It's good to be home

by jacquisup

So this is going to take place during the episodes after The First Duty and my sequel to it. I redid Journey's End a little to continue the episodes. 4/24/20

16. Chain of Command

STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION

"Chain of Command"

"Captain's Log: Stardate 46357.4 We have rendezvoused with the starship Cairo near the Cardassian border for an urgent meeting with Vice-Admiral Nechayev." Picard said.

Picard was at the Ready room just removing a cup of tea from the replicator. The door chimed.

"Come." he said.

Riker and admiral Nechayev entered and Nechayev charged into the room, her every movement emphasizing urgency.

"Admiral, may I present Captain Picard." Riker said to Nechayev.

"Welcome aboard, Admiral." Picard said.

"Thank you." she said. "That will be all, Commander." she said to Riker and he left.

"May I offer you some tea or -" Picard started warm.

"Thank you no, Captain. I'm afraid there's no time for the usual pleasantries." she said quickly. "I'm here to relieve you of command of the Enterprise."

Riker, Data, and Deanna were seated around the table at the observation lounge, listening to Admiral Nechayev as she paced about the room. Nechayev's attitude was clipped and to the point... she had no time for niceties here. Riker and the others were a little off-balance as they played catch-up in this rapidly changing situation.

"The Cardassian forces which were recently withdrawn from the Bajoran sector, have been redeployed along the Federation border. They've mobilized three divisions of ground troops... and their subspace communications have increased by fifty percent. We believe they're preparing for an incursion into Federation space." Nechayev said.

"Are the Cardassians really ready for war?" Riker asked.

"I didn't say war, Commander. I said incursion. Our intelligence reports suggest they'll try to seize one of the disputed systems along the border. We think they're gambling that the Federation won't actually go to war over one system."

"Will we?" Deanna asked.

There was an ominous minute before Nechayev answered.

"I hope we won't need to make that decision." she said. "We've decided to send the Enterprise to meet with a Cardassian representative and open talks. We're hoping that the presence of the Federation flagship on the border will send a message to their leadership about how seriously we view this situation."

"Where is Captain Picard?" Riker asked.

Necheyev gave him a very direct look.

"The Captain, your Chief Medical Officer, and Security Chief have been... reassigned." she said quickly shutting down the question. "That's all I can tell you for now."

All this was clearly unsettling to the Enterprise officers, but Necheyev simply continued.

"Do any of you know Edward Jellico?"

They glanced at each other.

"He is the commanding officer of the Cairo." Data said.

"I've heard of him. But I don't think any of us have ever -" Riker started.

"I'm giving him command of the Enterprise this afternoon." Nechayev said.

There were startled reactions from around the table.

"Captain Jellico helped to negotiate the original armistice two years ago and I believe he is the most qualified person to lead this mission." she said then looked and toned of voice leave little room for argument. "The change of command will take place at thirteen hundred hours. Thank you."

There was a minute, then everyone began to leave. Riker stopped Necheyev.

"Admiral..." Riker started and Nechayev stopped, but Riker waited until everyone else had left the room. "With all due respect... it isn't necessary to give Captain Jellico command of the Enterprise in order to conduct a negotiation."

"I disagree. The Enterprise will be in a dangerous situation and I want someone on the Bridge who has a great deal of experience with the Cardassians. No offense Commander, but that's not you." she said flatly.

Then she left, leaving a very disturbed Riker alone in the room.

Beverly and Worf were running down a dark tunnel of the holodeck caves. They were each wearing black jumpsuits, with backpacks and they're both smudged and dirty. They round a corner and stop. Worf looked back down the tunnel while Beverly quickly pulled a device out of her pack and set it on the ground. Worf fired a blast down the tunnel into the darkness as Beverly activated the unit and a forcefield flashed into effect, covering the width of the tunnel.

They both glanced down the tunnel and then turn to go... but they quickly stopped as they run into Cardassian #1, who was pointing a weapon at them both.

Beverly and Worf reacted... they've been caught.

"Freeze program." they heard Picard say.

The Cardassian froze. Worf and Beverly relaxed, but were clearly frustrated.

Picard was standing off to one side, observing them. As Beverly and Worf caught their breath, Picard moved over to the tunnel where they just emerged.

"You were at least five seconds slower this time."

"You increased the difficulty level, sir." Worf said.

"It'll be a lot more difficult where we're going."

"Which is where, exactly?" Beverly asked.

"I'm sorry, but I can't tell you that yet."

Beverly sat down on a rock.

"Captain... it would be helpful to know something about our mission." Worf said.

"Mister Worf... I have my orders. I'm sure you understand." Picard said.

Worf nodded. Picard moved to the device Beverly attached to the rock face.

"Now... this deflector isn't set properly. You have to position the emitter array so that it blocks the entire passageway or it's useless." he continued.

Beverly's irritation was starting to show frustrated.

"Sorry. I guess I was paying too much attention to getting away from that last Cardassian. Or maybe it was the phaser blasts... or the falling rocks..." she said.

Picard realized he's pushing them pretty hard and he backed off for the moment. He moved in closer to them... trying to rally his tired troops.

"I know this is difficult. But for now, all I can do is ask you to trust me." he said.

Beverly wearily looked into his eyes... and found that she had no choice but to trust him.

"All right. Let's do it again." she said and got to her feet as Picard smiled.

"Mister Worf, time Doctor Crusher and me through the first tunnel." he said. "We'll pick up those five seconds this time." he continued with a smile.

Beverly and Picard started to run back down the tunnel.

Riker was waiting near the Transporter room platform. After a minute, Captain Edward Jellico materialized. He bounded off the platform and moved quickly to Riker, his every move suggesting a boundless supply of energy and enthusiasm.

"Welcome aboard the Enterprise, sir. I'm Commander -" Riker said.

He shook Riker's hand with genuine warmth.

"William T. Riker. Class of 'fifty-seven, graduated eighth in the class. I'm looking forward to serving with you, Commander." Jellico said,

"Thank you, sir. So am I." Riker said a little taken aback.

Jellico moved toward the doors and Riker followed.

"I'm sure this change in command has taken everyone a little by surprise." Jellico said.

"Well... yes, sir."

They left to the Corridor.

Jellico and Riker entered from the Transporter Room and Jellico set a brisk pace.

"It caught me by surprise too. I must admit, I miss the Cairo already. But a Galaxy-class ship... that's something special. I can understand why you've turned down a ship of your own to remain aboard." he said.

The issue was more complex than that, but Jellico didn't seem to be interested in lengthy conversation.

"Yes, sir."

"How many duty watches does the crew stand?"

"We're on a standard three shift rotation."

Jellico didn't hesitate to take charge here and to make changes.

"I'd like to change that to four starting tonight. I'd also like to examine your duty roster and crew evaluations as soon as possible. I want readiness reports from each department head by fourteen hundred hours and a meeting of the senior staff at fifteen hundred. Do you prefer Wil or William?"

"Uh... Wil, sir."

Jellico entered a Turbolift and turned around, clearly not inviting Riker to join him.

"Where are my quarters, Wil?"

"We've assigned you to cabin seven three five. That's up on deck -"

"Deck seven." Jellico said to com. "I'll see you at thirteen hundred hours." he said to Riker.

The Turbolift doors closed, leaving Riker in the Corridor. Riker took a moment to react to the fast pace of his new Captain, then he headed off down the Corridor.

A large number of N.D. crewmember were gathered at Ten Forward along with Data, Riker, Geordi, Deanna, Worf, Wesley and Beverly,

Everyone was standing together facing the windows where a small podium had been erected. Picard was standing at the podium, with Jellico at his side. They were both wearing dress uniforms.

"Attention to orders." Riker said to the group.

Everyone snapped to attention. Picard read from a PADD on the podium.

"To Captain Jean-Luc Picard, Commanding Officer, USS Enterprise. Stardate 46358. You are hereby requested and required to relinquish command of your vessel to Captain Edward Jellico, Commanding Officer, USS Cairo as of this date. Signed, Vice-Admiral Alynna Nechayev, Starfleet Command." Picard said to the group and turned to face Jellico. "Computer, transfer all command codes to Captain Edward Jellico. Voice authorization: Picard-delta-five." he said to com.

"Transfer complete. USS Enterprise now under command of Captain Edward Jellico." computer said.

A bosun's whistle was heard.

"I relieve you, sir." Jellico said to Picard.

"I stand relieved." Picard said then shook Jellico's hand and the ceremony was over.

"Dismissed." Jellico said to the group.

People applaud and then began mixing, talking and helping themselves to food and drink.

Geordi, Riker and Wesley stood off by themselves.

"I wonder how permanent this is going to be." Geordi said to Riker and Wesley.

"I don't know... but they don't usually go through the ceremony if it's just a temporary assignment." Riker said.

"He was shocked when he found out captain made me an acting ensign at fifteen and then a full ensign at eighteen without being in the academy yet. And even more surprised he let me back on the ship after being expelled and let me be ensign Crusher again. He said that if mom hadn't worked here he would've kicked me out of it!" Wesley said.

Beverly sat down on one of the benches against the wall. She stretched a couple of sore muscles. Deanna joined her.

"Sore?" Deanna asked.

"Sore doesn't begin to describe it."

Deanna wanted to ask what she's been doing, but knew that she couldn't. Beverly saw the curiosity in her face.

"I know. I wish I could talk about it." she said.

Deanna nodded and they sat awkwardly together in silence.

"Most of the secondary systems were replaced during our last overhaul." Picard said as he and Jellico walked through the crowd. "I don't think they'll give you any problems, even ensign Crusher. But you might want to check on the port lateral -"

Jellico smiled and clapped Picard on the shoulder in a jovial way.

"I'll take care of the Enterprise, Jean-Luc. You don't have to mother me." he said.

Picard smiled, a little embarrassed. Jellico glanced around to make sure that no one was listening.

"How's your team shaping up?" Jellico said.

Picard glanced around also, and then steered them even farther away from the others.

"It's going well. But I would prefer more current intelligence on the exact lay-out of the installation. The most recent information is over two years old." he said quietly.

"Two years... I don't know how Nechayev ever talked you into this." Jellico said quiet and shocked.

"She didn't give me a choice." he said wry.

Then Jellico got an idea.

"Well, maybe there's something we can do to help you. We'll launch a class five probe just before we reach the border. You could pick up the telemetry aboard the shuttle."

"That would be extremely helpful."

Jellico smiled and then gestured for Riker to join them.

"Wil..."

Riker moved to them.

"Captain... Captain..." Riker said to both of them.

"I believe we'll be arriving at the Cardassian border during delta shift. Please inform the delta tactical officer that I want to launch a class five probe just before we drop out of warp." Jellico said.

"I actually wanted to talk to you about delta a little later, sir. Right now, gamma shift is still slated to be on duty when we arrive and I'll be sure to tell Lieutenant McDowell about the probe." Riker said.

The merest hint of a frown creased Jellico's forehead. His smile seemed to fade a little and he fastened Riker with a slightly colder eye.

"Is there a problem with delta shift, Wil?" Jellico asked.

"Well, there is no delta shift yet, sir. I spoke to the department heads about changing from three to four shifts, and it's going to create some significant personnel problems for us." Riker said.

"So you have not changed the watch rotation."

"No, sir. I wanted to talk to you about this when we had a chance so that -"

Jellico never rose his voice, but his tone became far colder and harder.

"You will tell the department heads that as of now, the Enterprise is on a four shift rotation. I don't want to talk about it. Get it done." he said Jellico said slow and firm.

Picard almost interceded at this point, but restrained himself.

