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| nSerialAirdate = 19880516
 
| nSerialAirdate = 19880516
 
| wsDate = 41986.0 ([[2364]])
 
| wsDate = 41986.0 ([[2364]])
| aNextReleasedInAll = The Child (episode)
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| aNextReleasedInAll = The Cage (episode)
 
| aPrevReleasedInAll = Conspiracy (episode)
 
| aPrevReleasedInAll = Conspiracy (episode)
 
| aNextReleasedInSeries = The Child (episode)
 
| aNextReleasedInSeries = The Child (episode)
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}}
 
}}
 
{{disambiguation|information on the area of space|neutral zone}}
 
{{disambiguation|information on the area of space|neutral zone}}
After rescuing three ancient humans from cryogenic stasis, the ''Enterprise'' is ordered to the Romulan Neutral Zone on an important mission.
+
After rescuing three ancient humans from cryogenic stasis, the ''Enterprise'' is ordered to the Romulan Neutral Zone on an important mission. (''season finale'')
   
 
== Summary ==
 
== Summary ==
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The {{USS|Enterprise|NCC-1701-D|-D}} encounters a ship carrying cryogenically-frozen [[Human]]s from the late [[20th century]] during a critical mission into the [[Romulan Neutral Zone]] to solve a mystery concerning a string of destroyed [[Federation]] [[outpost]]s.
 
The {{USS|Enterprise|NCC-1701-D|-D}} encounters a ship carrying cryogenically-frozen [[Human]]s from the late [[20th century]] during a critical mission into the [[Romulan Neutral Zone]] to solve a mystery concerning a string of destroyed [[Federation]] [[outpost]]s.
   
[[Captain]] [[Jean-Luc Picard]] is attending an emergency conference on [[Starbase 718]] while the [[bridge]] crew is observing an ancient space capsule, apparently from Earth. [[Data]] requests permission to board the vehicle while waiting for the captain's return.
+
[[Captain]] [[Jean-Luc Picard]] is attending an emergency conference on [[Starbase 718]] while the [[bridge]] crew is observing an ancient space capsule, apparently from Earth. [[Data]] requests permission from [[William T. Riker|Riker]] to board the vehicle while waiting for the captain's return. Riker grants him permission but wants him back aboard the ''Enterprise'' before Picard returns.
   
Data and [[Worf]] beam aboard the capsule and examine the equipment. Worf is momentarily baffled by a door that must be manually opened. Upon entering the vessel's main chamber, the two discover a number of refrigeration pods. The seals on two of them have been broken, and the environment corrupted; these two contain decomposed Human remains. Three pods contain frozen Humans.
+
Data and [[Worf]] beam aboard the capsule and examine the old-style equipment. Worf is momentarily baffled by a door that must be manually opened. Upon entering the vessel's main chamber, the two discover a number of refrigeration pods. The seals on two of them have been broken, and the environment corrupted; these two contain decomposed Human remains. Three pods contain frozen Humans.
   
 
===Act One===
 
===Act One===
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When Data is ordered back to the ''Enterprise'' in preparation for Picard's return, he requests that the frozen people also be brought aboard, as the capsule is seriously damaged.
 
When Data is ordered back to the ''Enterprise'' in preparation for Picard's return, he requests that the frozen people also be brought aboard, as the capsule is seriously damaged.
   
Upon Picard's return, he immediately orders [[Geordi La Forge]] to lay in a course that will take them into the [[Neutral Zone]]. He explains to the chief officers that several outposts have been destroyed, and the ''Enterprise'' is being sent as the only [[Federation]] vessel to investigate. It is assumed that [[Romulan]]s are behind the problems, but since the Federation has had no contact with them in a number of years, the situation is very uncertain. [[William T. Riker|Riker]] and Worf both advise the captain to be prepared to fight, but he is determined to wait and see what the situation truly is before deciding on a course of action.
+
Upon Picard's return, he immediately orders [[helmsman]] [[Geordi La Forge]] to lay in a course that will take them into the [[Neutral Zone]]. He explains to the chief officers in the [[observation lounge]] that several outposts have been destroyed, and the ''Enterprise'' is being sent as the only [[Federation]] vessel to investigate, as it is the [[flagship]]. It is assumed that [[Romulan]]s are behind the problems, but since the Federation has had no contact with them in a [[2311|number of years]] since the [[Tomed Incident]], the situation is very uncertain. Riker and Worf both advise the captain to be prepared to fight, but he is determined to wait and see what the situation truly is before deciding on a aggressive course of action.
   
Meanwhile, Dr. [[Beverly Crusher|Crusher]] has thawed and revived the frozen Humans. All three had been cryogenically frozen in the late twentieth century. Dr. Crusher awakens the woman, who promptly faints at the sight of Worf.
+
Meanwhile, Dr. [[Beverly Crusher|Crusher]] has thawed and revived the frozen Humans. All three had been cryogenically frozen in the late twentieth century. Dr. Crusher awakens the woman, who promptly faints at the sight of Worf. "''Welcome to the 24th century''", Picard remarks to her while she lies unconscious.
   
 
===Act Two===
 
===Act Two===
 
[[File:Riker briefs defrosted humans.jpg|thumb|''"What '''year''' is it?"'']]
 
[[File:Riker briefs defrosted humans.jpg|thumb|''"What '''year''' is it?"'']]
The Humans are [[Clare Raymond]], [[Ralph Offenhouse]], and [[L.Q. Clemonds|L.Q. "Sonny" Clemonds]]. As the ship continues toward the Neutral Zone, Riker explains to them what has happened, and they attempt to make sense of their new situation. Offenhouse is very concerned about his financial investments and repeatedly demands to speak to the captain so he can get in touch with his attorney or bank.
+
The Humans are [[Clare Raymond]], [[Ralph Offenhouse]], and [[L.Q. Clemonds|L.Q. "Sonny" Clemonds]]. As the ship continues toward the Neutral Zone, Riker explains to them what has happened, and they attempt to make sense of their new situation. Offenhouse, in particular, is shocked to learn from Data that the current year is [[2364]]. Offenhouse is very concerned about his financial investments and repeatedly demands to speak to the captain so he can get in touch with his attorney or bank on Earth.
   
