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== Summary ==
 
== Summary ==
It is a typical day as [[Mot]] trims [[Captain]] [[Jean-Luc Picard|Picard]]'s hair while dispensing advice on strategy with the [[Romulans]]. The conversation is interrupted by a call from [[Commander]] [[William T. Riker|Riker]], who reports that the ''[[USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D)|Enterprise]]'' has just received a [[distress call]] from a [[colony]] on [[Solarion IV]]. As Picard leaves, Mot observes how close Solarion is to the [[Cardassian]] border and points out that he told them not to colonize it. When Picard arrives on the [[bridge]], there is an audio-only communication from a [[Bajoran]] named [[Orta]] claiming responsibility for destroying the colony.
+
It is a typical day as [[Mot]] trims [[Captain]] [[Jean-Luc Picard|Picard]]'s hair while dispensing advice on strategy with the [[Romulan]]s. The conversation is interrupted by a call from [[Commander]] [[William T. Riker|Riker]], who reports that the ''[[USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D)|Enterprise]]'' has just received a [[distress call]] from a [[colony]] on [[Solarion IV]]. As Picard leaves, Mot observes how close Solarion is to the [[Cardassian]] border and points out that he told them not to colonize it. When Picard arrives on the [[bridge]], there is an audio-only communication from a [[Bajoran]] named [[Orta]] claiming responsibility for destroying the colony.
   
:''Captain's [[log]], [[stardate]] 45076.3. We have arrived at [[Lya Station Alpha]] with survivors from [[Solarion IV]]. [[Admiral]] [[Kennelly]] has rendezvoused to discuss the [[Bajoran]] terrorist's attack.''
+
:"''Captain's [[log]], [[stardate]] 45076.3. We have arrived at [[Lya Station Alpha]] with survivors from Solarion IV. Admiral Kennelly has rendezvoused to discuss the Bajoran terrorist's attack.''"
   
Picard is holding a private meeting with [[Admiral]] [[Kennelly]] discussing the issue. It seems the [[Cardassian Union|Cardassian Empire]] annexed [[Bajor]] forty years ago and the Bajoran people were subsequently driven from their own land. While the Cardassians have had problems with [[terrorism]] ever since the annexation, this is the first time the Bajorans have attacked the [[Federation]]. Kennelly wants Picard to stop Orta at all costs. While the two discuss the issue, Riker learns that [[Ensign]] [[Ro Laren]] is waiting to beam aboard the ''Enterprise''. The ensign has come at Kennelly's request, for he thinks she will be useful on the mission even though she was imprisoned previously.
+
Picard is holding a private meeting with [[Admiral]] [[Kennelly]] discussing the issue. It seems the [[Cardassian Union|Cardassian Empire]] annexed [[Bajor]] forty years ago and the [[Bajoran]] people were subsequently driven from their own land. While the Cardassians have had problems with [[terrorism]] ever since the annexation, this is the first time the Bajorans have attacked the [[Federation]]. Kennelly wants Picard to stop Orta at all costs. While the two discuss the issue, Riker learns that [[Ensign]] [[Ro Laren]] is waiting to beam aboard the ''Enterprise''. The ensign has come at Kennelly's request, for he thinks she will be useful on the mission even though she was imprisoned previously.
   
When Ro Laren arrives aboard the ''Enterprise'', we learn that Bajoran surnames come first, and thus Ro Laren is Ensign Ro. There is visible anger on the part of Riker, in particular because she was involved in an incident aboard the [[USS Wellington|USS ''Wellington'']], the nature of which is unclear. Additionally, Riker is insulted by Ro's disregard for what he considers the honor of being stationed on the ''Enterprise''; in her words, it is "better than prison".
+
When Ro Laren arrives aboard the ''Enterprise'', it is revealed that Bajoran surnames come first, and thus Ro Laren is Ensign Ro. There is visible anger on the part of Riker, in particular because she was involved in an incident aboard the {{USS|Wellington}}, the nature of which is unclear. Additionally, Riker is insulted by Ro's disregard for what he considers the honor of being stationed on the ''Enterprise''; in her words, it is "better than prison".
   
:''Captain's [[log]], supplemental. We are approaching the [[Valo system]] on the outskirts of Cardassian territory, where many Bajorans have resettled.''
+
:"''Captain's [[log]], supplemental. We are approaching the [[Valo system]] on the outskirts of Cardassian territory, where many Bajorans have resettled.''"
   
At a staff meeting, Picard and the crew discuss how to get in contact with the Bajoran people. [[Data]] suggests that a man known as [[Jas Holza]] might be the best choice, and that he may be found on [[Valo III]]. Dr. [[Beverly Crusher|Crusher]] is familiar with the man and adds that he is quite charming, but Ro points out that Jas holds no real sway over the Bajoran people. She does, however, know a man named [[Keeve Falor]] who lives on [[Valo II]]. They decide to go there instead.
+
At a staff meeting, Picard and the crew discuss how to get in contact with the Bajoran people. [[Data]] suggests that a man known as [[Jas Holza]] might be the best choice, and that he may be found on [[Valo III]]. [[Doctor|Dr.]] [[Beverly Crusher|Crusher]] is familiar with the man and adds that he is quite charming, but Ro points out that Jas holds no real sway over the Bajoran people. She does, however, know a man named [[Keeve Falor]] who lives on [[Valo II]]. They decide to go there instead.
   
:''Captain's log, supplemental. I read about the achievements of the [[Bajoran history#Early history|ancient Bajoran civilization]] in my fifth-grade reader. They were architects and artists, builders and philosophers when [[Human]]s were not yet standing erect. Now I see how history has rewarded them.''
+
:"''Captain's log, supplemental. I read about the achievements of the [[Bajoran history#Early history|ancient Bajoran civilization]] in my fifth-grade reader. They were architects and artists, builders and philosophers when [[Human]]s were not yet standing erect. Now I see how history has rewarded them.''"
   
 
On the surface of Valo II, Picard meets with Keeve, who does not condone the terrorist attack against the Federation. However, at the same time he refuses to help Picard or the Federation, as he feels betrayed by the way they sat by while Bajor was ravaged by the Cardassians. Picard determines to help the people of the planet using the [[replicator]]s aboard the ''Enterprise'', which makes Keeve much more cooperative. Ro tells Picard she ran away because she could not live as the Bajorans do and would not be defeated.
 
On the surface of Valo II, Picard meets with Keeve, who does not condone the terrorist attack against the Federation. However, at the same time he refuses to help Picard or the Federation, as he feels betrayed by the way they sat by while Bajor was ravaged by the Cardassians. Picard determines to help the people of the planet using the [[replicator]]s aboard the ''Enterprise'', which makes Keeve much more cooperative. Ro tells Picard she ran away because she could not live as the Bajorans do and would not be defeated.
   
:''Captain's log, [[stardate]] 45077.8. Keeve Falor has kept his promise and directed us toward the [[unnamed moons#Valo I third moon|third moon]] of [[Valo I]], where we will meet tomorrow with the terrorist leader Orta.''
+
:"''Captain's log, stardate 45077.8. Keeve Falor has kept his promise and directed us toward the [[unnamed moons#Valo I third moon|third moon]] of [[Valo I]], where we will meet tomorrow with the terrorist leader Orta.''"
   