"Now that means delta shift will be due to come on duty in two hours. I expect you to have it fully manned and ready when it does. Is that clear?" Jellico

There was a quiet minute as Riker noted the change in attitude from his new captain. There was a great deal of tension here, but there was only one answer Riker can give.

"Yes, sir." he said. "If you'll excuse me, sir." he continued. "Captain." he said then left.

Jellico watched him for a moment.

"He was your first officer for five years..." he said.

"And one of the finest officers I've ever served with." Picard said.

Jellico turned to him and smiled.

"Of course he is, Jean-Luc. I'm sure he'll be fine."

But Jellico's voice lacked conviction and Picard was disturbed by this sign of tension so early.

---

"Captain's Log: Stardate 46358.2 The Enterprise is on course for a rendezvous with the Cardassian ship Reklar. Fortunately, I still have time to prepare the ship and crew for the task ahead." Jellico said.

Jellico was on the main bridge standing at the Tactical station with Riker and Data. There was one N.D. crewmember at an aft station and another standing by to take over Tactical.

"I want you to install a bypass between the main phaser array and the secondary generators." he said to Riker. "I also want to run the main deflector pathway through the warp power grid and the auxiliary conduits through the lateral relays. You may have to reconfigure the transfer interface." he said and tapped something on panel.

"The transfer interface is not designed for that configuration. It will take seven hours to make the changes." Data said.

"Sir... you may not be aware that our normal interface already routes auxiliary power through three separate relays." Riker said.

"I'm aware of your current systems design. It's not good enough. If these negotiations fail, we could find ourselves in a war zone. If that happens I want to be loaded for bear." Jellico blunted out.

"I'll get right on it, sir."

Jellico smiled.

"Good."

Then he briskly moved to another science station with Riker.

"These stations should be devoted to damage-control and weapons status from now on. See that they're manned on every shift."

"Aye, sir."

"Mister Data, how long until we reach the rendezvous point?"

"We will arrive in fifty-two hours, thirty-one minutes, sir." Data said.

Jellico started heading for the Turbolift.

"Schedule four battle drills, one for each shift. Run a series of simulated attacks from a Cardassian squadron. I want you to conduct the exercises personally, Wil. Get it done." he said to Riker then suddenly stopped before entering the Turbolift. "And... get that fish out of the Ready Room." he remembered. "Data, you're with me." he said to Data.

Then they left to the Turbolift, leaving a frustrated Riker on the Bridge.

Jellico and Geordi were in the tube. Jellico was opening a Mees panel and looking inside.

"I understand you served on the Victory." Jellico said.

"Yes, sir." Geordi said.

"I want you to increase the flow to the deuterium fuel loader by a third... we may need the extra capacity." Jellico said off Panel.

Geordi noted Jellico's instruction on his PADD as Jellico replaced the panel.

"Captain Zimbata and I used to play rugby together at the Academy."

"Really?" Geordi said.

"Yeah. He was awful." he said. "But I was worse." he continued and cocked his head to the side, listening for a moment. "Check the EPS power distributor, it sounds like you've got some kind of fluctuation."

"I don't hear anything." he said and Jellico looked back at him. "I'll check it, sir.

They crawl out of the horizontal tube and then headed up the ladder.

Jellico entered the engineering by climbing up through the Jeffries Tube, with Geordi close behind. Jellico was moving quickly and efficiently while Geordi struggled to make notes on his PADD and answer Jellico's questions. Data and Wesley were also here.

"The power transfer levels will need to be upgraded by twenty percent. The efficiency of your warp coils is also unsatisfactory."

"The coil efficiency is well within specifications, Captain." Wesley said.

Jellico moved to the pool table and began looking at the monitors.

"I'm not interested in the specs, Geordi. The efficiency needs to be at least fifteen percent higher."

"Fifteen percent?" Geordi and Wesley said together shocked.

"That is an attainable goal. But it will require realigning the warp coil and taking the secondary distribution grid off-line." Data said.

"Very good, Data." Jellico said. "That's exactly what I want you to do." he said to Geordi and Wesley.

"Taking that grid off-line will shut down the astrophysics lab, exobiology, geological research -" Geordi said.

"We're not on a research mission. Get it done in two days." Jellico continued then looked at Wesley. "And I'm still shocked you were allowed as an ensign. And if you don't do good, even though your mother is here I'm still kicking you off."

Geordi and Wesley were too shocked and in Wesley's case both shocked and hurt to say anything at the moment so Data offered what he thought was helpful advice.

"I believe that is also an attainable goal. If we utilize the entire Engineering department, there should be sufficient manpower available to complete the task." he said.

"Sure, if they work around the clock for the next two days." Geordi said.

"Then you better get to it, Geordi, ensign. It looks like you have some work ahead of you. Even with the kid to help."

"Yes, sir." Geordi said tight.

Wesley was a little to hurt to say anything right this second.

"Data." Jellico said and left, with Data in tow.

Geordi looked at Wesley and saw him looking hurt and angry at the same time.

"Don't worry Wes, it's going to be fine. I'm sure captain Picard won't let this happen." he said with a hand on Wesley's shoulder. "You're part of this family, and he doesn't know your talents and how many times you've saved us."

Wesley nodded and they got to work.

'Maybe I should see councilor Troi later.' he thought.

Jellico was standing near the ready room door, holding Picard's book of Shakespeare and looking through the pages. An intricate wood carving is sitting on the pedestal where the book normally sits. In the b.g., the fish tank was gone as well as the model of the Stargazer.

The door chimed.

"Yes?"

The doors opened, revealing Deanna.

"May I speak with you, Captain?" she asked.

He smiled

"Deanna... come in, come in."

Deanna entered as Jellico set the book down on the couch and moved to the desk. She looked down at a stack of crayon drawings sitting on the desk. Jellico noticed her gaze.

"The latest masterpieces from my son." he said and picked up a drawing. "It's an elephant." he said and picked up a drawing. "I think." he said while he turned the drawing.

Deanna looked at it.

"Definitely an elephant." she said.

"I'm glad you're here. I'd like to go over the duty roster with you." he said back to business.

"I'd be happy to." she said. "But first, I'd like to talk about the way the change in command is affecting the crew."

He nodded.

"I've noticed some resistance."

"I wouldn't call it resistance. More like... uncertainty. Most of them have served under Captain Picard for several years. They knew him, knew what he expected. Now they're being asked to adjust to a new captain and a new way of doing things. They're uncertain how to react."

"I see your point. This all could be very unsettling to them..."

"And to you. Perhaps everyone just needs some time... time for you to get to know and trust the crew... and time for them to understand how you want things done."

Jellico nodded thoughtfully and thought for a few seconds.

"I'm glad you brought this to my attention, Deanna." he said. "Unfortunately, I don't have time for a honeymoon with the crew." he continued. "You've clearly given this a lot of thought, so I want you to take charge of the morale situation. Please see to it that they make the adjustment to the new routine quickly and easily."

That's not quite what she had in mind, but Jellico didn't give her much of a chance to disagree with him. He glanced at the computer terminal.

"I have a meeting with the new Security Chief in five minutes, so the duty roster will have to wait. Thank you, Counselor."

Then he turned to his computer, but it took a moment for Deanna to realize that she's just been dismissed. She stood and headed for the door.

"Oh, by the way..."Jellico said and she stopped. "I prefer a certain... formality on the Bridge." he continued. "I would appreciate it if you wore a standard uniform when you're on duty." he said with a smile.

Deanna stiffened a little... but Jellico said it with only a hint of reproach.

"Of course, sir."

Jellico nodded, satisfied and Deanna left after a second.

Riker, Geordi and Wesley were on the move. Geordi was irritated and Wesley was a mixture of still hurt and aggravated.

"Commander, he's asking us to completely reroute half the power systems on the ship, change every duty roster, realign the warp coils in two days, and now he's transferred a third of my department to Security." Geordi said frustrated.

"If it makes you feel any better, you're not alone. Captain Jellico is making major changes in every department on the ship." Riker said.

"We don't mind making changes and we don't mind hard work. But he's not giving us the time to do the work. Someone's got to make him listen to reason." Wesley said. "And he wanted to get me off the bridge and the engineering! If Geordi and mom hadn't told him what I've done over the years I'd be gone already!" he continued still hurt.

"He's not going to listen to me. I think he's made that abundantly clear." Riker said. "And if he kicked you off the Enterprise we'd be screwed! You're a smart kid, a member of the family and have saved us multiple times over the years. He should be thankful you agreed to stay with us after that happened a few months ago."

That got Wesley to cheer up a little.

And Geordi stopped Riker.

"Then can I make a suggestion? Talk to Captain Picard. Maybe he can do something." he said. "And he's right, we would be screwed. And I miss not being the only person that enjoys engineering so much."

Wesley smiled at that and made him feel even better. Not fully but good enough for now.

Riker considered for a moment but wasn't sure.

"We just need a little time, Commander, that's all." Wesley said. "I may be back, but even I need some time."

"All right." he said then left to the Turbolift and Geordi and Wesley headed off down the Corridor.

Picard entered his quarters. He was wearing the black jumpsuit and backpack, but now he's splattered with mud, and he looked exhausted. He wearily took off the backpack and collapsed into a chair with an audible sigh of relief. He closed his eyes for second, and then the door chimed. He managed to sit up.

"Come." he said and the doors opened and Riker entered.

Riker noticed the look of utter exhaustion on Picard's face and his disheveled state.

"Are you all right, sir?" Riker asked.

"Oh, yes." Picard said and smiled. "The last time I had to train like this was for the Academy marathon, but I'm managing."

With effort, Picard stood - not wanting to be seen as weak or tired, but he's almost asleep on his feet.

"What can I do for you?" he asked.

Riker looked into the exhausted face of his former Captain and suddenly decided not to burden him with his own problems right now.

"It's... nothing urgent. I'm sorry to bother you. Good night, sir."

Riker left and Picard looked puzzled.

Later Jellico and Picard were seated at the ready room desk looking over some PADDS. Picard was back in his normal uniform and seemed much fresher.

"My orders are to maintain radio silence until we've completed the mission." Picard said.

"Well... the Enterprise will be monitoring your channel just in case you do need to transmit a signal." Jellico said.

"Bridge to Captain Jellico. We've arrived at the shuttle departure coordinates." Riker said on com.

"Did you launch the probe I requested?" Jellico said to com.

"Yes, sir. I wasn't aware that you wanted to be informed..."

"Thank you. Jellico out." he said. "I can see why he's still only a first officer." he said to himself.

Picard was clearly troubled by something. Jellico picked up on it.

"Something wrong?" he asked.

There was a minute as Picard considered how to phrase this.

"Captain... I just want you to know that Commander Riker is-"

"I've read your reports, Jean-Luc. I know you think highly of him."

"It's not simply my opinion. He's been decorated five times by Starfleet Command and offered his own ship on more than one occasion. I think if you give him a chance, you'll find he's an outstanding officer."

Jellico considered him for a second, then leaned forward.

"Jean-Luc... let's be candid for a moment. The Cardassians aren't going to listen to reason, and the Federation won't give in to their demands. And the odds are, you won't be coming back from this mission of yours." he said. "I want this ship ready for action. I don't have time to give Wil Riker or anyone else a "chance." And... forgive me for being blunt, but the Enterprise is mine now."

There was a long, tense minute between the two men. Jellico finally stood and tried to ease the tension with a smile.

"Well... here's hoping you beat the odds." he said and smiled. "Good hunting." he said shaking hands.

"Thank you." Picard said and headed for the door, but Jellico stopped him.

"Jean-Luc..." he said and Picard turned. "I believe this is yours."

Jellico handed him the book of Shakespeare. Picard took it... they exchanged a final look... and then Picard left.

Jellico settled into the chair that was now his alone and picked up one of the drawings from his son.

