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Changes: The Last Outpost (episode)

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===Teaser===
  
===Teaser===
 
[[File:Tarrs marauder.jpg|thumb|Face-off at Delphi Ardu IV]]
  
[[File:Tarrs marauder.jpg|thumb|Face-off at Delphi Ardu IV]]
−
The {{USS|Enterprise|NCC-1701-D|-D}} is in pursuit of a [[Ferengi]] [[Tarr's Marauder|vessel]] suspected of stealing a [[Federation]]-owned [[T-9 energy converter]] from [[Gamma Tauri IV]]. The mission is also an opportunity to encounter the Ferengi, who have never established visual contact with the [[Federation]]. The pursuit ends when the Ferengi ship gets close to a [[planet]] in the [[Delphi Ardu system]] and goes to sub-warp speed, possibly suffering a power surge. After a while, it opens fire on the ''Enterprise'', causing her minimal damage. [[Captain]] [[Jean-Luc Picard|Picard]] chooses not to return fire, arguing that the Ferengi are just reacting to the pursuit. Soon after, however, the ''Enterprise'' also suffers a power system failure, becoming immobilized with [[phaser]]s and [[shields]] off-line.
 +
The {{USS|Enterprise|NCC-1701-D|-D}} is in pursuit of a [[Ferengi]] [[Tarr's Marauder|vessel]] suspected of stealing a [[Federation]]-owned [[T-9 energy converter]] from [[Gamma Tauri IV]]. The mission is also an opportunity to encounter the Ferengi, who have never established visual contact with the [[Federation]]. The pursuit ends when the Ferengi ship gets close to a [[planet]] in the [[Delphi Ardu system]] and goes to sub-warp speed, possibly suffering a power surge and damage to their engines. After a while, it opens fire on the ''Enterprise'', causing her minimal damage. [[Captain]] [[Jean-Luc Picard|Picard]] chooses not to return fire, arguing that the Ferengi are just reacting to the pursuit. Soon after, however, the ''Enterprise'' also suffers a power system failure, becoming immobilized with [[phaser]]s and [[shields]] off-line.
   
 
===Act One===
  
===Act One===
−
[[File:LaForge describes escape attempt.jpg|thumb|left|''"We shift down and then kick hard into warp nine!"'']]
 +
[[File:LaForge describes escape attempt.jpg|thumb|left|''"See, we push and they push back, with equal force... sir."'']]
 
The crew members believe their ship is trapped by the Ferengi. In the attempt to understand more of their enemies, [[Data]] summarizes what is known about them: they are traders, and value [[profit]] above all, not unlike [[Yankee]] traders of [[18th century|18th]] and [[19th century]] [[North America]]. [[William T. Riker|Riker]] and [[Geordi La Forge|La Forge]] envisage a way to escape the trap, by jumping abruptly to maximum warp and taking advantage of the relatively slower reaction of the [[force field]]. To catch the Ferengi off guard, Picard hails them, asking for the restitution of the stolen equipment, but receives no answer. The ''Enterprise'' then attempts the warp jump, but the plan is not successful. Furthermore, the computer data banks are being accessed by some unknown external source. [[Deanna Troi|Troi]] points out that all the attention has been devoted to the Ferengi, neglecting the possible role of the planet.
  
The crew members believe their ship is trapped by the Ferengi. In the attempt to understand more of their enemies, [[Data]] summarizes what is known about them: they are traders, and value [[profit]] above all, not unlike [[Yankee]] traders of [[18th century|18th]] and [[19th century]] [[North America]]. [[William T. Riker|Riker]] and [[Geordi La Forge|La Forge]] envisage a way to escape the trap, by jumping abruptly to maximum warp and taking advantage of the relatively slower reaction of the [[force field]]. To catch the Ferengi off guard, Picard hails them, asking for the restitution of the stolen equipment, but receives no answer. The ''Enterprise'' then attempts the warp jump, but the plan is not successful. Furthermore, the computer data banks are being accessed by some unknown external source. [[Deanna Troi|Troi]] points out that all the attention has been devoted to the Ferengi, neglecting the possible role of the planet.
   
−
A conference is held among the senior officers, and, after discarding the hypothesis of fighting, they decide to try contacting the Ferengi again. Picard hails them, asking to present their terms.
 +
A conference is held in the [[observation lounge]] among the senior officers, and, after discarding the hypothesis of fighting, they decide to try contacting the Ferengi again. Picard hails them, reluctantly asking to present their terms.
   
 
===Act Two===
  
===Act Two===
−
After a moment, the Ferengi [[DaiMon]] [[Tarr]] replies. Much to the astonishment of the ''Enterprise'' bridge crew, he says that he is ready to discuss surrender, but not unconditional surrender: he will return the energy converter and offer the lives of the second officers. It is now clear that both ships are trapped, and that the Ferengi are not the source of the energy field.
 +
After a moment, the Ferengi [[DaiMon]] [[Tarr]] replies. Much to the astonishment of the ''Enterprise'' bridge crew, he says that he is ready to discuss surrender, but not unconditional surrender: he will return the energy converter and offer the lives of the second officers. It is now clear that both ships are trapped, and that the Ferengi are not the actual source of the energy field.
   
 
[[File:Tkon empire hologram.jpg|thumb|The ancient Tkon empire]]
  
[[File:Tkon empire hologram.jpg|thumb|The ancient Tkon empire]]
−
The ''Enterprise'' [[senior officer]]s convene again in the [[observation lounge]]. There, Data explains what is known about the mysterious planet, not before becoming stuck with a [[Chinese finger trap]] left in the room by a couple of children, [[Matthew (Enterprise-D)|Matthew]] and [[Pola]]. Thanks to the help of Captain Picard, Data gets his fingers released and explains that the planet might be one of the most distant outposts of the [[Tkon Empire]], an ancient and powerful space federation that existed over [[Half a million years ago|600,000 years in the past]] and was now extinct due to their star going [[supernova]]. During the meeting, a [[probe]] launched from the ''Enterprise'' transmits its information, revealing that indeed both ships are trapped in a force field emanating from the planet's surface.
 +
The ''Enterprise'' [[senior officer]]s convene again in the observation lounge. There, Data explains what is known about the mysterious planet, not before becoming stuck with a [[Chinese finger trap]] left in the room by a couple of children, {{dis|Matthew|Enterprise-D}} and [[Pola]]. Thanks to the help of Captain Picard, Data gets his fingers released and explains that the planet might be one of the most distant outposts of the [[Tkon Empire]], an ancient and powerful space federation that existed over [[Half a million years ago|600,000 years in the past]] and was now extinct due to their star going [[supernova]]. During the meeting, a [[probe]] launched from the ''Enterprise'' transmits its information, revealing that indeed both ships are trapped in a force field emanating from the planet's surface.
   
