbances
we might be able to reverse the process.
Violate the Prime Directive?
I was hoping you might have another option, sir.
We don't even know if this catastrophe is preventable.
Call a conference in my quarters.
All senior staff.
Yes, sir.
And Data...
all communication with this life-form must cease.
Yes, sir.
I understand, sir.
...seen the look on his face.
I'll get you another drink.
Two more.
Thank you.
( whispers: ) Family emergency.
Oh.
You don't look like a person who came here to relax.
I didn't.
I need your advice.
Yesterday, when Ensign Davies turned in his geological survey
I asked him to run an ico-spectrogram
and he didn't agree.
Do you think you were right?
Yes.
I guess.
I could have just been picking nits.
Or you could have been intimidated.
It's tough to tell other people what to do.
I suppose I could have made it an order
but how do you give orders
to someone who's older and more experienced than you?
The difference in ages between you and Davies
is not the issue here.
I guess not.
Do you think it might have something to do with ego?
No, it's just the opposite of ego.
Every time I try to give an order
something inside of me says
what makes my judgment so superior to these people?
Wes
responsibility and authority go hand in hand.
Now, I know you're responsible.
Now we've got to teach you a little bit of authority.
One of the reasons you've been given command
is so you can make a few right decisions
which will lead to a pattern of success
and help build self-confidence.
If you don't trust your own judgment
you don't belong in the command chair.
But what if I'm wrong?
Then you're wrong.
It's arrogant to think that you'll never make a mistake.
But what if it's something really important?
I mean, not just a mineral survey?
What if somebody dies because I made a mistake?
In your position, it's important to ask yourself one question--
what would Picard do?
He'd listen to everyone's opinion
and then make his own decision.
But he's Captain Picard.
Well, it doesn't matter.
Once Picard makes his decision does anyone question it?
No way.
And why not?
I'm not sure.
DATA: Commander Riker
report to the Captain's quarters.
When you figure it out, you'll understand command.
I'm on my way.
I hope I've been able to help.
You'll let me know what you decide?
I've made my decision.
I'm going to have Davies run that ico-gram.
Thank you, sir.
You're welcome.
I'll see you later.
Okay.
Ensign Davies.
I want that ico-spectrogram run on the Selcundi Drema system.
You've got it.
It is no longer a matter of how wrong Data was
or why he did it.
The dilemma exists.
We have to discuss the options
and please
talk freely.
There are no options.
The Prime Directive is not a matter of degrees.
It is an absolute.
PULASKI: I have a problem with that kind of rigidity.
It seems callous and even a little cowardly.
Doctor, I'm sure that is not what the Lieutenant meant
but, in a situation like this, we have to be cautious.
What we do today may profoundly affect the future.
If we could see
every possible outcome...
RIKER: We'd be gods
which we're not.
If there is a cosmic plan, is it not the height of hubris
to think that we can or should interfere?
So what are you saying?
That the Dremans are fated to die?
I think that's an option that we should be considering.
Consider it considered and rejected.
If there is a cosmic plan, are we not a part of it?
Our presence at this place, at this moment in time
could be a part of that fate.
Right, and it could be part of that plan that we interfere.
Well, that eliminates the possibility of fate.
But, Commander
the Dremans are not a subject for philosophical debate.
They are a people.
So we make an exception in the deaths of millions?
Yes.
And is it the same situation
if it's an epidemic, and not a geological calamity?
Absolutely.
What about a war?
If generations of conflict is killing millions
do we interfere?
Ah, well.
Now we're all a little less secure in our moral certitude.
And what if it's not just killings?
If an oppressive government is enslaving millions?
You see, the Prime Directive has many different functions
not the least of which is to protect us.
To prevent us from allowing our emotions
to overwhelm our judgment.
My emotions are involved.
Data's friend is going to die.
That means something.
To Data.
Does that invalidate the emotion?
What if the Dremans asked for our help?
Yes.
Sarjenka's transmission could be viewed as a call for help.
Sophistry.