Ro sits alone in [[Ten Forward]] sipping her [[beverage]] and turning people away when they offer to sit with her. As [[Geordi La Forge|Geordi]] expresses his displeasure at Ro's presence to [[Guinan]], she decides to get to know Ro. During their conversation, it is revealed that Ro was [[court martial]]ed because she disobeyed a direct order, resulting in the death of eight fellow officers. Guinan persists despite Ro's efforts to push her away, intent on making a new friend.
+
Ro sits alone in [[Ten Forward]], sipping her [[beverage]] and turning people away when they offer to sit with her. As [[Geordi La Forge]] expresses his displeasure at Ro's presence to [[Guinan]], she decides to get to know Ro. During their conversation, it is revealed that Ro was [[court martial]]ed because she disobeyed a direct order, resulting in the death of eight fellow officers. Guinan persists despite Ro's efforts to push her away, intent on making a new friend.
   
In her quarters, Ro receives a [[Subspace communication|transmission]] from Kennelly and tells him that all is going according to plan. When it comes time to [[beam]] to the surface, Picard finds Ro is gone and the terrorists never showed up at the designated meeting location. He beams down anyway with an away team, where they find themselves surrounded by armed Bajorans, with Ro among them. Orta emerges, his face mutilated and vocal cords cut by the Cardassians. He tells them that the Bajora did not attack Solarion IV and lets them go.
+
In her quarters, Ro receives a [[Subspace communication|transmission]] from Kennelly and tells him that all is going according to plan. When it comes time to [[beam]] to the surface, Picard finds Ro is gone and the terrorists never showed up at the designated meeting location. He beams down anyway with an [[away team]], where they find themselves surrounded by armed Bajorans, with Ro among them. Orta emerges, his face mutilated and [[vocal cords]] cut by the Cardassians. He tells them that the Bajorans did not attack Solarion IV and lets them go.
   
Back on the ''Enterprise'''s [[bridge]], Ro discusses the issue of who attacked Solarion IV with the other officers until Picard asks her into his ready room. There he angrily asks her to explain her actions. While her intentions appear to have been good -- she hoped to avoid bloodshed by talking to Orta before the meeting -- Picard confines her to her quarters.
+
Back on the ''Enterprise'''s [[bridge]], Ro discusses the issue of who attacked Solarion IV with the other officers until Picard asks her into his [[ready room]]. There he angrily asks her to explain her actions. While her intentions appear to have been good – she hoped to avoid bloodshed by talking to Orta before the meeting – Picard confines her to her quarters.
   
 
That night, Guinan visits Ro to talk about what has happened. She observes that Ro seems to trust no one, least of all herself. After a brief conversation, Guinan recalls a time in her life when she did not know whom to trust, and says she knew one man she could always trust.
 
That night, Guinan visits Ro to talk about what has happened. She observes that Ro seems to trust no one, least of all herself. After a brief conversation, Guinan recalls a time in her life when she did not know whom to trust, and says she knew one man she could always trust.
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Despite Ro being confined to her quarters, Guinan takes her to Picard's ready room. Guinan leaves the two of them to talk, and Ro reveals a secret about her purpose aboard the ''Enterprise''. As she reveals, Admiral Kennelly wanted her to make a secret deal with Orta, in direct violation of the [[Prime Directive]]: so long as Orta stopped attacking the Federation, Kennelly would supply him and his fellows with weapons and ships. However, when she learned Orta was not responsible, she did not know what to do. Ro shares a story about how her father was tortured to death in front of her at the hands of the Cardassians, explaining that she felt ashamed to be Bajoran. She and Picard decide to find a way for Orta to help them expose the ones who really attacked the Federation colony.
 
Despite Ro being confined to her quarters, Guinan takes her to Picard's ready room. Guinan leaves the two of them to talk, and Ro reveals a secret about her purpose aboard the ''Enterprise''. As she reveals, Admiral Kennelly wanted her to make a secret deal with Orta, in direct violation of the [[Prime Directive]]: so long as Orta stopped attacking the Federation, Kennelly would supply him and his fellows with weapons and ships. However, when she learned Orta was not responsible, she did not know what to do. Ro shares a story about how her father was tortured to death in front of her at the hands of the Cardassians, explaining that she felt ashamed to be Bajoran. She and Picard decide to find a way for Orta to help them expose the ones who really attacked the Federation colony.
   
:''Captain's log, supplemental. I have become convinced that we are somehow involved in a conspiracy. I'm hopeful the purpose behind it will be revealed in the next few hours.''
+
:"''Captain's log, supplemental. I have become convinced that we are somehow involved in a conspiracy. I'm hopeful the purpose behind it will be revealed in the next few hours.''"
   
As the ''Enterprise'' prepares to escort a Bajoran transport with Orta and his fellows aboard, they find the ship can only travel at half [[impulse]] and match speeds accordingly. Picard tells [[Data]] to monitor the Cardassian border, and as they travel, two {{ShipClass|Galor}} Cardassian [[warship]]s seem to take up a parallel course. Upon reaching the point along their path closest to the Cardassian border (they are in neutral, unclaimed space at this point), the warships cross the border and move to intercept the transport. When the Cardassians order Picard to let them destroy the transport, Picard, under direct orders from Kennelly, allows [[Gul]] [[Dolak's starship]] to do so. However, when Kennelly hails the ''Enterprise'' seconds later, it is revealed -- in a conversation Picard makes a point of having on the bridge rather than in the privacy in his ready room -- that no one was aboard the transport.
+
As the ''Enterprise'' prepares to escort a Bajoran transport with Orta and his fellows aboard, they find the ship can only travel at half [[impulse]] and match speeds accordingly. Picard tells [[Data]] to monitor the Cardassian border, and as they travel, two {{Class|Galor}} Cardassian [[warship]]s seem to take up a parallel course. Upon reaching the point along their path closest to the Cardassian border (they are in neutral, unclaimed space at this point), the warships cross the border and move to intercept the transport. When the Cardassians order Picard to let them destroy the transport, Picard, under direct orders from Kennelly, allows [[Gul]] [[Dolak's starship]] to do so. However, when Kennelly hails the ''Enterprise'' seconds later, it is revealed – in a conversation Picard makes a point of having on the bridge rather than in the privacy of his ready room – that no one was aboard the transport.
   
It turns out that, just as Picard suspected, the Cardassians were the ones who attacked the colony in an attempt to bring the Federation to their side. They were hoping to find someone -- like Kennelly -- who was gullible enough to do so. Kennelly, Picard tells Ro, will likely be court martialed.
+
It turns out that, just as Picard suspected, the Cardassians were the ones who attacked the colony in an attempt to bring the Federation to their side. They were hoping to find someone – like Kennelly – who was gullible enough to do so. Kennelly, Picard tells Ro, will likely be [[court martial]]ed.
   
Back on the surface of Valo II, Picard sees in Ro some of the qualities shared by the finest [[Starfleet]] [[officer]]s he has ever known. While she is not yet one of those officers, he believes she can be in time. He asks her to stay, and at this point it is clear that the two of them have taken a liking to one another. The one provision is that, despite [[Starfleet uniform code]], she must be allowed to wear her [[Bajoran earring]]. Picard smiles and agrees, beaming them back onboard the ''Enterprise''.
+
Back on the surface of Valo II, Picard sees in Ro some of the qualities shared by the finest [[Starfleet]] [[officer]]s he has ever known. While she is not yet one of those officers, he believes she can be in time. He asks her to stay, and at this point it is clear that the two of them have taken a liking to one another. The one provision is that, despite [[Starfleet uniform code]], she must be allowed to wear her [[Bajoran earring]]. Picard smiles and agrees, beaming them back on board the ''Enterprise''.
   