 
===Act Three===
  
===Act Three===
  +
[[File:Riker faces Ferengi.jpg|thumb|left|The Ferengi attack]]
−
Picard again contacts the Ferengi, who have also discovered the true nature of the trap. After some confrontation with DaiMon Tarr, Picard suggests to exchange information in order to solve the common problem, which is endangering both ships. They each decide to send an [[away team]] down to the surface. Despite the apparent risks, including a loss of communication and no way to beam back on board the ''Enterprise'', Riker, La Forge, Data, [[Worf]], and [[Natasha Yar|Yar]] beam to the planet.
 +
Picard again contacts the Ferengi, who have also discovered the true nature of the trap. After some confrontation with DaiMon Tarr over his deception, Picard suggests to exchange information in order to solve the common problem, which is endangering both ships. They each decide to send a joint [[away team]] of Starfleet officers and Ferengi down to the surface. Despite the apparent risks, including a loss of communication and no way to beam back on board the ''Enterprise'', Riker, La Forge, Data, [[Worf]], and [[Natasha Yar|Yar]] beam to the planet.
   
−
On the surface, the ''Enterprise'' members are initially separated and try to rejoin. The planet surface is full of crystals and the sky is beset by thunder and lightning. Worf, Riker, Data, and La Forge are attacked by the Ferengi away team, armed with [[Energy whip|energy whips]], rendering them unconscious.
 +
On the surface, the ''Enterprise'' members are initially separated and try to rejoin. The planet surface is full of [[crystalline tree]] shapes and the sky is beset by thunder and lightning. Worf, Riker, Data, and La Forge are attacked by the Ferengi away team, armed with [[Energy whip|energy whips]], rendering them unconscious.
   
 
===Act Four===
  
===Act Four===
  +
[[File:Portal 63 energy.jpg|thumb|Mysterious energy builds]]
−
On the ''Enterprise'', the situation is getting critical, as [[life support]] is failing. All [[energy]] is diverted to the family decks to extend their survival. The Ferengi on the planet are looking at Riker's [[combadge]], wondering whether it is gold, while the ''Enterprise'' away team gradually recover their senses. A fight begins, which is resolved when Yar intervenes with a [[phaser]]. The Ferengi, with an acute sense of hearing, are disturbed by the planetary thunderclaps. They also show their surprise for the way Humans work together with their females and keep them clothed. On the ''Enterprise'', it is getting cold and very dark. Picard and [[Beverly Crusher]] discuss whether she should give a sedative to her son, [[Wesley Crusher|Wesley]], or if he should keep awake waiting for death. Picard thinks Wesley has the right to greet death while awake. On the planet a mysterious figure suddenly materializes and is very loud, sending the acutely hearing Ferengi trio into agony.
 +
On the ''Enterprise'', the situation is getting critical, as [[life support]] is failing. All [[energy]] is diverted to the family decks to extend their survival. The Ferengi on the planet are looking at Riker's [[combadge]], wondering whether it is [[gold]], while the ''Enterprise'' away team gradually recover their senses. A fight begins, which is resolved when Yar intervenes with a [[phaser]]. The Ferengi, with an acute sense of hearing, are disturbed by the planetary thunderclaps. They also show their surprise for the way Humans work together with their females and keep them clothed. On the ''Enterprise'', it is getting colder and very dark. Picard and [[Beverly Crusher]] discuss whether she should give a sedative to her son, [[Wesley Crusher|Wesley]], or if he should keep awake waiting for death. Picard thinks Wesley has the right to greet death while awake, which Crusher considers to be a simple male perspective. On the planet a mysterious figure suddenly materializes and is very loud, sending the acutely hearing Ferengi trio into agony.
   
 
===Act Five===
  
===Act Five===
  +
[[File:Portal 63.jpg|thumb|left|''"...a Guardian of the Tkon Empire!"'']]
 
The newly arrived entity declares himself as [[Portal 63]], a guardian of the [[Tkon Empire]], and asks the away teams whether they want to enter the Empire. The aged guardian is then told by Riker and Data that the Tkon Empire does not exist any longer, and that several ages have passed. Portal 63 has been asleep for a very long time: hundreds of thousands of [[Earth]] years. The Ferengi try to strike a friendship with the Portal, asking for control of their ship, and promising to destroy the ''Enterprise'' and its crew. They describe the Humans as savages and barbarians, and misrepresent Humanity by citing facts such as females being allowed to wear clothing as proof of their "insanity". The ''Enterprise'' team, however, accepts the Portal's trial, ready to prove their innocence.
  
The newly arrived entity declares himself as [[Portal 63]], a guardian of the [[Tkon Empire]], and asks the away teams whether they want to enter the Empire. The aged guardian is then told by Riker and Data that the Tkon Empire does not exist any longer, and that several ages have passed. Portal 63 has been asleep for a very long time: hundreds of thousands of [[Earth]] years. The Ferengi try to strike a friendship with the Portal, asking for control of their ship, and promising to destroy the ''Enterprise'' and its crew. They describe the Humans as savages and barbarians, and misrepresent Humanity by citing facts such as females being allowed to wear clothing as proof of their "insanity". The ''Enterprise'' team, however, accepts the Portal's trial, ready to prove their innocence.
   
−
Riker is challenged first. Riker is surprised that the Portal knows his name (Portal 63 can read Riker's mind). The Portal guardian attacks him with his spear and is impressed by the composure with which Riker faces his fate. Riker replies that "''Fear is the true enemy. The only enemy''", quoting [[Sun Tzu]]. The Portal is pleased by Riker's thoughts, unlike those of the deceptive Ferengi. The Portal says to Riker that he wants to know more about Earth history, as it is like [[Tkon]]'s history. Then at Riker's request, he immediately releases the ''Enterprise'', restoring its power just in time to let the crew recover from what looks like their slumber, but is their point of death. The Portal explains to Riker that he would usually destroy both ships since they were fighting, but then he saw that they were curiously trying to cooperate. The Portal askes Riker if he wants him to destroy the Ferengi, but Riker asks him to release them, since they are similar to ancient Humans: they have much to learn, but they can grow. Portal 63 asks "''What if they never learn, Riker''?" Riker says his values, and that of the Federation, require them to face the possibility of the Ferengi learning how to destroy them. When Riker asks what the Portal will do now that his Empire is gone, Portal 63 says he will sleep until needed again.
 +
Riker is challenged first. Riker is surprised that the Portal knows his name (Portal 63 can read Riker's mind). The Portal guardian attacks him with his sharp, bladed spear and is impressed by the composure with which Riker faces his fate after the blade lands perilously close to his right [[ear]]. Riker replies that "''Fear is the true enemy. The only enemy''", quoting [[Sun Tzu]]. The Portal is pleased by Riker's thoughts, unlike those of the deceptive Ferengi. The Portal says to Riker that he wants to know more about Earth history, as it is similar to the [[Tkon]]'s. Then at Riker's request, he immediately releases the ''Enterprise'', restoring its power just in time to let the crew recover from what looks like their slumber, but is their point of death.
   
