1 00:00:08,342 --> 00:00:11,178 You don't believe in me. 2 00:00:11,345 --> 00:00:12,846 [In British accent] I don't. 3 00:00:13,013 --> 00:00:16,350 What evidence would you have of my reality 4 00:00:16,517 --> 00:00:18,894 beyond that of your senses? 5 00:00:19,061 --> 00:00:20,687 I don't know. 6 00:00:20,854 --> 00:00:24,775 Why do you doubt your senses? 7 00:00:24,942 --> 00:00:28,946 Because a little thing affects them. 8 00:00:29,112 --> 00:00:32,157 A slight disorder of the stomach makes them cheats. 9 00:00:32,324 --> 00:00:38,705 You may be a bit of undigested beef, a blot of mustard, a crumb of cheese, 10 00:00:38,872 --> 00:00:41,750 a fragment of an underdone potato. 11 00:00:41,917 --> 00:00:45,587 Why, there's more of gravy than of grave about you. 12 00:00:45,754 --> 00:00:47,548 Whatever you are. 13 00:00:47,714 --> 00:00:50,509 Humbug, I tell you. Humbug. 14 00:00:50,676 --> 00:00:51,885 [Groans] 15 00:00:52,594 --> 00:00:53,929 [Whimpers] 16 00:00:54,846 --> 00:00:55,889 Freeze program. 17 00:00:57,599 --> 00:01:00,102 Very well done, data. 18 00:01:00,394 --> 00:01:03,272 Your performance skills really are improving. 19 00:01:03,438 --> 00:01:05,566 Your courtesy is appreciated, sir. 20 00:01:05,732 --> 00:01:08,735 But I am aware that I do not effectively convey the fear 21 00:01:08,902 --> 00:01:10,821 called for in the story. 22 00:01:10,988 --> 00:01:13,532 Well, you've never known fear, data. 23 00:01:13,699 --> 00:01:17,786 But as an acute observer of behavior, you should be able to approximate it. 24 00:01:17,953 --> 00:01:22,040 Sir, that is not an appropriate basis for an effective performance. 25 00:01:22,207 --> 00:01:25,168 Not by the standards set by my mentors. 26 00:01:25,335 --> 00:01:27,212 - Your mentors? - Yes, sir. 27 00:01:27,379 --> 00:01:31,425 I have studied the philosophies of virtually every known acting master. 28 00:01:31,592 --> 00:01:37,097 I find myself attracted to stanislavsky, adler, garnav. 29 00:01:37,264 --> 00:01:41,393 Proponents of an acting technique known as the method. 30 00:01:43,020 --> 00:01:44,688 Method acting? 31 00:01:44,855 --> 00:01:46,231 I'm vaguely familiar with it, 32 00:01:46,398 --> 00:01:50,110 but why would you choose such an old-fashioned approach? 33 00:01:50,277 --> 00:01:52,613 Perhaps because the technique requires an actor 34 00:01:52,779 --> 00:01:56,408 to seek his own emotional awareness, to understand the character he plays. 35 00:01:56,867 --> 00:02:00,203 But surely that's an impossible task for you, data. 36 00:02:00,579 --> 00:02:03,957 Sir, I have modified the method for my own uses. 37 00:02:04,124 --> 00:02:07,419 Since I have no emotional awareness to create a performance, 38 00:02:07,586 --> 00:02:11,340 I am attempting to use performance to create emotional awareness. 39 00:02:11,506 --> 00:02:15,552 I believe if I can learn to duplicate the fear of ebenezer scrooge, 40 00:02:15,719 --> 00:02:19,348 I will be one step closer to truly understanding humanity. 41 00:02:19,514 --> 00:02:22,809 Riker [over com]: Captain picard, please report to the bridge. 42 00:02:23,268 --> 00:02:25,395 On my way, number one. 43 00:02:25,562 --> 00:02:28,690 Data, the moment that you decided 44 00:02:28,857 --> 00:02:32,527 to stop imitating other actors and create your own interpretation, 45 00:02:32,694 --> 00:02:37,032 you were already one step closer to understanding humanity. 46 00:02:44,539 --> 00:02:46,309 Riker: We've received an emergency transmission 47 00:02:46,333 --> 00:02:48,013 from the science station on ventax ii, sir. 48 00:02:48,126 --> 00:02:51,189 - What's the nature of the emergency? - Uncertain, the signal was interrupted. 49 00:02:51,213 --> 00:02:53,465 Contact reestablished with ventax ii, sir. 50 00:02:53,632 --> 00:02:55,092 On-screen. 51 00:02:55,258 --> 00:02:57,552 [Garbled] I am Dr. Howard Clarke, 52 00:02:57,719 --> 00:03:00,097 director of the science station here on ventax ll. 53 00:03:00,263 --> 00:03:01,932 Thank you for responding. 54 00:03:02,099 --> 00:03:03,684 Mr. Worf, can you improve our reception? 55 00:03:04,434 --> 00:03:06,561 Trouble is at the transmission source, sir. 56 00:03:07,604 --> 00:03:11,316 Dr. Clarke, we're barely able to maintain communication with you. 57 00:03:11,733 --> 00:03:13,652 Can you boost the level of your power source? 58 00:03:13,819 --> 00:03:16,613 I'm afraid not, captain. It's under attack. 59 00:03:17,030 --> 00:03:18,031 Under attack? 60 00:03:18,198 --> 00:03:21,078 Clarke: There's a mob outside the door, trying to break into the station. 61 00:03:21,243 --> 00:03:26,206 The planet is in chaos. Looting, fires, mass hysteria. 62 00:03:26,373 --> 00:03:27,916 These people are all convinced 63 00:03:28,083 --> 00:03:31,002 that their world is coming to an end, tomorrow. 64 00:03:31,169 --> 00:03:34,214 Please, we must have your immediate... 65 00:04:07,748 --> 00:04:11,918 Picard: Space. The final frontier. 66 00:04:12,419 --> 00:04:16,506 These are the voyages of the starship enterprise. 67 00:04:16,673 --> 00:04:21,845 Its continuing mission, to explore strange new worlds. 68 00:04:22,012 --> 00:04:26,141 To seek out new life and new civilizations. 69 00:04:26,641 --> 00:04:30,979 To boldly go where no one has gone before. 70 00:05:29,454 --> 00:05:33,041 Picard: Captain's log, stardate 44474.5. 71 00:05:33,208 --> 00:05:34,835 We have reached ventax I/ 72 00:05:35,001 --> 00:05:37,671 and are attempting to contact the federation science station. 73 00:05:37,838 --> 00:05:41,716 Which at last report, was under siege by an angry mob. 74 00:05:42,050 --> 00:05:46,137 - They are transmitting again. - On-screen, before we lose contact. 75 00:05:46,555 --> 00:05:48,807 Enterprise, enterprise, do you read me? 76 00:05:48,974 --> 00:05:50,517 Emergency! We need help! 77 00:05:50,684 --> 00:05:52,185 Dr. Clarke, this is captain picard. 78 00:05:52,352 --> 00:05:54,604 We are ready to beam you and your team on board... 79 00:05:54,771 --> 00:05:55,814 [Explosion on screen] 80 00:05:55,981 --> 00:05:57,065 They're in! They're in! 81 00:05:57,649 --> 00:05:59,693 Transporter room 3, lock on to the science team. 82 00:05:59,860 --> 00:06:02,060 - Beam them aboard. - Man: I've locked on to Dr. Clarke. 83 00:06:02,195 --> 00:06:05,699 I can't pick out the others. It's a mess down there. 84 00:06:05,866 --> 00:06:07,450 Then beam Dr. Clarke aboard by himself. 85 00:06:07,617 --> 00:06:08,618 Man: Yes, captain. 86 00:06:08,785 --> 00:06:10,537 Worf, will you escort him to my ready room? 87 00:06:10,704 --> 00:06:11,872 Aye, sir. 88 00:06:12,038 --> 00:06:13,707 Number one, 89 00:06:14,332 --> 00:06:17,043 try and make some sense out of this mess. 90 00:06:24,259 --> 00:06:28,638 The people in ventax ii live in an agrarian society. 