---

Picard, Beverly, and Worf were seated in the shuttle. Worf was piloting. Behind them can be seen packs.

"Shuttlecraft Feynman to Enterprise. We have cleared the shuttlebay." Worf said to com.

"Acknowledged, Feynman. Good luck." Riker said on com.

"Thank you, Enterprise." Picard said to com.

Picard turned to the others.

"Now that we're on our way... I can finally tell you about our mission." he said.

Beverly and Worf exchanged looks. They've been waiting for this.

"Starfleet Intelligence believes the Cardassians are developing... metagenic weapons." he continued.

"Oh my God." Beverly said quietly grim.

"I am not familiar with... metagenics." Worf said.

"They're genetically engineered viruses which are designed to destroy entire eco-systems. The metagenic toxins are released into the atmosphere of a planet and immediately begin mutating. They seek out and destroy every form of DNA they encounter." she said. "In a few days, everything is dead."

"Within a month, the metagenic agent itself breaks down and dissipates completely... leaving every city, road, and piece of equipment perfectly intact." Picard said.

"Leaving the planet safe to be conquered." Worf said. "Wouldn't using such a weapon pose as great a risk to the attacker as it does to the target?"

"That's why metagenics and other biological weapons were outlawed years ago. Even the Romulans abide by those agreements." Beverly said.

"Starfleet Intelligence believes that the Cardassians are developing a new delivery system - one which would protect them from any accidental exposure to the toxin." Picard said. "They believe the Cardassians are testing a way of launching dormant metagenic material on a subspace carrier wave."

"So they could activate the toxin after launch... that would protect them from accidental exposure."

Picard nodded.

"And because the subspace wave would appear to be simple background radiation... no one would realize what was happening until it was too late." he said then picked up a PADD and handed it to Worf and Beverly, who examined it. "For several weeks, bursts of theta band subspace emissions have been detected coming from Celtris Three. Those emissions may indicate a metagenic delivery system in operation."

"What do we know about Celtris Three?" Worf asked.

"Very little. It was thought to be uninhabited until these emissions were detected. Starfleet believes there is a secret research lab located somewhere beneath the surface." he said. "Our orders are to penetrate the Celtris Three installation and determine whether or not the Cardassians are actually building a metagenic weapon."

"And if they are?"

"Then we destroy it. At all costs."

A long minute passed as he let that sink in.

"When I was on the Stargazer, we conducted extensive tests using theta-band carrier waves. One of the reasons I was selected for this mission is my familiarity with the methods used to generate them. Mister Worf, you're along for obvious reasons. Doctor, your job will be to locate and destroy any bio-toxins we find."

"Celtris Three is in Cardassian space. How will we get there undetected?" Worf said.

"I know where we can arrange some... discreet transportation." Picard said. "Set course for Torman Five."

Worf turned to work at the console.

A small hole-in-the-wall in Torman bar. There were a few N.D. aliens hanging out doing deals or drinking themselves into oblivion. Picard, Beverly, and Worf entered and looked around. They were all wearing civilian jackets over their jumpsuits.

A Ferengi Daimon - Solok - was in deep conversation with a N.D. alien at a table. Solok was very disreputable looking - even for a Ferengi. His clothes were rumpled and dirty... not a very successful Daimon in terms of money.

"... if he doesn't pay up, I know three large Ferengi who will not be so forgiving." Solok said to Alien.

Picard, Worf, and Beverly moved to the table. Solok's eyes widen and the Alien made a hasty exit. Solok sensed trouble here.

"I didn't do it." he said.

"We're not accusing you of anything." Picard said.

"Then what do you want?"

"We're looking for Daimon Solok."

"Why?" Solok said suspicious.

"I have a... business proposition to discuss."

Solok looked at them, getting more suspicious by the moment.

"Solok is a very busy - a very important man. He isn't here." he said.

Then he stood to go, but Worf put a firm hand on his shoulder. Solok looked up at Worf's face and decided to stay.

"But I could... relay a message." Solok said and sat down again.

"Good. Please tell... Daimon Solok that we're interested in arranging some transportation... to Celtris Three." Picard said.

Solok reacted to the name.

"That's a Cardassian planet." he said.

"Yes. I understand that Solok runs... "cargo" there from time to time."

"Solok is no smuggler." Solok said proudly.

A nearby Bajoran snickered at that statement.

"What are you laughing at? Get out of here." Solok said outraged.

The Bajoran leaves.

"Well, if Solok were going to Celtris for what I'm sure are... legitimate reasons... we would be interested in quietly booking passage for the journey." Picard said.

Solok considered them for a moment... finally decided against it.

"I don't think he would be interested in dealing with Federation spies." he said.

Then he turned to go again, but now Beverly reached out and stopped him. She gave him a winning smile and seductive look.

"You know... I've heard that Solok is... quite a man..." Beverly said seductive.

He stopped cold and looked her up and down. His attitude started to change.

"Why, yes... he is... an extraordinary man."

"That's why we came here... because only Solok could help us... but I guess there are some things even Solok can't do." Beverly said then moved a little closer to him then ran a hand over his large ears. "It's too bad... if he had been able to help, I would've been very... very..." she said softly then trailed off." she continued softly.

"Yes?" he said eager.

"Grateful." she whispered in his ear.

She moved away and sighed. Solok's hormones nearly exploded through his ears. He never took his eyes off Beverly.

"When do you want to leave?" he said to Picard.

Picard exchanged looks with the others.

"First Officer's Log: Supplemental. We have rendezvoused with the Cardassian ship Reklar to begin diplomatic talks designed to ease tensions along the border." Riker said.

Jellico, Deanna, and Data were at the main bridge at their stations and Riker entered from the Observation Lounge.

"Gul Lemec has arrived. He's waiting for you in the Observation Lounge." Riker said.

"Very good." Picard said. "I'll be in my Ready Room."

Jellico left to the Ready Room. Riker and Deanna exchanged puzzled looks.

Jellico was now at the ready room sitting at his desk. Then there was a chime.

"Yes?" he said.

Deanna entered and Jellico looked at her expectantly.

"Captain... I think there's been a slight miscommunication." Deanna said. "Did you want to meet with Gul Lemec in here?"

"No. The Observation Lounge is appropriate."

Deanna was puzzled.

"I see..." she said.

There was a quiet minute before Jellico decided to explain.

"Lemec is a Cardassian... and Cardassians are like... timber wolves - predators... bold in large numbers... cautious by themselves... and with an instinctive need to establish a dominant position in any social gathering."

"You're trying to establish a dominant role for yourself by making him wait for you." she said and Jellico nodded.

"I see." she said. "The trouble with wolves is that sometimes the fight for dominance ends with one of them dead."

Jellico smiled at her.

"In that case the trick is... to be the wolf that's still standing at the end." he said.

The cavern was dark and moody, with dimly-seen forms and shadows. There were also intermittent sounds which suggested there were living creatures scuttling about somewhere in the gloom.

Picard, Beverly, and Worf entered from the exterior of the cave. They were wearing the dark jumpsuits seen earlier and carrying their backpacks. Beverly had a tricorder out and Worf was holding a phaser.

"Be certain your tricorder makes a precise map of our route. It will be easy to get lost in here." Picard said to Worf.

"Aye, sir." Worf said and holstered his phaser then made an adjustment to his tricorder.

"I'm picking up some type of subspace signals, but I can't get a lock on them." Beverly said off tricorder.

Picard moved to look at the tricorder and she handed it to him.

"That's characteristic of theta band emissions. You need to compress the detection band-width to get a directional fix." he said and worked the tricorder for a moment. "The emission source is five hundred meters east of here... and about seven hundred meters below."

Then he started to lead the way when suddenly a screeching sound was heard. Worf and Beverly froze and Worf pointed his phaser up at the unseen ceiling.

"It's all right." he said. "They're called lynars... a kind of Celtran bat. They're harmless."

Worf didn't like the sound of that.

"Bats..." he said looking up.

"You're not afraid of bats, are you, Worf?" Beverly asked.

"Of course not.

Beverly smiled to herself as Picard lead them on. Worf couldn't help glancing up at the ceiling again.

They rounded a corner at the cavers precipice and came to a stop. The floor dropped off directly in front of them. Picard moved cautiously to the edge and looked over.

A yawning chasm opened up below the precipice. There were distant walls and shapes dimly seen down the abyss, but the bottom was far out of sight.

Picard leaned back as Beverly pointed her tricorder over the edge.

"The bottom's a little over five hundred meters." she said.

Picard looked to either side of them.

"There doesn't appear to be any other way down." he said while he examined the rock face more closely. "This is sheer granite. We'll have to use fusing pitons."

Then he took off his backpack and began removing rope and 24th century pitons. Beverly looked over the edge with some trepidation.

"We could try to find another way down."

"Unfortunately, that could take several hours."

They all took off their backpacks and began removing ropes, rappelling harnesses and pitons.

Picard removed a piton from the pack and placed it against the ground. He touched a control and then there was a whoosh sound.

Picard pulled experimentally on the piton... it's definitely set into the rock.

As Beverly and Worf put on their harnesses, Beverly couldn't help glancing nervously over the edge. Worf noticed.

"You're not afraid of heights, are you, Doctor?" he asked quietly.

She threw him a look... and then couldn't help but smile.

"Of course not." she said.

Picard now attached a line to the piton, clipped the line into his harness and then tossed the coil of rope over the edge. Worf and Beverly secured their own pitons and caught their own ropes.

"Now, remember to control your descent... and don't tangle the lines." Picard said over above action.

"Don't tangle the lines... I'll remember." Beverly said.

They all put their backpacks back on. Picard tested his weight on the line... it's firm.

"Ready?"

They nodded. Picard backed carefully to the edge... and then eased himself backward and down the rock face.

---

Gul Lemec was at the observation lounge sitting at the table, quietly furious. After a few minutes, Jellico, Riker, and Deanna entered. Lemec stood up in anger, but Jellico strided into the room and began to take charge of the situation.

"What is going on? I have been waiting here for -" Lemec said angerly.

"I'm Captain Jellico. I believe you know Commander Riker, and this is Lieutenant Commander Troi. Let's get to it, shall we?" Jellico said brisk.

Jellico, Riker, and Deanna moved toward the table, but Lemec wasn't willing to just let this go. He blocked Jellico's path.

"This treatment is a deliberate insult to the Cardassian Union. I have been kept waiting here for over an hour." he said.

"Then I'm sure you're ready to talk." Jellico said.

Jellico then brushed past him and deliberately sat down in the chair that Lemec just vacated. Riker and Deanna moved to sit on either side of him. Lemec was forced to walk around the table to the other side to find a chair, but he didn't sit down yet.

"I did not agree to admitting others to this meeting." he said to Jellico.

"If it alarms you, I can ask them to leave."

"I am not alarmed. But we did not -"

"A great many people are depending on our efforts here, Gul Lemec. We don't need to quibble over minutiae."

"I have come to negotiate terms for a Federation withdrawal from the border, not to be dictated to by some mere captain." Lemec said hard.

Jellico was on his feet instantly. His eyes flashing and his physical stance suggested imminent violence, but he kept his voice low as if through strenuous effort.

"I can see you're not serious about these talks. If the Cardassian Union truly wishes to discuss peace they can send someone who can negotiate in a civilized manner." he said hard.

He indicated that Riker and Deanna should follow him and then he stormed out. This has all happened so quickly, that Lemec's only reaction was shock.

Jellico, Riker and Deanna emerged from the Observation Lounge to the main bridge. Data was at Ops.

"Captain on the Bridge." Data said.

Jellico turned to Riker and Deanna. He had now dropped all pretense at anger.