  +
[[File:Power restored in the nick of time.jpg|thumb|''"Not a moment too soon..."'']]
⚫
On board the ''Enterprise'', the energy converter has been regained. Picard congratulates the away team for the success of the mission. Riker, with a devilish grin, then asks him permission to beam aboard the Ferengi ship Data's box of the Chinese finger traps as a "''thank you for all they tried to do''". After Picard commands "''Make it so''", the two ships leave orbit.
  
  +
The Portal explains to Riker that he would usually destroy both ships since they were fighting, but then he saw that they were curiously trying to cooperate. The Portal askes Riker if he wants him to destroy the Ferengi, but Riker asks him to release them, since they are similar to ancient Humans: they have much to learn, but they can grow. Portal 63 asks "''What if they never learn, Riker''?" Riker says his values, and that of the Federation, require them to face the possibility of the Ferengi learning how to destroy them. When Riker asks what the Portal will do now that his Empire is gone, Portal 63 says he will sleep until needed again and then disappears in a flash of lightning.
−  
−
{{pna-episode}}
  
   
  ⚫
On board the ''Enterprise'', the energy converter has been regained. Picard congratulates the away team for the success of the mission. Riker, with a devilish grin, then asks him permission to beam aboard the Ferengi ship Data's box of the Chinese finger traps as a "''thank you for all they tried to do''". After Picard commands "''Make it so''", the two ships leave orbit but not before La Forge has his fingers caught in a finger trap, at which Data enters the course on the helm for him.
   
 
===Log Entries===
  
===Log Entries===
Line 80: Line 83:
 
"''Well it's point three hundred... I see where you're going, we shift down then kick hard into warp nine! Yeah, come back fighting, WOO-WEE!''"
  
"''Well it's point three hundred... I see where you're going, we shift down then kick hard into warp nine! Yeah, come back fighting, WOO-WEE!''"
 
: - '''Riker''' and '''Geordi'''
  
: - '''Riker''' and '''Geordi'''
  +
  +
  +
"''It appears the Ferengi have us right where they want us; in their sights.''"
  +
: - '''Picard'''
  +
  +
  +
"''Hello, stranger.''"
  +
: - '''Geordi La Forge''', when the ''Enterprise'' crew gets their first glimpse of a Ferengi vessel
   
   
Line 86: Line 97:
   
   
−
"''Immobilised by the damn Ferengi!''"
 +
"''Immobilised by the damn Ferengi?''"
 
: - '''Worf'''
  
: - '''Worf'''
   
Line 101: Line 112:
 
"''The universe exists to me to create life. I shall sleep, until needed again. ''"
  
"''The universe exists to me to create life. I shall sleep, until needed again. ''"
 
: - '''Portal 6-3'''
  
: - '''Portal 6-3'''
  +
  +
  +
"''Pygmy cretins!''"
  +
: - '''Worf''', on the Ferengi landing party
   
   
Line 107: Line 122:
   
   
−
"''You work with your females, arm them, and force them to wear clothing.''"
 +
"''You work with your females, arm them and force them to wear clothing.''"
−
: - '''Ferengi Officer'''
 +
: - '''Letek'''
   
   
Line 122: Line 137:
 
: - '''Data''', '''Picard''', and '''Geordi''', when Data gets his fingers stuck in a children's toy.
  
: - '''Data''', '''Picard''', and '''Geordi''', when Data gets his fingers stuck in a children's toy.
   
  +
⚫
==Background Information==
  
  +
"''Permission to beam over a box of Data's Chinese finger puzzles over to the Ferengi. A thank you, for all they tried to do.''"<br />
⚫
* The Ferengi make their first appearance in this episode. Their introduction, however, has been heavily derided and several [[production staff]] members have called it "a disaster". (''Quark's Story'', [[DS9 Season 2 DVD]] special features).
 
  +
"''Make it so.''"
  +
: - '''Riker''' and '''Picard'''
  +
  ⚫
== Background information ==
  +
[[File:Frakes Roddenberry birthday.jpg|thumb|Celebrating the birthdays of [[Jonathan Frakes|Frakes]] and [[Gene Roddenberry|Roddenberry]] on the bridge, {{d|19|August|1987}}]]
  ⚫
=== Production history ===
  +
* Original story concept: {{d|1|May|1987}}
  ⚫
* Revised final draft script: {{d|7|August|1987}}
  ⚫
* Filmed: {{d|14|August|1987}} &ndash; {{d|25|August|1987}}
  ⚫
* Premiere airdate: {{d|19|October|1987}}
  +
* UK premiere airdate: 17th October 1990
  +
  +
=== Story and script ===
  +
* In [[Richard Krzemien]] and [[Herb Wright]]'s final draft script, the stardates were originally given as 41194.6 and 41194.8. [http://www.st-minutiae.com/academy/literature329/107.txt]
  +
* The original story concept named the planet [[Gamma Tauri IV]] Gamma XII. The ''Enterprise''-D followed the first Ferengi ship and had to face a Ferengi warship while in orbit of a planet. When the ships lost their energy away teams beamed to the surface and had to face creatures which are described as a mixture of Earth dogs and Ferengi Uvex. Beverly Crusher was part of the away team and it was planned to let the Ferengi have green blood. [[Portal 63]] was originally named Dilo, a groundskeeper of the planet. At the end of the story, the planet became a library planet for the Humans and the Ferengi. (''[[Creating the Next Generation: The Conception and Creation of a Phenomenon]]'', p.79-81)
  +
* The phrase "The Last Outpost" was parodied somewhat in the script to the penultimate episode of Deep Space Nine, {{e|The Dogs of War}}, when Quark proclaims that his bar will be "the last outpost of what made Ferenginar great!" Coincidentally, that episode suggested Ferengi society was evolving to a more benevolent one, just as Riker suggested they might in this episode.
  +
  +
=== Production ===
 