 
===Act Three===
 
===Act Three===
Offenhouse calls Picard, who is on the bridge, from his room's comm panel which he saw Riker use earlier. He later has a face-to-face talk with the captain, urging him to get contact with his bank. But the captain tells him that money has become obsolete in this century and his attorney has been dead for four hundred years. Offenhouse stands firm, stating that Humanity must still be as it once was: power-hungry and controlling. Picard retorts that Humans no longer seek such things; they have grown out of their infancy.
+
After observing Riker use the room's comm panel, Offenhouse calls Picard, interrupting a meeting in the [[captain's ready room|ready room]] with the officers involving the upcoming Romulan situation. This forces Picard to visit the survivors, and Offenhouse seizes the opportunity for a face-to-face talk with the captain, demanding contact with his attorney. But the captain tells him that money has become obsolete in this century and his attorney has been dead for four hundred years. Offenhouse stands firm, stating that Humanity must still be as it once was: power-hungry and controlling. Picard retorts that Humans no longer seek such material things; they have grown out of their infancy.
   
 
===Act Four===
 
===Act Four===
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[[File:Offenhouse on bridge.jpg|thumb|left|"Get that man off of the bridge!"]]
 
[[File:Offenhouse on bridge.jpg|thumb|left|"Get that man off of the bridge!"]]
When the ''Enterprise'' arrives at the edge of the Neutral Zone, they find that a number of outposts have been completely obliterated. There is no evidence of conventional weapons or attack. Meanwhile, Offenhouse notices the tension level on the ship has jumped up and decides that he must take matters into his own hands and heads out to look for the captain. Picard orders the ship to yellow alert, though Riker and Worf urge him to go to red alert and battle stations.
+
When the ''Enterprise'' arrives at the edge of the Neutral Zone, they find that a number of outposts have been completely obliterated. There is no evidence of conventional weapons or attack. Meanwhile, Offenhouse notices the tension level on the ship has jumped up and decides that he must take matters into his own hands and heads out to look for the captain. Picard orders the ship to [[yellow alert]], though Riker and Worf urge him to go to red alert and battle stations.
   
A Romulan vessel appears in front of the ''Enterprise'', inside Federation territory, but Picard refuses to fire on it as it de-cloaks. Offenhouse appears on the bridge just at this moment and is ordered off by Riker, but the security officers are distracted by the Romulans and fail to remove him.
+
A Romulan {{class|D'deridex}} vessel appears in front of the ''Enterprise'', inside Federation territory, but Picard refuses to fire on it as it de-cloaks. Offenhouse appears on the bridge just at this moment and is ordered off by Riker, but the security officers are distracted by the Romulans and fail to remove him.
   
 
===Act Five===
 
===Act Five===
 
[[File:D'deridex class faces Galaxy class, The Neutral Zone.jpg|thumb|The Romulans' new [[D'Deridex-class warbird|ship]]]]
 
[[File:D'deridex class faces Galaxy class, The Neutral Zone.jpg|thumb|The Romulans' new [[D'Deridex-class warbird|ship]]]]
The Romulan ship responds to the ''Enterprise'' hailing them, and the Romulans reveal that their outposts have been destroyed in the same manner as the Federation's. Picard asks who is responsible, and the Romulans fall silent. Offenhouse interjects, "''They haven't got a clue! They're hoping you know, but they're too arrogant to ask.''" Picard proposes an agreement of cooperation as both sides investigate the disappearance of the outposts, and the Romulans agree before heading back toward their own territory. Offenhouse is finally removed from the bridge.
+
The Romulan ship responds to the ''Enterprise'' hailing them, and the Romulans reveal that their outposts have been destroyed in the same manner as the Federation's. Picard asks who is responsible, and the Romulans fall silent. Offenhouse interjects, "''They haven't got a clue! They're hoping you know, but they're too arrogant to ask.''" Picard proposes an agreement of cooperation as both sides investigate the disappearance of the outposts, and the Romulans agree before heading back toward their own territory, with [[Tebok]] stating to Picard that the Romulans "''are back.''" Offenhouse is finally removed from the bridge.
   
[[Deanna Troi]] helps Clare locate one of her living descendants, and Picard makes arrangements for the three Humans to be returned to Earth on the {{USS|Charleston}} at the nearest [[starbase]]. At warp 8, they can make it there in five days. Riker says that it is a shame they can't take the three with them; it's like a visit from the past.
+
[[Deanna Troi]] helps Clare locate one of her living descendants, and Picard makes arrangements for the three Humans to be returned to Earth on the {{USS|Charleston}} at the nearest [[starbase]]. At warp 8, they can make it there in five days. Riker says that it is a shame they can't take the three with them; it's like a visit from the past. Picard tells him that would be a step backward, when they still have so much to do and to learn. The ''Enterprise'' continues onward.
   
 
=== Log entries ===
 
=== Log entries ===
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"''Come back later, you and me can find us a couple of low-mileage pit woffies and help them build a memory.''"
+
"''Come back later, you and me can find us a couple of low-mileage pit woofies and help them build a memory.''"
 
: - '''Sonny''', to Data
 
: - '''Sonny''', to Data
   
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* When [[Deanna Troi]] is conferring with Clare Raymond concerning her family tree during this episode, the console on Troi's desk displays a list of the first six actors who starred as the Doctor in ''[[Doctor Who]]'', as well as television characters [[Mary Richards]], [[Louis Grant|Lou Grant]], [[Kermit T. Frog]] and [[Miss Piggy]] (among others). Additionally, a {{class|Constitution}} starship model is seen near Clare in the room; however, the [[nacelle]]s of the model are attached perpendicular to their standard positions and backwards.
 
* When [[Deanna Troi]] is conferring with Clare Raymond concerning her family tree during this episode, the console on Troi's desk displays a list of the first six actors who starred as the Doctor in ''[[Doctor Who]]'', as well as television characters [[Mary Richards]], [[Louis Grant|Lou Grant]], [[Kermit T. Frog]] and [[Miss Piggy]] (among others). Additionally, a {{class|Constitution}} starship model is seen near Clare in the room; however, the [[nacelle]]s of the model are attached perpendicular to their standard positions and backwards.
 
* The episode's score, composed and conducted by [[Ron Jones]], was recorded on {{d|6|May|1988}} at [[Paramount Stage M]]. ([[Star Trek: The Next Generation - The Ron Jones Project]]'' liner notes'' [http://www.filmscoremonthly.com/notes/box05_disc04.html]) The complete episode score, totalling 17 minutes 14 seconds, appears on Disc Four of the ''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation - The Ron Jones Project]]'' collection.
 
* The episode's score, composed and conducted by [[Ron Jones]], was recorded on {{d|6|May|1988}} at [[Paramount Stage M]]. ([[Star Trek: The Next Generation - The Ron Jones Project]]'' liner notes'' [http://www.filmscoremonthly.com/notes/box05_disc04.html]) The complete episode score, totalling 17 minutes 14 seconds, appears on Disc Four of the ''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation - The Ron Jones Project]]'' collection.
* Appropriately, Jones composed the music for this episode that foreshadowed the inevitable [[First Contact]] with the [[Borg]] that would occur in {{e|Q Who}}, also scored by Jones. Afterward, he composed the widely-praised music for {{e|The Best of Both Worlds}} and {{e|The Best of Both Worlds, Part II}}.
+
* Appropriately, Jones composed the music for this episode that foreshadowed the inevitable [[first contact]] with the [[Borg]] that would occur in {{e|Q Who}}, also scored by Jones. Afterward, he composed the widely-praised music for {{e|The Best of Both Worlds}} and {{e|The Best of Both Worlds, Part II}}.
   
