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{{realworld}}
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{{real world}}
 
{{sidebar episode
 
{{sidebar episode
|<!-- See [[Memory Alpha:Episode data project]] -->
+
|<!-- See [[Memory Alpha:Projects/Episode data project]] -->
| aSelf = Unification II
+
|image = Spock and Picard's mind meld.jpg
| sTitle = Unification II
+
|teleplay = [[Michael Piller]]
 
|story = [[Rick Berman]] and [[Michael Piller]]
| sSeries = TNG
 
| nSeason = 5
+
|director = [[Cliff Bole]]
| nEpisode = 8
+
|date = 45245.8 ([[2368]])
  +
|<!-- Arcs -->
|sProductionSerialNumber = 40275-207
 
  +
|arc = [[Vulcan]]/[[Romulan]] [[reunification]]
| nAirdateYear = 1991
 
 
|arc prev = Unification I (episode)
| sAirdateMonth = November
 
 
|arc next = Face of the Enemy (episode)
| nAirdateDay = 11
 
  +
|arc number = 2
| sImage = Spock and Picard's mind meld.jpg
 
| wsWrittenBy =
+
|arc count = 3
| wsTeleplayBy = [[Michael Piller]]
+
|arc2 = [[Sela]]
 
|arc2 prev = Unification I (episode)
| wsStoryBy = [[Rick Berman]] and [[Michael Piller]]
 
  +
|arc2 number = 6
| wsDirectedBy = [[Cliff Bole]]
 
  +
|arc2 count = 6
| nNthProducedInSeries = 106
 
| nNthReleasedInSeries = 107
 
| nNthReleasedInAll = 214
 
| bFeatureLength = 0
 
| nSerialAirdate = 19911111
 
| wsDate = 45245.8 ([[2368]])
 
| aNextReleasedInAll = A Matter of Time (episode)
 
| aPrevReleasedInAll = Unification I (episode)
 
| aNextReleasedInSeries = A Matter of Time (episode)
 
| aPrevReleasedInSeries = Unification I (episode)
 
| aNextProducedInSeries = Unification I (episode)
 
| aPrevProducedInSeries = The Game (episode)
 
|aNextInUniverseTimeline = A Matter of Time (episode)
 
|aPrevInUniverseTimeline = Unification I (episode)
 
| wsArc0Desc = Unification
 
| aArc0PrevPart = Unification I (episode)
 
| aArc0NextPart = Face of the Enemy (episode)
 
| nArc0PartNumber = 2
 
| nArc0PartCount = 3
 
| wsArc1Desc = [[Sela]]
 
| aArc1PrevPart = Unification I (episode)
 
| aArc1NextPart =
 
| nArc1PartNumber = 6
 
| nArc1PartCount = 6
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
On Romulus, Picard and Data meet with Spock, who claims to be trying to reunite the Romulans and Vulcans. While Spock works to achieve his goal, powers within the Romulan government seek to pervert his mission into an invasion of the Federation.
 
On Romulus, Picard and Data meet with Spock, who claims to be trying to reunite the Romulans and Vulcans. While Spock works to achieve his goal, powers within the Romulan government seek to pervert his mission into an invasion of the Federation.
Line 45: Line 22:
 
==Summary==
 
==Summary==
 
===Teaser===
 
===Teaser===
[[Spock]] asks [[Captain]] [[Jean-Luc Picard|Picard]] why he is on [[Romulus]], and Picard tells him he is there to ask ''him'' the same question on behalf of [[Starfleet]]. Spock refuses to answer, telling Picard that his mission is a personal one of peace and will inform Starfleet when it is neccessary. Picard reminds Spock that he is in a position to heavily compromise [[Federation]] security; Spock asks Picard to leave and Picard refuses, saying that despite all that he has achieved on behalf of the Federation, Spock's sort of "[[cowboy diplomacy]]" is not easily tolerated.
+
[[Spock]] asks {{Captain}} [[Jean-Luc Picard|Picard]] why he is on [[Romulus]], and Picard tells him he is there to ask ''him'' the same question on behalf of [[Starfleet]]. Spock refuses to answer, telling Picard that his mission is a personal one of peace and will inform Starfleet when it is neccessary. Picard reminds Spock that he is in a position to heavily compromise [[Federation]] security; Spock asks Picard to leave and Picard refuses, saying that despite all that he has achieved on behalf of the Federation, Spock's sort of "[[cowboy diplomacy]]" is not easily tolerated.
   