* According to [[Armin Shimerman]], the actors playing the Ferengi were directed to "jump up and down like crazed gerbils." (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation - The Continuing Mission]]'')
  
* According to [[Armin Shimerman]], the actors playing the Ferengi were directed to "jump up and down like crazed gerbils." (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation - The Continuing Mission]]'')
 
* [[Rick Berman]] noted that the Ferengi's "silliness quotient" ruled them out as major adversaries. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation - The Continuing Mission]]'')
  
* [[Rick Berman]] noted that the Ferengi's "silliness quotient" ruled them out as major adversaries. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation - The Continuing Mission]]'')
−
* Wil Wheaton called them "a total joke" until Armin Shimerman repaired much of the damage. He also said that the cast were unhappy with the idiotic behavior of the Ferengi. [http://www.tvsquad.com/2006/10/10/star-trek-the-next-generation-the-last-outpost/]
 +
* [[Wil Wheaton]] called them "a total joke" until Armin Shimerman repaired much of the damage. He also said that the cast were unhappy with the idiotic behavior of the Ferengi. [http://www.tvsquad.com/2006/10/10/star-trek-the-next-generation-the-last-outpost/]
  ⚫
* [[Kerrie Cullen]] served as stunt coordinator for this episode. She was among the group of hired coordinators prior to [[Dennis Madalone]]'s employment with the series. Cullen is so far the only female stunt coordinator who worked on ''Star Trek'', beside [[Leslie Hoffman]], who served as assistant stunt coordinator on ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]'' and ''[[Star Trek: Voyager]]''.
⚫
* Armin Shimerman makes his first ''[[Star Trek]]'' appearance in this episode. He went on to play another [[Ferengi]], [[Bractor]], in {{e|Peak Performance}}, before being given the role as [[Quark]] on ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]''. Quark also appeared in {{TNG|Firstborn}} and {{VOY|Caretaker}}.
  
  +
⚫
* [[Mike Gomez]] and [[Tracey Walter]] went on to play different Ferengi, [[Lurin]] and [[Berik]], respectively, in {{TNG|Rascals}}.
 
  +
=== Reception ===
⚫
* Although unaware, Captain Picard had already encountered a Ferengi starship in [[2355]], while commanding the {{USS|Stargazer}}. ({{TNG|The Battle|Bloodlines}})
  
  ⚫
* The introduction of the Ferengi has been heavily derided and several [[production staff]] members have called it "a disaster". (''Quark's Story'', [[DS9 Season 2 DVD]] special features).
  +
*[[Aron Eisenberg]] was provided with a tape of "The Last Outpost" when he was auditioning for the role of [[Nog]] in ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]''. ("In For a Penny, In For a Pound", ''[[Star Trek: The Official Fan Club of the UK Magazine issue 8]]'')
  +
=== Cast and characters ===
  ⚫
* Armin Shimerman makes his second ''[[Star Trek]]'' appearance in this episode, after portraying the [[Betazoid Gift Box]] in {{e|Haven}} (although audiences could first see him here as "Haven" aired later). He went on to play another [[Ferengi]], [[Bractor]], in {{e|Peak Performance}}, before being given the role as [[Quark]] on ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]''. Quark also appeared in {{TNG|Firstborn}} and {{VOY|Caretaker}}.
  ⚫
* [[Mike Gomez]] and [[Tracey Walter]] went on to play different Ferengi, [[Lurin]] and [[Berik]], respectively, in {{TNG|Rascals}}.
 
* Armin Shimerman has often said that one of the reasons he took the role of Quark was to try and undo the damage done to the Ferengi in this episode. ([[DS9 Season 6 DVD|DS9 Season 6 DVD: Crew Dossier: Quark]])
  
* Armin Shimerman has often said that one of the reasons he took the role of Quark was to try and undo the damage done to the Ferengi in this episode. ([[DS9 Season 6 DVD|DS9 Season 6 DVD: Crew Dossier: Quark]])
⚫
* The ''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'' notes that the act of Riker beaming the Chinese finger traps on board the Ferengi ship is reminiscent of [[Montgomery Scott]] beaming the [[Tribble|tribble]]s on the [[Klingon]] [[battle cruiser]] {{IKS|Gr'oth}}. Scotty, however, did not ask his captain's permission. ({{TOS|The Trouble with Tribbles}})
  
 
* [[Wil Wheaton]] (Wesley Crusher) does not appear in this episode, although Wesley is discussed briefly by Picard and Dr. Crusher.
  
* [[Wil Wheaton]] (Wesley Crusher) does not appear in this episode, although Wesley is discussed briefly by Picard and Dr. Crusher.
  +
⚫
* The [[master systems display]] table, nicknamed the "pool table" by the production staff, appears for the first time in this episode, though it still looks very much like its previous appearance in {{film|4}} and not like it appeared throughout the rest of the series.
 
  +
=== Sets and props ===
  ⚫
* The [[master systems display]] table, nicknamed the "pool table" by the production staff, appears for the first time in this episode, though it still looks very much like its previous appearance in {{film|4}} and not like it appeared throughout the rest of the series.
 
* This is also the first time that two of the four corridors leading to main engineering have been blocked by consoles, so only the main corridors close to the MSD remain. This was the norm until {{film|7}}, when the wall consoles were removed and main engineering once more is reachable by four corridors.
  
* This is also the first time that two of the four corridors leading to main engineering have been blocked by consoles, so only the main corridors close to the MSD remain. This was the norm until {{film|7}}, when the wall consoles were removed and main engineering once more is reachable by four corridors.
 
* In this episode and in {{e|The Child}} the integrated blinds of the windows are seen, here in the [[Observation Lounge]].
  
* In this episode and in {{e|The Child}} the integrated blinds of the windows are seen, here in the [[Observation Lounge]].
 
* The logo of the [[Tkon Empire]], seen during the [[observation lounge]] briefing, later reappears in the shape of the halberd that [[Portal 63]] wields. The weapon later makes several more appearances, including in {{e|Too Short a Season}} and {{e|Sins of the Father}}.
  