 
== Memorable Quotes ==
 
== Memorable Quotes ==
 
"''I understand you've been discussing alternative adversarial engagement strategy with Mr. Mot.''"<br />
 
"''I understand you've been discussing alternative adversarial engagement strategy with Mr. Mot.''"<br />
"''It'd be more accurate to say he was discussing them with me...He's the best barber in Starfleet - what can you do?''"
+
"''It'd be more accurate to say he was discussing them with me... He's the best barber in Starfleet - what can you do?''"
 
: - '''Picard''' and '''Riker'''
 
: - '''Picard''' and '''Riker'''
   
Line 78: Line 78:
 
"''There are other Bajorans in Starfleet. Assign one of them!''"
 
"''There are other Bajorans in Starfleet. Assign one of them!''"
 
: - '''Picard''', upon being told that Ensign Ro will be serving on the ''Enterprise''
 
: - '''Picard''', upon being told that Ensign Ro will be serving on the ''Enterprise''
  +
  +
  +
"''It was not necessary to abduct us.''"<br />
  +
"''I am sorry but after speaking with Ro Laren, I decided that it was.''"
  +
: - '''Picard''' and '''Orta'''
   
   
Line 85: Line 90:
 
"''The Bajoran custom has the family name first, the individual name second - I am properly addressed as Ensign Ro.''"<br />
 
"''The Bajoran custom has the family name first, the individual name second - I am properly addressed as Ensign Ro.''"<br />
 
"''I'm sorry, I didn't know...''"<br />
 
"''I'm sorry, I didn't know...''"<br />
"''No, there's no reason you should. It's an old custom - most Bajora today accept the distortion of their names in order to assimilate...''I ''do not.''"
+
"''No, there's no reason you should. It's an old custom - most Bajora today accept the distortion of their names in order to assimilate... ''I'' do not.''"
 
: - '''Picard''' and '''Ro''', meeting for the first time
 
: - '''Picard''' and '''Ro''', meeting for the first time
  +
  +
  +
"''They're lost, defeated. I will ''never'' be.''"
  +
: - '''Ro Laren''' observing with Picard the Bajorans on Valo II
   
   
Line 99: Line 108:
 
"''Mind if we join you?''"<br />
 
"''Mind if we join you?''"<br />
 
"''Yes.''"
 
"''Yes.''"
: - '''Deanna Troi''', asking '''Ro Laren''' if she and [[Beverly Crusher]] can sit with her in Ten Forward
+
: - '''Deanna Troi''', asking '''Ro Laren''' if she and Beverly Crusher can sit with her in Ten Forward
   
   
Line 115: Line 124:
   
 
"''You're not like any bartender I've met before.''"<br />
 
"''You're not like any bartender I've met before.''"<br />
"''And you're not like any Starfleet officer I've met before. And that sounds like the beginning of a very interesting friendship.''"
+
"''And you're not like any Starfleet officer I've met before. And that sounds like the beginning of a very interesting friendship.''"<br />
  +
"''I'm not interested in making friends.''"<br />
  +
"''Too late. You just did.''"<br />
 
: - '''Ro''' and '''Guinan'''
 
: - '''Ro''' and '''Guinan'''
   
   
"''All is not what it seems to be, Captain. Perhaps someone ''is'' using you to get to me. Perhaps you are a victim of this deception as well; I do not know.''"<br />
+
"''All is not what it seems to be, captain. Perhaps someone ''is'' using you to get to me. Perhaps you are a victim of this deception as well; I do not know.''"<br />
 
"''Deception?!''"<br />
 
"''Deception?!''"<br />
 
"''Your mission was to seek out the Bajoran terrorists who destroyed the Federation settlement on Solarion IV.''"<br />
 
"''Your mission was to seek out the Bajoran terrorists who destroyed the Federation settlement on Solarion IV.''"<br />
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"''Subspace signal, coming in from Starfleet, sir - Admiral Kennelly.''"<br />
 
"''Subspace signal, coming in from Starfleet, sir - Admiral Kennelly.''"<br />
 
"''On screen.''"<br />
 
"''On screen.''"<br />
"''It is on a secure channel, sir...in your ready room?''"<br />
+
"''It is on a secure channel, sir... in your ready room?''"<br />
"''No,'' here...''on screen.''"
+
"''No, ''here...'' on screen.''"
 
: - '''Data''' and '''Picard''', after letting the Bajoran ship be destroyed
 
: - '''Data''' and '''Picard''', after letting the Bajoran ship be destroyed
   
   
"''The Cardassians have destroyed the Bajoran ship, Admiral.''"<br />
+
"''The Cardassians have destroyed the Bajoran ship, admiral.''"<br />
 
"''All hands lost?''"<br />
 
"''All hands lost?''"<br />
 
"''No, sir.''"<br />
 
"''No, sir.''"<br />
 
"''Survivors?''"<br />
 
"''Survivors?''"<br />
 
"''No, sir - no one was on board.''"<br />
 
"''No, sir - no one was on board.''"<br />
: - '''Picard''' and '''Kennelly''', revealing that the Cardassians - and the Admiral - had been fooled
+
: - '''Picard''' and '''Kennelly''', revealing that the Cardassians - and the admiral - had been fooled
   
   
 
"''What're you talking about?!''"<br />
 
"''What're you talking about?!''"<br />
 
"''The ship was controlled from the ground...''"<br />
 
"''The ship was controlled from the ground...''"<br />
"''This was'' your ''idea, Picard?''"<br />
+
"''This was ''your'' idea, Picard?''"<br />
"''Actually, no...it was Ensign Ro's idea, but I fully endorsed it - I suspected something like this might occur.''"
+
"''Actually, no... it was Ensign Ro's idea, but I fully endorsed it - I suspected something like this might occur.''"
 
: - '''Kennelly''' and '''Picard'''
 
: - '''Kennelly''' and '''Picard'''
   
   
  +
"''Do you know how many people they killed on Solarion IV?!''"<br />
"''Orta's ships are old and obsolete. They don't even have warp capabilities - they couldn't have'' reached ''another star system, let alone attacked one.''"<br />
 
  +
"''The Bajorans did not attack Solarion IV!''"<br />
  +
"''Who told you that? Orta?''"<br />
  +
"''Yes.''"<br />
  +
"''And you believed him?!''"<br />
 
"''Admiral, Orta's ships are old and obsolete. They don't even have warp capabilities - they couldn't have ''reached'' another star system, let alone attacked one.''"<br />
 
"''Then who's responsible?!''"<br />
 
"''Then who's responsible?!''"<br />
"''I suggest you ask your friend, the Cardassian liaison, Admiral - the only explanation'' I ''can think of is that the Cardassians staged it.''"<br />
+
"''I suggest you ask your friend, the Cardassian liaison, admiral - the only explanation ''I'' can think of is that the Cardassians staged it.''"<br />
"''The ''Cardassians?! ''Why?''"<br />
+
"''The ''Cardassians?!'' Why?''"<br />
"''Perhaps they were hoping to find someone in Starfleet - like'' you, ''Admiral - naive enough to solve their Bajoran problem for them.''"
+
"''Perhaps they were hoping to find someone in Starfleet - like ''you'', admiral - naive enough to solve their Bajoran problem for them.''"
 