 
=== Continuity ===
 
=== Continuity ===
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[[File:D'deridex class.jpg|thumb|Introduction of the {{class|D'deridex}}]]
 
[[File:D'deridex class.jpg|thumb|Introduction of the {{class|D'deridex}}]]
 
* The episode also marked the first appearance of the {{class|D'deridex}} [[warbird]], which is seen numerous times throughout the series as well as in ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]'' and ''[[Star Trek: Voyager]]''.
 
* The episode also marked the first appearance of the {{class|D'deridex}} [[warbird]], which is seen numerous times throughout the series as well as in ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]'' and ''[[Star Trek: Voyager]]''.
* Like {{e|The Naked Now}}'s reference to the [[Union of Soviet Socialist Republics|USSR]] earlier in the season, this episode contained a historical prediction which would be proved inaccurate within a few years. While at the time that the episode was made, Sonny Clemonds' belief that his beloved [[Atlanta Braves]] are "probably still finding ways to lose" was an accurate reflection of their performance, by the time in the mid-1990s that the [[cryonics satellite]] would have been launched, the Braves were in the middle of a fifteen-year run in which they were consistently one of the premier teams in [[Major League Baseball]], winning the [[World Series]] in 1995 (defeating the [[Cleveland Indians]], who had been similarly misrepresented in {{e|The Big Goodbye}}, where the [[Dixon Hill series|Dixon Hill]] vendor thought Data was "nuts" when he mentioned that the Indians would stop [[Joe DiMaggio]]'s hitting streak - they were as bad as the Braves in 1988, but had been one the better teams in the American League at the time the holonovel takes place). However, while the Braves had won eight straight divisions by 1999, they only won the series that one year, finding ways to lose the other seven years.
+
* Like {{e|The Naked Now}}'s reference to the [[Union of Soviet Socialist Republics|USSR]] earlier in the season, this episode contained a historical prediction which would be proved inaccurate within a few years. While at the time that the episode was made, Sonny Clemonds' belief that his beloved [[Atlanta Braves]] are "probably still finding ways to lose" was an accurate reflection of their performance, by the time in the mid-1990s that the [[cryonics satellite]] would have been launched, the Braves were in the middle of a fifteen-year run in which they were consistently one of the premier teams in [[Major League Baseball]], winning the [[World Series]] in 1995 (defeating the [[Cleveland Indians]], who had been similarly misrepresented in {{e|The Big Goodbye}}, where the [[Dixon Hill series|Dixon Hill]] vendor thought Data was "nuts" when he mentioned that the Indians would stop [[Joe DiMaggio]]'s hitting streak - they were as bad as the Braves in 1988, but had been one of the better teams in the American League at the time the holonovel takes place). However, while the Braves had won eight straight divisions by 1999, they only won the series that one year, finding ways to lose the other seven years.
 
* The first episode in which the Borg are mentioned, although they are at this point only an unknown entity which has been destroying bases.
 
* The first episode in which the Borg are mentioned, although they are at this point only an unknown entity which has been destroying bases.
 
* This episode is the only one in ''Star Trek'' referencing the Borg attacking the Romulans. In {{VOY|Unity}}, Commander [[Chakotay]] of the starship {{USS|Voyager}} encounteres liberated Borg drones in the [[Delta Quadrant]] nearly a decade later. Among them was a former drone named [[Orum]] who identified himself as Romulan.
 
* This episode is the only one in ''Star Trek'' referencing the Borg attacking the Romulans. In {{VOY|Unity}}, Commander [[Chakotay]] of the starship {{USS|Voyager}} encounteres liberated Borg drones in the [[Delta Quadrant]] nearly a decade later. Among them was a former drone named [[Orum]] who identified himself as Romulan.
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* [[Jeffrey Deacon]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) command division 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]]
 
* [[Susan Duchow]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Female operations officer (2364)|operations division officer]]
 
* [[Susan Duchow]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Female operations officer (2364)|operations division officer]]
* [[David Eum]] as [[Wright (Ensign)|Wright]]
+
* [[David Eum]] as {{dis|Wright|Ensign}}
 
* [[Peter Lauritson]] as [[Thomas Raymond]] (photography)
 
* [[Peter Lauritson]] as [[Thomas Raymond]] (photography)
 
* [[Nora Leonhardt]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Female science division/command division ensign|science division ensign]]
 
* [[Nora Leonhardt]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Female science division/command division ensign|science division ensign]]
* [[Tim McCormack]] as [[Bennett (Ensign)|Bennett]]
+
* [[Tim McCormack]] as {{dis|Bennett|Ensign}}
 
* [[James McElroy]] as [[Tebok's Warbird personnel#Bridge officers|Romulan officer]]
 
* [[James McElroy]] as [[Tebok's Warbird personnel#Bridge officers|Romulan officer]]
 
* [[Lorine Mendell]] as [[Diana Giddings]]
 
* [[Lorine Mendell]] as [[Diana Giddings]]
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=== References ===
 