* The logo of the [[Tkon Empire]], seen during the [[observation lounge]] briefing, later reappears in the shape of the halberd that [[Portal 63]] wields. The weapon later makes several more appearances, including in {{e|Too Short a Season}} and {{e|Sins of the Father}}.
  ⚫
* The Ferengi Marauder's shape was inspired by a horseshoe crab on the desk of writer [[Herb Wright]]. The model itself was designed by [[Andrew Probert]] (who added the forward "earwig" pincers) and built by [[Greg Jein]]. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'', p. 38)
  ⚫
* The hand-held [[energy whip]]s used by the Ferengi in this episode would not be seen again until {{DS9|Ferengi Love Songs}}, in which [[Quark]] is seen holding an action figure equipped with a whip. "Actual" laser whips would not reappear until {{ENT|Acquisition}}, co-incidentally the last Ferengi episode of ''Star Trek'' to be made, albeit the first one (chronologically) to feature Ferengi.
  +
  +
=== Continuity ===
  +
* The Ferengi make their first appearance in this episode.
  ⚫
* Although unaware, Captain Picard had already encountered a Ferengi starship in [[2355]], while commanding the {{USS|Stargazer}}. ({{TNG|The Battle|Bloodlines}})
  ⚫
* The ''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'' notes that the act of Riker beaming the Chinese finger traps on board the Ferengi ship is reminiscent of [[Montgomery Scott]] beaming the [[Tribble|tribble]]s on the [[Klingon]] [[battle cruiser]] {{IKS|Gr'oth}}. Scotty, however, did not ask his captain's permission. ({{TOS|The Trouble with Tribbles}})
 
* The [[Ferengi Marauder]] [[D'Kora class|starship]] has the capability to "stretch" its neck section, but that only happens in this episode and, perhaps coincidentally, when ship-to-ship visual communications are engaged.
  
* The [[Ferengi Marauder]] [[D'Kora class|starship]] has the capability to "stretch" its neck section, but that only happens in this episode and, perhaps coincidentally, when ship-to-ship visual communications are engaged.
  ⚫
* {{e|Contagion}} featured a similar storyline: in each episode, both the Enterprise and a hostile vessel were disabled by an ancient and mysterious device and accused each other of the responsibility.
⚫
* The ship's shape was inspired by a horseshoe crab on the desk of writer [[Herb Wright]]. The model itself was designed by [[Andrew Probert]] (who added the forward "earwig" pincers) and built by [[Greg Jein]]. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'', p. 38)
  
  ⚫
* One of the few times that [[Data]] uses a contraction: "[[Captain]], this ''shouldn't'' be," when speaking to Picard, as well as "''I'm'' afraid not," when later speaking to Portal 63.
⚫
* The hand-held [[energy whip]]s used by the Ferengi in this episode would not be seen again until {{DS9|Ferengi Love Songs}}, in which [[Quark]] is seen holding an action figure equipped with a whip. "Actual" laser whips would not reappear until {{ENT|Acquisition}}, co-incidentally the last Ferengi episode of ''Star Trek'' to be made, albeit the first one (chronologically) to feature Ferengi.
  
⚫
* {{e|Contagion}} featured a similar storyline: in each episode, both the Enterprise and a hostile vessel were disabled by an ancient and mysterious device and accused each other of the responsibility.
 
⚫
* [[Kerrie Cullen]] served as stunt coordinator for this episode. She was among the group of hired coordinators prior to [[Dennis Madalone]]'s employment with the series. Cullen is so far the only female stunt coordinator who worked on ''Star Trek'', beside [[Leslie Hoffman]], who served as assistant stunt coordinator on ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]'' and ''[[Star Trek: Voyager]]''.
  
 
* The episode received its UK premiere on [[BBC|BBC2]] on {{d|31|October|1990}}, airing out of order.
  
* The episode received its UK premiere on [[BBC|BBC2]] on {{d|31|October|1990}}, airing out of order.
  +
* A mission report by Eddie Berganza was published in ''[[The Official Star Trek: The Next Generation Magazine]]'' Vol. 3, pp. 12-16.
⚫
* One of the few times that [[Data]] uses a contraction: "[[Captain]], this ''shouldn't'' be," when speaking to Picard, as well as "''I'm'' afraid not," when later speaking to Portal 63.
  
⚫
=== Production history ===
  
⚫
* Revised final draft script: {{d|7|August|1987}}
  
⚫
* Filmed: {{d|14|August|1987}} &ndash; {{d|25|August|1987}}
  
⚫
* Premiere airdate: {{d|19|October|1987}}
  
   
−
===Video and DVD releases===
 +
=== Video and DVD releases ===
 
* Original [[Star Trek VHS releases in the UK|UK VHS release]] (two-episode tapes, [[CIC Video]]): [[TNG Season 1 UK VHS|Volume 3]], catalog number VHR 2273, {{d|2|July|1990}}
  
* Original [[Star Trek VHS releases in the UK|UK VHS release]] (two-episode tapes, [[CIC Video]]): [[TNG Season 1 UK VHS|Volume 3]], catalog number VHR 2273, {{d|2|July|1990}}
 
* US [[LaserDisc]] ([[Pioneer]]): catalog number LV40270-107, {{d|4|April|1991}}
  
* US [[LaserDisc]] ([[Pioneer]]): catalog number LV40270-107, {{d|4|April|1991}}
Line 183: Line 223:
 
* [[James G. Becker]] as [[Youngblood]]
  
* [[James G. Becker]] as [[Youngblood]]
 
* [[Darrell Burris]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Security officer/engineer|operations division officer]]
  
* [[Darrell Burris]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Security officer/engineer|operations division officer]]
−
* [[Jeffrey Deacon]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Bridge Crewman (2364-2366)|command division officer]]
 +
* [[Jeffrey Deacon]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) command division personnel#Bridge Crewman (2364-2366)|command division officer]]
−
* [[Tim McCormack]] as [[Bennett (Ensign)|Bennett]]
 +
* [[Tim McCormack]] as {{dis|Bennett|Ensign}}
 
* [[Unknown performer]]s as
  
* [[Unknown performer]]s as
−
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Medical officer|Female medical officer]]
 +
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) sciences division personnel#Medical officer|Female medical officer]]
−
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Female security officer/engineer|Female operations division officer]]
 +
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Female security officer/engineer|Female operations division officer]]
 
** [[Matthew (Enterprise-D)|Matthew]]
  
** [[Matthew (Enterprise-D)|Matthew]]
−
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Engineering officer (2364)|Operations division officer]]
 +
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Engineering officer (2364)|Operations division officer]]
−
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Transporter operator/security officer (2364)|Operations division officer]]
 +
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Transporter operator/security officer (2364)|Operations division officer]]
 