: - '''Picard''' and '''Kennelly''', as the truth comes out
 
: - '''Picard''' and '''Kennelly''', as the truth comes out
   
 
== Background Information ==
 
== Background Information ==
=== Story and production ===
+
=== Story and script ===
  +
* This episode features the first appearance of the [[Bajoran]]s, who go on to be a focal point of ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]''. In the original story script, it was the Romulans who were occupying Bajor, but [[Rick Berman]] felt the Romulans had been seen too much and, remembering {{e|The Wounded}}, had the story changed to include the Cardassians. (''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine - The Official Poster Magazine]]'', issue 4)
 
* Berman emphasized the Bajorans were not modeled on any one real-life group. "''The Kurds, the Palestinians, the Jews in the 1940s, the boat people from Haiti &ndash; unfortunately, the homeless and terrorism are problems [in every age].''" (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'')
  +
  +
=== Production ===
  +
[[File:Landau directing Forbes.jpg|thumb|Les Landau giving advice to Michelle Forbes]]
 
* "Ensign Ro" was filmed betwen Monday {{d|29|July|1991}} and Tuesday {{d|6|August|1991}} on [[Paramount Stage 8]], [[Paramount Stage 9|9]], and [[Paramount Stage 16|16]]. On Monday {{d|5|August|1991}} the production moved outside for a [[Filming locations|location shooting]] at [[Bronson Canyon]] near the area where the previous episode {{e|Darmok}} was filmed. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'')
 
* "Ensign Ro" was filmed betwen Monday {{d|29|July|1991}} and Tuesday {{d|6|August|1991}} on [[Paramount Stage 8]], [[Paramount Stage 9|9]], and [[Paramount Stage 16|16]]. On Monday {{d|5|August|1991}} the production moved outside for a [[Filming locations|location shooting]] at [[Bronson Canyon]] near the area where the previous episode {{e|Darmok}} was filmed. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'')
 
* An insert scene of a monitor in Picard's ready room was filmed on Monday {{d|16|September|1991}} during the production of {{e|Unification II}}.
 
* An insert scene of a monitor in Picard's ready room was filmed on Monday {{d|16|September|1991}} during the production of {{e|Unification II}}.
*This episode features the first appearance of the [[Bajoran]]s. They go on to be a focal point of ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]''.
 
*[[Rick Berman]] emphasized the Bajorans were not modeled on any one real-life group. "''The Kurds, the Palestinians, the Jews in the 1940s, the boat people from Haiti &ndash; unfortunately, the homeless and terrorism are problems [in every age].''" (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'')
 
*It is also the first appearance of the new recurring character of [[Ro Laren]]. The producers hoped to add another character who could create some conflict, and preferably a woman. Berman explained, "''The other characters in the cast are relatively homogeneous; some might even say bland. So we wanted a character with the strength and dignity of a Starfleet officer but with a troubled past, an edge.''" (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'')
 
*[[Michelle Forbes]] was offered the part of Ro Laren because the producers were impressed by her performance as [[Dara (Kaelon II)|Dara]] in {{e|Half a Life}}. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'')
 
*This episode features the first appearance of [[Mot]], the [[Bolian]] [[barber]]. He would next appear in {{e|Schisms}}.
 
 
* On Friday {{d|2|August|1991}} Paramount Stage 8 and 9 were visited by the Executives of [[Paramount Pictures]]. The call sheet features the note that the two sets must be clean and lighted.
 
* On Friday {{d|2|August|1991}} Paramount Stage 8 and 9 were visited by the Executives of [[Paramount Pictures]]. The call sheet features the note that the two sets must be clean and lighted.
 
* [[Birds & Animals Unlimited]] worked again on ''The Next Generation'' following the [[TNG Season 4|fourth season]] episode {{e|In Theory}}. For this episode, two animal handlers and twelve Guinea fowls were on set.
 
* [[Birds & Animals Unlimited]] worked again on ''The Next Generation'' following the [[TNG Season 4|fourth season]] episode {{e|In Theory}}. For this episode, two animal handlers and twelve Guinea fowls were on set.
 
* On Tuesday {{d|6|August|1991}} the publicity photos of the main cast and guest actress [[Whoopi Goldberg]] for the fifth season were shot at the main bridge and Paramount Stage 8.
 
* On Tuesday {{d|6|August|1991}} the publicity photos of the main cast and guest actress [[Whoopi Goldberg]] for the fifth season were shot at the main bridge and Paramount Stage 8.
* First UK airdate: 4 January 1995
+
* First UK airdate: 4 January 1995.
  +
  +
=== Cast and characters ===
  +
[[File:Michelle Forbes and Patrick Stewart.jpg|thumb|Forbes and Stewart filming on location]]
 
* It is also the first appearance of the new recurring character of [[Ro Laren]]. The producers hoped to add another character who could create some conflict, and preferably a woman. Berman explained, "''The other characters in the cast are relatively homogeneous; some might even say bland. So we wanted a character with the strength and dignity of a Starfleet officer but with a troubled past, an edge.''" (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'')
 
* [[Michelle Forbes]] was offered the part of Ro Laren because the producers were impressed by her performance as [[Dara (Kaelon II)|Dara]] in {{e|Half a Life}}. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'')
 
* This episode features the first appearance of [[Mot]], the [[Bolian]] [[barber]]. He next appeared in {{e|Schisms}}.
   
 
=== Continuity ===
 
=== Continuity ===
*Commander [[William T. Riker|Riker]] orders Ro to comply with [[Starfleet uniform]] regulations when she beams aboard the ''Enterprise'' by making her remove her traditional [[Bajoran earring]]. This seems like a strange request as [[Worf]] is allowed to wear his [[Klingon]] [[baldric]] and [[Deanna Troi]] is allowed to not wear a standard uniform at all. Nevertheless, enforcement of the uniform regulation is paralleled in the ''Voyager'' episode {{e|Learning Curve}}, when [[Tuvok]] orders [[Gerron]] to remove his earring.
+
* Commander [[William T. Riker|Riker]] orders Ro to comply with [[Starfleet uniform]] regulations when she beams aboard the ''Enterprise''-D by making her remove her traditional [[Bajoran earring]]. This seems like a strange request as [[Worf]] is allowed to wear his [[Klingon]] [[baldric]] and [[Deanna Troi]] is allowed to not wear a standard uniform at all. Nevertheless, enforcement of the uniform regulation is paralleled in the ''Voyager'' episode {{e|Learning Curve}}, when [[Tuvok]] orders [[Gerron]] to remove his earring.
* Ro wears her earring on the opposite ear from the Bajorans seen later on [[DS9]].
+
* Ro wears her earring on the opposite ear from the Bajorans seen later on ''Star Trek: Deep Space Nine''.
*The name "Bajora" - apparently used here to indicate both the race and their terrorist group - is not heard after this episode in TNG, DS9, or VOY, but it is visible on a computer readout in {{e|Conundrum}}. Later episodes of DS9 would establish named terrorist groups on Bajor, including the [[Kohn-Ma]] and the [[Circle]].
+
* The name "Bajora" - apparently used here to indicate both the race and their terrorist group - is not heard after this episode in TNG, DS9, or VOY, but it is visible on a computer readout in {{e|Conundrum}}. Later episodes of DS9 established named terrorist groups on Bajor, including the [[Kohn-Ma]] and the [[Circle]]. The name "Bajora" is used inconsistently even within this episode, even by the same character within a single scene (apparently as alternate takes were edited together).
*Kennelly states here that the [[Occupation of Bajor]] (which, like many other things, had not been well developed at this point) has lasted forty years. Later references conflict with one another and Kennelly's claim, but the generally accepted canonical figure is fifty years. See the [[Occupation of Bajor#Inconsistencies|Inconsistencies]] section of the Occupation page for more information.
+
* Kennelly states here that the [[Occupation of Bajor]] (which, like many other things, had not been well developed at this point) has lasted forty years. Later references conflict with one another and Kennelly's claim, but the generally accepted canonical figure is fifty years. See the [[Occupation of Bajor#Inconsistencies|Inconsistencies]] section of the Occupation page for more information.
*The appearance of the Bajorans in this episode is slightly different; over each eye, there is a subtle ridge. These were dropped later and Ro Laren no longer has them in her final appearances.
+
* The appearance of the Bajorans in this episode is slightly different; over each eye, there is a subtle ridge. These were dropped later and Ro Laren no longer has them in her final appearance in {{TNG|Preemptive Strike}}.
*Stock footage of [[Starbase 74]] from {{e|11001001}} was re-used in this episode to represent [[Lya Station Alpha]] where the ''Enterprise'' meets Kennelly and picks up Ensign Ro. The footage is a modified version of [[Spacedock]] shots from {{film|3}}.
+
* Stock footage of [[Starbase 74]] from {{e|11001001}} was re-used in this episode to represent [[Lya Station Alpha]] where the ''Enterprise'' meets Kennelly and picks up Ensign Ro. The footage is a modified version of [[spacedock]] shots from {{film|3}}.
   