 
"''If you wish to undertake a mission with obvious repercussions for the Federation, then you should discuss it with the Federation. I'm here as their representative.''"
 
"''If you wish to undertake a mission with obvious repercussions for the Federation, then you should discuss it with the Federation. I'm here as their representative.''"
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Picard also has the unhappy task of informing Spock that [[Sarek|his father]] is dead. Taking a moment to take in the news, Spock then asks Picard to walk with him.
 
Picard also has the unhappy task of informing Spock that [[Sarek|his father]] is dead. Taking a moment to take in the news, Spock then asks Picard to walk with him.
   
Spock reveals that he is aware of the [[Vulcan mind meld|mind meld]] that Picard and his father [[Sarek (episode)|shared]] to allow Sarek to complete his final mission. Picard tells Spock it was an honor, and Spock agrees that Sarek did great things for the Federation. Picard then tells Spock of Sarek's pride in him, but Spock brushes this off as part of the emotional onslaught Sarek suffered due to [[Bendii Syndrome|his illness]] but Picard disputes this... those feelings came from the heart. Spock is uncomfortable with this, and starts to tell Picard why he is on Romulus; some time earlier he became aware of an underground movement learning [[Vulcan]] philosophy that have been declared enemies of the Romulan government. However some members are sympathetic to the cause like [[Romulan Senate|Senator]] [[Pardek]], who was the one who asked Spock to come and take the first step towards the reunification of {{dis|Vulcan|planet}} and Romulus. Picard is very surprised; it has been centuries since the Romulan society split from the Vulcan people and have developed several fundamental differences. Spock admits that reunification may be unlikely, however if it succeeds the benefits brought would be immense. The 'first step' that Pardek spoke of is a young [[proconsul]] in the [[Romulan Senate]] is promising reform and they may be able to convert him to their movement. When Picard asks Spock why he hasn't mentioned this either to the Federation or to the Vulcans, Spock says that it was a personal decision based on what happened with his small role in the early overtures to peace with the [[Klingon]]s.
+
Spock reveals that he is aware of the [[mind meld]] that Picard and his father [[Sarek (episode)|shared]] to allow Sarek to complete his final mission at [[Legara IV]]. Picard tells Spock it was an honor, and Spock agrees that Sarek was a great representative for the Vulcan people and for the Federation. Picard then tells Spock of Sarek's pride in him, but Spock brushes this off as part of the emotional onslaught Sarek suffered due to [[Bendii Syndrome|his illness]] but Picard disputes this&hellip; those feelings came from the heart. Spock is uncomfortable with this, and starts to tell Picard why he is on Romulus: some time earlier he became aware of an underground movement learning [[Vulcan]] philosophy that have been declared enemies of the Romulan government. However some members are sympathetic to the cause like [[Romulan Senate|Senator]] [[Pardek]], who was the one who asked Spock to come and take the first step towards the reunification of {{dis|Vulcan|planet}} and Romulus. Picard is very surprised: it has been centuries since the Romulan society split from the Vulcan people and have developed several fundamental differences and Spock admits that reunification may be unlikely. However, if it succeeds, the benefits brought would be immense. The 'first step' that Pardek spoke of concerns a young and idealistic [[proconsul]] in the [[Romulan Senate]] who is promising reform: they may be able to convert him to their movement. When Picard asks Spock why he hasn't mentioned this either to the Federation or to the Vulcans, Spock says that it was a personal decision based on what happened with his small role in the early overtures to peace with the [[Klingon]]s.
   
 
"''It was I who committed Captain [[James T. Kirk|Kirk]] to [[Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country|that peace mission]], and I who had to bear the responsibility for the consequences to him and to his crew.''"
 
"''It was I who committed Captain [[James T. Kirk|Kirk]] to [[Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country|that peace mission]], and I who had to bear the responsibility for the consequences to him and to his crew.''"
   