** [[Pola]]
  
** [[Pola]]
   
Line 199: Line 239:
 
* [[Unknown stunt performer]]s as
  
* [[Unknown stunt performer]]s as
 
** Stunt double for [[LeVar Burton]]
  
** Stunt double for [[LeVar Burton]]
−
** Stunt double for [[Darryl Henriques]]
  
 
** Stunt double for [[Armin Shimerman]]
  
** Stunt double for [[Armin Shimerman]]
 
** Stunt double for [[Brent Spiner]]
  
** Stunt double for [[Brent Spiner]]
Line 214: Line 253:
   
 
=== References ===
  
=== References ===
−
[[accumulator]]; [[Ages of Tkon]]; [[automatic scanner]]s; [[assassin]]; ''[[baktun]]''; ''[[Bastu]]''; [[battery|batteries]]; [[capitalism|capitalist]]; ''[[Cimi]]''; [[Chinese finger trap]]; [[Class M]]; [[computer]]; [[Crystalline tree]]; {{ShipClass|D'Kora}}; [[Delphi Ardu IV]]; [[Delphi Ardu system]]; [[DaiMon]]; [[Earth]]; [[electromagnetic pulse]]; [[energy whip]]; ''[[Fendor]]''; [[Ferengi]]; [[Ferengi Alliance]]; [[Ferengi Code]]; [[France]]; [[fusion generator]]; [[Gamma Tauri]]; [[Gamma Tauri IV]]; [[Gamma Tauri system]]; [[Germany]]; [[gold]]; [[half a million years ago]]; [[Human]]; [[human history]]; [[Italy]]; [[Latin language|Latin]]; [[lifeform]]; [[life support]]; ''[[Makto]]''; [[Milky Way Galaxy]]; ''[[Ozari]]''; [[reserve power]]; [[sensor probe]]; [[star]]; [[Starfleet]]; [[Starfleet Academy]]; [[Sun Tzu]]; [[supernova]]; [[T-9 energy converter]]; [[Tarr's Marauder]]; ''[[The Art of War]]''; [[Tkon Empire]]; [[tricorder]]; "[[Uncle Sam]]"; [[United States of America]]; ''[[Xora]]''; [[Yankee trader]]
 +
[[accumulator]]; [[Ages of Tkon]]; [[automatic scanner]]s; [[assassin]]; ''[[baktun]]''; ''[[Bastu]]''; [[battery]]; [[capitalism|capitalist]]; ''[[Cimi]]''; [[Chinese finger trap]]; [[Class M]]; [[computer]]; [[Crystalline tree]]; {{class|D'Kora}}; [[Delphi Ardu IV]]; [[Delphi Ardu system]]; [[DaiMon]]; [[Earth]]; [[electromagnetic pulse]]; [[energy whip]]; ''[[Fendor]]''; [[Ferengi]]; [[Ferengi Alliance]]; [[Ferengi Code]]; [[France]]; [[fusion generator]]; [[Gamma Tauri IV]]; [[Germany]]; [[gold]]; [[half a million years ago]]; [[Human]]; [[human history]]; [[Italy]]; [[kilometer]]; [[Latin language|Latin]]; [[lifeform]]; [[life support]]; ''[[Makto]]''; [[Milky Way Galaxy]]; [[murder]]; [[number one]]; ''[[Ozari]]''; [[reserve power]]; [[sensor probe]]; [[star]]; [[Starfleet]]; [[Starfleet Academy]]; [[Sun Tzu]]; [[supernova]]; [[T-9 energy converter]]; [[Tarr's Marauder]]; ''[[The Art of War]]''; [[Tkon Empire]]; [[tricorder]]; "[[Uncle Sam]]"; [[United States of America]]; ''[[Xora]]''; [[Yankee trader]]
   
−
=== Library Computer References ===
 +
=== Other References ===
−
[[61 Cygni]]; [[Alpha Centauri]]; [[Barnard's Star]]; [[Bayard's Planet]]; [[concussion ring]]; {{ShipClass|Constitution}}; ''[[Diana]]''; [[Epsilon Eridani]]; [[Epsilon Indi]]; {{ShipClass|Excelsior}}; [[USS Greyhound|''Greyhound'', USS]]; [[Groombridge 34]]; {{ShipClass|K't'inga}}; [[Lalande 21185]]; [[Luyten 789-6]]; [[light year]]; [[USS Muleskinner|''Muleskinner'', USS]]; [[Phi Puma]]; [[Procyon]]; [[Proxima Centauri]]; [[Ross 154]]; [[Ross 248]]; [[sector]]; [[Sirius]]; [[Sol]]; [[supernova]]; [[Tau Ceti]]; [[Type 7 shuttlecraft]]; [[Unnamed Alpha and Beta Quadrant starships (24th century)#Vessels on file in LCARS|unnamed LCARS file starships]]; [[Wolf 359]]
 +
: '''Library Computer Refernces''': [[61 Cygni]]; [[Alpha Centauri]]; [[Barnard's Star]]; [[Bayard's Planet]]; [[concussion ring]]; {{class|Constitution}}; ''[[Diana]]''; [[Epsilon Eridani]]; [[Epsilon Indi]]; {{class|Excelsior}}; [[Galileo (2364)|''Galileo'']]; [[USS Greyhound|''Greyhound'', USS]]; [[Great Bird of the Galaxy]]; [[Groombridge 34]]; [[Klingonese]]; {{class|K't'inga}}; [[Lalande 21185]]; [[Luyten 789-6]]; [[light year]]; [[USS Muleskinner|''Muleskinner'', USS]]; [[Phi Puma]]; [[Procyon]]; [[Proxima Centauri]]; [[Ross 154]]; [[Ross 248]]; [[sector]]; [[Sirius]]; [[Sol]]; [[supernova]]; [[Tau Ceti]]; [[Type 7 shuttlecraft]]; {{Class|Wanderer}}; [[Wolf 359]]
   
−
== External links ==
 +
=== External links ===
−
* {{NCwiki|The Last Outpost}}
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* {{Startrek.com|last-outpost-the|"The Last Outpost"}}
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* {{wikipedia|The Last Outpost (Star Trek: The Next Generation)|The Last Outpost}}
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* {{NCwiki|The Last Outpost|"The Last Outpost"}}
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*{{Startrek.com|last-outpost-the|The Last Outpost}}
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* {{wikipedia-quote|The Last Outpost (Star Trek: The Next Generation)|The Last Outpost}}
  +
* {{ml|100-the-last-outpost|"The Last Outpost"|external}}
   
 
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Revision as of 15:50, 20 December 2014

Template:Realworld

In pursuit of Ferengi marauders, the Enterprise and its quarry become trapped by a mysterious planet that is draining both ships' energies.