"Let him stew for a few minutes. Then go in and tell him you've convinced me to meet with him one more time. Tell him I'm a loose cannon... that he needs to be more reasonable because I'm such an unreasonable man." Jellico said to Deanna. "Lemec will want to bring his own aides on board. Pretend to be worried that I'll object, but then give grudging permission for two aides, no more." he said to Riker. "Understood?" he asked them both.

"Yes, sir." Deanna said.

"Aye, sir." Riker said.

Jellico left to the Ready Room. Deanna and Riker exchanged glances.

"Well, I'll say this for him... he's very sure of himself." Riker said.

"No... he's not." Deanna said quietly.

Back at the Caverns cave bottom Picard and Worf were standing at the bottom of the abyss. Beverly was still on the rope, taking the last few steps down the rock face. She jumped to the bottom and Worf helped her unhook the line from her harness. Picard scanned the area with a tricorder.

"The installation should be about... three hundred meters..." he said. "This way." he said pointing down one of the tunnels.

Picard picked up his backpack. Beverly looked back up at the towering rock face.

"I don't suppose we're going to find another way to get back up there..." she said.

"Doubtful." Worf said.

"That's what I thought."

Worf handed Beverly her pack and they both followed Picard down a tunnel.

Picard, Worf, and Beverly came around a corner into another section of the caverns where there was a dead end. There was a small hole, about one foot in diameter in the wall which was directly in front of them. Picard tracked his tricorder readings to the hole.

"We need to get through here. This lava tube runs southwest for seventy meters before running into another chamber." he said. "The tube opens up a little more beyond this entrance. If we can widen the opening, we should be able to crawl through." he said looking inside.

Worf moved to the entrance and examined it.

"A phaser set to level sixteen should suffice." he said.

"Make it so." Picard said.

As Worf pulled out his phaser and adjusted the setting. He pointed it at the entrance and then fired. The phaser was set on a wide beam which enveloped the entire entrance. When Worf stopped firing, it was revealed that the phaser had widened the entrance to the lava tube by about two feet.

Picard moved to the entrance and peered inside.

"Very good, Mister Worf." he said.

Then he removed his pack and put it in the tube ahead of him. He climbed in and then began crawling through the tube.

Gul Lemec was at the observation sitting in his chair, flanked by Glin Corak and Glin Tajor, his aides. Jellico, Riker, and Deanna entered. The Cardassians stand. Jellico acted as though the previous confrontation with Lemec never happened.

"Gul Lemec, a pleasure." Jellico said while he shook his hand.

"May I present my aides, Glin Corak and Glin Tajor." Lemec said.

"Welcome aboard."

Everyone waited until Jellico sat down and then they followed suit.

Lemec was much less confrontational than earlier. Jellico's strategy was working.

Jellico looked over a PADD for a moment and everyone again waited for him to set the pace. He paused for a moment, then plunged ahead - his attitude was extremely belligerent.

"For the past three weeks you've been massing troops in staging areas, assembling strike forces, and pulling ships from their normal patrols. We will not stand for this clearly provocative behavior." he said blunt.

"I see the Federation spy network has again provided you with faulty information. We are conducting routine training operations... nothing more." Lemec said cool.

"Then I'm sure you won't mind if we send a few starships into this sector for our own... training operations." Jellico said contemptuous.

"Your fleet deployments do not concern us. However, we are very concerned about your refusal to vacate those territories along the border, which are clearly Cardassian."

Jellico jumped to his feet and pounded the table.

"You gave up your claims on those territories when you signed the armistice. You couldn't take those worlds by force, so now you want us to give them to you at the bargaining table." he said angry.

Deanna reached out and pretended to calm him.

"Captain, please... we should listen to them." she said.

Jellico seemed to swallow his anger for a moment. Finally, with a great show of effort, he managed to sit down again. Riker, playing the part of the "reasonable" officer tried to sound conciliatory.

"Gul Lemec, I'm sure you know that those systems are still subject to negotiation by the terms of the treaty." Riker said.

"Negotiations which we have pursued in good faith. Unfortunately, the Federation has not been as forthcoming." Lemec said.

"So to speed up the process, you're preparing for war." Jellico said.

"We are preparing to defend ourselves."

"The Federation won't start a war." Riker said.

Lemec paused for a moment... then he got up and moved about the room. Clearly, he knew something.

"That has always been your position. However... I have heard reports that a small team from the Federation has already been sent into our territory..." he said.

Jellico, Riker, and Deanna kept their faces impassive... trying not to give anything away. Lemec went on after a minute.

"Of course, I don't believe this... such an attempt would almost certainly fail... and even if it succeeded, it would trigger a... very serious response on our part." he continued.

Jellico took a moment before responding. The tables had just turned here... Jellico was now following Lemec's lead.

"I don't know what you're talking about." he said.

Lemec smiled.

"Then there's no need for worry." he said.

A silent minute as the two men considered each other.

"A short recess would seem to be in order." he continued.

"Very well."

Jellico, Riker and Deanna stood to go... but Lemec stopped them with a question.

"Where is Captain Picard?" he asked quiet and casual.

Jellico turned and faced him with a neutral expression.

"Reassigned." he said.

"Ah." Lemec said. "Well, I hope his new assignment is not too dangerous... it would be a shame if something happened to such a... noted officer."

Jellico met his eyes and there was a long moment between the two of them.

"Yes... it would."

Jellico turned and left with Deanna and Riker.

Picard was crawling though the dark lava tube at the caverns. Worf and Beverly were following him single file.

"Just a few more meters..." Picard said to the others.

Picard kept crawling... then came to a narrow opening that lead into another chamber. He had to push aside some dirt and rocks, before he could scramble out of the tube and into the chamber, which was large enough for him to stand in.

Worf was still moving though the tube. He got to the end and began to crawl out.

Beverly was struggling over some rocks and dirt behind Worf. There was a sudden rumbling sound and she froze.

Picard and Worf heard the sound.

"Beverly, get out of there!" he said urgently.

She began to hurry toward the entrance, but it was too late. The tube caved in on top of her.

The rumbling sound stopped and dirt was blown out of the tube.

"Beverly!" Picard said.

"Doctor Crusher!" Worf said.

Silence. Picard moved to go back in after Beverly, but Worf stopped him.

"No, sir." Worf said then dove into the tube, leaving a worried Picard behind.

inside the tube, reached the point of the cave-in Worf began to dig frantically.

Picard waited anxiously at the entrance to the tube.

"I have her." Worf said.

Picard leaned inside the tube and then re-emerged with Worf's legs. He struggled to pull the Klingon from the tube, but finally Worf's torso emerged. They both then managed to pull out Beverly, was covered with dirt and was scratched up. She coughed and choked for a moment.

"Are you all right?" Picard asked.

"I think so." Beverly said coughing. "Next time, you bring up the rear."

Picard smiled at her, then picked up the tricorder.

"We're nearly there. Do you feel like you can continue?"

Beverly nodded. Picard lead them down another passageway.

Picard, Beverly and Worf came around a corner of the installation entrance and saw a mettle hatch set into the wall. There was no other sign of an installation here except for the bare metal door. They waited behind some rocks for a moment.

"This looks like a maintenance hatch to the installation." Picard said off tricorder sotto. "I'm picking up three proximity sensors around it."

Picard looked to Worf, who pulled a device about the size and shape of a flashlight out of his pack. Worf adjusted one of the controls and then set the handle into the ground so that it was standing up. Once it was in place, he touched another control and three beams came out of the device and headed towards three different points around the periphery of the door. As soon as they touched the rock, the beams disappeared.

Worf checked a reading on the side of the device.

"The sensor echo has been established. The false image will only last a few minutes." he said.

They pulled their phasers and quickly moved to the door. Worf examined the door.

"The hatch is magnetically sealed. But I believe I can bypass it." he said.

Picard nodded and Worf pulled another device from his pack. He attached it to the door and began to operate the controls.

"I can't scan the other side of the hatch... it's been shielded." Beverly said off tricorder.

"We have no choice." Picard said. "Remember: aim low and fire in short, controlled bursts." he said quietly to Beverly.

She nodded understanding and took a firmer grip on her phaser. Worf finally finished working on the hatch.

"Ready." he said.

They all moved to defensive positions just outside the door.

"Now." Picard said to Worf.

Worf activated the device and the hatch opened. The three of them rushed inside with phasers drawn.

They all rushed inside the large chamber and found nothing. There was no Cardassian installation... just a large empty chamber in the caverns. The only thing in sight was a small console sitting in the middle of the chamber which was quietly beeping.

Picard, Worf, and Beverly all came to a sudden halt as they saw there was nothing here.

---

Picard, Beverly, and Worf were reacting to the empty room.

"It's a trap. Come on." Picard said realizing quckly.

But as he turned to head back for the door, all hell suddenly broke loose in the chamber.

Everything happened quickly.

Worf and Beverly reacted as two armed Cardassians came at them from behind. Worf threw himself at one and Beverly shot the other.

The hatch began to close behind them.

Picard dove for cover as two more Cardassian began to fire from hidden points in the shadows. Picard returned fire, but then had to physically fight off a third Cardassian who rushed him.

Worf dropped his phaser and dove into the closing hatch and managed to force it open by wedging himself in it. Beverly fired a couple of blasts which took out two Cardassians.

Picard was fighting off the Cardassian with a quick series of karate moves.

Cardassians began to pour out of yet another point in the chamber.

Worf could barely hold open the hatch as Beverly scrambled through it. Worf yelled for Picard.

"Captain!" he yelled.

But before Picard could do anything, Worf was wounded by a disrupter blast and he was knocked out of the hatch and into the outer chamber.

Picard turned to make a dash for the door... but it was too late. The hatch closed shut, trapping him inside. He turned around and dropped his phaser as the Cardassians closed in on him.

Worf and Beverly had just emerged from the Large Chamber. The door was shut.

"The Captain..." Worf started.

Beverly shook her head no, then whipped out her tricorder.

"There are five more heading this way from another tunnel. Come on." she said off tricorder.

She headed off back toward the way they came. Worf glanced once more at the closed hatch, then he followed her.

Picard put his hands on his head as an armed Cardassian took his pack and combadge from him as well as his weapon.

One of the Cardassians went over to the flashing console and deactivated it. The flashing and beeping stopped. The Cardassian smiled insidiously at Picard, and then lead him away.

At the main bridge Riker was looking at a monitor at the aft science station as Jellico entered from the Ready Room.

"Captain on the Bridge." Data said.

"What do you have, Wil?" Jellico said to Riker.

"I'm not sure. We're picking up a lot of coded messages from a Cardassian planet near the border." Riker said indicating monitor.

"Which planet?"

"Celtris Three."

There was a minute as Jellico though.

"Can you detect any theta-band subspace emissions coming from Celtris?" Jellico asked.

Riker worked for a moment.

"There're some residual traces... it looks like there were emissions up until a few minutes ago." he said.

A long moment as Jellico looked at the monitors. He didn't want to give anything away.

"Open a secure channel to Admiral Nechayev. Priority two. Put it through to my Ready Room." Jellico said.

"Aye, sir."

Jellico left to the Ready Room and Riker looked after him with a puzzled expression.

At the ready room Jellico moved to his desk and activated the terminal. After a moment, the Starfleet logo was replaced by the image of Admiral Nechayev.

"Captain?" Nechayev said.

"Those emissions you were so concerned about... have just stopped." Jellico said. "I'd say that one way or the other, our friends have finished their task."

There was a minute as Nechayev took note of this.

"Have you heard from our friends?" she asked.

"No."

"Let me know if you do. I'd very much like to see them again."

"So would I, Admiral."

The transmission ended.

Jellico's contemplated the fate of Picard and the others.