Spock states that he is unwilling to risk anyone's life but his own in this venture and once again asks Picard to leave. Picard states that he almost suspects Spock's judgment is being influenced by his emotions. Spock states that Picard speaks almost as Sarek would if he were there. Picard replies that he speaks only as a [[Starfleet]] officer and cannot ignore the risks to Spock. Spock then remarks that Picard is, in his own way, as stubborn as [[James T. Kirk|another captain]] of the ''[[USS Enterprise (NCC-1701)|Enterprise]]'' that he once knew.
+
Spock states that he is unwilling to risk anyone's life but his own in this venture and once again asks Picard to leave. Picard states that he almost suspects Spock's judgment is being influenced by his emotions. Spock states that Picard speaks almost as Sarek would if he were there. Picard replies that he speaks only as a Starfleet officer and cannot ignore the risks to Spock. Spock then remarks that Picard is, in his own way, as stubborn as [[James T. Kirk|another captain]] of the {{USS|Enterprise|NCC-1701}} that he once knew.
   
 
Picard takes that as a compliment, remarking that he is in good company.
 
Picard takes that as a compliment, remarking that he is in good company.
   
 
===Act One===
 
===Act One===
[[Data]], having returned to the [[cloaking device|cloaked]] Klingon ship in orbit of Romulus, obtains the assistance of Captain [[K'Vada]] to access the [[Romulan Central Information Net]], and to send a transmission to the ''[[USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D)|Enterprise]]'', [[piggyback]]ing it on [[Romulan]] transmissions. In exchange, he promises to give the Klingons access to any Romulan information he uncovers.
+
[[Data]], having returned to the [[cloaking device|cloaked]] [[Klingon Bird-of-Prey]] in orbit of Romulus, obtains the assistance of Captain [[K'Vada]] to access the [[Romulan Central Information Net]], and to send a transmission to the ''[[USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D)|Enterprise]]'', [[piggyback]]ing it on [[Romulan]] transmissions. In exchange, he promises to give the Klingons access to any Romulan information he uncovers.
   
Back on Romulus, a Romulan comes to Picard and Spock's table bearing a flower &ndash; a signal that [[Pardek]] will shortly arrive. Picard and Spock discuss the underground movement, with Spock noting that it has members in four provinces and is a serious concern to the Romulan leadership, while Picard expresses skepticism regarding its chances of success, which Spock urges him to reconsider. A Romulan boy, [[D'Tan]], arrives with an antique Vulcan book telling the history of the separation. Pardek arrives, rebukes the boy gently for bringing the book into the open, and they leave. Pardek tells Picard and Spock that Spock's presence has greatly inspired the movement, and informs them that the proconsul will meet with Spock.
+
Back on Romulus, a [[Romulan 24th civilian 018|Romulan civilian]] comes to Picard and Spock's table bearing a flower &ndash; a signal that [[Pardek]] will shortly arrive. Picard and Spock discuss the underground movement, with Spock noting that it has members in four provinces and is a serious concern to the Romulan leadership, while Picard expresses skepticism regarding its chances of success, which Spock urges him to reconsider. A Romulan boy, [[D'Tan]], arrives with an antique Vulcan book telling the history of the separation. Pardek arrives, rebukes the boy gently for bringing the book into the open, and they leave. Pardek tells Picard and Spock that Spock's presence has greatly inspired the movement, and informs them that the proconsul will meet with Spock.
   
 
===Act Two===
 
===Act Two===
:"''First Officer's log, Stardate 45245.8. The ''Enterprise'' remains at [[Qualor II]] while we continue to investigate the theft of a surplus Vulcan ship. The trail has led us to the former wife of a deceased smuggler.''"
+
:"''[[First officer's log, USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D)|First officer's log]], [[stardate]] 45245.8. The ''Enterprise'' remains at [[Qualor II]] while we continue to investigate the theft of a surplus Vulcan ship. The trail has led us to the former wife of a deceased smuggler.''"
   