Summary

Teaser

File:Tarrs marauder.jpg

Face-off at Delphi Ardu IV

The USS Enterprise-D is in pursuit of a Ferengi vessel suspected of stealing a Federation-owned T-9 energy converter from Gamma Tauri IV. The mission is also an opportunity to encounter the Ferengi, who have never established visual contact with the Federation. The pursuit ends when the Ferengi ship gets close to a planet in the Delphi Ardu system and goes to sub-warp speed, possibly suffering a power surge and damage to their engines. After a while, it opens fire on the Enterprise, causing her minimal damage. Captain Picard chooses not to return fire, arguing that the Ferengi are just reacting to the pursuit. Soon after, however, the Enterprise also suffers a power system failure, becoming immobilized with phasers and shields off-line.

Act One

LaForge describes escape attempt

"See, we push and they push back, with equal force... sir."

The crew members believe their ship is trapped by the Ferengi. In the attempt to understand more of their enemies, Data summarizes what is known about them: they are traders, and value profit above all, not unlike Yankee traders of 18th and 19th century North America. Riker and La Forge envisage a way to escape the trap, by jumping abruptly to maximum warp and taking advantage of the relatively slower reaction of the force field. To catch the Ferengi off guard, Picard hails them, asking for the restitution of the stolen equipment, but receives no answer. The Enterprise then attempts the warp jump, but the plan is not successful. Furthermore, the computer data banks are being accessed by some unknown external source. Troi points out that all the attention has been devoted to the Ferengi, neglecting the possible role of the planet.

A conference is held in the observation lounge among the senior officers, and, after discarding the hypothesis of fighting, they decide to try contacting the Ferengi again. Picard hails them, reluctantly asking to present their terms.

Act Two

After a moment, the Ferengi DaiMon Tarr replies. Much to the astonishment of the Enterprise bridge crew, he says that he is ready to discuss surrender, but not unconditional surrender: he will return the energy converter and offer the lives of the second officers. It is now clear that both ships are trapped, and that the Ferengi are not the actual source of the energy field.

File:Tkon empire hologram.jpg

The ancient Tkon empire

The Enterprise senior officers convene again in the observation lounge. There, Data explains what is known about the mysterious planet, not before becoming stuck with a Chinese finger trap left in the room by a couple of children, Matthew and Pola. Thanks to the help of Captain Picard, Data gets his fingers released and explains that the planet might be one of the most distant outposts of the Tkon Empire, an ancient and powerful space federation that existed over 600,000 years in the past and was now extinct due to their star going supernova. During the meeting, a probe launched from the Enterprise transmits its information, revealing that indeed both ships are trapped in a force field emanating from the planet's surface.

Act Three

Riker faces Ferengi

The Ferengi attack

Picard again contacts the Ferengi, who have also discovered the true nature of the trap. After some confrontation with DaiMon Tarr over his deception, Picard suggests to exchange information in order to solve the common problem, which is endangering both ships. They each decide to send a joint away team of Starfleet officers and Ferengi down to the surface. Despite the apparent risks, including a loss of communication and no way to beam back on board the Enterprise, Riker, La Forge, Data, Worf, and Yar beam to the planet.

On the surface, the Enterprise members are initially separated and try to rejoin. The planet surface is full of crystalline tree shapes and the sky is beset by thunder and lightning. Worf, Riker, Data, and La Forge are attacked by the Ferengi away team, armed with energy whips, rendering them unconscious.

Act Four

Portal 63 energy

Mysterious energy builds

On the Enterprise, the situation is getting critical, as life support is failing. All energy is diverted to the family decks to extend their survival. The Ferengi on the planet are looking at Riker's combadge, wondering whether it is gold, while the Enterprise away team gradually recover their senses. A fight begins, which is resolved when Yar intervenes with a phaser. The Ferengi, with an acute sense of hearing, are disturbed by the planetary thunderclaps. They also show their surprise for the way Humans work together with their females and keep them clothed. On the Enterprise, it is getting colder and very dark. Picard and Beverly Crusher discuss whether she should give a sedative to her son, Wesley, or if he should keep awake waiting for death. Picard thinks Wesley has the right to greet death while awake, which Crusher considers to be a simple male perspective. On the planet a mysterious figure suddenly materializes and is very loud, sending the acutely hearing Ferengi trio into agony.

Act Five

Portal 63

"...a Guardian of the Tkon Empire!"

The newly arrived entity declares himself as Portal 63, a guardian of the Tkon Empire, and asks the away teams whether they want to enter the Empire. The aged guardian is then told by Riker and Data that the Tkon Empire does not exist any longer, and that several ages have passed. Portal 63 has been asleep for a very long time: hundreds of thousands of Earth years. The Ferengi try to strike a friendship with the Portal, asking for control of their ship, and promising to destroy the Enterprise and its crew. They describe the Humans as savages and barbarians, and misrepresent Humanity by citing facts such as females being allowed to wear clothing as proof of their "insanity". The Enterprise team, however, accepts the Portal's trial, ready to prove their innocence.

Riker is challenged first. Riker is surprised that the Portal knows his name (Portal 63 can read Riker's mind). The Portal guardian attacks him with his sharp, bladed spear and is impressed by the composure with which Riker faces his fate after the blade lands perilously close to his right ear. Riker replies that "Fear is the true enemy. The only enemy", quoting Sun Tzu. The Portal is pleased by Riker's thoughts, unlike those of the deceptive Ferengi. The Portal says to Riker that he wants to know more about Earth history, as it is similar to the Tkon's. Then at Riker's request, he immediately releases the Enterprise, restoring its power just in time to let the crew recover from what looks like their slumber, but is their point of death.

Power restored in the nick of time

"Not a moment too soon..."

The Portal explains to Riker that he would usually destroy both ships since they were fighting, but then he saw that they were curiously trying to cooperate. The Portal askes Riker if he wants him to destroy the Ferengi, but Riker asks him to release them, since they are similar to ancient Humans: they have much to learn, but they can grow. Portal 63 asks "What if they never learn, Riker?" Riker says his values, and that of the Federation, require them to face the possibility of the Ferengi learning how to destroy them. When Riker asks what the Portal will do now that his Empire is gone, Portal 63 says he will sleep until needed again and then disappears in a flash of lightning.