91 00:06:28,805 --> 00:06:32,392 - At least they do now. - What do you mean, now? 92 00:06:32,559 --> 00:06:34,519 That's an interesting anthropological question. 93 00:06:34,686 --> 00:06:41,192 One we were studying before the trouble began. 94 00:06:42,193 --> 00:06:43,737 In the distant past, 95 00:06:43,904 --> 00:06:50,911 the ventaxian culture had achieved an extremely advanced scientific level, 96 00:06:51,077 --> 00:06:54,623 but a millennium ago, they turned their backs on technology. 97 00:06:54,789 --> 00:06:56,917 They reverted to a simpler existence? 98 00:06:57,083 --> 00:06:59,920 And remained that way for centuries. 99 00:07:00,086 --> 00:07:04,758 First contact was made by a klingon expedition 70 years ago. 100 00:07:04,925 --> 00:07:08,136 Since then, the new technology's been available to the ventaxians. 101 00:07:08,303 --> 00:07:10,221 They simply are not interested in it. 102 00:07:10,388 --> 00:07:14,726 Virtually no social problems can be found on this planet. 103 00:07:14,893 --> 00:07:18,605 In fact, I would have described their society as idyllic until... 104 00:07:19,105 --> 00:07:20,440 Until what, doctor? 105 00:07:20,607 --> 00:07:22,776 It's hard to believe. 106 00:07:24,110 --> 00:07:26,404 Several years ago, 107 00:07:26,905 --> 00:07:29,950 acost Jared, the ventaxian head of state, 108 00:07:30,116 --> 00:07:33,870 began to grow increasingly obsessed with the legend of ardra. 109 00:07:34,037 --> 00:07:36,122 With each passing day, he grew more anxious, 110 00:07:36,289 --> 00:07:38,291 and he talked about little else. 111 00:07:38,458 --> 00:07:43,129 "Ardra is coming back. Ardra will be here soon." 112 00:07:43,296 --> 00:07:46,341 "We must all leave before ardra returns." 113 00:07:46,508 --> 00:07:49,094 And who is this ardra? 114 00:07:51,888 --> 00:07:54,683 For all intents and purposes, 115 00:07:58,019 --> 00:08:03,024 captain, these people actually believe they've sold their souls to the devil. 116 00:08:03,191 --> 00:08:05,360 Riker [over com]: Riker to captain picard. 117 00:08:05,527 --> 00:08:07,654 Have you located the science team, number one? 118 00:08:07,821 --> 00:08:09,698 Riker: Evidently, they're being held hostage. 119 00:08:09,864 --> 00:08:11,199 Hostage? 120 00:08:11,366 --> 00:08:13,302 Riker: There's a ventaxian leader on the viewscreen, 121 00:08:13,326 --> 00:08:15,578 name of acost Jared. 122 00:08:15,996 --> 00:08:17,455 Doctor. 123 00:08:25,630 --> 00:08:28,675 Jared, you must secure the release of my people. 124 00:08:28,842 --> 00:08:30,322 I can't believe you would allow this. 125 00:08:30,427 --> 00:08:34,347 Howard, my friend, you know how I abhor all acts of violence. 126 00:08:34,514 --> 00:08:36,474 But events are out of my control. 127 00:08:36,641 --> 00:08:39,686 I'm captain Jean-Luc picard. Is there nothing you can do? 128 00:08:39,853 --> 00:08:42,105 As the hour of ardra's return approaches, 129 00:08:42,272 --> 00:08:44,524 fear has overwhelmed my people. 130 00:08:44,691 --> 00:08:48,319 It has been a thousand years. The prophecies have come true. 131 00:08:48,486 --> 00:08:49,863 Prophecies? 132 00:08:50,030 --> 00:08:53,700 Ardra's arrival was supposed to be heralded with the shaking of the cities. 133 00:08:53,867 --> 00:08:57,829 Now there has been a series of geological tremors on the planet. 134 00:08:57,996 --> 00:09:00,582 Minor quakes, nothing extraordinary. 135 00:09:00,749 --> 00:09:02,834 - Poorly timed. - Jared: There is more. 136 00:09:03,001 --> 00:09:05,837 For several nights, there have been visions of ardra again, 137 00:09:06,004 --> 00:09:09,382 just as the contract said would occur before her return. 138 00:09:09,549 --> 00:09:11,301 Visions? You mean dreams? 139 00:09:11,468 --> 00:09:14,763 No, she has appeared. I myself have seen her. 140 00:09:15,388 --> 00:09:18,391 Jared, tell your people if the hostages are released, 141 00:09:18,558 --> 00:09:20,810 I am prepared to offer federation assistance 142 00:09:20,977 --> 00:09:24,898 should this ardra return. 143 00:09:25,065 --> 00:09:26,649 I'm afraid it will not matter. 144 00:09:26,816 --> 00:09:30,028 They know your weapons are useless against her, captain. 145 00:09:30,904 --> 00:09:33,782 I will make inquiries concerning the hostages. 146 00:09:33,948 --> 00:09:36,493 The innocent should not suffer for our sins. 147 00:09:36,659 --> 00:09:39,704 But I can make no promises. 148 00:09:41,498 --> 00:09:44,167 This situation is deteriorating, captain. 149 00:09:44,334 --> 00:09:48,254 The people are reaching levels of anxiety that could lead to suicide. 150 00:09:48,421 --> 00:09:50,924 Picard: Mr. Data, what do we know about this ardra? 151 00:09:51,091 --> 00:09:54,260 She is a cornerstone of ventaxian theology. 152 00:09:54,427 --> 00:09:56,513 It seems ardra came to ventax ii 153 00:09:56,679 --> 00:10:01,101 and promised 1,000 years of peace and prosperity for a price. 154 00:10:01,267 --> 00:10:05,230 Upon her return, she would enslave the entire population. 155 00:10:05,396 --> 00:10:07,982 In ventaxian culture, it is considered bad luck 156 00:10:08,149 --> 00:10:09,484 to speak her name out loud. 157 00:10:09,651 --> 00:10:12,779 Clarke: There are ancient scrolls concerning ardra 158 00:10:12,946 --> 00:10:14,506 that are stored in the athenaeum vaults. 159 00:10:14,614 --> 00:10:15,740 Scholars study them, 160 00:10:15,907 --> 00:10:19,285 they have been of little public interest until recently. 161 00:10:19,452 --> 00:10:21,788 I think I should meet with this acost Jared. 162 00:10:21,955 --> 00:10:24,374 He's still our best hope for the release of the hostages. 163 00:10:24,541 --> 00:10:26,376 I'll arrange to have him transported on board. 164 00:10:26,543 --> 00:10:28,461 No, I'm going down to the planet myself. 165 00:10:28,628 --> 00:10:32,549 Sir, you run the risk of being taken as an additional hostage. 166 00:10:33,091 --> 00:10:35,135 Mr. Worf, you and Mr. Data will accompany me. 167 00:10:35,301 --> 00:10:38,847 Mr. O'brien can keep a lock on our communicators. 168 00:10:39,013 --> 00:10:41,599 - He can pull us out if necessary. - Yes, sir. 169 00:10:41,766 --> 00:10:43,893 Picard: Counselor, I want you to come too. 170 00:11:00,326 --> 00:11:01,536 Captain picard. 171 00:11:01,703 --> 00:11:04,497 You shouldn't have come. Your life is in danger here. 172 00:11:04,664 --> 00:11:06,291 You must calm your people. 173 00:11:06,457 --> 00:11:08,293 - There is no reason for panic. - No reason? 174 00:11:08,459 --> 00:11:09,939 If these tremors have frightened them, 175 00:11:10,044 --> 00:11:13,965 leading to this hysteria over ardra, let us reassure them. 176 00:11:14,132 --> 00:11:17,510 We have scanned the tectonic stress patterns of your planet's crust. 