[[William T. Riker|Riker]] enters a bar near the Qualor II [[Surplus Depot Z-15|surplus depot]] and encounters [[Amarie]], a four-armed pianist and the former wife of the smuggler who died when he and the ''Enterprise'' traded [[phaser]] fire over the stolen [[deuterium]] tanks from the depot. While killing her ex was a good start for bargaining, she agrees to provide the commander information on his business partners, in exchange for [[jazz]] lessons. In between notes, she informs him that [[Omag]], "''a fat [[Ferengi]]''", will be in the bar at some point and will have information.
+
[[William T. Riker|Riker]] enters a [[bar]] near the Qualor II [[Surplus Depot Z-15|surplus depot]] and encounters [[Amarie]], a four-armed pianist and the former wife of the smuggler who died when he and the ''Enterprise'' traded [[phaser]] fire over the stolen [[deuterium]] tanks from the depot. While killing her ex was a good start for bargaining, she agrees to provide the commander information on his business partners, in exchange for [[jazz]] lessons. In between notes, she informs him that [[Omag]], "''a fat [[Ferengi]]''", will be in the bar at some point and will have the information Riker seeks.
   
On Romulus, Pardek and Spock meet with Proconsul [[Neral]]. He expresses enthusiasm for their movement, even greeting Spock with "''Live long and prosper''", and saying he may be able to obtain the support of the [[Romulan Senate]] and is prepared to publicly endorse reunification. But after Spock leaves, [[Sela]] enters the room &ndash; she has heard the whole conversation, and Neral has tricked the underground.
+
On Romulus, Pardek and Spock meet with Proconsul [[Neral]]. He expresses enthusiasm for their movement, even greeting Spock with "''Live long and prosper''", and saying he may be able to obtain the support of the [[Romulan Senate]] and is prepared to publicly endorse reunification. When Spock expresses surprise at Neral's views on unification, Neral replies that the "old guard" and "old school" leaders have lost the respect of the people. The average Romulan is tired of the wars with the [[Klingon Empire]] and the border incidents with the [[United Federation of Planets]]. But after Spock leaves, [[Sela]] enters the room &ndash; she has heard the whole conversation, and Neral has tricked the underground.
   
In the [[cave]]s, Spock shares the good news, despite Picard's skepticism. Spock and Picard argue, with Picard accusing Spock of being swayed by Romulan emotions, and Spock insinuating that Picard is over-influenced by [[Sarek]], possibly even by the results of his mind meld with the ambassador. Picard remarks that this is the second such accusation, and then states that, while the mind meld was a profound experience and that Sarek's essence will always be a part of him, his judgment was still his own. In the end, Spock concedes that there is room to suspect treachery, but resolves to play out the scene to determine what that treachery may be.
+
In the [[cave]]s, Spock shares the good news, despite Picard's skepticism. In private, Spock and Picard argue, with Picard accusing Spock of being swayed by Romulan emotions, and Spock insinuating that Picard is over-influenced by [[Sarek]], possibly even by the results of his mind meld with the ambassador. Picard remarks that this is the second such accusation, and then states that, while the mind meld was a profound experience and that Sarek's essence will always be a part of him, his judgment was still his own. In the end, Spock agrees that there is, most likely, a larger plan being played out by the Romulans and that, in order to find out what is going on, Spock will play along.
   
 
===Act Three===
 
===Act Three===
  +
[[File:Omag and his women.jpg|thumb|Omag enters]]
Back aboard K'Vada's ship, Data is attempting to access the information net; Spock provides the last necessary cipher in order to access it. Spock notes that Picard has an almost Vulcan-like quality, which Data is surprised by given that Picard has been his role model in his quest to become more [[Human]]. Spock is fascinated by this telling Data that his "efficient intellect, superior physical skills and no emotional impediments" gives him what many Vulcans strive for their entire lives... and yet he wishes to be Human. Data then notes that Spock is half-Human, yet chose to live a Vulcan way of life thereby abandoning what the android has always aimed for. Data then asks Spock if, as he looks back on his life, he ever misses his humanity. Spock replies that he has no regrets. Data points out that 'no regrets' is a Human expression. Spock considers this, then simply responds with ''"fascinating"''.
+
Back aboard K'Vada's ship, Data is attempting to access the information net; Spock provides the last necessary cipher in order to access it. Picard leaves to remove his Romulan ears and Spock notes that the captain has an almost Vulcan-like quality, which Data is surprised by given that Picard has been his role model in his quest to become more [[Human]]. Spock is fascinated by this telling Data that his "efficient intellect, superior physical skills and no emotional impediments" gives him what many Vulcans strive for their entire lives&hellip; and yet he wishes to be Human. Data then notes that Spock is half-Human, yet chose to live a Vulcan way of life thereby abandoning what the android has always aimed for. Data then asks Spock if, as he looks back on his life, he ever misses his Humanity. Spock replies that he has no regrets. Data points out that 'no regrets' is a Human expression. Spock considers this, then simply responds with "''fascinating.''"
   