 
=== Reception ===
 
=== Reception ===
 
* [[Michael Piller]] felt that the introduction of Ro was a success. "''It's one of the season's greatest accomplishments. Not just by Rick and I, but by the acting of Michelle, who is just a wonderful performer. You don't just throw in new people because this audience is really particular about who they're going to make part of the family, but I've heard almost no resistance to Ensign Ro.''" (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'')
 
* [[Michael Piller]] felt that the introduction of Ro was a success. "''It's one of the season's greatest accomplishments. Not just by Rick and I, but by the acting of Michelle, who is just a wonderful performer. You don't just throw in new people because this audience is really particular about who they're going to make part of the family, but I've heard almost no resistance to Ensign Ro.''" (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'')
 
* Piller credits this success as due to the use of [[Guinan]]. "''I think Guinan embraces Ro in a very personal way. She basically took Ro by the hand and said she deserves your attention and deserves to be embraced by you. When she took Ro to Picard for that very reason, in essence, she was doing that to our audience. It was not a very easy show to write; it was not until we found that relationship between Ro and Guinan that I was personally satisfied that we really had done something magnificent.''" (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'')
 
* Piller credits this success as due to the use of [[Guinan]]. "''I think Guinan embraces Ro in a very personal way. She basically took Ro by the hand and said she deserves your attention and deserves to be embraced by you. When she took Ro to Picard for that very reason, in essence, she was doing that to our audience. It was not a very easy show to write; it was not until we found that relationship between Ro and Guinan that I was personally satisfied that we really had done something magnificent.''" (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'')
  +
* A mission report for this episode by John Sayers was published in ''[[The Official Star Trek: The Next Generation Magazine]]'' Vol. 18, pp. 17-20.
   
 
=== Video and DVD releases ===
 
=== Video and DVD releases ===
*Original UK VHS release (two-episode tapes, [[CIC Video]]): Volume 52, <!--catalogue number x, -->''{{m|September|1992}}''.
+
* Original UK VHS release (two-episode tapes, [[CIC Video]]): Volume 52, <!--catalog number x, -->{{m|September|1992}}
*UK re-release (three-episode tapes, [[Paramount Home Entertainment]]): Volume 5.1, {{d|24|June|2002}}.
+
* UK re-release (three-episode tapes, [[Paramount Home Entertainment]]): Volume 5.1, {{d|24|June|2002}}
*As part of the [[TNG Season 5 DVD]] collection.
+
* As part of the [[TNG Season 5 DVD]] collection
   
===Apocrypha===
+
=== Apocrypha ===
Guinan tells Ro that ''"a very long time ago I got into some serious trouble too, and I mean serious, and I'd probably still be there, if I hadn't trusted one man."'' The ''[[Star Trek: Stargazer]]'' [[novels|novel]] ''[[Oblivion]]'' shows the backstory for the friendship of Picard and Guinan, including how Picard helped save Guinan.
+
* Guinan tells Ro that "''a very long time ago I got into some serious trouble too, and I mean serious, and I'd probably still be there, if I hadn't trusted one man.''" The ''[[Star Trek: Stargazer]]'' [[novels|novel]] ''[[Oblivion]]'' shows the backstory for the friendship of Picard and Guinan, including how Picard helped save Guinan. However, Guinan may have been referring to the events of {{e|Time's Arrow, Part II}}.
   
 
== Links and references ==
 
== Links and references ==
Line 219: Line 242:
   
 
=== Uncredited co-stars ===
 
=== Uncredited co-stars ===
* [[K.C. Amos]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Male operations division officer (2368)|operations division officer]]
+
* [[K.C. Amos]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Male operations division officer (2368)|operations division officer]]
 
* [[Rachen Assapiomonwait]] as [[Nelson (Starfleet)|Nelson]]
 
* [[Rachen Assapiomonwait]] as [[Nelson (Starfleet)|Nelson]]
* [[Thomas J. Booth]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Male operations division officer|civilian]]
+
* [[Thomas J. Booth]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Male operations division officer|civilian]]
 
* [[Boyen]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Boyen]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Byron]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Vulcan at barbershop|Vulcan patron]]
 
* [[Byron]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Vulcan at barbershop|Vulcan patron]]
Line 228: Line 251:
 
* [[Cook (actor)|Cook]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Cook (actor)|Cook]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[John Copage]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Elderly science / command division officer|science division officer]]
 
* [[John Copage]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Elderly science / command division officer|science division officer]]
* [[Denise Deuschle]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Bridge science division officer (2367-2368)|science division officer]]
+
* [[Denise Deuschle]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) sciences division personnel#Bridge science division officer (2367-2368)|science division officer]]
 
* [[Factor]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Factor]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Falerne]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Falerne]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[E. Falerne]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[E. Falerne]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Garverick]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Garverick]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
  +
* [[Melanie Gerren]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) sciences division personnel#Female science officer (2366-2368)|science division officer]]
 
* [[Gonzalez]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Gonzalez]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Hall]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Hall]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
  +
* [[Hawthorne]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) sciences division personnel#Female science division officer (2367)|science division officer]]
 
* [[Houy]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Houy]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
* [[Hwang]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Operations division officer in Ten Forward|operations division officer]]
+
* [[Hwang]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Operations division officer in Ten Forward|operations division officer]]
 
* [[Joly]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Joly]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Kinsel]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Kinsel]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Landi]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Freedom fighters|Bajoran freedom fighter]]
 
* [[Landi]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Freedom fighters|Bajoran freedom fighter]]
  +
* [[Debbie Marsh]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) command division personnel#Female bridge command officer (2366)|civilian]]
 