177 00:11:17,677 --> 00:11:20,346 There is no evidence that the quakes pose any kind of threat. 178 00:11:20,513 --> 00:11:23,933 No, no, no, the threat is from ardra. 179 00:11:24,100 --> 00:11:25,894 You cannot understand. 180 00:11:26,060 --> 00:11:30,064 If you can, at least help us to locate our people. 181 00:11:30,231 --> 00:11:32,025 [Rumbling] 182 00:11:34,360 --> 00:11:36,529 She is here. 183 00:11:36,696 --> 00:11:39,365 Nonsense. It is only... 184 00:11:46,873 --> 00:11:48,666 Time's up. 185 00:11:58,384 --> 00:12:00,637 Ardra: I'm disappointed. 186 00:12:00,803 --> 00:12:03,848 I expected my tenants to take better care of my property. 187 00:12:04,015 --> 00:12:08,770 Ardra, most powerful one. I am Jared, leader of ventax ii. 188 00:12:08,937 --> 00:12:11,689 I take responsibility for all that displeases you. 189 00:12:11,856 --> 00:12:14,025 Please, do not punish my people. 190 00:12:14,192 --> 00:12:17,320 Punish? Who said anything about punishing? 191 00:12:17,487 --> 00:12:20,949 I merely expect your end of our contract to be upheld. 192 00:12:21,115 --> 00:12:22,158 Thank you, ardra. 193 00:12:22,325 --> 00:12:24,410 And don't talk like some ancient prophet around me, 194 00:12:24,577 --> 00:12:27,497 with "thees" and "thous" and "most powerful ones." 195 00:12:27,664 --> 00:12:31,417 It was appealing for a few centuries, but I bore easily. 196 00:12:31,584 --> 00:12:32,919 And stop cowering. 197 00:12:33,086 --> 00:12:36,089 When I want you on your knees, I'll let you know. 198 00:12:37,840 --> 00:12:41,803 Much better. A fine example for the others. 199 00:12:41,970 --> 00:12:42,971 Who would you be? 200 00:12:43,137 --> 00:12:46,975 I'm captain Jean-Luc picard of the federation starship enterprise. 201 00:12:47,141 --> 00:12:49,394 Keep up the good work. 202 00:12:51,145 --> 00:12:52,345 Now the first thing we'll need 203 00:12:52,438 --> 00:12:55,441 is an accounting of all you've been accumulating for me. 204 00:12:55,608 --> 00:12:59,279 This form will provide guidelines for a full census of the population, 205 00:12:59,445 --> 00:13:04,534 with emphasis on productivity and economic forecasts. 206 00:13:04,951 --> 00:13:08,454 - Who are you? - My, you are forceful, aren't you? 207 00:13:08,621 --> 00:13:10,999 Good. I like my men to be forceful. 208 00:13:11,165 --> 00:13:12,792 At least at the start. 209 00:13:12,959 --> 00:13:15,461 If your intention is to intimidate, you're not succeeding. 210 00:13:15,628 --> 00:13:18,131 That's all right. I like a challenge. 211 00:13:18,298 --> 00:13:20,633 An entire planet has been terrorized 212 00:13:20,800 --> 00:13:24,304 because of the suggestion that you're going to enslave the population. 213 00:13:24,470 --> 00:13:26,055 Well, it's true. 214 00:13:26,222 --> 00:13:29,434 Of course, I wouldn't put it so melodramatically. 215 00:13:29,600 --> 00:13:33,146 It's just a standard contract with an unusually long term. 216 00:13:33,313 --> 00:13:35,982 So you do purport to be the mythic figure ardra? 217 00:13:36,149 --> 00:13:39,235 I have many names, my pale friend. 218 00:13:39,402 --> 00:13:42,363 I am mendora in the berussian cluster. 219 00:13:42,530 --> 00:13:45,033 Torak to the drellians. 220 00:13:45,199 --> 00:13:47,785 The klingons call me fek'lhr. 221 00:13:48,494 --> 00:13:50,788 You are not fek'lhr! 222 00:13:52,332 --> 00:13:54,208 Ah, but I am. 223 00:13:54,667 --> 00:13:57,587 I am the guardian of gre'Thor, 224 00:13:57,754 --> 00:14:01,591 where the dishonored go when they die. 225 00:14:03,676 --> 00:14:06,637 But here on ventax ii, I am called ardra. 226 00:14:08,181 --> 00:14:10,516 The same ardra who negotiated a contract 227 00:14:10,683 --> 00:14:13,644 with these people 10 centuries ago today. 228 00:14:13,811 --> 00:14:17,565 Oh, you doubt me. A non-believer. 229 00:14:18,024 --> 00:14:21,361 Really, Jean-Luc picard of the federation starship enterprise, 230 00:14:21,944 --> 00:14:24,280 no doubt you have traveled the galaxy, 231 00:14:24,447 --> 00:14:26,908 encountered a diverse universe of creatures. 232 00:14:27,075 --> 00:14:29,369 Is there no room for the likes of me? 233 00:14:29,535 --> 00:14:30,870 I've encountered many 234 00:14:31,037 --> 00:14:33,456 who more credibly could be called the devil than you. 235 00:14:36,125 --> 00:14:38,878 Now there's one I haven't heard in a long time. 236 00:14:39,712 --> 00:14:42,840 You claim you visited this planet a thousand years ago 237 00:14:43,007 --> 00:14:44,217 and negotiated a contract? 238 00:14:45,134 --> 00:14:48,846 - That's correct. - I would like to see that contract. 239 00:14:58,231 --> 00:15:00,066 The scrolls of ardra, captain. 240 00:15:00,233 --> 00:15:04,237 A long-winded description of a very simple business arrangement. 241 00:15:04,404 --> 00:15:07,532 I did away with their wars, famine, and economic ruin, 242 00:15:07,698 --> 00:15:10,618 and provided them a thousand years of paradise. 243 00:15:10,785 --> 00:15:13,246 My terms were clearly stated. 244 00:15:13,413 --> 00:15:16,290 They went into this with their eyes open. 245 00:15:16,624 --> 00:15:19,043 I'm sure you'll find everything is in order. 246 00:15:19,627 --> 00:15:22,672 You won't mind if I don't take your word for it? 247 00:15:23,005 --> 00:15:24,125 Jared, with your permission, 248 00:15:24,257 --> 00:15:27,093 I'd like Mr. Data to review these scrolls thoroughly. 249 00:15:27,760 --> 00:15:30,638 It is no longer my decision, captain. 250 00:15:33,599 --> 00:15:37,854 I have intrigued you, haven't I, picard? Heh, heh. 251 00:15:38,020 --> 00:15:41,983 I'm only here to secure the release of the federation hostages. 252 00:15:42,150 --> 00:15:44,819 Hostages? Is this true? 253 00:15:45,111 --> 00:15:47,321 Uh, yes, ardra. 254 00:15:47,488 --> 00:15:50,450 Panic gripped the people as the time of your return grew closer. 255 00:15:50,616 --> 00:15:53,661 Yes, I do have that effect on people. 256 00:15:53,828 --> 00:15:56,622 See that the hostages are released, now. 257 00:15:56,789 --> 00:15:58,875 Immediately. 258 00:16:00,209 --> 00:16:03,379 Let us not cloud this with bit players, picard. 259 00:16:03,546 --> 00:16:07,675 You will not leave because you find me irresistible. 260 00:16:11,471 --> 00:16:14,765 Enterprise, advise Dr. Clarke that the hostages are being released. 261 00:16:14,932 --> 00:16:17,143 Clarke [over com]: This is Clarke. You did it, captain. 262 00:16:17,310 --> 00:16:20,730 - Thank goodness. - Goodness had nothing to do with it. 263 00:16:20,897 --> 00:16:24,525 Three to beam up. Mr. Data will remain on the planet's surface. 264 00:16:24,692 --> 00:16:28,988 Data, I want a complete report on the contents of these documents. 265 00:16:30,364 --> 00:16:33,910 I refuse to abandon this planet to that woman. 266 00:16:34,160 --> 00:16:35,828 Energize. 