=== References ===
[[1939]]; [[1957]]; [[1959]]; [[1986]]; [[1989]]; [[1994]]; [[2016]]; [[2040]]; [[2311]]; [[2364]]; [[Atlantic Ocean]]; [[Arloff IX]]; [[brown-out]]; [[cloaking device]]; [[cryonics satellite|''Birdseye'', SS]]; [[Borg]]; [[Atlanta Braves|Braves]]; [[cardiomyopathy]]; [[USS Charleston|''Charleston'', USS]]; [[cryonics]]; [[cryonics satellite]]; {{class|D'deridex}}; [[Earth]]; [[embolism]]; [[emphysema]]; [[executive key]]; [[guitar]]; [[Geneva]]; [[Indianapolis]]; [[Kansas City]]; [[Kazis binary system]]; [[Khitomer]]; [[low-mileage pit woofie]]; [[martini]]; [[money]]; [[Mogh]]; [[New Jersey]]; [[olive]]; [[pattern replicaton]]; ''[[Queen Elizabeth II|QE2]]''; [[Donald Raymond|Raymond, Donald]]; [[Edward Raymond|Raymond, Edward]]; [[Thomas Raymond|Raymond, Thomas]]; [[Tommy Raymond|Raymond, Tommy]]; [[Romulan]]; [[Romulan Neutral Zone]]; [[Romulan philosophy]]; [[Romulan Star Empire]]; [[Science Station Delta-05]]; [[Secaucus]]; [[Sector 3-0]]; [[Sector 3-1]]; [[Starbase 39-Sierra]]; [[Starbase 718]]; [[Tarod IX]]; [[Tebok's Warbird]]; [[television]]; [[Tomed]]; [[Tomed Incident]]; [[tricorder]]; [[United Federation of Planets]]; [[United States of America]]; [[vitamin]]; [[Vulcan]]s; ''[[Wall Street Journal]]''; [[Yankee]]s
+
[[1939]]; [[1957]]; [[1959]]; [[1986]]; [[1989]]; [[1994]]; [[2016]]; [[2040]]; [[2311]]; [[2364]]; [[Atlantic Ocean]]; [[Arloff IX]]; [[brown-out]]; [[cloaking device]]; [[cryonics satellite|''Birdseye'', SS]]; [[Borg]]; [[Atlanta Braves|Braves]]; [[cardiomyopathy]]; [[USS Charleston|''Charleston'', USS]]; [[cryonics]]; [[cryonics satellite]]; {{class|D'deridex}}; [[Earth]]; [[embolism]]; [[emphysema]]; [[executive key]]; [[guitar]]; [[Geneva]]; [[Indianapolis]]; [[Kansas City]]; [[Kazis binary system]]; [[Khitomer]]; [[low-mileage pit woofie]]; [[liver]]; [[martini]]; [[money]]; [[Mogh]]; [[New Jersey]]; [[number one]]; [[olive]]; [[pattern replicaton]]; ''[[Queen Elizabeth II|QE2]]''; [[Donald Raymond|Raymond, Donald]]; [[Edward Raymond|Raymond, Edward]]; [[Thomas Raymond|Raymond, Thomas]]; [[Tommy Raymond|Raymond, Tommy]]; [[Romulan]]; [[Romulan Neutral Zone]]; [[Romulan philosophy]]; [[Romulan Star Empire]]; [[Science Station Delta-05]]; [[Secaucus]]; [[Sector 3-0]]; [[Sector 3-1]]; [[Starbase 39-Sierra]]; [[Starbase 718]]; [[Tarod IX]]; [[Tebok's Warbird]]; [[television]]; [[Tomed]]; [[Tomed Incident]]; [[tricorder]]; [[United Federation of Planets]]; [[United States of America]]; [[vitamin]]; [[Vulcan]]s; ''[[Wall Street Journal]]''; [[Yankee]]s
   