On board the Enterprise, the energy converter has been regained. Picard congratulates the away team for the success of the mission. Riker, with a devilish grin, then asks him permission to beam aboard the Ferengi ship Data's box of the Chinese finger traps as a "thank you for all they tried to do". After Picard commands "Make it so", the two ships leave orbit but not before La Forge has his fingers caught in a finger trap, at which Data enters the course on the helm for him.

Log Entries

Memorable quotes

"We offer the lives of our second officers as required by the Ferengi code."
"Fortunately Starfleet has no such rules involving its second officers."

- DaiMon Tarr to Picard and Data


"What's our acceleration delay between slow reverse impulse and top warp-speed?"
"Well it's point three hundred... I see where you're going, we shift down then kick hard into warp nine! Yeah, come back fighting, WOO-WEE!"

- Riker and Geordi


"It appears the Ferengi have us right where they want us; in their sights."

- Picard


"Hello, stranger."

- Geordi La Forge, when the Enterprise crew gets their first glimpse of a Ferengi vessel


"Your alien images again shock us!"

- DaiMon Tarr, to Picard


"Immobilised by the damn Ferengi?"

- Worf


"If he moves, kill him!"

- Letek


"It looks like gold. It tastes like gold!"
"It is gold."

- Letek and Riker, as Letek examines Riker's combadge


"The universe exists to me to create life. I shall sleep, until needed again. "

- Portal 6-3


"Pygmy cretins!"

- Worf, on the Ferengi landing party


"They admit the evil that they DO!

- Letek referring to Starfleet and the Federation


"You work with your females, arm them and force them to wear clothing."

- Letek


"Merde."

- Picard


"Data, what are you doing?"
"Apologies, captain. I seem to have reached an odd functional impasse. I am ... stuck."
"Then get un-stuck and continue with the briefing!"
"Yes, sir. That is what I am trying to do, sir, but the solution eludes me."
"My hero." (laughing)

- Data, Picard, and Geordi, when Data gets his fingers stuck in a children's toy.


"Permission to beam over a box of Data's Chinese finger puzzles over to the Ferengi. A thank you, for all they tried to do."
"Make it so."

- Riker and Picard

Background information

Frakes Roddenberry birthday

Celebrating the birthdays of Frakes and Roddenberry on the bridge, 19 August 1987

Production history

Story and script

  • In Richard Krzemien and Herb Wright's final draft script, the stardates were originally given as 41194.6 and 41194.8. [1]
  • The original story concept named the planet Gamma Tauri IV Gamma XII. The Enterprise-D followed the first Ferengi ship and had to face a Ferengi warship while in orbit of a planet. When the ships lost their energy away teams beamed to the surface and had to face creatures which are described as a mixture of Earth dogs and Ferengi Uvex. Beverly Crusher was part of the away team and it was planned to let the Ferengi have green blood. Portal 63 was originally named Dilo, a groundskeeper of the planet. At the end of the story, the planet became a library planet for the Humans and the Ferengi. (Creating the Next Generation: The Conception and Creation of a Phenomenon, p.79-81)
  • The phrase "The Last Outpost" was parodied somewhat in the script to the penultimate episode of Deep Space Nine, "The Dogs of War", when Quark proclaims that his bar will be "the last outpost of what made Ferenginar great!" Coincidentally, that episode suggested Ferengi society was evolving to a more benevolent one, just as Riker suggested they might in this episode.

Production

Reception

Cast and characters

Sets and props

  • The master systems display table, nicknamed the "pool table" by the production staff, appears for the first time in this episode, though it still looks very much like its previous appearance in Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home and not like it appeared throughout the rest of the series.
  • This is also the first time that two of the four corridors leading to main engineering have been blocked by consoles, so only the main corridors close to the MSD remain. This was the norm until Star Trek Generations, when the wall consoles were removed and main engineering once more is reachable by four corridors.
  • In this episode and in "The Child" the integrated blinds of the windows are seen, here in the Observation Lounge.
  • The logo of the Tkon Empire, seen during the observation lounge briefing, later reappears in the shape of the halberd that Portal 63 wields. The weapon later makes several more appearances, including in "Too Short a Season" and "Sins of the Father".
  • The Ferengi Marauder's shape was inspired by a horseshoe crab on the desk of writer Herb Wright. The model itself was designed by Andrew Probert (who added the forward "earwig" pincers) and built by Greg Jein. (Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion, p. 38)
  • The hand-held energy whips used by the Ferengi in this episode would not be seen again until DS9: "Ferengi Love Songs", in which Quark is seen holding an action figure equipped with a whip. "Actual" laser whips would not reappear until ENT: "Acquisition", co-incidentally the last Ferengi episode of Star Trek to be made, albeit the first one (chronologically) to feature Ferengi.

Continuity

Video and DVD releases

Links and references

Starring

Also starring

Guest stars

Guest Star

Co-Star

Uncredited co-stars

Stunt doubles

Stand-ins

References

accumulator; Ages of Tkon; automatic scanners; assassin; baktun; Bastu; battery; capitalist; Cimi; Chinese finger trap; Class M; computer; Crystalline tree; D'Kora-class; Delphi Ardu IV; Delphi Ardu system; DaiMon; Earth; electromagnetic pulse; energy whip; Fendor; Ferengi; Ferengi Alliance; Ferengi Code; France; fusion generator; Gamma Tauri IV; Germany; gold; half a million years ago; Human; human history; Italy; kilometer; Latin; lifeform; life support; Makto; Milky Way Galaxy; murder; number one; Ozari; reserve power; sensor probe; star; Starfleet; Starfleet Academy; Sun Tzu; supernova; T-9 energy converter; Tarr's Marauder; The Art of War; Tkon Empire; tricorder; "Uncle Sam"; United States of America; Xora; Yankee trader

Other References

Library Computer Refernces: 61 Cygni; Alpha Centauri; Barnard's Star; Bayard's Planet; concussion ring; Constitution-class; Diana; Epsilon Eridani; Epsilon Indi; Excelsior-class; Galileo; Greyhound, USS; Great Bird of the Galaxy; Groombridge 34; Klingonese; K't'inga-class; Lalande 21185; Luyten 789-6; light year; Muleskinner, USS; Phi Puma; Procyon; Proxima Centauri; Ross 154; Ross 248; sector; Sirius; Sol; supernova; Tau Ceti; Type 7 shuttlecraft; Wanderer-class; Wolf 359

External links

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"Code of Honor" 		Star Trek: The Next Generation
Season 1 		Next episode:
"Where No One Has Gone Before"
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