267 00:16:44,337 --> 00:16:47,715 Could she be another refugee from the q continuum? 268 00:16:47,882 --> 00:16:51,761 - For that matter, could she be o? - Q would never bother with contracts. 269 00:16:51,928 --> 00:16:55,681 - Or economic forecasts. - I noticed that too, counselor. 270 00:16:55,848 --> 00:16:57,008 I had the distinct impression 271 00:16:57,141 --> 00:17:00,686 of being in the presence of a flimflam artist. 272 00:17:00,853 --> 00:17:02,730 Worf: But her powers? 273 00:17:03,189 --> 00:17:07,527 Her powers are at the best unclear. Think about it, Mr. Worf. 274 00:17:07,693 --> 00:17:10,446 Transporter technology can make things appear and disappear. 275 00:17:10,613 --> 00:17:14,784 The illusion that she can transform herself into a klingon creature 276 00:17:14,951 --> 00:17:17,995 could be created by holographic projection. 277 00:17:18,162 --> 00:17:20,998 And creating a minor tremor could be the result 278 00:17:21,165 --> 00:17:25,545 of a low-frequency tractor beam projected against the tectonic plates. 279 00:17:26,087 --> 00:17:28,673 We are capable of re-creating all of these events. 280 00:17:28,839 --> 00:17:30,239 It's just that she dresses them up, 281 00:17:30,341 --> 00:17:33,469 and she delivers them with more dramatic flair. 282 00:17:34,053 --> 00:17:35,096 Like a magician. 283 00:17:36,556 --> 00:17:37,557 Exactly. 284 00:17:37,723 --> 00:17:40,017 Troi: She has an incredibly focused mind. 285 00:17:40,184 --> 00:17:43,521 It was virtually impossible to sense any deception. 286 00:17:43,688 --> 00:17:45,231 Or anything else for that matter. 287 00:17:45,398 --> 00:17:48,401 The best magicians will never let you see what's up their sleeve, counselor. 288 00:17:48,568 --> 00:17:50,570 She must be tapping into some sort of power source 289 00:17:50,736 --> 00:17:51,737 to produce those effects. 290 00:17:51,904 --> 00:17:53,406 She's not hiding that up her sleeve. 291 00:17:53,573 --> 00:17:54,949 Number one, I want you and Mr. Worf 292 00:17:55,116 --> 00:17:57,036 to run high resolution scans of this star system. 293 00:17:57,159 --> 00:18:00,079 Look for a ship, base of operations. 294 00:18:00,246 --> 00:18:02,415 Anything large enough to generate that power. 295 00:18:02,582 --> 00:18:04,166 Mr. La forge, accompany Dr. Clarke 296 00:18:04,333 --> 00:18:05,585 back to the science station. 297 00:18:05,751 --> 00:18:09,380 See if you can trace the origin of these tremors. 298 00:18:18,264 --> 00:18:21,183 Your chair offers a lovely view of my planet, picard. 299 00:18:21,767 --> 00:18:23,894 Come, sit with me. 300 00:18:24,270 --> 00:18:28,274 Either leave my bridge, or I will remove you by force. 301 00:18:28,441 --> 00:18:30,526 By force? 302 00:18:30,693 --> 00:18:31,986 [Chuckling] 303 00:18:32,153 --> 00:18:33,946 You disappoint me. 304 00:18:34,113 --> 00:18:36,532 You didn't strike me as that sort, picard. 305 00:18:36,949 --> 00:18:39,827 But by all means, try. 306 00:18:40,703 --> 00:18:41,954 Mr. Worf. 307 00:19:00,514 --> 00:19:04,894 I was really hoping you'd try it yourself. 308 00:19:05,478 --> 00:19:06,812 Transporter room 3, 309 00:19:06,979 --> 00:19:10,483 lock on to the intruder and transport her to the planet surface. 310 00:19:10,650 --> 00:19:12,193 Man: Aye, sir. 311 00:19:16,822 --> 00:19:19,492 Ensign, put up the shields until further notice. 312 00:19:19,659 --> 00:19:21,911 Yes, sir, captain. Whatever you say. 313 00:19:22,078 --> 00:19:24,413 We are not impressed with your magic tricks. 314 00:19:24,580 --> 00:19:26,332 I pity you. 315 00:19:26,499 --> 00:19:31,462 We live in a universe of magic, which evidently you cannot see. 316 00:19:31,629 --> 00:19:33,005 [Door opens] 317 00:19:33,255 --> 00:19:35,675 Ah, my pale friend has returned. 318 00:19:35,841 --> 00:19:38,052 Have you finished examining the contract? 319 00:19:38,219 --> 00:19:40,179 - I have, sir. - Report, Mr. Data. 320 00:19:40,805 --> 00:19:44,350 Contract agrees to deliver the people of ventax ii 321 00:19:44,517 --> 00:19:48,562 into the personal servitude of ardra after 1,000 years of peace. 322 00:19:48,729 --> 00:19:49,772 I have compared the terms 323 00:19:49,939 --> 00:19:51,659 to the body of laws which govern the planet. 324 00:19:51,816 --> 00:19:54,360 The language of the agreement is correct in every detail, sir. 325 00:19:54,527 --> 00:19:57,196 Such speed and accuracy. 326 00:19:57,363 --> 00:19:59,699 You're much too talented to be human. 327 00:19:59,865 --> 00:20:02,660 - I am an Android. - Android? 328 00:20:02,827 --> 00:20:06,747 Of course, how wonderful. An unexpected bonus. 329 00:20:07,748 --> 00:20:09,375 - Bonus? Ardra: Yes. 330 00:20:09,875 --> 00:20:14,296 When the contract came to term, I gained clear title to the planet. 331 00:20:14,463 --> 00:20:18,759 Anything on the surface, in the air or in orbit. 332 00:20:19,468 --> 00:20:25,474 So, you see, the enterprise belongs to me now as well. Ha, ha. 333 00:20:27,852 --> 00:20:31,021 I am afraid the contract could be interpreted in that way, sir. 334 00:20:43,784 --> 00:20:45,578 Picard: Captain's log, supplemental. 335 00:20:45,745 --> 00:20:48,414 Although I consider this woman's claim upon my ship 336 00:20:48,581 --> 00:20:49,915 to be an empty threat 337 00:20:50,082 --> 00:20:52,084 it has further inspired my determination 338 00:20:52,251 --> 00:20:55,254 to expose her for the fraud she is. 339 00:20:56,297 --> 00:20:57,339 [Door chimes] 340 00:20:57,506 --> 00:20:59,091 Come. 341 00:21:01,510 --> 00:21:03,596 You wish to see me, sir? 342 00:21:04,263 --> 00:21:06,098 Yes, Mr. Data. 343 00:21:09,185 --> 00:21:14,899 A wise man once said, "there is a sucker born every minute." 344 00:21:15,065 --> 00:21:17,443 Barnum, sir. P.T. 345 00:21:18,778 --> 00:21:20,613 I've been examining the dynamics 346 00:21:20,780 --> 00:21:25,201 of what used to be called the con game. 347 00:21:25,576 --> 00:21:28,621 Quite fascinating. Worthy of your study, data. 348 00:21:28,788 --> 00:21:33,876 Sir, do you believe ardra is, to use the vernacular, a con artist? 349 00:21:34,168 --> 00:21:36,921 Yes, I do, data. 350 00:21:37,087 --> 00:21:43,010 And I believe it is ourjob to out-con the con artist. 351 00:21:44,094 --> 00:21:47,598 Sir, I must point out that the ventaxians 352 00:21:47,765 --> 00:21:50,810 did have 1,000 years of peace and tranquility, 353 00:21:50,976 --> 00:21:52,311 as promised by ardra. 354 00:21:52,478 --> 00:21:55,606 We can only speculate what happened on that planet a thousand years ago. 355 00:21:55,773 --> 00:22:00,319 Maybe a ventaxian leader saw the destruction of his society at hand, 356 00:22:00,486 --> 00:22:04,907 and he conceived this contract of ardra to motivate change. 357 00:22:05,074 --> 00:22:07,493 Or maybe there was an ardra of some sort 358 00:22:07,660 --> 00:22:10,037 who is the basis for this mythology, who knows? 