 
==== Library Computer References ====
 
==== Library Computer References ====
* '''Clare Raymond's Family Tree (Original)''': [[Colin Baker|Baker, Colin]]; [[Tom Baker|Baker, Tom]]; [[Peter Davidson|Davidson, Peter]]; [[Kermit T. Frog|Frog, Kermit T.]]; [[Ginger Grant|Grant, Ginger]]; [[Louis Grant|Grant, Louis]]; [[William Hartnell|Hartnell, William]]; [[Margaret Houlihan|Houlihan, Margret]]; [[Frances Mulcahey|Mulcahey, Frances]]; [[Kellye Nakahara|Nakahara, Kellye]]; [[Walter O'Reilley|O'Reilley, Walter]]; [[Jon Pertwee|Pertwee, Jon]]; [[Miss Piggy|Piggy, Miss]]; [[Sherman Potter|Potter, Sherman]]; [[Brent Spiner Raymond|Raymond, Brent Spiner]]; [[Cheryl Gates Raymond|Raymond, Cheryl Gates]]; [[Darrell Oja Raymond|Raymond, Darrell Oja]]; [[Denise Raymond|Raymon, Denise]]; [[Jonathan Frakes Raymond|Raymond, Jonathan Frakes]]; [[LeVar Burton Raymond|Raymond, LeVar Burton]]; [[Louise Cara Raymond|Raymond, Louise Cara]]; [[Marina Sirtis Raymond|Raymond, Marina Sirtis]]; [[Mary Catherine Raymond|Raymond, Mary Catherine]]; [[Wil Wesley Raymond|Raymond, Wil Wesley]]; [[Mary Richards|Richards, Mary]]; [[Maryann Summers|Summers, Maryann]]; [[Patrick Troughton|Troughton, Patrick]]; [[Charles Winchester|Winchester, Charles]]
+
* '''Clare Raymond's Family Tree (Original)''': [[Colin Baker|Baker, Colin]]; [[Tom Baker|Baker, Tom]]; [[Peter Davidson|Davidson, Peter]]; [[Kermit T. Frog|Frog, Kermit T.]]; [[Ginger Grant|Grant, Ginger]]; [[Louis Grant|Grant, Louis]]; [[William Hartnell|Hartnell, William]]; [[Margaret Houlihan|Houlihan, Margret]]; [[Frances Mulcahey|Mulcahey, Frances]]; [[Kellye Nakahara|Nakahara, Kellye]]; [[Walter O'Reilley|O'Reilley, Walter]]; [[Jon Pertwee|Pertwee, Jon]]; [[Miss Piggy|Piggy, Miss]]; [[Sherman Potter|Potter, Sherman]]; [[Brent Spiner Raymond|Raymond, Brent Spiner]]; [[Cheryl Gates Raymond|Raymond, Cheryl Gates]]; [[Darrell Oja Raymond|Raymond, Darrell Oja]]; [[Denise Raymond|Raymond, Denise]]; [[Jonathan Frakes Raymond|Raymond, Jonathan Frakes]]; [[LeVar Burton Raymond|Raymond, LeVar Burton]]; [[Louise Cara Raymond|Raymond, Louise Cara]]; [[Marina Sirtis Raymond|Raymond, Marina Sirtis]]; [[Mary Catherine Raymond|Raymond, Mary Catherine]]; [[Wil Wesley Raymond|Raymond, Wil Wesley]]; [[Mary Richards|Richards, Mary]]; [[Maryann Summers|Summers, Maryann]]; [[Patrick Troughton|Troughton, Patrick]]; [[Charles Winchester|Winchester, Charles]]
* '''Clare Raymond's Family Tree (Remastered)''': [[Alpha Centauri City]]; [[Molly Tranya Amber|Amber, Molly Tranya]]; [[Armstrong City]]; [[Austria]]; [[Boston]]; [[British Columbia]]; [[Budapest]]; [[Burbank]]; [[California]]; [[Chicago]]; [[Czech Republic]]; [[Danville]]; [[Dejong]]; [[Marina S. Despina|Despina, Marina S.]]; [[Fort Ord]]; [[Mary A. Grant|Grant, Mary A.]]; [[Jon Grinsberg|Grinsberg, Jon]]; [[Hannibal (city)|Hannibal]]; [[Hawaii]]; [[Marvin Hildebrandt|Hildebrandt, Marvin]]; [[Honolulu]]; [[Houston]]; [[Hungary]]; [[Dylan Hucklesby|Hucklesby, Dylan]]; [[Iceland]]; [[Illinois]]; [[Indiana]]; [[Jolietville]]; [[Kansas]]; [[Nicki Kreitzman (Raymond)|Kreitzman, Nicki]]; [[L5 Colony]]; [[London]]; [[Long Island]]; [[Los Angeles]]; [[Luna]]; [[Mary Joe Macalintal|Macalintal, Mary Joe]]; [[Mars]]; [[Massachusetts]]; [[Memory Alpha]]; [[Mexico]]; [[Mexico City]]; [[Missouri]]; [[New Berlin]]; [[New York]]; [[New York City]]; [[Northport]]; [[Oakhurst]]; [[Ottumwa]]; [[Pennsylvania]]; [[Philadelphia]]; [[Prague]]; [[Sherman P. Raymond II|Raymond II, Sherman P.]]; [[Adele Simmons Raymond|Raymond, Adele Simmons]]; [[Ana Barredo Raymond|Raymond, Ana Barredo]]; [[Andrew Probert Raymond|Raymond, Andrew Probert]]; [[Angelo Dante Raymond|Raymond, Angelo Dante]]; [[Annie Kaprelian Raymond|Raymond, Annie Kaprelian]]; [[Brent S. Jay Raymond|Raymond, Brent S. Jay]]; [[Brian Vogt Raymond (I)|Raymond, Brian Vogt]]; [[Brian Vogt Raymond (II)|Raymond, Brian Vogt]]; [[Brian Vogt Raymond (III)|Raymond, Brian Vogt]]; [[Cari Thomas Raymond|Raymond, Cari Thomas]]; [[Carolyn L. Raymond|Raymond, Carolyn L.]]; [[Charles W. Raymond|Raymond, Charles W.]]; [[Cheryl G. Raymond|Raymond, Cheryl G.]]; [[Chris Payne Raymond|Raymond, Chris Payne]]; [[Chris Tezber Raymond|Raymond, Chris Tezber]]; [[Craig Weiss Raymond|Raymond, Craig Weiss]]; [[David Grant Raymond|Raymond, David Grant]]; [[Deborah McIntyre Raymond|Raymond, Deborah Intyre]]; [[Denise C. Raymond|Raymond, Denise C.]]; [[Don Greenberg Raymond|Raymond, Don Greenberg]]; [[Eric Bruno Raymond|Raymond, Eric Bruno]]; [[Francis M. Raymond|Raymond, Francis M.]]; [[Hanna Shearer Raymond|Raymond, Hanna Shearer]]; [[Herman Zimmerman Raymond|Raymond, Herman Zimmerman]]; [[Jack B. Raymond|Raymond, Jack B.]]; [[James Conway Raymond|Raymond, James Conway]]; [[James Holt Raymond|Raymond, James Holt]]; [[Janice Lee Raymond|Raymond, Janice Lee]]; [[Jasper Bivens Raymond|Raymond, Jasper Bivens]]; [[Jeff Hadjikhani Raymond|Raymond, Jeff Hadjikhani]]; [[Jimmy Berndt Raymond|Raymond, Jimmy Berndt]]; [[Joe Espina Raymond|Raymond, Joe Espina]]; [[John Van Citters Raymond|Raymond, John Van Citters]]; [[Jonathan F. Raymond|Raymond, Jonathan F.]]; [[Kelleye N. Raymond|Raymond, Kelleye N.]]; [[Kelly Kroells Raymond|Raymond, Kelly Kroells]]; [[Keven Scotti Raymond|Raymond, Keven Scotti]]; [[Kiki Morris Raymond|Raymond, Kiki Morris]]; [[Levardis B. Raymond|Raymond, Levardis B.]]; [[Loren Bivens Raymond|Raymond, Loren Bivens]]; [[Louise Mary Raymond|Raymond, Louise Mary]]; [[Margaret H. Raymond|Raymond, Margaret H.]]; [[Maureen Doyle Raymond|Raymond, Maureen Doyle]]; [[Max Gabl Raymond|Raymond, Max Gabl]]; [[Michael Brown Raymond|Raymond, Michael Brown]]; [[Michelle Liu Raymond|Raymond, Michelle Liu]]; [[Monica Clee Raymond|Raymond, Monica Clee]]; [[Neil Wray Raymond|Raymond, Neil Wray]]; [[Peter Molnar Raymond|Raymond, Peter Molnar]]; [[Phil Bishop Raymond|Raymond, Phil Bishop]]; [[Rick Sternbach Raymond|Raymond, Rick