The interrogation room was very large with a huge entry door. There were few furnishings except for the center of the room where there was a large desk. Although not immediately apparent, the desk had many hidden panels and drawers. Next to the desk was the interview chair, an ominous looking piece of furniture with the ability to manacle the subject's wrists and ankles.

Picard was pushed into the room by a Cardassian. The door shut behind him. He looked around for a moment... then a voice was heard coming out of the darkness.

"A challenge." Madred said while he stepped out of the shadows and moved toward the table. "You should prove to be an interesting challenge. Possibly the most interesting to come through that door in many years."

"What do you want?" Picard asked.

"Why... you, of course." Madred said. "Picard. Jean-Luc. Serial number SP dash nine three seven dash two one five. Son of Maurice and Yvette Picard, born in La Barre, France. Former Captain of the Stargazer... where you conducted extensive studies on theta-band subspace carrier waves.

Picard was shocked at this level of knowledge and what it implies.

"Don't look so surprised. How could we have designed a lure for the Captain of the Federation flagship unless we knew something about his background." Madred continued.

Picard recovered quickly and his features hardened.

"All right... so you concocted an elaborate ruse to bring me here. Why?" he said.

Madred's expression hardened.

"In this room, you do not ask questions. I ask them, and you answer. And if I'm not satisfied with those answers... you will die."

Picard was in the interrogation room in a chair. A Cardassian med tech checked a PADD which increased or decreased the amount of neural chemicals administered. Gul Madred sat behind his desk, checking his PADD during Picard's responses.

Picard looked straight ahead and spoke with a stream of consciousness detachment. He was clearly under the influence of a chemical substance.

"Place of birth?" Madred said.

"La Barre, France..."

"Mother's name?"

"Yvette Gessard..."

Madred glanced over at the Medical Officer.

He's ready. Keep the serum at that level." he said.

The Officer nodded, and Madred turned back to Picard.

"What is your current assignment?" he asked.

"Special operations on Celtris Three." Picard said.

"Your mission on Celtris Three?"

"To seek and destroy a metagenic weapon."

"How many others were part of this mission?"

"Two."

"Their names and rank?"

"Chief Medical Officer Beverly Crusher. Lieutenant Worf."

Gul Madred entered that information into his PADD.

"What are the Federation's defense plans for Minos Korva?" he asked.

"I don't know."

Gul Madred moved close to Picard studying his face. He was uncertain whether Picard really didn't know, or if he was able to hold something back.

"Increase the level slightly... to point three one." Madred said while the Med Tech increased the dosage with a hypospray. "Let's begin again, shall we? Name?"

"Picard, Jean-Luc."

"Place of birth?"

"La Barre, France..."

"Captain's Log: Stardate 46360.8 The negotiations with the Cardassians have made little progress. Gul Lemec continues to insist on a complete Federation withdrawal from the border and I continue to refuse. I believe a military confrontation may be unavoidable." Jellico said.

Jellico, Riker, and Deanna were at the observation lounge seated at the table, wearily listening to Gul Lemec, who is pacing the room and droning on and on. Glin Corak and Glin Tajar were also seated.

"Gul Lemec, I assure you that what the Federation wants, above all, is the preservation of peace." Jellico said.

"Ah... peace. Of course. Then how do you explain the fact that a Federation team launched an unprovoked attack on Cardassian territory less than fourteen hours ago?" Lemec

Riker and Deanna looked surprised. Jellico kept his expression neutral.

"I don't know what you're talking about." he continued.

"Then let me explain. Captain Jean-Luc Picard, Lieutenant Worf, and Doctor Beverly Crusher landed on Celtris Three, attacked one of our outposts in a brutal assault, and killed over fifty-five men, women and children." Lemec said.

Jellico took a minute before responding.

"What evidence do you have of that?" he asked.

"We have all the evidence we need... we have Captain Picard."

"Is he alive?" Riker asked.

Lemec let that hang in the air for a moment, then pointedly didn't answer the question.

"The Cardassian Union has not yet decided how to respond to this latest provocation." Lemec said then ominous. "But rest assured that we will respond."

He held Jellico's eyes for a minute, then Lemec left, followed by Corak and Tajor. Once they're out the door, Jellico sat back in his chair... clearly this was trouble. Riker and Deanna looked to him for answers.

"Is there any truth to what he's saying?" Riker asked.

Jellico considered for a moment before answering and then was very deliberate and careful as he answered Riker.

"Captain Picard and the others were sent to... investigate reports of a metagenic weapon on Celtris Three. It's possible they may have been captured." he said.

Riker and Deanna absorbed this news.

"But if they escaped, they'll head for the Lyshan system - the Enterprise was supposed to meet them there in eight hours." he continued. "Wil, I want you to take a shuttlecraft and head for the rendezvous point. The Enterprise will have to remain here until the endgame with Gul Lemec is played out."

"Aye, sir." Riker said then left.

"If Captain Picard has been captured... the Cardassians will not hesitate to use any means available to obtain information from him... including torture." Deanna said.

"I know." Jellico said. "That's why I want you to contact Starfleet Command and inform them they should change every security code and protocol that Captain Picard might have had access to."

Deanna waited for something more... some indication of concern for Picard, but none was forthcoming. She and Jellico looked at each other for a long moment.

"That's all, Deanna." Jellico said.

"Aye, sir." she said and left, leaving Jellico alone.

A door of the interrogation room at the far end of the chamber opened.

Picard, blindfolded, was escorted by two Cardassian Guards whose footsteps echo in the large chamber. The Guards placed Picard standing in front of Gul Madred's desk. His hands were manacled. He nodded to them and they left.

"Captain Picard..." Madred said.

"I demand to see a neutral representative... as required by the Federation-Cardassian peace treaty." Picard said.

"Of course."

He removed Picard's blindfold... and Picard reacted almost as though in pain as the light hit his dilated pupils. Clearly he had been blindfolded for some time. He squinted and blinked as his eyes gradually adjusted.

"We have already sent a message to Tohvun Three - the nearest neutral planet. They assure us they will dispatch someone immediately." Madred said.

Gul Madred walked in a circle around Picard, studying him carefully. Picard looed tired and worn... the last hours hadn't been pleasant. But he doesn't appear to be under the influence of any drugs.

"I hope you're feeling better now that the drugs have worn off." Madred said. "I dislike using drugs... but it is the most efficient means of getting information. Unless, of course, you were given a neuro-inhibitor... enabling you to withhold it." he continued with a small shrug.

"I can't imagine what information I have that would be meaningful to you." Picard said.

Madred smiled, didn't reply... glanced down at Picard's hands.

"Please... let me remove those restraints."

He entered a control on his PADD, then manually unsnapped Picard's manacles. Picard involuntarily rubbed his wrists, which showed deep bruises where the manacles have cut into them.

"I understand that you are a student of archaeology. Did you know that Cardassia boasts some of the most ancient and splendid ruins anywhere in the galaxy?" he said and gestured to a chair.

Picard sat, responded carefully... trying to understand Madred's technique, not wanting to fall into a trap... but knowing that conversation was the way to find his opponent's own weaknesses - something he knows he must do if he was to survive.

"I know that the burial vaults of the First Hebitian civilization are said to be magnificent." he said.

"Apparently when they were first unearthed, two hundred years ago, they were. The burial vaults contained unimaginably beautiful artifacts made of jevonite - a rare, breathtaking stone. But most of those objects are gone."

"What happened to them?"

Madred smiled slightly and shrugged.

"What happens to impoverished societies... the tombs were plundered, priceless treasures stolen... a few were preserved in museums... but even those were eventually sold in order to pay for our war efforts." he said.

"That war cost you hundreds of thousands of lives... depleted your food supplies... left your population weakened and miserable... and yet you risk war again."

Something in Madred's eyes burnt slightly at this.

"How easy for you to judge us. Federation planets seem to want for nothing. But our planet is a hardscrabble world... famine is still a threat... it's not so easy for us." he said.

Picard glanced around.

"And yet there seems to be enough to maintain a well-outfitted - and well fed - military..." he said.

"It is the military which is the hope of the population."

"The Federation would be happy to help you feed your people - without the need for warfare."

"Charity? I don't think so."

"Not charity... a cooperative effort -"

"Let's not waste time arguing about issues we can't resolve. Would you care to tour the Hebitian burial vaults?"

Picard stared at him.

"Even though they've been stripped of funerary regalia, the tomb paintings are extraordinary. Any student of archaeology would be thrilled." Madred said.

"What I would like... is to be returned to my ship." Picard said carefully.

"My dear Captain... you are a criminal. You have been apprehended invading one of our secret facilities... the least that will happen is for you to stand trial and be punished." he said. "I am offering you the opportunity for that experience to be - civilized."

"And the price for that opportunity?" Picard said a few minutes later.

"Cooperation." Madred said mildly and walked away from Picard, musing. "We need to know the Federation's defense strategy for Minos Korva."

"You've injected me with drugs. You must know that I have already answered truthfully every question put to me."

"Captain... we have gone to great lengths to lure you here - because we know that in the event of an invasion, the Enterprise will be the command ship for the sector encompassing Minos Korva."

"Then it seems you have more knowledge about the situation than I do."

Madred stared at him for a minute, then shook his head sadly, tapped a command into his console, and the Guards entered. They pulled Picard to his feet... he struggled, having no intention of making anything easy for them. But they were able to snap the manacles onto his wrists again and then secure them to a bar on the ceiling. Picard finally stood with arms stretched over his head.

"Wasted energy, Captain... you might come to wish you hadn't expended it in such a futile effort." Madred said.

The guards left.

"Torture is expressly forbidden by the terms of the Seldonis Four convention governing treatment of prisoners of war." Picard said.

Madred let Picard's empty demand hang there.

"Are you in good health? Do you have any physical ailments I should know about?" he asked.

Picard didn't respond. Madred took an object from his desk... held it before Picard's face. It was a knife with a jeweled handle.

"Beautiful, isn't it? This stone is jevonite. You can see why it is so highly prized."

Madred began cutting away Picard's jumpsuit.

"From this point on, you will enjoy no privileges of rank... no privileges of person. From now on, I will refer to you only as "human." You have no other identity."

Madred striped away all of the jumpsuit, leaving Picard naked and vulnerable.

Madred walked out of the room, his footsteps echoing. The door closed behind him, and Picard was in the empty room for a minute.

---

Picard was still in the same position. His head slumped onto his chest occasionally as he cannot fight sleep. Behind him, the door opened.

Madre and guards entered the room. Madred was carrying the Cardassian equivalent of a thermos bottle; the guards, a robe. As the guards removed Picard from the bar on the ceiling and put the robe on him, Madred opened the thermos, pouring himself hot tea.

"Good morning. I trust you slept well?" Gul Madred said.

The guards took Picard to the chair and then left. Madred sipped his tea matter-of-factly.

Picard watched Madred as he drank the tea... his own mouth was dry and parched. He hadn't had water for a long time. Madred was conscious of his need.

"You're thirsty?" Madred asked.

Picard gave a slight nod.

"I would imagine so."

He capped his thermos and drained his tea.

"Well. It's time to move on."

He removed from his desk a PADD. Picard eyed it.

"I have told you what I know." he said.

"I'm sure you have." Madred said gesturing toward the ceiling. "How many lights do you see there?

Picard looked in the direction he was pointing.

There are four separate lights in the fixture.

Picard turned back to Madred. He's not sure where this is going, but he was still alert for any opportunity to resist - and, if possible, land a psychological blow on his opponent.

"I see four lights." Picard said guarded.

Madred lifted his eyebrows... rose... and walked toward the fixture.

"Strange... I see five." he said.

There was a minute as he turned back to Picard.

"Are you quite sure?" he asked.