359 00:22:10,204 --> 00:22:12,832 The point is that somehow 360 00:22:12,998 --> 00:22:17,169 a fundamental theology was created which transformed the society. 361 00:22:17,336 --> 00:22:22,758 But in the process of change, created this latent fear 362 00:22:22,925 --> 00:22:25,594 which has been passed down through generations. 363 00:22:26,136 --> 00:22:31,141 Data, from your own experience of performing ebenezer scrooge, 364 00:22:31,308 --> 00:22:34,311 you're aware how fear can be a very powerful motivator. 365 00:22:34,687 --> 00:22:35,771 Indeed, sir. 366 00:22:35,938 --> 00:22:38,399 In the story, the spirits used fear 367 00:22:38,566 --> 00:22:40,776 to motivate scrooge to reform his character. 368 00:22:41,652 --> 00:22:43,612 And in the hands of a con artist, 369 00:22:43,779 --> 00:22:48,200 fear can be used to motivate obedience, capitulation. 370 00:22:48,367 --> 00:22:51,787 The exploitation of innocent people. 371 00:22:51,954 --> 00:22:54,039 And that is what I believe has happened here, 372 00:22:54,206 --> 00:22:56,000 and I intend to prove that. 373 00:22:56,166 --> 00:22:58,544 I need to find a loophole. 374 00:22:58,711 --> 00:23:01,922 Some way of challenging the validity of this contract. 375 00:23:02,298 --> 00:23:04,717 Sir, the language of the contract seems carefully chosen 376 00:23:04,884 --> 00:23:06,927 to avoid any loopholes. 377 00:23:07,094 --> 00:23:08,220 Check it again, Mr. Data, 378 00:23:08,387 --> 00:23:12,266 and check every ventaxian legal precedent for the last 1,000 years. 379 00:23:12,433 --> 00:23:15,060 - We'll talk again in the morning. - Aye, sir. 380 00:23:46,508 --> 00:23:48,177 Picard to bridge. Intruder alert. 381 00:23:49,094 --> 00:23:52,431 - Picard to bridge. - Oh, I've arranged for a bit of privacy. 382 00:24:02,733 --> 00:24:04,193 [Beeps] 383 00:24:10,282 --> 00:24:11,867 Just the two of us. 384 00:24:12,034 --> 00:24:13,786 [Ardra laughs] 385 00:24:14,078 --> 00:24:16,288 This is becoming very tiresome. 386 00:24:16,455 --> 00:24:21,669 Oh, come now, picard. You know you find me tantalizing. 387 00:24:22,795 --> 00:24:25,673 Give in to your desires. 388 00:24:27,007 --> 00:24:31,595 You know, there's nothing about you I find tantalizing. 389 00:24:31,762 --> 00:24:35,891 On the contrary, I find you obvious and vulgar. 390 00:24:36,433 --> 00:24:38,644 Easily fixed. 391 00:24:38,811 --> 00:24:43,649 I can be your ideal woman, picard. Prim and proper. 392 00:24:44,274 --> 00:24:48,904 And chaste. Until I succumb to your charms. 393 00:24:49,071 --> 00:24:52,157 Or would your fantasies turn more toward a professional woman. 394 00:24:52,324 --> 00:24:55,077 One perhaps who wears a starfleet uniform? 395 00:24:55,244 --> 00:24:58,956 Perhaps I could even be someone close at hand, 396 00:24:59,123 --> 00:25:01,834 yet unattainable. 397 00:25:04,128 --> 00:25:07,798 I can do anything for you, captain. 398 00:25:09,425 --> 00:25:12,511 Anything you could ever imagine. 399 00:25:13,595 --> 00:25:14,596 I could give you a night 400 00:25:14,763 --> 00:25:18,851 that would light fire in your dreams until you die, and you would reject me? 401 00:25:20,352 --> 00:25:22,104 Oh, yes. 402 00:25:22,646 --> 00:25:25,190 - You shall regret that. - I think not. 403 00:25:25,357 --> 00:25:27,359 Oh, but you will. 404 00:25:29,862 --> 00:25:31,697 Captain picard! 405 00:25:32,531 --> 00:25:36,952 - Captain, I wasn't expecting you here. - Neither was I. 406 00:25:37,703 --> 00:25:39,823 - La forge to enterprise. - Worf [over com]: Go ahead. 407 00:25:39,955 --> 00:25:41,707 Worf, captain picard is here. 408 00:25:41,874 --> 00:25:44,418 You'd better transport him back on board. 409 00:25:44,585 --> 00:25:46,378 The captain? But I have no... 410 00:25:46,545 --> 00:25:47,825 Picard: It's all right, Mr. Worf. 411 00:25:48,047 --> 00:25:49,882 Ardra somehow transported me here. 412 00:25:50,049 --> 00:25:52,051 Will you beam me directly to my quarters? 413 00:25:52,217 --> 00:25:53,594 Wo rf: Aye, sir. 414 00:25:53,761 --> 00:25:55,137 We 're locked on to you. 415 00:25:57,097 --> 00:25:59,558 Transporter's malfunctioning, captain. 416 00:26:00,225 --> 00:26:02,394 Some sort of interference. Checking. 417 00:26:02,561 --> 00:26:05,064 Just have Mr. Data fetch me in a shuttle, 418 00:26:05,230 --> 00:26:06,940 and have him bring along a uniform. 419 00:26:07,566 --> 00:26:11,070 - Did you say uniform? - Picard: Yes, I did. 420 00:26:11,945 --> 00:26:13,614 Aye, sir. 421 00:26:19,453 --> 00:26:22,289 Mr. La forge and Dr. Clarke have made no headway. 422 00:26:22,539 --> 00:26:24,249 Commander riker and lieutenant worf 423 00:26:24,416 --> 00:26:26,376 have picked nothing up on their scans. 424 00:26:26,543 --> 00:26:29,963 Sir, I believe I have found an obscure precedent in ventaxian law 425 00:26:30,130 --> 00:26:31,423 which may be of interest. 426 00:26:31,590 --> 00:26:32,800 Yes? 427 00:26:32,966 --> 00:26:34,885 The case involves a contract dispute 428 00:26:35,052 --> 00:26:37,429 over services rendered by a klingon craftsman 429 00:26:37,596 --> 00:26:39,598 on the construction of a ventaxian home. 430 00:26:40,349 --> 00:26:43,393 Because the dispute involved an alien culture, 431 00:26:43,560 --> 00:26:46,563 the parties decided that arbitration, rather than the courts, 432 00:26:46,730 --> 00:26:48,273 should resolve the issue. 433 00:26:48,440 --> 00:26:50,526 Both parties agreed to choose an arbitrator. 434 00:26:50,943 --> 00:26:54,947 It is the only known case involving an alien claimant. 435 00:26:55,739 --> 00:26:58,450 That's exactly what I needed. Well done, data. 436 00:27:02,454 --> 00:27:04,039 Shuttlecraft 1 to enterprise. 437 00:27:04,206 --> 00:27:06,291 Prepare for docking sequence. 438 00:27:06,458 --> 00:27:08,335 Riker [over com]: Proceed, shuttle 1. 439 00:27:12,464 --> 00:27:13,549 Enterprise. 440 00:27:14,883 --> 00:27:16,426 Enterprise, do you read me? 441 00:27:18,011 --> 00:27:19,888 Enterprise, come in! 442 00:27:31,733 --> 00:27:33,235 I cannot locate the enterprise 443 00:27:33,402 --> 00:27:35,487 anywhere within one light year of the planet, sir. 444 00:27:35,654 --> 00:27:36,934 I don't believe ardra is capable 445 00:27:37,072 --> 00:27:39,241 of transporting the enterprise a light year away. 446 00:27:39,408 --> 00:27:42,161 Keep hailing them, Mr. Data. Repeat on all frequencies. 447 00:27:42,327 --> 00:27:44,580 Hey, I think we found something here. 448 00:27:48,292 --> 00:27:50,335 There's a sudden jump in z particle readings 449 00:27:50,502 --> 00:27:52,342 just about the time the enterprise disappeared. 450 00:27:52,379 --> 00:27:55,174 - Picard: Where did it originate? - It was too brief to pinpoint. 