Sternbach]]; [[Robert Burnett Raymond|Raymond, Robert Burnett]]; [[Robert Justman Raymond|Raymond, Robert Justman]]; [[Robert Legato Raymond|Raymond, Robert Legato]]; [[Robert Metoyer Raymond|Raymond, Robert Metoyer]]; [[Roger Lay Raymond|Raymond, Roger Lay]]; [[Ryan Adams Raymond|Raymond, Ryan Adams]]; [[Sarah Paul Raymond|Raymond, Sarah Paul]]; [[Scott Sendfonte Raymond|Raymond, Scott Sendfonte]]; [[Sean Sweeney Raymond|Raymond, Sean Sweeney]]; [[Todd Frey Raymond|Raymond, Todd Frey]]; [[Tony Graf Raymond|Raymond, Tony Ray]]; [[Wade Felker Raymond|Raymond, Wade Felker]]; [[Walter O. Raymond|Raymond, Walter O.]]; [[Deron Warner|Warner, Deron]]; [[Wendy Ruiz Raymond|Raymond, Wendy Ruiz]]; [[Wil W. Lachance Raymond|Raymond, Wil W. Lachance]]; [[William Theiss Raymond|Raymond, William Theiss]]; [[Reykjavik]]; [[Russia]]; [[Leningrad|St. Petersburg]]; [[Ginger Summers|Summers, Ginger]]; [[Texas]]; [[Tycho City]]; [[United Kingdom]]; [[Utopia Planitia]]; [[Amanda Vackrinos|Vackrinos, Amanda]]; [[Victoria]]; [[Vienna]]; [[Winfield]]
+
* '''Clare Raymond's Family Tree (Remastered)''': [[Mesrop Abrahamian|Abrahamian, Mesrop]]; [[Alpha Centauri City]]; [[Molly Tranya Amber|Amber, Molly Tranya]]; [[Armstrong City]]; [[Austria]]; [[Boston]]; [[British Columbia]]; [[Budapest]]; [[Burbank]]; [[California]]; [[Chicago]]; [[Czech Republic]]; [[Danville]]; [[Dejong]]; [[Marina S. Despina|Despina, Marina S.]]; [[Fort Ord]]; [[Mary A. Grant|Grant, Mary A.]]; [[Jon Grinsberg|Grinsberg, Jon]]; [[Hannibal, Missouri|Hannibal]]; [[Hawaii]]; [[Marvin Hildebrandt|Hildebrandt, Marvin]]; [[Honolulu]]; [[Houston]]; [[Hungary]]; [[Dylan Hucklesby|Hucklesby, Dylan]]; [[Iceland]]; [[Illinois]]; [[Indiana]]; [[Jolietville]]; [[Kansas]]; [[Nicki Kreitzman (Raymond)|Kreitzman, Nicki]]; [[L5 colony]]; [[London]]; [[Long Island]]; [[Los Angeles]]; [[Luna]]; [[Mary Joy Macalintal|Macalintal, Mary Joy]]; [[Mars]]; [[Massachusetts]]; [[Memory Alpha]]; [[Mexico]]; [[Mexico City]]; [[Missouri]]; [[New Berlin]]; [[New York]]; [[New York City]]; [[Northport]]; [[Oakhurst]]; [[Ottumwa]]; [[Pennsylvania]]; [[Philadelphia]]; [[Prague]]; [[Sherman P. Raymond II|Raymond II, Sherman P.]]; [[Adele Simmons Raymond|Raymond, Adele Simmons]]; [[Ana Barredo Raymond|Raymond, Ana Barredo]]; [[Andrew Probert Raymond|Raymond, Andrew Probert]]; [[Angelo Dante Raymond|Raymond, Angelo Dante]]; [[Annie Kaprelian Raymond|Raymond, Annie Kaprelian]]; [[Brent S. Jay Raymond|Raymond, Brent S. Jay]]; [[Brian Vogt Raymond (I)|Raymond, Brian Vogt]]; [[Brian Vogt Raymond (II)|Raymond, Brian Vogt]]; [[Brian Vogt Raymond (III)|Raymond, Brian Vogt]]; [[Cari Thomas Raymond|Raymond, Cari Thomas]]; [[Carolyn L. Raymond|Raymond, Carolyn L.]]; [[Charles W. Raymond|Raymond, Charles W.]]; [[Cheryl G. Raymond|Raymond, Cheryl G.]]; [[Chris Payne Raymond|Raymond, Chris Payne]]; [[Chris Tezber Raymond|Raymond, Chris Tezber]]; [[Craig Weiss Raymond|Raymond, Craig Weiss]]; [[David Grant Raymond|Raymond, David Grant]]; [[Deborah McIntyre Raymond|Raymond, Deborah Intyre]]; [[Demitre Ganza Raymond|Raymond, Demitre Ganza]]; [[Denise C. Raymond|Raymond, Denise C.]]; [[Don Greenberg Raymond|Raymond, Don Greenberg]]; [[Eric Bruno Raymond|Raymond, Eric Bruno]]; [[Francis M. Raymond|Raymond, Francis M.]]; [[Giordana Noa Raymond|Raymond, Giordana Noa]]; [[Hannah Shearer Raymond|Raymond, Hannah Shearer]]; [[Herman Zimmerman Raymond|Raymond, Herman Zimmerman]]; [[Hilary Croener Raymond|Raymond, Hilary Croner]]; [[Jack B. Raymond|Raymond, Jack B.]]; [[James Conway Raymond|Raymond, James Conway]]; [[James Holt Raymond|Raymond, James Holt]]; [[Janice Lee Raymond|Raymond, Janice Lee]]; [[Jasper Bivens Raymond|Raymond, Jasper Bivens]]; [[Jeff Hadjikhani Raymond|Raymond, Jeff Hadjikhani]]; [[Jimmy Berndt Raymond|Raymond, Jimmy Berndt]]; [[Joe Espina Raymond|Raymond, Joe Espina]]; [[John Van Citters Raymond|Raymond, John Van Citters]]; [[Jonathan F. Raymond|Raymond, Jonathan F.]]; [[Kelleye N. Raymond|Raymond, Kelleye N.]]; [[Kelly Kroells Raymond|Raymond, Kelly Kroells]]; [[Keven Scotti Raymond|Raymond, Keven Scotti]]; [[Kiki Morris Raymond|Raymond, Kiki Morris]]; [[Levardis B. Raymond|Raymond, Levardis B.]]; [[Loren Bivens Raymond|Raymond, Loren Bivens]]; [[Louise Mary Raymond|Raymond, Louise Mary]]; [[Margaret H. Raymond|Raymond, Margaret H.]]; [[Maureen Doyle Raymond|Raymond, Maureen Doyle]]; [[Max Gabl Raymond|Raymond, Max Gabl]]; [[Michael Brown Raymond|Raymond, Michael Brown]]; [[Michelle Liu Raymond|Raymond, Michelle Liu]]; [[Milan Adala Raymond|Raymond, Milan Adala]]; [[Monica Clee Raymond|Raymond, Monica Clee]]; [[Neil Wray Raymond|Raymond, Neil Wray]]; [[Peter Molnar Raymond|Raymond, Peter Molnar]]; [[Phil Bishop Raymond|Raymond, Phil Bishop]]; [[Rick Sternbach Raymond|Raymond, Rick Sternbach]]; [[Robert Burnett Raymond|Raymond, Robert Burnett]]; [[Robert Justman Raymond|Raymond, Robert Justman]]; [[Robert Legato Raymond|Raymond, Robert Legato]]; [[Robert Metoyer Raymond|Raymond, Robert Metoyer]]; [[Roger Lay Raymond|Raymond, Roger Lay]]; [[Ryan Adams Raymond|Raymond, Ryan Adams]]; [[Sarah Paul Raymond|Raymond, Sarah Paul]]; [[Scott Sendfonte Raymond|Raymond, Scott Sendfonte]]; [[Sean Sweeney Raymond|Raymond, Sean Sweeney]]; [[Steve Miller Raymond|Raymond, Steve Miller]]; [[Todd Frey Raymond|Raymond, Todd Frey]]; [[Tony Graf Raymond|Raymond, Tony Ray]]; [[Wade Felker Raymond|Raymond, Wade Felker]]; [[Walter O. Raymond|Raymond, Walter O.]]; [[Deron Warner|Warner, Deron]]; [[Wendy Ruiz Raymond|Raymond, Wendy Ruiz]]; [[Wil W. Lachance Raymond|Raymond, Wil W. Lachance]]; [[William Theiss Raymond|Raymond, William Theiss]]; [[Reykjavik]]; [[Russia]]; [[Leningrad|St. Petersburg]]; [[Ginger Summers|Summers, Ginger]]; [[Texas]]; [[Tycho City]]; [[United Kingdom]]; [[Utopia Planitia]]; [[Amanda Vackrinos|Vackrinos, Amanda]]; [[Victoria]]; [[Vienna]]; [[Winfield]]
   