"There are four lights." Picard said.

Madred returned to his desk... picked up the PADD, idly toying with it.

"Perhaps you're aware of the incision on your chest." he said.

Picard's eyes dropped down... his fingers moved unconsciously to the small scar.

"While you were under the influence of our drugs, you were implanted with a small device." Madred continued. "It is a remarkable invention." he continued. "By entering commands in this PADD, I can produce pain in any part of your body... at various levels of severity."

Madred looked at Picard with genuine apology.

"Forgive me... I don't enjoy this, but I must demonstrate. It will make everything much clearer."

He looked down at the PADD. Picard steeled himself, trying to prepare for what was coming. Madred tapped a command and a wave of pain overtakes Picard. He gasped and stiffened... perspiration broke out... he put his knuckles to his temples and dug them in. Madred tapped the control off. Picard slumped, gasping, amazed at the effect.

"Surprising, isn't it? Most people feel at first that they can steel themselves against it... but they are completely unprepared for the intensity of the pain." he continued. "That was the lowest possible setting."

Picard drew air in gasps, struggling for composure once more.

"I... know... nothing... about Minos Korva." he said.

Madred glanced at him, surprised.

"But I've told you that I believe you. I didn't ask about Minos Korva..." he gestured idly at the light fixture. "I asked you... how many lights you see there."

Picard stared at him, realizing that the game had moved far beyond the acquisition of information. But he was determined to resist... as long as he was able.

"There are four lights."

Madred looked puzzled... glanced at the fixtures... back at Picard.

"I don't understand how you can be so mistaken." he said.

As Madred's fingers entered commands, there was a cry of pain from Picard.

"First Officer's Log: Supplemental. I have returned from the rendezvous point in the Lyshan system with Doctor Crusher and Lieutenant Worf. Captain Picard's fate is still unknown." Riker said.

Worf was at sickbay on a biobed, having his shoulder wound tended by an N.D. nurse. Beverly was on another bed, being checked over by another nurse. Jellico and Riker were listening to Beverly, who was exhausted and depressed.

"There was no chance to go back for the Captain. We barely made it back to the Ferengi cargo ship ourselves." she said.

"You were smart not to try." Jellico said.

That didn't seem to make Beverly feel any better.

"I don't feel so smart." she said bitterly.

Jellico was sympathetic... he put a friendly hand on her shoulder.

"Get some rest, Doctor." he said. "Wil..." he said to Riker.

Then Jellico and Riker left.

Jellico and Riker entered from Sickbay and headed toward a Turbolift.

"I want Geordi to analyze the readings from Beverly's tricorder. Tell him to scrutinize every detail of those caverns on Celtris Three." Jellico said.

"Aye, sir." Riker said. "Request permission to begin planning a rescue operation."

Jellico stopped and faced Riker.

"Wil, I know you were close to him... but we don't even know if he's still alive." Jellico said. "Under the circumstances, a rescue attempt would be foolhardy."

He continued down the corridor, but Riker wasn't content to just let it drop at that.

"Shouldn't we assume he is alive until we know otherwise? We can't just abandon him." he asked.

Jellico stopped outside the Turbolift and faced Riker squarely.

"He's gone. I'm sorry Wil, but you're going to have to accept that." Jellico said hard. "I want those tricorder readings analyzed by fourteen hundred hours."

"Yes, sir." Riker said tight.

Then Jellico left to the Turbolift.

Jellico, Riker, and Deanna were at the observation lounge seated at the table. Gul Lemec, Glin Tajor, and Glin Corak were also seated. Lemec was holding a Cardassian PADD. He activated the PADD and then slid it across the table toward Jellico.

It showed Picard, a prisoner, seated in the Interview chair.

"What is your current assignment?" Madred said.

"Special operations on Celtris Three." Picard said.

Jellico turned off the PADD and looked up at Lemec. Riker and Deanna were troubled by this vision of their former captain.

"Do you have anything to say?" Lemec asked.

"Captain Picard was not acting under my orders." Jellico.

Lemec sat back in his chair and considered Jellico for a moment.

"And if we wish to execute him?" he said.

"Under the terms of the Selonis Convention, Captain Picard must -" Riker started.

"The Selonis Convention applies to prisoners of war... which means you would have to acknowledge that he was captured during a mission authorized by the Federation. Do you wish to make such an admission?" Lemec said hard.

"No." Jellico said.

Riker threw a look at Jellico, but kept his mouth shut.

"Then he will be treated as a terrorist." Lemec said.

Lemec again waited for Jellico's response, but Jellico didn't flinch. He took the Cardassian PADD and slid it back across the table to Lemec.

"That is not my concern." he said.

Riker and Deanna exchanged looks, but Jellico never looked away from Lemec. Lemec picked up the PADD and then continued after a minute.

"There is, of course, an alternative." he said.

"I'm listening." Jellico said.

"If the Federation agreed to a complete and immediate withdrawal from this sector... we would be disposed to release Captain Picard and forget about this... incident."

Jellico seemed to consider this for a long minute.

"I'll have to discuss this with my superiors."

"Of course." Lemec said. "You have seven hours." he said gesturing to Corak and Tajor and they all left.

"I'll send a message to Admiral Necheyev... recommend that she reject Lemec's proposal... and deploy more starships along the border."

"And what about Captain Picard?" Riker asked.

Jellico simply shook his head. As Riker continued to push, both their tempers began to rise.

"I'm not suggesting that we trade entire star systems for one man's life... but we can at least acknowledge the fact that he was acting under Federation orders... that he is a prisoner of war."

"No."

"It would give him the protections of the Seldonis Convention -"

"It would play right into Gul Lemec's hand. He's just waiting for some sign of weakness in our position before he starts making more demands." Jellico said angry.

"I can't believe you're going to sacrifice the Captain's life for a negotiating tactic." Riker said hot.

Deanna tried to intercede, but the two men were on a collision course.

"Wil, Captain... I think we're all concerned about -" she said.

"Are you questioning my judgment, Commander?" Jellico said to Riker.

"As First Officer it's my responsibility to point out what may be mistakes in the actions of the commanding officer. Sir." Riker said.

"Then maybe it's time you found other responsibilities." Jellico said. "You're relieved."

Riker and Jellico slowly stood together... exchange a long, hard look as the air crackled around them.

"Don't make me confine you to quarters as well." Jellico said quietly.

Riker held his eyes for another moment, then finally glanced at Deanna.

"Sir." he said and left." he said to Jellico.

---

Jellico was at the ready room speaking to someone o.c. His attitude was warm and friendly.

"I have every confidence that you will make an outstanding first officer." Jellico said.

Data was sitting across the desk from him, wearing a red uniform.

"Thank you, sir." he said. "But I do not believe that I am more qualified than Commander Riker."

Jellico smiled at him.

"I admire loyalty in an officer." he said. "But don't let it blind you to more pressing concerns."

The door chimed.

"Yes?"

Geordi entered, carrying a PADD then noted Data's uniform, but didn't comment on it. Wesley didn't feel comfortable to go with him and he understood so was in charge of engineering for now until Geordi comes back.

"I have the report on Doctor Crusher's tricorder readings from Celtris Three." Geordi said to Jellico and handed the PADD to Jellico, who glanced at it.

"Give me the short version."

"Nothing."

"Not quite that short."

"There's nothing out of the ordinary on any of the tricorder logs. Just normal scans of the caverns on Celtris Three and a few tactical scans of armed Cardassians."

Jellico put down the PADD and moved about the room, trying to think.

"They went to a lot of trouble to lure a Federation team to that planet... why?" he said.

They all thought for a moment.

"It is possible that the Cardassians were interested in specifically capturing Captain Picard." Data said.

"What makes you say that?" Geordi asked.

"The metagenic weapon which they were supposedly developing used a theta-band subspace delivery system. Captain Picard is one of only three Starfleet Captains with extensive experience in testing theta-band devices. The other two are no longer in Starfleet."

"So they tailored a fake weapon to lure Picard. But why? They must've known we'd change all his access codes and security protocols." Jellico said.

"Maybe they're more interested in something he did in the past... something that happened while he was Captain of the Enterprise." Geordi said.

Jellico got an idea.

"Or maybe something that he was going to do in the future." he said. "In case of a Cardassian attack, the Enterprise will be assigned as the command ship for this sector. If the Cardassians got wind of that..."

"They might have assumed Captain Picard would know those defense plans." Geordi said.

"If our theory is correct, it would mean the Cardassians are preparing for an attack somewhere in this sector." Data said.

"The question is, where?" Jellico said. "Geordi, I want you to conduct a discreet scan of Gul Lemec's ship. Look for anything unusual... anything that might indicate where they've been lately."

"Aye, sir." he said and left.

"If Captain Picard is aware of our defense plans for this sector, we could be at a serious tactical disadvantage." Data said.

"Admiral Nechayev just transmitted the plans to me this afternoon. Picard never saw them." Jellico said.

"In that case, he may be tortured for information that he does not have."

There was a grim minute.

Gul Madred and his daughter, Jil Orra were at the interrogation,

at the desk, working with a small twenty-fourth century cage. The cage contained a Cardassian pet. Picard was unconscious on the floor, and now wore a robe.

"I want you to be very careful with your wompat from now on, Jil Orra. Now that she's separated from her mother, she depends on you." Madred said.

"I will, father." Jilorra said. "Do humans have mothers and fathers?" he said with a glance at Picard.

"Yes, but... human mothers and fathers don't love their children as we do... they're... not the same as we are."

"Will you read to me tonight?" Jilorra said accepting this.

"Yes, of course I will." Madred said. "I'll see you later." he said while he hugged her.

Picard had been watching this tableau through silted eyes. As the little girl left, Madred moved toward him. Picard took a breath, trying to focus himself... regaining what control he can.

"Your daughter... is lovely..." Picard said.

Madred turned quickly toward him... he was obviously protective of his daughter, wary of what Picard might have to say.

"Yes... I think so. And unusually bright." Madred said. "Amazing, isn't it... the way they're able to sneak into your heart... I must admit, I was completely unprepared for the power she had over me... from the moment she was born." he continued after a minute.

"I'm surprised... that you'd let her come in here..."

"Why?" Madred said genuinely.

Picard stared at him... the question was sincere... but it struke Picard as bizarre.

"To let a child be exposed to this... to someone who is injured and suffering... to see that you inflict that suffering..."

Madred was looking at Picard with a curious smile, as though trying to understand what he's saying.

"From the time Jil Orra could crawl she has been taught about the enemies of the Cardassians. And that enemies deserve their fate." he said.

He moved idly toward his desk, handed drifting over the control for the pain device.

"Be careful, Madred. When children learn to devalue others... they can devalue anyone. Even their parents." Picard said.

Madred gave him a sharp look.

"To her, I am a hero. I am the most powerful man she knows... she adores me..."

Picard heard the slight note of desperation in the man's voice, seized on it.

"Now, perhaps. What will happen when she's fifteen? Twenty? Are you prepared for the time when she might look at you and see you for what you are - and despise you for it?"

Madred's eyes blazed.

"What a blind, narrow view you have. What an arrogant man you are."

He moved closer to Picard, challenging.

"What do you know of Cardassian history?"

Picard gave it back with equal intensity.

"I know that once you were a peaceful people, that you had a rich spiritual life -" he said.

"And what did peace and spirituality get us? People starved by the millions. Bodies went unburied - disease was rampant. The suffering was unimaginable."

"Since the military took over hundreds of thousands more have died -"

"But we - are - feeding - the - people." Madred said and his eyes flashed, his passion blazing.