451 00:27:55,340 --> 00:27:57,426 But it could suggest a hidden power source. 452 00:27:57,593 --> 00:27:59,344 Gentlemen, we need to find that source 453 00:27:59,511 --> 00:28:01,013 if we're to defeat this woman. 454 00:28:01,180 --> 00:28:04,100 Well, if you can get her to perform a few more magic tricks like that one, 455 00:28:04,266 --> 00:28:06,602 we just might be able to track it down. 456 00:28:08,270 --> 00:28:10,981 So, I trust you have a bit more respect for me now. 457 00:28:11,148 --> 00:28:15,068 - What have you done with my ship? - I've done nothing with your ship. 458 00:28:15,235 --> 00:28:17,696 My ship is safely in my possession. 459 00:28:17,863 --> 00:28:21,033 I do not recognize your claim on the enterprise. 460 00:28:21,200 --> 00:28:23,285 Nor on this world, for that matter. 461 00:28:23,452 --> 00:28:27,623 And in accordance with ventaxian legal precedent, 462 00:28:28,123 --> 00:28:29,541 I call for an arbitration. 463 00:28:29,708 --> 00:28:32,586 An arbitration? There's nothing here to arbitrate. 464 00:28:32,753 --> 00:28:35,297 Oh, but there is. You're a fraud, madame. 465 00:28:35,464 --> 00:28:38,300 And I intend to prove that you could not have effected the changes 466 00:28:38,467 --> 00:28:39,718 that took place on this planet. 467 00:28:39,885 --> 00:28:42,471 Do you not believe what you see with your own eyes? 468 00:28:42,638 --> 00:28:45,265 - Your ship is gone, captain. - An illusion. 469 00:28:45,432 --> 00:28:48,143 Magicians have been making things of all sort disappear for ages. 470 00:28:48,310 --> 00:28:49,895 You underestimate me. 471 00:28:50,062 --> 00:28:53,398 But then, most people do until it's too late. 472 00:28:53,982 --> 00:28:57,152 But if you are who you say you are, then you have nothing to lose. 473 00:28:57,319 --> 00:28:58,904 I also have nothing to gain. 474 00:28:59,071 --> 00:29:02,908 I already have possession of this planet and your ship. 475 00:29:04,117 --> 00:29:09,831 I am prepared to offer an added incentive. If you win... 476 00:29:10,916 --> 00:29:12,960 I'll take you to the ruins of ligillium. 477 00:29:14,086 --> 00:29:17,339 The zaterl emerald? You know where it is? 478 00:29:18,215 --> 00:29:19,758 Yes, I do. 479 00:29:21,510 --> 00:29:23,762 [Chuckling] 480 00:29:24,471 --> 00:29:29,434 You are too clever, captain. But I have enough jewels. 481 00:29:29,601 --> 00:29:35,899 If you wish this foolish arbitration, I will choose my own prize. 482 00:29:36,066 --> 00:29:37,943 Picard: And what would that be? 483 00:29:45,534 --> 00:29:48,495 By all rights, your body is already mine. 484 00:29:48,662 --> 00:29:50,122 But I want more. 485 00:29:50,289 --> 00:29:53,417 I want your heart, your mind, your soul, 486 00:29:53,583 --> 00:29:55,836 and I want you to give them to me without resistance, 487 00:29:56,003 --> 00:29:58,380 of your own free will. 488 00:29:58,755 --> 00:30:04,511 So, do you still wish to pursue this most dangerous game? 489 00:30:07,139 --> 00:30:08,974 I agree to your terms. 490 00:30:09,141 --> 00:30:14,187 Oh, picard, I will enjoy you morning, noon and night. 491 00:30:14,354 --> 00:30:18,859 But we must agree to an arbitrator. 492 00:30:19,151 --> 00:30:20,819 Very well. 493 00:30:23,071 --> 00:30:25,657 I choose Mr. Data. 494 00:30:25,824 --> 00:30:27,868 Any objections? 495 00:30:28,035 --> 00:30:29,745 Mr. Data is a member of my crew. 496 00:30:30,287 --> 00:30:33,540 Of my crew. And he's an Android. 497 00:30:33,707 --> 00:30:36,585 He is incapable of deceit or bias. 498 00:30:36,752 --> 00:30:40,464 He has no feelings to get in the way of his judgment. 499 00:30:40,922 --> 00:30:43,342 Ardra, before he responds, 500 00:30:43,508 --> 00:30:46,595 may I have a word in private with captain picard? 501 00:30:56,563 --> 00:30:59,191 Sir, I request you reject me as an arbitrator. 502 00:30:59,858 --> 00:31:02,069 - — Why? - Ardra is right. 503 00:31:02,235 --> 00:31:05,906 If I am chosen, I will perform my duties without bias or sentiment. 504 00:31:06,073 --> 00:31:09,618 I cannot guarantee I will deliver a verdict in your favor. 505 00:31:11,078 --> 00:31:12,996 Data, where else on this planet 506 00:31:13,163 --> 00:31:16,041 can I find someone she cannot intimidate? 507 00:31:16,666 --> 00:31:21,213 Sir, I will have to follow the rules of conduct for a ventaxian jurist. 508 00:31:22,005 --> 00:31:24,716 I understand. You'll make a fine judge. 509 00:31:28,637 --> 00:31:31,098 A thousand years ago, our planet was dying. 510 00:31:31,264 --> 00:31:33,141 Overcrowded and dangerous city-states 511 00:31:33,308 --> 00:31:34,810 warred unceasingly with each other. 512 00:31:34,976 --> 00:31:37,854 The air and water were polluted with industrial waste. 513 00:31:38,021 --> 00:31:41,108 And there was a constant threat of starvation and epidemic. 514 00:31:41,274 --> 00:31:45,445 - Then what happened? - And then you came. 515 00:31:45,612 --> 00:31:47,739 Objection, there is no conclusive evidence 516 00:31:47,906 --> 00:31:50,742 that this woman ever visited this planet a thousand years ago. 517 00:31:50,909 --> 00:31:53,745 And I suppose you want a thousand-year-old witness? 518 00:31:54,913 --> 00:31:56,540 That would be acceptable. 519 00:31:57,040 --> 00:32:00,419 Jared, in the contract does it specify 520 00:32:00,585 --> 00:32:02,254 how you would know me when I return? 521 00:32:02,629 --> 00:32:06,591 - Yes, by the date. - Anything else? 522 00:32:06,758 --> 00:32:10,804 By the shaking of the cities and by the visions. 523 00:32:11,221 --> 00:32:13,098 Ardra: And all of these occurred on schedule? 524 00:32:14,683 --> 00:32:16,268 Thank you. 525 00:32:17,436 --> 00:32:21,106 Your honor, I submit that I have established my identity 526 00:32:21,273 --> 00:32:23,567 as stated by the contract. 527 00:32:24,568 --> 00:32:29,072 Captain picard, my interpretation of ventaxian law 528 00:32:29,239 --> 00:32:33,368 suggests that under these circumstances, this is acceptable. 529 00:32:33,535 --> 00:32:35,078 Your objection is overruled. 530 00:32:36,204 --> 00:32:39,958 - But, your honor... - Sir, I have ruled. 531 00:32:40,417 --> 00:32:41,418 Please sit down. 532 00:32:47,632 --> 00:32:50,760 - You may proceed. - Thank you, your honor. 533 00:32:51,761 --> 00:32:56,266 Now, when I first set foot on ventax ii, what did I offer your people? 534 00:32:56,433 --> 00:32:57,809 According to the scrolls, 535 00:32:57,976 --> 00:33:00,562 you offered us a thousand years of peace and prosperity, 536 00:33:00,729 --> 00:33:03,690 if we promised to surrender ourselves to you at the end of the term. 537 00:33:03,857 --> 00:33:06,735 And why do you think they would strike such a bargain? 538 00:33:06,902 --> 00:33:10,447 We had nothing to lose. There was no hope in sight. 539 00:33:10,614 --> 00:33:12,949 - Until I came along. - Objection! 