PULASKI: I'll buy that excuse.
We're all jigging madly on the head of a pin anyway.
She cannot ask for help from someone she does not know.
She knows me.
What a perfectly vicious little circle.
We are going to allow her to die
are we not?
Data, I want you to sever the contact with Drema IV.
COMPUTER: Isolating frequency.
SARJENKA: Data?
Data, where are you?
Why won't you answer?
Are you angry with me?
Please, please, I'm so afraid.
Data? Data, where are you?
PICARD: Wait.
Oh, Data.
Your whisper from the dark has now become a plea.
We cannot turn our backs.
Captain's Log, Stardate 42741.3.
We are entering into orbit of Drema IV
the planet from which Data received the distress signal.
Sensors indicate that
the volcanic activity is increasing.
We found the reason for the geological instability.
Excellent.
We would have missed it
if Ensign Crusher hadn't requested an ico-gram
but he did, and...
Drema IV has the largest deposit of dilithium ore ever recorded.
It's also laid out in a very unusual pattern.
The crystals are growing to form perfectly aligned lattices.
The ore is forming generator strata.
Which creates a piezoelectric effect.
In plain English, you're saying that the dilithium
is causing the geological catastrophe?
Right.
The crystals take the natural radiant heat of the planet...
Focus it and turn it into mechanical energy...
Which increases tectonic stresses...
That tear the planet apart.
And then the crystals break down
which is why we found all these traces of illium 629.
So, that takes care of the why.
Now what can you do?
That is going to take a little more work.
Can you reverse the process?
We think so.
No.
No theories, no half answers.
Yes or no?
We'll get to work on it.
Sir.
Data's out there right now
monitoring the condition on Drema IV.
The situation has become pretty desperate for his friend.
He's calculated the safest location
on the planet's surface.
You can guess why.
We're just getting deeper and deeper in, aren't we?
She's going to die.
They're all going to die.
Unless.
Yes, unless.
All right, you can tell Commander Data
he has my permission to contact his, uh...
his friend
and conduct her to a safer location.
Number One, you know where we are now?
Sir?
Sarjenka, this is Data.
Please respond.
COMPUTER: Unable to complete transmission.
Reason for failure?
Atmospheric activity interfering with RF signal.
We are modifying class-1 probes
so they become resonators.
We will then use torpedo casings to protect them
once they begin burrowing beneath the surface.
How will these resonators destroy the crystals?
By emitting harmonic vibrations which will shatter the lattices.
The Enterprise will monitor
and adjust the frequency of the resonators.
Sounds like a plan.
Let's get started.
Captain...
Tea, Earl Gray, hot.
Captain, permission to beam down to Drema IV.
What?
I have been unable to contact Sarjenka.
Data, I appreciate your concern.
Transporting to the surface
is only going to make a bad situation worse.
Sir, I feel it is important
to determine the reason for...
Come on, Data.
Captain, your orders were to deliver the message, correct?
Yes.
Then what is the difference
between sending the message and delivering it personally?
A whopping big one and you know it.
Sir, we have come this far.
In for a penny, in for a pound
is that what you're saying, Mr. Data?
Yes, sir.
Oh, hell.
Go.
Sir?
Number One, handle the transporter.
Go.
Where would you say we are now, sir?
O'Brien, take a nap.
You didn't see any of this, you're not involved.
Right, sir.
I'll just be standing over here dozing off.
Data, you've got ten minutes, that's it.
You see anybody but Sarjenka...
I will signal for immediate beam out.
PICARD: Commander Riker to the Bridge.
Damn.
I just woke up, sir.
You know what to do?
No problem, sir.
I'll have him out of there as smooth as ice.
( high-pitched beeping )
( loud rumbling )
Sarjenka?
Wait, I am Data.
Data.
Data, you came.
Data, where have you been?
It would take too long to explain.
You and your family must leave.
We already have.
We ran when the tremors began.
Then why are you here?
My father wouldn't let us take anything
but I had to have my transmitter.