"We acquired territory during the wars... we developed new resources... we initiated a rebuilding program... we have mandated agricultural programs. That is what the military has done for Cardassia." he continued then took a breath, then leaned in toward Picard. "Because of that... my daughter will never have to worry about going hungry."

"Her belly may be full... but her spirit will be empty."

Madred took two steps and back handed Picard across the face. Picard staggered back, startled... but knowing he had scored on Madred.

"Be careful... you're showing weakness..." Picard said.

Madred crossed to his desk.

"Shall we begin again? How many lights are there?" he asked.

"What lights?"

Madred jabbed viciously at the control device. Picard arched convulsively.

At main bridge Jellico was speaking with Gul Lemec on the Viewscreen. Data was seated in the First Officer's chair and Worf was at Tactical. Geordi was working at one of the aft stations with Wesley next to him but was silent.

"The answer is no, Gul Lemec. We won't be frightened away from a system which is legitimately ours." Jellico said.

Lemec only smiled.

"A brave stand." he said. "But I think you have an expression... something about discretion often being the better part of valor." he continued. "Good-bye, Captain." he said and the transmission ended.

"The Reklar has gone to warp... they are returning to Cardassian space." Worf said off console.

"At least for the moment..."

"Captain, we think we've got something."

Jellico moved toward the aft stations. Geordi indicated one of the monitors.

"It looks like there was some minor hull degradation along their warp nacelles. The distribution pattern indicates a recent exposure to a molecular dispersion field."

"Where could they have run into a dispersion field?"

"They're found in certain types of quasars... proto-stellar nebulae... some dark matter clouds..." Wesley said.

"Isn't there a proto-stellar nebula near the border?"

"The McAllister C-Five Nebula is located just over the border... approximately seven light years from Federation space." Geordi said while he worked.

Jellico thought for a long minute.

"Could there be Cardassian ships inside the McAllister Nebula?" he asked.

"It's possible... but they couldn't stay in their very long. The particle flux in the nebula would begin to degrade a ship's hull after about seventy- two hours." Wesley said.

Jellico looked at the monitor for a moment.

"Is there a Federation system near the McAllister Nebula that might interest the Cardassians?"

"Minos Korva is only eleven light years from the Nebula... and the Cardassians tried to annex it during the war..."

"Data, I want to be at Minos Korva in one hour." he said a few minutes later.

"Aye, sir." Data said to von officer. "Set course three five zero mark two one five and engage at warp eight point five."

Back in the interrogation room Picard was lying on the ground again... semi-conscious. His lips were parched and cracked... he was singing softly in his hoarse voice.

"... le pont d'Avignon... on y danse... on y danse... sur le pont d'Avignon..." Picard said, his dry lips form into a smile, as though he was reliving a happy memory... then he laughed softly. "On y danse surtout..."

Madred was sitting at his desk, watching this impassively. Finally he rose, went to Picard, stirred him with a toe.

"Wake up."

Picard opened his eyes as though from a dream... the smile lingering on his lips as he came to consciousness.

"Where were you?"

"At home... Sunday dinner... we would sing, afterward..." he said still drifting up.

"What a charming picture. The Picard family... voices raised in song..." Madred said. "Is this what's kept you from breaking? Images of happier times? Memories of home and hearth?"

Picard opened his eyes fully... realizing where he was.

"There is a refuge in the mind... a place where even you can't intrude..." he said and Madred stared at him for a brief moment, then gave a half smile.

"I must congratulate you. You're remarkably strong willed. I see no point in holding you further." he said.

Picard's response was a look which held his eyes for a moment.

"You may go..."

Picard moved not a muscle. He searched Gul Madred's face for some clue as to what he was up to.

"Someone will give you clean clothing before we return you to your ship."

He hit a control and the door at the far end opened. Picard looked at it... back at Madred... then got to his feet. He was unsteady, but he mustered his strength and walked past Madred, who was studying a PADD and didn't look up.

Picard walked past Madred for the door. When he was a few steps away from leaving the room Gul Madred looked up from his PADD. He didn't look at Picard.

"We will get what we need from the human female."

He froze in his tracks. He considered going on, but instead turned back to Gul Madred.

"What female are you referring to?" Picard asked.

Gul Madred turned to him.

"The human who was part of your abortive assault team, of course - Doctor Beverly Crusher." he said and Picard walked back to the desk.

"What have you done with her?" Picard asked.

"Not a thing. She's quite safe. I wanted to finish my interviews with you before I interrogated her. I had thought it might not be necessary."

"What about Lieutenant Worf?"

"He left us few options. We had to kill him."

Picard stared at him, absorbing this information, turning it over in his mind, testing its validity.

"I'm more optimistic about getting what we need from the woman."

"Doctor Crusher has no information about any of Starfleet's plans. She is a medical officer."

"You may be right. I'll have to determine that for myself." Madred said pleasantly.

Picard took a long moment... and then sat in the chair opposite Madred. Madred looked at him, poised, urbane.

"Are you... choosing to stay with me?"

Picard nodded.

"Excellent! I can't tell you how pleased that makes me." he continued and smiled genially at Picard.

---

Jellico, Data, Beverly, Deanna, Geordi and Worf were at the observation lounge.

"Starfleet now believes the Cardassians are preparing to invade Minos Korva." Jellico said. "That will not be allowed to happen. The Sutherland, the Berlin, and the Aries have been dispatched to this sector. But they're still three days away. Until they arrive, it's up to us."

Jellico let that sink in for a moment.

"I'm convinced that their invasion fleet is hiding in the McAllister Nebula. I intend to hit them before they leave it." he continued.

There were mixed reactions from around the table.

"I thought the nebula was in Cardassian territory." Beverly said.

"That's right."

There was a small pause as Beverly formulated her thoughts.

"I was just part of an undercover mission into Cardassian territory... I felt it was justified in order to destroy a weapon that was potentially catastrophic." she said. "But you're talking about a first strike. An act of war. I can't believe that Starfleet would condone it."

"Admiral Necheyev knows my plan... and has given me full discretionary powers to act as I see fit."

"What if you're wrong, Captain? What if the Cardassians are in that nebula for scientific research?" Geordi asked.

"You'd have to have pretty good evidence to convince me of that."

"You're still gambling with hundreds of lives." Beverly said.

"But there are two million colonists on Minos Korva. If we wait until the Cardassians attack... tens of thousands of innocent people could be killed." Deanna said.

"This discussion is moot. The planhas been approved and we're going ahead. Mister Data, by your calculations, how long could the Cardassian ships stay in the nebula?" Jellico said flatly.

"In another seventeen hours, their hull degradation will reach dangerous levels." Data said. "They will have to leave before that."

"All right... Worf, prepare a series of five hundred anti-matter mines with magnetic targeting capabilities. Geordi, we're going to need a shuttle specially outfitted to operate in the nebula by fourteen hundred hours. Beverly, you'll need to -"

"Have Sickbay ready for the casualties you're about to send me." Beverly said bitter.

"That's right." Jellico said. "Dismissed."

Then they all left.

Back at the interrogation room Picard was on the floor, unconscious. there was a tap-tap-tap that was unidentified. Picard began to stir, as though hearing the tapping. His eyes flickered open as he swam out of unconsciousness and back into the nightmare. He looked toward Gul Madred... and saw him carefully breaking the shell of a boiled egg, tapping gently, peeling away the membrane. He looked down and saw Picard staring at him.

"Ah. You're awake." Madred said. "Please... have something to eat." he said while he gestured to the desk.

Picard didn't respond and Madred's voice became colder.

"I insist." he said.

Picard considered... he didn't want to follow an order, but he needed nourishment for energy... and energy for the strength to resist. He sat at the desk.

"Here... boiled taspar egg... a delicacy I'm happy to share with you." Madred said and pushed an egg toward Picard, who cracked it over a dish.

Instead of a boiled egg, it was raw and alive,... full of a pulsating, gelatinous blob.

Picard stared at it, revolted... Madred watched closely, a smile on his lips... then Picard tipped the egg into his mouth and took the entire mass into his mouth. He chewed and swallowed - and Madred burst into delighted laughter.

"Wonderful! Wonderful! I like you, human... most people become ill at the sight of live taspar..."

Picard swallowed the last of the creature. Madred eyed him for a moment... then shoved more food toward him, poured a liquid into his glass.

Picard began eating, and Madred watched him carefully as he ate hungrily.

"I remember the first time I ate live taspar... I was four years old and living on the streets of Lakat... there was a band of children, four, five, six years old... some even smaller... desperately trying to survive..." he said then rose and began pacing the room. "We were thin, scrawny little animals... constantly hungry, always cold... we slept together in doorways, like packs of wild gettles, for warmth..."

He dwelled for a brief moment in that long-ago time.

"Once I found a nest... taspars had mated and built a nest in the eave of a burnt-out building... and I found three eggs in it." he continued. "It was like finding treasure. I cracked one open on the spot and ate it... very much as you just did. I planned to save the other two... they would keep me alive for another week... but of course an older boy saw them and wanted them." he said. "He had to break my arm, but he got the eggs."

Picard stared at him, for the first time getting a glimpse inside this man... a glimpse that might be valuable to him.

"I see..." he said.

"Unlike you, I had no pleasant refuge in my mind... gentle memories of family gatherings..."

"No... I'm sure you didn't." Picard said. "How rewarding it must be now to repay others for all those years of misery."

Madred looked at him sharply.

"What do you mean?"

"Torture has never been a reliable means of extracting information... it is ultimately self-defeating as a means of control... and so one wonders why it is still practiced." Picard said. "The only possible reason must be... pleasure."

Madred moved to the desk and picked up the PADD.

"I fail to see where this analysis is leading."

"Madred, when I look at you now, I won't see a powerful Cardassian officer... but a small boy weeping because he was powerless to protect himself."

Picard was scoring on Madred. He swept Picard's food off the table.

"Be quiet -"

"In spite of what you have done to me... I find you a pitiable man -" Picard said pressing.

"Picard - stop it or I will turn this on and leave you here in agony all night -"

But he stopped as he saw a smile playing on Picard's mouth.

"You called me "Picard"..."

And he looked at Madred, knowing he has scored a victory. Madred stared at him, face hardening.

"What are the Federation's defense plans for Minos Korva?"

"There are four lights."

Then Madred activated the PADD; he tapped the commands, but he didn't see Picard's physical response.

"There are five lights. How many do you see now?" he asked.

"You are four years old... weak and helpless... you cannot harm me..." Picard said with difficulty.

"How many?" Madred said working the controls.

"Sur le pont... d'Avignon... on y danse... on y danse..." Picard sang in some desperation.

Worf and an N.D. security officer were standing by several containers in the shuttlebay, which were about the size of a suitcase. They were checking them over with tricorders. Jellico entered and went to Worf. The large shuttlecraft was in the b.g.

"Report." Jellico said.

"Each container holds a hundred anti-matter mines with magnetic targeting capabilites. When the mines are ejected from the containers, they will attach themselves to the hulls of the Cardassian ships." Worf said.

"Good. The nebula's going to play hell with subspace communications... will we still be able to detonate the mines on command?"

"We are modifying the receiver assemblies on each unit."

"Excellent."

Jellico moved to the shuttlecraft.

Geordi was working in the shuttlecraft as Jellico entered.

"How are we doing?" Jellico asked.

"Almost done, sir. I've shielded the engine nacelles and the transporter system so they won't be affected by the nebula's particle flux." Geordi said.

"Good."

Jellico moved to the pilot's chair and sat down. He smiled as he looked over some of the controls.

"Been awhile since I flew one of these... you're a pilot yourself, aren't you Geordi?"

"Yes, sir. Wesley can fly really well to."

"Began my career as a shuttle pilot - on the Jovian Run. Jupiter to Saturn and back... once a day, every day." Jellico ignoring the Wesley part.