In the bar on Qualor II, [[Worf]] requests a theme from ''[[Aktuh and Maylota]]'', in which Amarie joins with gusto. Soon, Omag enters the bar loudly complaining about the [[Klingon opera]] and Worf advises Riker on the ''Enterprise.'' Riker arrives shortly much to the chagrin of Omag, and mocks the commander's request for information on the Vulcan ship much to the laughter of his two female partners. Riker turns to Worf and then throws the tray of food all over Omag and his partners and lifts up and intimidates the arrogant Ferengi into revealing that he delivered the Vulcan ship to a [[Barolian]] freighter near [[Galorndon Core]] under threat of losing his right of passage in the sector, and making Riker very unhappy. Satisfied with his information, he throws Omag back on his chair and gives him a napkin, and politely tells him to enjoy his dinner.
+
In the bar on Qualor II, [[Worf]] requests a theme from ''[[Aktuh and Maylota]]'', in which Amarie joins with gusto. Soon, Omag enters the bar loudly complaining about the [[Klingon opera]] and Worf informs Riker on the ''Enterprise'' of his arrival. Riker arrives shortly much to the chagrin of Omag, and mocks the commander's request for information on the Vulcan ship much to the laughter of his two female partners. Riker turns to Worf and then throws the tray of food all over Omag and his partners and lifts up and intimidates the arrogant Ferengi into revealing that he delivered the Vulcan ship to a [[Barolian freighter]] near [[Galorndon Core]] under threat of losing his right of passage in the sector, and making Riker very unhappy. Satisfied with his information, he throws Omag back on his chair and wipes his mouth with a [[napkin]] and tucks it into Omag's shirt, and politely tells him to enjoy his dinner.
   
 
===Act Four===
 
===Act Four===
Riker is communicating with Picard over the piggybacked subspace signal, who brings him up to date about the negotiations with Proconsul Neral. The use of a stolen Vulcan ship by the Romulans makes no sense to the goal of Unification but Picard believes it's worth looking into. The ''Enterprise'' then proceeds to Galorndon Core at warp eight.
+
Riker is communicating with Picard over the piggybacked subspace signal, who brings him up to date about the negotiations with Proconsul Neral. The use of a stolen Vulcan ship by the Romulans makes no sense to the goal of unification but Picard believes it's worth looking into. The ''Enterprise'' then proceeds to Galorndon Core at warp eight.
   
 
On K'Vada's ship, Data has accessed Romulan communications logs and finds a transmission to a Barolian ship near Galorndon Core. K'Vada points out that the Barolians often run that trade route and the transmission was probably routine, but Data counters that the signal includes the code prefix of [[Tal Shiar|Romulan Intelligence]]. The signal is a mere four digits: 1 4 0 0.
 
On K'Vada's ship, Data has accessed Romulan communications logs and finds a transmission to a Barolian ship near Galorndon Core. K'Vada points out that the Barolians often run that trade route and the transmission was probably routine, but Data counters that the signal includes the code prefix of [[Tal Shiar|Romulan Intelligence]]. The signal is a mere four digits: 1 4 0 0.
   