* [[McGhee]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[McGhee]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Melton]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran girl]]
 
* [[Melton]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran girl]]
 
* [[Menning]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Menning]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
  +
* [[Jay Montalvo]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Male engineer/transporter chief|operations division officer]]
 
* [[Pentarow]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Freedom fighters|Bajoran freedom fighter]]
 
* [[Pentarow]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Freedom fighters|Bajoran freedom fighter]]
 
* [[Polito]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Freedom fighters|Bajoran freedom fighter]]
 
* [[Polito]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Freedom fighters|Bajoran freedom fighter]]
Line 253: Line 280:
 
* [[Simen]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran girl]]
 
* [[Simen]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran girl]]
 
* [[Leatrim Stang]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
 
* [[Leatrim Stang]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran]]
* [[Noriko Suzuki]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Female engineer|operations division ensign]]
+
* [[Noriko Suzuki]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Female engineer|operations division ensign]]
* [[Talbot]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Ten Forward waitress|Ten Forward waitress]]
+
* [[Talbot]] as [[Ten Forward personnel#Ten Forward waitress|Ten Forward waitress]]
 
* [[Matt Tufo]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Barber (2367)|barber]]
 
* [[Matt Tufo]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Barber (2367)|barber]]
  +
* [[Uchizono]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) command division personnel#Female command division officer (2366-2367)|civilian]]
 
* [[Guy Vardaman]] as [[Darien Wallace]]
 
* [[Guy Vardaman]] as [[Darien Wallace]]
 
* [[Vassili]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran boy]]
 
* [[Vassili]] as [[Unnamed Bajorans#Valo II settlers|Bajoran boy]]
Line 263: Line 291:
 
** [[Unnamed Bajorans#Bajoran contact|Female Bajoran contact (voice)]]
 
** [[Unnamed Bajorans#Bajoran contact|Female Bajoran contact (voice)]]
 
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Female bridge officer (2368)|Female bridge officer (voice)]]
 
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Female bridge officer (2368)|Female bridge officer (voice)]]
  +
** [[Ten Forward personnel#Ten Forward waiter (2368)|Ten Forward waiter]]
  +
** [[Ten Forward personnel#Ten Forward staff (2368)|Ten Forward waitress]]
   
 
=== Stand-ins ===
 
=== Stand-ins ===
Line 270: Line 300:
 
* [[Krista]] - stand-in for [[Michelle Forbes]]
 
* [[Krista]] - stand-in for [[Michelle Forbes]]
 
* [[Nora Leonhardt]] - stand-in for [[Marina Sirtis]]
 
* [[Nora Leonhardt]] - stand-in for [[Marina Sirtis]]
* [[Tim McCormack]] - stand-in for [[Brent Spiner]], [[Cliff Potts]], [[Harley Venton]] & [[Frank Collison]]
+
* [[Tim McCormack]] - stand-in for [[Brent Spiner]], [[Cliff Potts]], [[Harley Venton]], and [[Frank Collison]]
* [[Lorine Mendell]] - stand-in for [[Gates McFadden]] & [[Michelle Forbes]]
+
* [[Lorine Mendell]] - stand-in for [[Gates McFadden]] and [[Michelle Forbes]]
 
* [[Renna]] - stand-in for [[Michelle Forbes]]
 
* [[Renna]] - stand-in for [[Michelle Forbes]]
* [[Richard Sarstedt]] - stand-in for [[Jonathan Frakes]], [[Scott Marlowe]] & [[Jeffrey Hayenga]]
+
* [[Richard Sarstedt]] - stand-in for [[Jonathan Frakes]], [[Scott Marlowe]], and [[Jeffrey Hayenga]]
 
* [[Dennis Tracy]] - stand-in for [[Patrick Stewart]]
 
* [[Dennis Tracy]] - stand-in for [[Patrick Stewart]]
 
* [[Guy Vardaman]] - stand-in for [[Brent Spiner]]
 
* [[Guy Vardaman]] - stand-in for [[Brent Spiner]]
 
* [[James Washington]] - stand-in for [[Michael Dorn]]
 
* [[James Washington]] - stand-in for [[Michael Dorn]]
   
=== References ===
+
===References===
[[Adele|Aunt Adele]]; [[Antares class (freighter)|''Antares''-class carrier]]; [[Bajoran]]s; [[barbershop]]; [[Cardassian]]s; [[Cardassian Empire]]; [[Cardassian Militia 41]]; [[class M]]; [[common cold]]; [[Federation]]; {{ShipClass|Galor}}; [[Garon II]]; [[ginger tea]]; [[Jaros II]]; [[Jas Holza]]; [[liaison officer]]; [[Lya Station Alpha]]; [[Occupation of Bajor]]; [[Ro Gale]]; [[Romulan]]s; [[Sector 21305]]; [[Solarion system]]; [[Solarion IV]]; [[Starfleet uniform code]]; [[tricorder]]; [[Valo system]]; [[Valo I]]; [[Valo II]]; [[Valo III]]; [[USS Wellington|''Wellington'', USS]]
+
[[Adele|Aunt Adele]]; [[Antares class (carrier)|''Antares''-class carrier]]; [[Bajor]]; [[Bajoran]]s; [[barbershop]]; [[bluff]]; [[Cardassian]]s; [[Cardassian Empire]]; [[Cardassian Militia 41]]; [[Celsius]]; [[class M]]; [[common cold]]; [[Federation]]; {{Class|Galor}}; [[Garon II]]; [[ginger tea]]; [[honey]]; [[Jaros II]]; [[Jas Holza]]; [[liaison officer]]; [[Lya Station Alpha]]; [[Unnamed Alpha and Beta Quadrant planets#Lya Station Alpha|Lya Station Alpha planet]]; [[Occupation of Bajor]]; [[red alert]]; [[Ro Gale]]; [[Romulan]]s; [[Sector 21305]]; [[Solarion system]]; [[Solarion IV]]; [[Starfleet uniform code]]; [[tricorder]]; [[Valo system]]; [[Valo I]]; [[Valo II]]; [[Valo III]]; [[vocal cords]]; [[USS Wellington|''Wellington'', USS]]; [[yellow alert]]
  +
  +
===External link===
  +
*{{Wikipedia|Ensign Ro (Star Trek: The Next Generation)}}
   
 
{{TNG nav|season=5|last={{e|Darmok}}|next={{e|Silicon Avatar}}}}
 
{{TNG nav|season=5|last={{e|Darmok}}|next={{e|Silicon Avatar}}}}
  +
 
[[Category:TNG episodes]]
   
 
[[de:Fähnrich Ro]]
 
[[de:Fähnrich Ro]]
 
[[es:Ensign Ro]]
 
[[es:Ensign Ro]]
[[fr:Ensign Ro]]
+
[[fr:Ensign Ro (épisode)]]
[[ja:TNG:流浪のベイジョー星人]]
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[[ja:流浪のベイジョー星人(エピソード)]]
 
[[nl:Ensign Ro]]
 
[[nl:Ensign Ro]]
 
[[pl:Ensign Ro]]
 
[[pl:Ensign Ro]]
[[Category:TNG episodes]]
 

Revision as of 22:43, 14 October 2014

Template:Realworld

The Enterprise takes on Ensign Ro Laren to help track down Bajoran terrorists who attacked a Federation colony.