540 00:33:13,116 --> 00:33:14,784 I withdraw the observation. 541 00:33:16,453 --> 00:33:18,538 No further questions. 542 00:33:21,500 --> 00:33:23,835 Your honor, nothing in this testament 543 00:33:24,002 --> 00:33:27,672 proves that ardra had the power to affect the lives of the ventaxians. 544 00:33:27,839 --> 00:33:30,300 My opponent has failed to prove her case, 545 00:33:30,467 --> 00:33:33,094 and I move that her claim be summarily dismissed. 546 00:33:33,261 --> 00:33:36,598 I find no cause to invalidate the contract at this time. 547 00:33:37,098 --> 00:33:38,892 The arbitration will continue. 548 00:33:39,768 --> 00:33:41,394 Your honor, 549 00:33:42,020 --> 00:33:44,940 captain picard, as a new visitor to my planet, 550 00:33:45,106 --> 00:33:47,609 has been a consistent doubter of my abilities. 551 00:33:47,776 --> 00:33:50,487 I would like to ask him a few questions, if I may. 552 00:33:50,654 --> 00:33:53,907 It is highly irregular to question the opposing advocate, 553 00:33:54,074 --> 00:33:55,700 but I see no reason to deny it. 554 00:33:56,201 --> 00:33:57,702 Proceed. 555 00:33:57,869 --> 00:34:00,664 Please do not take any offense to these questions, captain. 556 00:34:00,830 --> 00:34:03,625 - You know how fond I am of you. - Objection. 557 00:34:03,792 --> 00:34:05,126 Data: Sustained. 558 00:34:05,293 --> 00:34:07,003 The advocate will refrain 559 00:34:07,170 --> 00:34:09,839 from expressing personal affections for her opponent. 560 00:34:12,342 --> 00:34:14,553 You do not believe my powers are real, do you? 561 00:34:15,178 --> 00:34:16,555 No, I don't. 562 00:34:17,097 --> 00:34:21,226 Then, sir, may I ask you to explain this. 563 00:34:21,393 --> 00:34:23,061 [Rumbling] 564 00:34:26,940 --> 00:34:28,567 You are out of order. 565 00:34:29,234 --> 00:34:30,402 Or this. 566 00:34:35,240 --> 00:34:38,743 The advocate will refrain from making her opponent disappear. 567 00:34:45,750 --> 00:34:48,628 Can you explain it, picard? 568 00:34:48,795 --> 00:34:52,799 Any more disruptions, and I will rule you in contempt of court. 569 00:34:52,966 --> 00:34:54,884 Is that understood? 570 00:34:56,469 --> 00:35:02,017 I am sorry, your honor, but can you explain it, picard? 571 00:35:02,642 --> 00:35:04,394 Yes or no? 572 00:35:09,608 --> 00:35:12,861 I rest my case, your honor. 573 00:35:15,739 --> 00:35:17,073 [Chuckles] 574 00:35:25,457 --> 00:35:27,167 The decay rate of these z particles 575 00:35:27,334 --> 00:35:30,003 make it almost impossible to trace the source. 576 00:35:30,170 --> 00:35:32,297 I'm correlating the particle trajectories. 577 00:35:32,464 --> 00:35:35,967 They're beginning to align. Wait a minute. 578 00:35:37,761 --> 00:35:38,887 [Laughing] 579 00:35:39,054 --> 00:35:40,639 I have coordinates. 580 00:35:40,805 --> 00:35:44,893 Thirty-four degrees north, 62 degrees east, 581 00:35:45,060 --> 00:35:48,438 at an altitude of 210 kilometers. 582 00:35:48,605 --> 00:35:52,817 That would put it in orbit above the western magnetic pole, 583 00:35:52,984 --> 00:35:55,195 running visual scan. 584 00:35:57,781 --> 00:35:58,782 Nothing. 585 00:36:00,492 --> 00:36:04,996 This time, I don't buy the magic. Something's gotta be there. 586 00:36:06,956 --> 00:36:10,168 Jared, you've described quite thoroughly the history of your people 587 00:36:10,335 --> 00:36:14,005 before and after ardra's first visit. 588 00:36:14,172 --> 00:36:18,343 But I'm a little unclear about the change itself. 589 00:36:18,510 --> 00:36:22,514 Did ardra simply snap her fingers 590 00:36:22,681 --> 00:36:25,725 and transform the planet into this paradise? 591 00:36:25,892 --> 00:36:29,854 No, the changes occurred gradually over a long period of time. 592 00:36:30,021 --> 00:36:31,648 Did she personally form the government 593 00:36:31,815 --> 00:36:34,234 that so peacefully ruled this planet for a millennium? 594 00:36:36,319 --> 00:36:39,406 Historical records indicate a council was convened 595 00:36:39,572 --> 00:36:41,366 to assess our options. 596 00:36:41,533 --> 00:36:45,537 They drew up a new constitution which the population later ratified. 597 00:36:45,704 --> 00:36:48,707 I see. So she advised this council? 598 00:36:53,712 --> 00:36:56,381 Then she must have destroyed all the weapons on the planet? 599 00:36:56,548 --> 00:36:58,717 Jared: No, our leaders did that. 600 00:36:59,843 --> 00:37:03,012 And they signed a treaty of non-aggression. 601 00:37:05,557 --> 00:37:10,061 Well, then let's move on to the environmental gains on ventax ii. 602 00:37:10,228 --> 00:37:12,313 How were they accomplished? 603 00:37:12,480 --> 00:37:17,068 We shifted our economy from an industrial to an agrarian base. 604 00:37:17,235 --> 00:37:19,237 It was more ecologically sound. 605 00:37:20,405 --> 00:37:23,867 But ardra must have purified the polluted water and air. 606 00:37:24,576 --> 00:37:25,994 Jared: 607 00:37:26,161 --> 00:37:29,122 The record shows there were a series of initiatives 608 00:37:29,289 --> 00:37:34,252 covering everything from atmospheric contaminants to waste disposal. 609 00:37:34,419 --> 00:37:38,465 Did she not even pick up one piece of trash? 610 00:37:38,923 --> 00:37:43,094 Ardra had left ventax ii before the environmental reforms began. 611 00:37:43,553 --> 00:37:51,269 Forgive me, but it sounds as if with a lot of courage, hard work, 612 00:37:51,436 --> 00:37:56,941 your ancestors changed this world all by themselves. 613 00:37:57,108 --> 00:37:58,902 Objection. 614 00:37:59,486 --> 00:38:01,613 The advocate is drawing conclusions. 615 00:38:02,530 --> 00:38:04,824 Sustained. I will draw my own conclusions... 616 00:38:04,991 --> 00:38:08,077 If you do not mind, sir. 617 00:38:08,620 --> 00:38:10,663 No further questions. 618 00:38:14,083 --> 00:38:15,543 Rebuttal? 619 00:38:16,044 --> 00:38:18,296 Just two questions: 620 00:38:19,297 --> 00:38:21,883 Is there any doubt in your mind, 621 00:38:22,050 --> 00:38:25,553 any doubt at all, that if I had not intervened, 622 00:38:25,720 --> 00:38:28,640 the terrible conditions here would have continued? 623 00:38:29,808 --> 00:38:31,810 I remind you that you're under oath. 624 00:38:36,481 --> 00:38:39,651 Then, as former head of state for the ventaxian people, 625 00:38:39,818 --> 00:38:43,112 you are satisfied that I fulfilled my part of the bargain? 626 00:38:45,698 --> 00:38:47,408 Yes, ardra. 627 00:38:47,575 --> 00:38:49,077 Thank you. 628 00:38:49,327 --> 00:38:50,995 Your honor, what more can be said? 629 00:38:51,162 --> 00:38:54,999 Both sides agree the terms of the contract have been fulfilled. 630 00:38:55,416 --> 00:38:56,709 Captain picard, 631 00:38:56,876 --> 00:39:00,338 do you have any further evidence to present before I renderjudgment? 