On Romulus, D'Tan catches up with Spock and shows him small carved stones, which Spock describes as the syllabic nucleus of the [[Vulcan language]]. D'Tan reveals that his parents taught him Vulcan when he was small, to prepare for the Romulans' inevitable reunification with their Vulcan cousins. Summoned by Picard and Data, Spock returns to the cave. They share the message with him, and Spock immediately realizes that the proconsul has deceived him and that the Vulcan ships are involved, as the time set for Spock's announcement regarding reunification was 1400 hours the following day. Suddenly, Romulan troops led by Commander Sela burst in and capture Spock, Picard, and Data; Spock realizes that Pardek has betrayed him. Sela tells Spock that his dream of reunification will still happen, but simply taking a different form... the Romulan conquest of Vulcan. She and her Romulan troops take Spock, Picard and Data out of the caves by [[Romulan disruptor|disruptor]].
+
On Romulus, D'Tan catches up with Spock and shows him small carved stones, which Spock describes as the syllabic nucleus of the [[Vulcan language]]. D'Tan reveals that his parents taught him Vulcan when he was small, to prepare for the Romulans' inevitable reunification with their Vulcan cousins. Summoned by Picard and Data, Spock returns to the cave. They share the message with him, and Spock immediately realizes that the proconsul has deceived him and that the Vulcan ships are involved, as the time set for Spock's announcement regarding reunification was 1400 hours the following day. Suddenly, Romulan troops led by Commander Sela burst in and capture Spock, Picard, and Data; Spock realizes that Pardek has betrayed him. Sela tells Spock that his dream of reunification will still happen, but simply taking a different form&hellip; the Romulan conquest of Vulcan. She and her Romulan troops take Spock, Picard and Data out of the caves by [[Romulan disruptor|disruptor]].
   
 
===Act Five===
 
===Act Five===
 
:"''First officer's log, supplemental. The ''Enterprise'' has reached Galorndon Core near the border of the [[Romulan Neutral Zone|Neutral Zone]].''"
 
:"''First officer's log, supplemental. The ''Enterprise'' has reached Galorndon Core near the border of the [[Romulan Neutral Zone|Neutral Zone]].''"
   
In orbit of [[Galorndon Core]], the ''Enterprise'' receives a message, ostensibly from Picard, advising them that the initiative is successful and ordering to hold their position. Although the proper coded sequence was used, Riker dismisses it.
+
In orbit of [[Galorndon Core]], the ''Enterprise'' receives a message, ostensibly from Picard, advising them that the initiative is successful and ordering to hold their position. Although the proper coded sequence was used, Riker seems to have reservations.
   
 
[[File:Spock, 2368.jpg|thumb|Spock in Sela's office on Romulus]]
 
[[File:Spock, 2368.jpg|thumb|Spock in Sela's office on Romulus]]
On Romulus, Spock, Data, and Picard are brought into Sela's office. She informs them that Spock will read a speech encouraging the Vulcans to welcome the "peace envoy". Picard realizes the Romulans will be using the stolen Vulcan ship, and Sela reveals there's actually three stolen ships full of troops and she has sent fake orders to the ''Enterprise'' in Picard's name ordering them to remain in their present position and when the Vulcan ships cross the Neutral Zone the ship will be too busy to stop them. Picard points out that Starfleet will not just sit idly by while the Romulans attempt to conquer one of the Federation's founding members, but Sela states that by the time Starfleet get to Vulcan the Romulans will be so firmly entrenched on the planet there'll be no getting rid of them and thus reunification will be a fact of life. When Spock refuses to read Sela's statement or any other, Sela reveals a programmable [[hologram|holographic]] [[Spock One|version of him]] that will read the speech. She then leaves to order the ships on their way, locking the three in her office. Data and Spock immediately set about to access the Romulan computer system.
+
On Romulus, Spock, Data, and Picard are brought into Sela's office. She informs them that Spock will read a speech encouraging the Vulcans to welcome the "peace envoy". Picard realizes the Romulans will be using the stolen Vulcan ship, and Sela reveals there's actually three stolen ships full of troops and she has sent fake orders to the ''Enterprise'' in Picard's name ordering them to remain in their present position and when the Vulcan ships cross the Neutral Zone the ship will be too busy to stop them. Picard points out that Starfleet will not just sit idly by while the Romulans attempt to conquer one of the Federation's founding members, but Sela states that by the time Starfleet get to Vulcan, the Romulans will be so firmly entrenched on the planet there'll be no getting rid of them and thus reunification will be a fact of life. When Spock refuses to read Sela's statement or any other, she threatens him with death, but he logically deduces that she would execute him and his companions in any event. Sela then reveals a programmable [[hologram|holographic]] [[Spock One|version of him]] that will read the speech. She then leaves to order the ships on their way, locking the three in her office. Data and Spock immediately set about to access the Romulan computer system.
   
 
Back in orbit of Galorndon Core, the ''Enterprise'' detects the oncoming Vulcan ships and moves to intercept.
 