 
=== External links ===
 
=== External links ===
* {{NCwiki|The Neutral Zone}}
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* {{Startrek.com|neutral-zone1|"The Neutral Zone"}}
* {{wikipedia|The Neutral Zone (Star Trek: The Next Generation)|The Neutral Zone}}
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* {{NCwiki|The Neutral Zone|"The Neutral Zone"}}
* {{Startrek.com|neutral-zone1|The Neutral Zone}}
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* {{wikipedia-quote|The Neutral Zone (Star Trek: The Next Generation)|The Neutral Zone}}
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* {{ml|121-the-neutral-zone|"The Neutral Zone"|external}}
   
 
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[[Category:TNG episodes|Neutral Zone, The]]
 
[[Category:TNG episodes|Neutral Zone, The]]

Revision as of 04:56, 6 February 2015

Template:Realworld

For information on the area of space, please see neutral zone.

After rescuing three ancient humans from cryogenic stasis, the Enterprise is ordered to the Romulan Neutral Zone on an important mission. (season finale)

Summary

Teaser

File:Cryonics satellite.jpg

A far-traveled cryonics satellite

"First Officer's Log, Stardate 41986.0. We are awaiting the return of Captain Picard who was summoned to Starbase 718. Meanwhile, our sensors have been monitoring an ancient capsule floating in our vicinity, which appears to be from Earth."

The USS Enterprise-D encounters a ship carrying cryogenically-frozen Humans from the late 20th century during a critical mission into the Romulan Neutral Zone to solve a mystery concerning a string of destroyed Federation outposts.

Captain Jean-Luc Picard is attending an emergency conference on Starbase 718 while the bridge crew is observing an ancient space capsule, apparently from Earth. Data requests permission from Riker to board the vehicle while waiting for the captain's return. Riker grants him permission but wants him back aboard the Enterprise before Picard returns.

Data and Worf beam aboard the capsule and examine the old-style equipment. Worf is momentarily baffled by a door that must be manually opened. Upon entering the vessel's main chamber, the two discover a number of refrigeration pods. The seals on two of them have been broken, and the environment corrupted; these two contain decomposed Human remains. Three pods contain frozen Humans.

Act One

Ralph Offenhouse, frozen

Worf makes a discovery

When Data is ordered back to the Enterprise in preparation for Picard's return, he requests that the frozen people also be brought aboard, as the capsule is seriously damaged.

Upon Picard's return, he immediately orders helmsman Geordi La Forge to lay in a course that will take them into the Neutral Zone. He explains to the chief officers in the observation lounge that several outposts have been destroyed, and the Enterprise is being sent as the only Federation vessel to investigate, as it is the flagship. It is assumed that Romulans are behind the problems, but since the Federation has had no contact with them in a number of years since the Tomed Incident, the situation is very uncertain. Riker and Worf both advise the captain to be prepared to fight, but he is determined to wait and see what the situation truly is before deciding on a aggressive course of action.

Meanwhile, Dr. Crusher has thawed and revived the frozen Humans. All three had been cryogenically frozen in the late twentieth century. Dr. Crusher awakens the woman, who promptly faints at the sight of Worf. "Welcome to the 24th century", Picard remarks to her while she lies unconscious.

Act Two

File:Riker briefs defrosted humans.jpg

"What year is it?"

The Humans are Clare Raymond, Ralph Offenhouse, and L.Q. "Sonny" Clemonds. As the ship continues toward the Neutral Zone, Riker explains to them what has happened, and they attempt to make sense of their new situation. Offenhouse, in particular, is shocked to learn from Data that the current year is 2364. Offenhouse is very concerned about his financial investments and repeatedly demands to speak to the captain so he can get in touch with his attorney or bank on Earth.

Act Three

After observing Riker use the room's comm panel, Offenhouse calls Picard, interrupting a meeting in the ready room with the officers involving the upcoming Romulan situation. This forces Picard to visit the survivors, and Offenhouse seizes the opportunity for a face-to-face talk with the captain, demanding contact with his attorney. But the captain tells him that money has become obsolete in this century and his attorney has been dead for four hundred years. Offenhouse stands firm, stating that Humanity must still be as it once was: power-hungry and controlling. Picard retorts that Humans no longer seek such material things; they have grown out of their infancy.

Act Four

"Captain's Log, supplemental. We have arrived at the edge of the Neutral Zone where we will now have an opportunity to learn firsthand what happened to our distant outposts."

Offenhouse on bridge

"Get that man off of the bridge!"

When the Enterprise arrives at the edge of the Neutral Zone, they find that a number of outposts have been completely obliterated. There is no evidence of conventional weapons or attack. Meanwhile, Offenhouse notices the tension level on the ship has jumped up and decides that he must take matters into his own hands and heads out to look for the captain. Picard orders the ship to yellow alert, though Riker and Worf urge him to go to red alert and battle stations.

A Romulan D'deridex-class vessel appears in front of the Enterprise, inside Federation territory, but Picard refuses to fire on it as it de-cloaks. Offenhouse appears on the bridge just at this moment and is ordered off by Riker, but the security officers are distracted by the Romulans and fail to remove him.

Act Five

File:D'deridex class faces Galaxy class, The Neutral Zone.jpg

The Romulans' new ship

The Romulan ship responds to the Enterprise hailing them, and the Romulans reveal that their outposts have been destroyed in the same manner as the Federation's. Picard asks who is responsible, and the Romulans fall silent. Offenhouse interjects, "They haven't got a clue! They're hoping you know, but they're too arrogant to ask." Picard proposes an agreement of cooperation as both sides investigate the disappearance of the outposts, and the Romulans agree before heading back toward their own territory, with Tebok stating to Picard that the Romulans "are back." Offenhouse is finally removed from the bridge.

Deanna Troi helps Clare locate one of her living descendants, and Picard makes arrangements for the three Humans to be returned to Earth on the USS Charleston at the nearest starbase. At warp 8, they can make it there in five days. Riker says that it is a shame they can't take the three with them; it's like a visit from the past. Picard tells him that would be a step backward, when they still have so much to do and to learn. The Enterprise continues onward.

Log entries

Memorable quotes

"Welcome to the 24th century."