Summary

It is a typical day as Mot trims Captain Picard's hair while dispensing advice on strategy with the Romulans. The conversation is interrupted by a call from Commander Riker, who reports that the Enterprise has just received a distress call from a colony on Solarion IV. As Picard leaves, Mot observes how close Solarion is to the Cardassian border and points out that he told them not to colonize it. When Picard arrives on the bridge, there is an audio-only communication from a Bajoran named Orta claiming responsibility for destroying the colony.

"Captain's log, stardate 45076.3. We have arrived at Lya Station Alpha with survivors from Solarion IV. Admiral Kennelly has rendezvoused to discuss the Bajoran terrorist's attack."

Picard is holding a private meeting with Admiral Kennelly discussing the issue. It seems the Cardassian Empire annexed Bajor forty years ago and the Bajoran people were subsequently driven from their own land. While the Cardassians have had problems with terrorism ever since the annexation, this is the first time the Bajorans have attacked the Federation. Kennelly wants Picard to stop Orta at all costs. While the two discuss the issue, Riker learns that Ensign Ro Laren is waiting to beam aboard the Enterprise. The ensign has come at Kennelly's request, for he thinks she will be useful on the mission even though she was imprisoned previously.

When Ro Laren arrives aboard the Enterprise, it is revealed that Bajoran surnames come first, and thus Ro Laren is Ensign Ro. There is visible anger on the part of Riker, in particular because she was involved in an incident aboard the USS Wellington, the nature of which is unclear. Additionally, Riker is insulted by Ro's disregard for what he considers the honor of being stationed on the Enterprise; in her words, it is "better than prison".

"Captain's log, supplemental. We are approaching the Valo system on the outskirts of Cardassian territory, where many Bajorans have resettled."

At a staff meeting, Picard and the crew discuss how to get in contact with the Bajoran people. Data suggests that a man known as Jas Holza might be the best choice, and that he may be found on Valo III. Dr. Crusher is familiar with the man and adds that he is quite charming, but Ro points out that Jas holds no real sway over the Bajoran people. She does, however, know a man named Keeve Falor who lives on Valo II. They decide to go there instead.

"Captain's log, supplemental. I read about the achievements of the ancient Bajoran civilization in my fifth-grade reader. They were architects and artists, builders and philosophers when Humans were not yet standing erect. Now I see how history has rewarded them."

On the surface of Valo II, Picard meets with Keeve, who does not condone the terrorist attack against the Federation. However, at the same time he refuses to help Picard or the Federation, as he feels betrayed by the way they sat by while Bajor was ravaged by the Cardassians. Picard determines to help the people of the planet using the replicators aboard the Enterprise, which makes Keeve much more cooperative. Ro tells Picard she ran away because she could not live as the Bajorans do and would not be defeated.

"Captain's log, stardate 45077.8. Keeve Falor has kept his promise and directed us toward the third moon of Valo I, where we will meet tomorrow with the terrorist leader Orta."

Ro sits alone in Ten Forward, sipping her beverage and turning people away when they offer to sit with her. As Geordi La Forge expresses his displeasure at Ro's presence to Guinan, she decides to get to know Ro. During their conversation, it is revealed that Ro was court martialed because she disobeyed a direct order, resulting in the death of eight fellow officers. Guinan persists despite Ro's efforts to push her away, intent on making a new friend.

In her quarters, Ro receives a transmission from Kennelly and tells him that all is going according to plan. When it comes time to beam to the surface, Picard finds Ro is gone and the terrorists never showed up at the designated meeting location. He beams down anyway with an away team, where they find themselves surrounded by armed Bajorans, with Ro among them. Orta emerges, his face mutilated and vocal cords cut by the Cardassians. He tells them that the Bajorans did not attack Solarion IV and lets them go.

Back on the Enterprise's bridge, Ro discusses the issue of who attacked Solarion IV with the other officers until Picard asks her into his ready room. There he angrily asks her to explain her actions. While her intentions appear to have been good – she hoped to avoid bloodshed by talking to Orta before the meeting – Picard confines her to her quarters.

That night, Guinan visits Ro to talk about what has happened. She observes that Ro seems to trust no one, least of all herself. After a brief conversation, Guinan recalls a time in her life when she did not know whom to trust, and says she knew one man she could always trust.

Despite Ro being confined to her quarters, Guinan takes her to Picard's ready room. Guinan leaves the two of them to talk, and Ro reveals a secret about her purpose aboard the Enterprise. As she reveals, Admiral Kennelly wanted her to make a secret deal with Orta, in direct violation of the Prime Directive: so long as Orta stopped attacking the Federation, Kennelly would supply him and his fellows with weapons and ships. However, when she learned Orta was not responsible, she did not know what to do. Ro shares a story about how her father was tortured to death in front of her at the hands of the Cardassians, explaining that she felt ashamed to be Bajoran. She and Picard decide to find a way for Orta to help them expose the ones who really attacked the Federation colony.

"Captain's log, supplemental. I have become convinced that we are somehow involved in a conspiracy. I'm hopeful the purpose behind it will be revealed in the next few hours."

As the Enterprise prepares to escort a Bajoran transport with Orta and his fellows aboard, they find the ship can only travel at half impulse and match speeds accordingly. Picard tells Data to monitor the Cardassian border, and as they travel, two Galor-class Cardassian warships seem to take up a parallel course. Upon reaching the point along their path closest to the Cardassian border (they are in neutral, unclaimed space at this point), the warships cross the border and move to intercept the transport. When the Cardassians order Picard to let them destroy the transport, Picard, under direct orders from Kennelly, allows Gul Dolak's starship to do so. However, when Kennelly hails the Enterprise seconds later, it is revealed – in a conversation Picard makes a point of having on the bridge rather than in the privacy of his ready room – that no one was aboard the transport.

It turns out that, just as Picard suspected, the Cardassians were the ones who attacked the colony in an attempt to bring the Federation to their side. They were hoping to find someone – like Kennelly – who was gullible enough to do so. Kennelly, Picard tells Ro, will likely be court martialed.

Back on the surface of Valo II, Picard sees in Ro some of the qualities shared by the finest Starfleet officers he has ever known. While she is not yet one of those officers, he believes she can be in time. He asks her to stay, and at this point it is clear that the two of them have taken a liking to one another. The one provision is that, despite Starfleet uniform code, she must be allowed to wear her Bajoran earring. Picard smiles and agrees, beaming them back on board the Enterprise.

Memorable Quotes

"I understand you've been discussing alternative adversarial engagement strategy with Mr. Mot."
"It'd be more accurate to say he was discussing them with me... He's the best barber in Starfleet - what can you do?"

- Picard and Riker


"There are other Bajorans in Starfleet. Assign one of them!"

- Picard, upon being told that Ensign Ro will be serving on the Enterprise


"It was not necessary to abduct us."
"I am sorry but after speaking with Ro Laren, I decided that it was."

- Picard and Orta


"Yes, Ensign Laren, please sit down."
"Ensign Ro, sir."
"I beg your pardon?"
"The Bajoran custom has the family name first, the individual name second - I am properly addressed as Ensign Ro."
"I'm sorry, I didn't know..."
"No, there's no reason you should. It's an old custom - most Bajora today accept the distortion of their names in order to assimilate... I do not."

- Picard and Ro, meeting for the first time


"They're lost, defeated. I will never be."