632 00:39:02,715 --> 00:39:04,300 I believe my associate, Mr. La forge, 633 00:39:04,467 --> 00:39:06,302 may be bringing the answer to that question. 634 00:39:06,469 --> 00:39:08,179 I request a recess. 635 00:39:08,346 --> 00:39:10,723 - Hi, data. - Geordi. 636 00:39:11,891 --> 00:39:14,143 One hour recess is granted. 637 00:39:23,111 --> 00:39:26,155 Mr. La forge, my reputation as a litigator, 638 00:39:26,322 --> 00:39:29,701 not to mention my immortal soul, is in serious jeopardy. 639 00:39:29,868 --> 00:39:32,708 Well, whatever's been going on over here gave us exactly what we needed. 640 00:39:33,037 --> 00:39:34,914 Have you identified the source of her power? 641 00:39:35,081 --> 00:39:36,916 A cloaked ship. 642 00:39:37,083 --> 00:39:41,504 - She has a romulan cloaking device? - More likely a bad copy of one. 643 00:39:41,671 --> 00:39:43,506 We picked it up on a wavelength stretchout. 644 00:39:43,673 --> 00:39:46,634 - The enterprise? - Exactly where it's supposed to be. 645 00:39:46,801 --> 00:39:48,601 Ardra extended her cloaking shields around it, 646 00:39:48,720 --> 00:39:51,723 set up a subspace damping field to interfere with normal operations. 647 00:39:51,890 --> 00:39:54,559 I've isolated the frequency spread and penetrated the field. 648 00:39:54,726 --> 00:39:57,562 - Can you make contact? - Already have. 649 00:39:58,646 --> 00:40:00,315 This is what I want to do. 650 00:40:00,481 --> 00:40:02,358 But we have less than an hour. 651 00:40:09,198 --> 00:40:11,659 Jared, you're a wise and experienced leader. 652 00:40:11,826 --> 00:40:13,453 And I assume that you trust your senses. 653 00:40:13,620 --> 00:40:14,996 Yes, I would say so. 654 00:40:15,163 --> 00:40:18,041 And all your senses tell you that this woman here 655 00:40:18,207 --> 00:40:21,044 is the most powerful force on this planet, don't they? 656 00:40:21,210 --> 00:40:22,587 Jared: 657 00:40:22,754 --> 00:40:25,632 And what would you say if I were to tell you 658 00:40:25,798 --> 00:40:28,635 that she has no powers whatsoever? 659 00:40:29,385 --> 00:40:31,763 But we have seen her powers here. 660 00:40:31,930 --> 00:40:34,390 That's right, and you will again. 661 00:40:34,557 --> 00:40:38,102 Oh, yes, ardra's magic. 662 00:40:39,020 --> 00:40:43,691 Jared, would you believe me if I told you that I could steal her powers, 663 00:40:43,858 --> 00:40:46,945 and perform the same magic acts as she does? 664 00:40:47,111 --> 00:40:51,115 I'm sorry, captain picard, but you are not ardra. 665 00:40:52,241 --> 00:40:55,954 Well, that's true. I'm not ardra. 666 00:40:56,496 --> 00:41:00,625 But I can create tremors, just as she did. 667 00:41:00,792 --> 00:41:02,418 [Rumbling] 668 00:41:03,086 --> 00:41:04,671 Objection, your honor. 669 00:41:06,339 --> 00:41:09,342 I think he deserves some leeway. Overruled. 670 00:41:09,509 --> 00:41:11,302 But that will be quite enough, captain. 671 00:41:11,719 --> 00:41:12,971 Of course. 672 00:41:13,137 --> 00:41:15,848 Ardra, will you do the honors and stop the tremors? 673 00:41:21,145 --> 00:41:22,397 Something the matter? 674 00:41:23,106 --> 00:41:26,734 - I like the tremors. - Well, I don't. 675 00:41:28,695 --> 00:41:31,489 You recognize the same old bag of tricks? 676 00:41:32,281 --> 00:41:33,408 What about this one? 677 00:41:35,410 --> 00:41:37,662 Come back, ardra, if you can. 678 00:41:37,829 --> 00:41:41,165 No? Fine, allow me. 679 00:41:44,335 --> 00:41:48,131 - Of all the impudence. - Impudence? 680 00:41:48,297 --> 00:41:53,511 Impudence is pretending to be fek'lhr of klingon! 681 00:41:54,512 --> 00:41:56,264 Your leeway has run out, captain. 682 00:41:56,431 --> 00:41:57,640 [Growls] 683 00:41:59,183 --> 00:42:01,728 Your honor, I appreciate your indulgence. 684 00:42:01,894 --> 00:42:03,604 Allow me to explain. 685 00:42:03,771 --> 00:42:09,193 A team from the enterprise has taken control of this woman's ship, 686 00:42:09,694 --> 00:42:12,363 now in orbit around ventax ii. 687 00:42:12,739 --> 00:42:14,365 Thank you for your help, number one. 688 00:42:14,532 --> 00:42:16,367 Riker [over com]: Glad to be of service, sir. 689 00:42:16,534 --> 00:42:18,745 They've been monitoring me on my communicator. 690 00:42:18,911 --> 00:42:22,707 Executing a prearranged program on her ship's computer. 691 00:42:22,874 --> 00:42:27,045 A fairly ingenious combination of force field projection, holography, 692 00:42:27,211 --> 00:42:29,213 and transporter effects. 693 00:42:29,380 --> 00:42:35,762 Ardra controls her magic, literally, by the blink of an eye. 694 00:42:35,928 --> 00:42:37,889 Centuries-old technology. 695 00:42:38,056 --> 00:42:40,349 An implant which permits the movements of her eye 696 00:42:40,516 --> 00:42:43,936 to choose and activate each illusion. 697 00:42:44,937 --> 00:42:47,440 Ardra once told us that she is known by many names. 698 00:42:47,607 --> 00:42:50,443 Well, at least in that she was being honest. 699 00:42:50,610 --> 00:42:52,170 Her crew have admitted that she is known 700 00:42:52,236 --> 00:42:55,656 by 23 aliases in this sector alone. 701 00:42:55,823 --> 00:42:57,325 You had no right. 702 00:42:57,492 --> 00:43:00,912 Deceiving innocent people with her petty schemes for years. 703 00:43:01,079 --> 00:43:04,707 Ventax ii must have offered her the greatest opportunity 704 00:43:04,874 --> 00:43:06,334 of her nefarious career. 705 00:43:06,501 --> 00:43:08,336 She learned of the myth of ardra. 706 00:43:08,503 --> 00:43:09,754 Studied it. 707 00:43:09,921 --> 00:43:13,216 And so expertly played on your fears 708 00:43:13,382 --> 00:43:17,261 that your people were ready to virtually surrender to her. 709 00:43:19,847 --> 00:43:23,309 Your honor, under the circumstances, 710 00:43:23,476 --> 00:43:29,065 I believe it is only fair that I release the ventaxians from their obligation. 711 00:43:29,857 --> 00:43:33,111 And I will let them keep the peace they have. 712 00:43:33,277 --> 00:43:37,824 And I will just be on my way. 713 00:43:43,830 --> 00:43:47,041 With the advocate's withdrawal, the contract is hereby dissolved. 714 00:43:47,583 --> 00:43:49,877 This arbitration is adjourned. 715 00:43:50,044 --> 00:43:51,420 [Gavel bangs] 716 00:43:51,838 --> 00:43:54,966 Thank you, captain picard. You saved our lives. 717 00:43:55,133 --> 00:43:56,467 No, Jared. 718 00:43:56,634 --> 00:43:59,887 As I've tried to tell you, you saved your own lives a long time ago. 719 00:44:04,976 --> 00:44:06,978 Congratulations, sir. 720 00:44:07,145 --> 00:44:08,813 Your honor. 721 00:44:09,438 --> 00:44:10,773 Ardra: Tsk, tsk. 722 00:44:11,274 --> 00:44:14,235 You would have had a lot more fun if you'd lost. 723 00:44:14,694 --> 00:44:19,907 Till we meet again, Jean-Luc picard of the starship enterprise. 724 00:44:23,035 --> 00:44:25,746 [Ardra laughs]