- Picard, after the newly-revived Clare Raymond fainted at the sight of Worf


"What is that?"
"An android."
"You mean a robot?"
"Actually, there is a distinct difference between an android and a robot..."
"And...and him, the one I saw before with the...head?"
"She means Worf..."
"He's a Klingon - that takes a little more...explanation."

- Clemonds, Riker, Data, Raymond and Dr. Crusher


"I wanna go to the, um ... the, um... Where would a captain be?"
"Captain Picard is on the main bridge."
"Well, then, take me to the main bridge!"

- Offenhouse and the computer


"The Yankee's right. Let's get the big boy in here!"

- Clemonds, when Offenhouse states he wishes to speak to Picard


"They are the most unusual Humans I have ever encountered."
"Well, from what I've seen of our guests, there's not much to redeem them. Makes one wonder how our species survived the 21st century."

- Data and Riker, discussing Clemonds, Raymond and Offenhouse


"This is the worst run ship I have ever been on. You should take lessons from the QE2. Now that's an efficient operation."

- Ralph Offenhouse, to Picard


"A lot has changed in the past 300 years. People are no longer obsessed with the accumulation of things. We've eliminated hunger, want, the need for possessions. We've grown out of our infancy."

- Picard to Ralph Offenhouse


"Captain, these are Romulans. They are without honor. They killed my parents in an attack on Khitomer when they were supposed to be our allies. They believe that Humans and Klingons are a waste of skin!"

- Worf


"Silence your dog, captain!"

- Tebok, insulting Worf


"They haven't got a clue! They're hoping you know, but they're too arrogant to ask!"

- Offenhouse, deducing that the Romulans don't know who attacked their outposts


"Your presence is not wanted. Do you understand my meaning, captain? We... are back."

- Tebok


"The challenge, Mr. Offenhouse, is to improve yourself... to enrich yourself. Enjoy it."

- Picard, describing life on 24th century Earth


"Come back later, you and me can find us a couple of low-mileage pit woofies and help them build a memory."

- Sonny, to Data


"Our mission is to go forward, and it's just begun. [...] There's still much to do. There's still so much to learn."

- Picard, aptly ending the first season and promising that the adventures will continue...

Background information

Production history

Story and script

  • Maurice Hurley had something more in mind with this episode. The attacks the Romulans complain about in "The Neutral Zone" dangled as an unresolved plot device for quite some time, but there was a plan: Hurley had meant for this episode to comprise part of a trilogy in which the Borg would be formally introduced. The opening episode of the second season further explored matters, including a possible alliance between the Federation and the Romulan Empire to counter the new threat. Such plans, however, were ruined by the writer's guild strike of that year. As such, the Borg's introduction had to wait until "Q Who". (Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion)

Production

  • The opening credits include Denise Crosby's character, Natasha Yar, despite her death in "Skin of Evil" three episodes earlier. This is the last episode to credit her as a regular.
  • Wil Wheaton (Wesley Crusher) does not appear in this episode (see main character non-appearances). However the screenplay featured Wesley and it was he who replicated a guitar for Sonny Clemonds. In a scene (scripted but not filmed) Sonny asks him about several genres of popular music (including rock 'n' roll and rhythm 'n' blues) but despite being a teenager, Wesley doesn't have a clue about them. (Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion - A Series Guide and Script Library)
File:Drwho.jpg

Doctor Who actors displayed on a computer terminal

Continuity

  • This episode marks the first time a specific year is mentioned in relation to the setting of a Star Trek series, when Data cites the current year as 2364. This year served as the fixed reference around which subsequent timeline data was placed. Prior to this, Star Trek: The Next Generation had generally been placed in the early 24th century, per Data's line in "Encounter at Farpoint", where he established that he was from the "class of '78."
D'deridex class

Introduction of the D'deridex-class

  • The episode also marked the first appearance of the D'deridex-class warbird, which is seen numerous times throughout the series as well as in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and Star Trek: Voyager.
  • Like "The Naked Now"'s reference to the USSR earlier in the season, this episode contained a historical prediction which would be proved inaccurate within a few years. While at the time that the episode was made, Sonny Clemonds' belief that his beloved Atlanta Braves are "probably still finding ways to lose" was an accurate reflection of their performance, by the time in the mid-1990s that the cryonics satellite would have been launched, the Braves were in the middle of a fifteen-year run in which they were consistently one of the premier teams in Major League Baseball, winning the World Series in 1995 (defeating the Cleveland Indians, who had been similarly misrepresented in "The Big Goodbye", where the Dixon Hill vendor thought Data was "nuts" when he mentioned that the Indians would stop Joe DiMaggio's hitting streak - they were as bad as the Braves in 1988, but had been one of the better teams in the American League at the time the holonovel takes place). However, while the Braves had won eight straight divisions by 1999, they only won the series that one year, finding ways to lose the other seven years.
  • The first episode in which the Borg are mentioned, although they are at this point only an unknown entity which has been destroying bases.
  • This episode is the only one in Star Trek referencing the Borg attacking the Romulans. In VOY: "Unity", Commander Chakotay of the starship USS Voyager encounteres liberated Borg drones in the Delta Quadrant nearly a decade later. Among them was a former drone named Orum who identified himself as Romulan.
  • Worf mentions the Romulans having killed his parents during the attack on Khitomer "when they were supposed to be our allies", however, "Reunion" later indicates Klingons and Romulans having been blood enemies for decades before that.

Reception

Video and DVD releases

Natasha Yar's face is obscured by shadow on the video sleeve, reflecting her death in the previous volume.

Links and references

Starring

Also starring

Guest stars

And

Uncredited co-stars

Stand-ins

References

1939; 1957; 1959; 1986; 1989; 1994; 2016; 2040; 2311; 2364; Atlantic Ocean; Arloff IX; brown-out; cloaking device; Birdseye, SS; Borg; Braves; cardiomyopathy; Charleston, USS; cryonics; cryonics satellite; D'deridex-class; Earth; embolism; emphysema; executive key; guitar; Geneva; Indianapolis; Kansas City; Kazis binary system; Khitomer; low-mileage pit woofie; liver; martini; money; Mogh; New Jersey; number one; olive; pattern replicaton; QE2; Raymond, Donald; Raymond, Edward; Raymond, Thomas; Raymond, Tommy; Romulan; Romulan Neutral Zone; Romulan philosophy; Romulan Star Empire; Science Station Delta-05; Secaucus; Sector 3-0; Sector 3-1; Starbase 39-Sierra; Starbase 718; Tarod IX; Tebok's Warbird; television; Tomed; Tomed Incident; tricorder; United Federation of Planets; United States of America; vitamin; Vulcans; Wall Street Journal; Yankees

Library Computer References

External links

Previous episode:
"Conspiracy"
Star Trek: The Next Generation
Season 1
Next episode:
"The Child"