- Ro Laren observing with Picard the Bajorans on Valo II


"I cannot condone violence against people who are not our enemy."
"Then I don't understand why you're unwilling [to help us]."
"Because... you're innocent bystanders. You were innocent bystanders for decades as the Cardassians took our homes. As they violated and tortured our people in the most hideous ways imaginable. As we were forced to flee."
"We were saddened by those events, but they occurred within the borders of the Cardassian Empire."
"And the Federation is pledged not to interfere with the internal affairs of others. How convenient that must be for you. To turn a deaf ear to those who suffer behind a line on a map."

- Keeve and Picard


"Mind if we join you?"
"Yes."

- Deanna Troi, asking Ro Laren if she and Beverly Crusher can sit with her in Ten Forward


"Am I disturbing you?"
"Yes."
"Good. You look like someone who wants to be disturbed."

- Guinan and Ro


"And so now, you're sitting in crowded rooms just staring at your drink. I think you enjoy it."
"I enjoy it?"
"Well, you're working so hard at torturing yourself. I can only think that you enjoy it."

- Guinan and Ro


"You're not like any bartender I've met before."
"And you're not like any Starfleet officer I've met before. And that sounds like the beginning of a very interesting friendship."
"I'm not interested in making friends."
"Too late. You just did."

- Ro and Guinan


"All is not what it seems to be, captain. Perhaps someone is using you to get to me. Perhaps you are a victim of this deception as well; I do not know."
"Deception?!"
"Your mission was to seek out the Bajoran terrorists who destroyed the Federation settlement on Solarion IV."
"Yes."
"As I have informed Ro Laren, it was not the Bajora."

- Orta and Picard


"Subspace signal, coming in from Starfleet, sir - Admiral Kennelly."
"On screen."
"It is on a secure channel, sir... in your ready room?"
"No, here... on screen."

- Data and Picard, after letting the Bajoran ship be destroyed


"The Cardassians have destroyed the Bajoran ship, admiral."
"All hands lost?"
"No, sir."
"Survivors?"
"No, sir - no one was on board."

- Picard and Kennelly, revealing that the Cardassians - and the admiral - had been fooled


"What're you talking about?!"
"The ship was controlled from the ground..."
"This was your idea, Picard?"
"Actually, no... it was Ensign Ro's idea, but I fully endorsed it - I suspected something like this might occur."

- Kennelly and Picard


"Do you know how many people they killed on Solarion IV?!"
"The Bajorans did not attack Solarion IV!"
"Who told you that? Orta?"
"Yes."
"And you believed him?!"
"Admiral, Orta's ships are old and obsolete. They don't even have warp capabilities - they couldn't have reached another star system, let alone attacked one."
"Then who's responsible?!"
"I suggest you ask your friend, the Cardassian liaison, admiral - the only explanation I can think of is that the Cardassians staged it."
"The Cardassians?! Why?"
"Perhaps they were hoping to find someone in Starfleet - like you, admiral - naive enough to solve their Bajoran problem for them."

- Picard and Kennelly, as the truth comes out

Background Information

Story and script

Production

Landau directing Forbes

Les Landau giving advice to Michelle Forbes

Cast and characters

Michelle Forbes and Patrick Stewart

Forbes and Stewart filming on location

  • It is also the first appearance of the new recurring character of Ro Laren. The producers hoped to add another character who could create some conflict, and preferably a woman. Berman explained, "The other characters in the cast are relatively homogeneous; some might even say bland. So we wanted a character with the strength and dignity of a Starfleet officer but with a troubled past, an edge." (Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion)
  • Michelle Forbes was offered the part of Ro Laren because the producers were impressed by her performance as Dara in "Half a Life". (Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion)
  • This episode features the first appearance of Mot, the Bolian barber. He next appeared in "Schisms".

Continuity

  • Commander Riker orders Ro to comply with Starfleet uniform regulations when she beams aboard the Enterprise-D by making her remove her traditional Bajoran earring. This seems like a strange request as Worf is allowed to wear his Klingon baldric and Deanna Troi is allowed to not wear a standard uniform at all. Nevertheless, enforcement of the uniform regulation is paralleled in the Voyager episode "Learning Curve", when Tuvok orders Gerron to remove his earring.
  • Ro wears her earring on the opposite ear from the Bajorans seen later on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.
  • The name "Bajora" - apparently used here to indicate both the race and their terrorist group - is not heard after this episode in TNG, DS9, or VOY, but it is visible on a computer readout in "Conundrum". Later episodes of DS9 established named terrorist groups on Bajor, including the Kohn-Ma and the Circle. The name "Bajora" is used inconsistently even within this episode, even by the same character within a single scene (apparently as alternate takes were edited together).
  • Kennelly states here that the Occupation of Bajor (which, like many other things, had not been well developed at this point) has lasted forty years. Later references conflict with one another and Kennelly's claim, but the generally accepted canonical figure is fifty years. See the Inconsistencies section of the Occupation page for more information.
  • The appearance of the Bajorans in this episode is slightly different; over each eye, there is a subtle ridge. These were dropped later and Ro Laren no longer has them in her final appearance in TNG: "Preemptive Strike".
  • Stock footage of Starbase 74 from "11001001" was re-used in this episode to represent Lya Station Alpha where the Enterprise meets Kennelly and picks up Ensign Ro. The footage is a modified version of spacedock shots from Star Trek III: The Search for Spock.

Reception

  • Michael Piller felt that the introduction of Ro was a success. "It's one of the season's greatest accomplishments. Not just by Rick and I, but by the acting of Michelle, who is just a wonderful performer. You don't just throw in new people because this audience is really particular about who they're going to make part of the family, but I've heard almost no resistance to Ensign Ro." (Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages)
  • Piller credits this success as due to the use of Guinan. "I think Guinan embraces Ro in a very personal way. She basically took Ro by the hand and said she deserves your attention and deserves to be embraced by you. When she took Ro to Picard for that very reason, in essence, she was doing that to our audience. It was not a very easy show to write; it was not until we found that relationship between Ro and Guinan that I was personally satisfied that we really had done something magnificent." (Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages)
  • A mission report for this episode by John Sayers was published in The Official Star Trek: The Next Generation Magazine Vol. 18, pp. 17-20.

Video and DVD releases

Apocrypha

  • Guinan tells Ro that "a very long time ago I got into some serious trouble too, and I mean serious, and I'd probably still be there, if I hadn't trusted one man." The Star Trek: Stargazer novel Oblivion shows the backstory for the friendship of Picard and Guinan, including how Picard helped save Guinan. However, Guinan may have been referring to the events of "Time's Arrow, Part II".

Links and references

Starring

Also starring

Guest stars

And

Special guest star

Co-star

Uncredited co-stars

Stand-ins

References

Aunt Adele; Antares-class carrier; Bajor; Bajorans; barbershop; bluff; Cardassians; Cardassian Empire; Cardassian Militia 41; Celsius; class M; common cold; Federation; Galor-class; Garon II; ginger tea; honey; Jaros II; Jas Holza; liaison officer; Lya Station Alpha; Lya Station Alpha planet; Occupation of Bajor; red alert; Ro Gale; Romulans; Sector 21305; Solarion system; Solarion IV; Starfleet uniform code; tricorder; Valo system; Valo I; Valo II; Valo III; vocal cords; Wellington, USS; yellow alert

External link

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Star Trek: The Next Generation
Season 5
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