I knew you would come back
and I didn't want you to find only silence
the way I did.
I am sorry for that, but it is very complicated.
Does your family know where you are?
No.
( rumbling explosion )
You cannot survive in this.
What are we going to do?
Enterprise, two to beam up.
You must come with me.
Where are we going?
To the stars?
There's going to be hell to pay.
Where is Commander Riker?
On the Bridge.
Where are you going?
To the Bridge.
And you're going to take that?
Don't leave me here.
Please don't leave me here.
Quite impossible.
Sir, three minutes to resonator launch.
Where is he?
He'll be here.
He has brought a child onto my ship
and on my Bridge.
I'm sure Mr. Data has a very good explanation.
I do, sir.
She was frightened
and did not wish to be left...
Mr. Data, kindly assume your station.
Counselor, will you escort her to Sick Bay?
No, Data.
No, I'm scared.
Don't make me go.
It's all right.
No one's going to hurt you.
No.
TROI: We'll just go and get a treat, and then...
No.
Captain, I will see to it that she is not in the way.
One minute to launch.
Come on, it'll be all right.
No.
Just leave me alone.
I want Data.
Counselor, allow me.
Please.
Sarjenka, no one will harm you.
These are my friends.
Mr. Data.
Take your station
and keep her with you.
This does concern her.
Ten seconds.
I will require my hand.
Thank you.
Firing torpedoes.
Sensors locked on probes.
WORF: Torpedoes have reached their targets.
Resonators activated.
Harmonic sequences have begun.
What are you doing?
We are attempting to quiet your planet.
If we succeed
there will be no more quakes, no more volcanoes.
Ensign, when should the results be known?
This should happen very quickly, sir.
And my parents and brothers?
( beeping )
Captain, sensors indicate
a planetwide reduction in tectonic stress levels.
It worked.
We did it.
Your parents will be safe now.
You did this for me?
Look, Sarjenka.
There is your home.
Data
escort her to Sick Bay.
Aye, sir.
Number One, you have the Bridge.
Doctor.
PULASKI: Yes, Captain.
Data and the alien are on their way down.
What would be involved in removing
all memory of her communication with Data
and her visit to this ship?
Assuming that her brain structure is similar to ours
the memories would be stored chemically
on the neurons of the cerebral cortex.
They're also time dependent.
I would have to scan for the age of the chemical links
and try to find the relevant neurons.
Well, do your best.
You have many different kinds of people here.
Yes.
When I'm bigger, can I be on your ship?
I am certain that you could.
I wish I could come with you now.
I am afraid that is not possible.
I know, but I can still wish for it.
Dr. Pulaski...
this is Sarjenka.
Hello, Sarjenka.
Hello.
( melodic chiming chords )
What is this?
That's an Elanian singer stone.
It sings a different song
for each person.
What does it sing for you?
It does not sing for me.
Why not?
Because I am a machine.
Sarjenka...
we're going to run a few scans
just to be sure you're all right.
Data will be right here.
Don't worry.
You did a good thing, Data.
But are we doing a good thing now, Doctor?
This is to protect her as much as us.
By robbing her of her memories?
To remember you and this ship would complicate her future.
She has to be the person she was born to be.
And you'll remember.
( vibrating hum )
( singing chiming chords )
Enterprise, one to beam up.
Wes.
Sit down.
No, thank you, sir.
It's going to be a long time
before I'm qualified enough to sit there.
You did a good job.
I'm proud of you.
Thank you, sir.
Does it get any easier?
Nope.
( door chime )
Come.
I came to apologize, sir.
No apologies are necessary.
You reminded us that there are obligations
that go beyond duty.
I appreciate your seeking other options, sir.
Your decision could have been unilateral.
One of my officers, one of my friends, was troubled.
I had to help.
Is Sarjenka safely home?
Yes, sir.
She will not remember me, sir
but I will remember her.
Remembrance and regrets
they, too, are a part of friendship.
Yes, sir.
And understanding that
has brought you a step closer to understanding humanity.