"I was on that run for a while." Geordi said surprised but at the same time not happy Jellico didn't say anything about Wesley being a good flyer.

"Then you must've done Titan's Turn." Jellico said conspiratorially.

Geordi smiled.

"Oh, yeah... set a course directly for Titan... hold it until you're just brushing the atmosphere... then throw the helm hard over and whip around the moon at point seven c."

"And pray like hell nobody saw you."

They both laughed.

"Well... this trip into the nebula's going to need someone who can do Titan's Turn in their sleep." Geordi said. "The mines will have to be laid within two kilometers of the Cardassian ships. But the particle flux from the nebula will blind all the sensors except for the proximity-detector. You're going to need quite a pilot to bring that off." he said indicating the panel.

"And is that you?"

Geordi looked at Jellico, knowing the answer was not going to please him.

"No sir, it's not. The man you want... is Commander Riker."

Jellico looked at him, but Geordi didn't back off.

"He's the best there is."

---

Riker was at his quarters sitting at his desk, looking over the book of Shakespeare that Picard once had in the Ready Room. He flipped through the pages for a moment.

The door chimed and he closed the book.

"Come in." he said and Jellico entered.

There was an awkward minute as Riker slowly stood.

"Am I disturbing you?" he asked.

"Not at all." Riker said cool.

Jellico took a few steps around the room, looking around. This was an awkward conversation for both of them. Jellico noticed the trombone on its stand.

"Musician?"

"That's right."

"Classical? Contemporary?"

"Jazz."

"Ah."

The moment hung there, Jellico clearly uncomfortable.

"Is there something I can do for you, Captain?" Riker asked.

"Are you aware of our plans to attack the Cardassian invasion fleet?"

"Yes, sir. And I understand you've been talking to every shuttle pilot on board."

"I don't settle for second best. In anything."

"Yes, sir."

There was a long minute as Jellico seemed to measure Riker for a moment.

"Let's drop the ranks for a moment." Jellico said. "I don't like you. I think you're insubordinate. Arrogant. willful. I don't think you were a particularly good first officer." he blunted.

Riker didn't flinch in the face of this bald assault. Jellico paused for a moment, then his voice softened a little.

"But... you're also the best pilot on the ship."

Riker took a moment.

"As long as the ranks are down, Captain, let me say that I don't like you, either. You're arrogant and closed-minded. You have to control everything and everyone. You don't provide an atmosphere of trust, you don't inspire the crew to want to go out of their way for you, and you get everybody wound up so tight there's no joy in anything. I don't think you're a particularly good Captain." he said.

The two men held a look.

"I won't order you to fly this mission. I'm here to ask."

Riker stepped right up to Jellico.

"Then ask." he said hard.

Jellico took a minute to swallow his pride.

"Will you pilot the shuttle, Commander?"

"Yes."

Jellico headed for the door.

"You're welcome."

Jellico, Data, Deanna, and Worf were on the bridge at their stations. It would usually be Wesley's main bridge shift but he asked Riker if he could stay at the engineering today and he said yes.

"The shuttle is about to enter the nebula." Worf said off console.

"Yellow Alert. Raise shields and charge all defensive systems." Data said.

The ship's condition went to yellow.

"Helm, bring us to ten thousand kilometers from the nebula's perimeter." Jellico said.

"All defensive systems are powered and ready." Worf said. "The shuttle has entered the nebula."

Riker and Geordi were on the shuttlecraft at the controls. The view out the window was obscured by the billowing clouds from the nebula. Behind them can be seen the mines seen earlier in the shuttlebay. The ship shook slightly. As they reported the loss of systems, their attitude was calm - they were expecting this.

"We've lost primary navigation... switching to secondary systems..." Geordi said.

"Inertial dampers compensating..." Riker said.

"Sensors inoperative."

"Right on schedule."

Geordi activated a monitor on the console.

The monitor showed a graphic display of the area in front of the ship. The screen was fuzzy and ill-defined. It's a very primitive display, similar to that of early WWII radar sets.

"The proximity detector is working... we should pick up their ships at a distance of... five hundred meters." Geordi said.

Riker gave him a look.

"Don't make this too easy..." he said sarcastically.

Geordi grinned and moved to the back of the shuttle, placing containers on the small shuttle transporter. Riker kept his eyes glued on the monitor.

The monitor screen showed nothing... then suddenly a large shape appeared on the screen very close to the position of the shuttle.

Riker reacted to the screen.

"Hang on!" he said.

He quickly worked the controls and the shuttle heeled sharply to one side. Riker and Geordi had to hang on for dear life. After a moment, Riker was able to bring the ship back to level flight.

"Do I want to know how close that was?"

"No." Riker said. "Get ready to deploy the mines."

Geordi moved to the transporter console and began to work the controls.

The Bridge crew waited tensely for some indication of success on Riker's part. Wesley was there now.

"Captain - the shuttlecraft is emerging from the nebula." Worf said off console.

"Enterprise to shuttle - were you successful, Commander?" Jellico asked.

"Aye, sir. The mines are laid." Riker said on com.

"Very well." Jellico said to Worf. "Red Alert. Stand by to detonate the mines on my command."

The ship went to red.

"Standing by." Worf said.

There is a minute.

"Open a channel to the Reklar." Jellico said.

The crew reacted with curiosity.

A furious Gul Lemec appeared on the screen as Jellico stood.

"This is Cardassian territory, Captain. Your presence here is another deliberate provocation to -" Lemec started but was cut off by Jellico.

"I'm not going to argue with you, Gul Lemec. Every one of your ships has a mine on its belly, my fingers on the button, and you're in a very bad position."

"You can't intimidate us."

"Mister Worf... set off Alpha-four two.."

"Aye, sir." Worf said.

On the screen, Lemec's ship shook. Lemec looked around in worry.

"That was just a baby... the big boys are sitting on your hull... waiting for me to say the word." Jellico said.

There was a long minute.

"What are... your terms?" Lemec said difficult.

"Your ships will leave the nebula one by one. Each ship will eject its primary phaser coil before setting course for the nearest Cardassian base."

"That will leave us defenseless." Lemec said objecting.

"Mister Worf, prepare to detonate -"

"I will agree to your terms."

"Excellent." Jellico said and turned to sit down again, but then turned back to the screen. "Oh... one more thing. I believe you're holding a Starfleet officer named Jean-Luc Picard. I expect him returned. Immediately."

Lemec gave him a long, cold look.

It was out of focus, fuzzy at the interrogation room... The lights kept changing focus... nobody could tell how many there really were.

Picard was sitting in the chair, head slumped back, staring at the lights. Perspiration drenches him... dripped into his eyes... he blinked, squinted and looked up.

The lights split and multiply before his eyes.

Picard shook his head to clear it... sat up... looked around. He was alone in the room. He saw, on the desk before him which controls the extent of his misery.

He stared at it, transfixed. It's within his reach.

'What will happen if I take it? Smashes it?' he wondered.

Mesmerized, he reached out his arm, touched it... picked it up and stared at it...

And then he rose and hurled it against a wall, smashing it. It fell to the floor, broken.

"That won't help. I have many others." Madred said.

Picard turned and saw Madred walking toward him from the open door. When he spoke, his voice was quite hoarse from screaming. He was weaker than earlier.

"...still... felt good..."

Madred gave a small laugh.

"Enjoy your good feelings when you can. There may not be many more of them." he said and walked briskly to his desk and sat. "I've just received word. There's been a battle. The Enterprise is burning in space. The invasion of Minos Korva has been successful."

Picard stared at him.

"...don't... believe you..." he said.

Madred shrugged unconcerned.

"There is no further need for information from you... our troops were successful in spite of your refusal to help me." he said. "You might have saved yourself a great deal of torment by yielding at the beginning." he said with a small smile.

There was a minute as he stared pensively at Picard.

"I... want to see... neutral representative..."

"There is no such person." Madred said. "The word will be that you perished with your crew. No one will ever know that you are here with us. As you will be, for a long, long time."

Picard stared at him with bleary eyes.

"You do, however, have a choice. You can live out your life in misery... held here, subject to my whims..." he continued and leaned in, seductive, beguiling. "Or you can live in comfort, with good food and warm clothing... women as you desire them... allowed to pursue your studies of philosophy and history." he said. "I would enjoy debating with you. You have a keen mind."

Then he rose, wandered toward Picard.

"It's up to you. A life of ease... of reflection and intellectual challenge..." he said. "Or this." he said gesturing around him.

"What... must I... do... ?"

Madred smiled. His voice was soothing... irresistible...

"Nothing, really." he said. "Tell me how many lights you see." he said gesturing upward.

There was a heavy silence. Picard slumped in the chair, staring up at the lights. In the distance, there was the sound of approaching footsteps. An urgency appeared in Madred's voice.

"How many? How many lights?" he asked but got no answer. "This is your last chance... the guards are coming... don't be a stubborn fool..."

Picard stared up at the light fixture, eyes glazed, not responding.

"How many?" Madred hissed.

The door opened and Gul Lemec entered, accompanied by two guards. He surveyed the scene.

"You told me he would be ready to go." Lemec said.

Madred had to tear his eyes away from Picard to address his superior.

"We had some unfinished business." Madred said.

"Get him cleaned up. A ship is waiting to take him back to the Enterprise."

Picard stared at Madred, realizing that everything Madred had said was a ruse... one last desperate effort to bend Picard to his will.

Madred returned the look... a complex welter of feelings overwhelming him... chagrin that Picard now understood... anger at failure... and, in spite of himself, the beginnings of respect for Picard's extraordinary courage.

Lemec looked from one to the other... curious at the potent looks.

"Captain Picard... if you will go with the guards, they'll take care of you."

Still holding Madred's look, Picard rose... started to lose his balance but held on... took deep breaths of air... straightened himself, and walked close to Madred.

"There are four lights." Picard said.

Madred stared at him briefly, and then, the slightest possible nod and smile - in deference to a man he has come to admire.

Picard turned and walked out of the room with the guards. Madred watched him go. Lemec looked from one to the other, feeling the charged atmosphere, but completely out of touch with what has transpired.

Jellico and Deanna were at the main bridge in Command, Worf at Tactical, and Data was now back at Ops and in his normal uniform. The doors to the Turbolift opened and Picard and Riker entered.

Jellico stood.

"Captain on the Bridge." he said. "Welcome home, Jean-Luc." he said to Picard.

"Thank you."

"Just the way you left it. Maybe a little better." Jellico said gesturing around. "Computer transfer all command codes to Captain Jean-Luc Picard. Voice authorization: Jellico-alpha-three-one." he said on com.

"Transfer complete. USS Enterprise now under command of Captain Jean-Luc Picard." computer said.

"I relieve you, sir." Picard said.

"I stand relieved." Jellico said and glanced around the Bridge one last time. "It's been an honor serving with you." he said to everyone.

He looked around the Bridge, but there were only cold stares from everyone. He nodded to Picard and left.

"You have the Bridge, Number One." Picard said.

"Aye, sir." Riker said.

Picard exchanged a look with Deanna and then she followed him to the Ready Room.

Picard looked around the ready room for a moment. Everything had been returned to the way he had it. He looked around at Deanna, who was simply waiting.

"I don't know where to begin, Counselor. It was... quite an experience." Picard said.

"I read your report." Deanna said.

Picard nodded and there was a quiet second.

"One thing I didn't put in my report... at the very end, he offered me a choice... between a life of comfort... or more torture... all I had to do was say there were five lights." he said and Deanna regarded him for a brief moment.

"You didn't say it..." she said.

"No... but I was going to. I was ready to tell him anything he wanted... anything at all. But more than that, I was beginning to believe there were five lights."