Back in orbit of Galorndon Core, the ''Enterprise'' detects the oncoming Vulcan ships and moves to intercept.
   
  +
[[File:Picard, Spock, and Data in Sela's office.jpg|thumb|"''Not bad.''"]]
Sela returns to her office to find her three prisoners gone, and is immediately confronted by Riker and two security officers. She shoots at them, but the beam passes through them &ndash; holograms. While they are distracted, Spock and Picard emerge from the wall &ndash; also a hologram &ndash; and incapacitate Sela's guards (Spock with a [[nerve pinch]], Picard with a right hook to the jaw), and get the drop on her. But she blusters that her forces will be on Vulcan before they can alert anyone.
+
Sela returns to her office to find her three prisoners gone, and is immediately confronted by Riker and two security officers. She shoots at them, but the beam passes through them &ndash; holograms. While they are distracted, Spock and Picard emerge from the wall &ndash; also a hologram &ndash; and incapacitate Sela's guards (Spock with a [[Vulcan neck pinch]], Picard with a right hook to the jaw), and get the drop on her. But she blusters that her forces will be on Vulcan before they can alert anyone.
   
[[Doctor|Dr.]] [[Beverly Crusher|Crusher]] arrives on the [[bridge]] saying she's received an urgent [[distress signal]] from [[Dulisian IV]] calling for emergency evacuation. The only vessel in range is a [[Rutian archaeological vessel]], which is ill-equipped to handle the crisis. Just before they divert to assist, they receive a message from Spock alerting them to the invasion force and saying the Vulcan ships must be stopped at all costs. Riker tells Dr. Crusher to verify the signal from Dulisian IV, as it is probably fake.
+
[[Doctor|Dr.]] [[Beverly Crusher|Crusher]] arrives on the [[bridge]] saying she's received an urgent [[distress signal]] from [[Dulisian IV]] calling for emergency evacuation. The only vessel in range is a [[Rutian archaeological vessel]], which is ill-equipped to handle the crisis. Just before they divert to assist, they receive a message from Romulan space: at first it appears to be Sela's holographic simulacrum of Spock, but midway through the script changes and Spock &ndash; the ''real'' Spock &ndash; warns them the ships are carrying a Romulan invasion force, and must be stopped at all costs. The Romulans hastily cut off the transmission, but Riker has heard enough, and tells Dr. Crusher to verify the signal from Dulisian IV, as it is probably fake.
   
Data confirms that the message was sent and nerve pinches Sela, and the three make good their escape from the senate building.
+
Data confirms that the message was sent before the Romulans were able to cut it off. Sela, now truly stymied, blusters that they will never leave the Senate building. Data rejoins that he has already prepared their escape route, and neck pinches Sela, and the three make good their escape from the senate building.
   
The Vulcan ships begin to retreat to the Neutral Zone, with the ''Enterprise'' in pursuit. Suddenly, a {{class|D'deridex}} [[warbird]] [[cloaking device|uncloaks]]; Riker calls [[red alert]], but the warbird destroys the three Vulcan ships, then re-cloaks as quickly as it appeared. [[Geordi La Forge|La Forge]] and Troi note with shock that there were over 2,000 Romulan troops aboard the Vulcan ships, but the Romulans destroyed their own invasion force rather than let them be captured.
+
The Vulcan ships begin to retreat to the Neutral Zone, with the ''Enterprise'' in pursuit. Suddenly, a {{class|D'deridex}} [[warbird]] [[cloaking device|uncloaks]] and readies its disruptors; Riker calls [[red alert]] and prepares for a fight, but the warbird opens fire, destroying the three Vulcan ships, then re-cloaks as quickly as it appeared. [[Geordi La Forge|La Forge]] and Troi note with shock that there were over 2,000 Romulan troops aboard the Vulcan ships, but the Romulans destroyed their own invasion force rather than let them be captured.
   
 
In caves that Pardek never knew about, the remaining underground movement resolves to continue working for change in Romulan society. Picard promises that the Federation will welcome the day when they don't have to be enemies with the Romulans. Picard and Data prepare to beam up to K'Vada's ship, but Spock chooses to remain behind, saying his work has never been more important. He now understands that true reunification will not happen through diplomacy or politics, but through changing society from within, even if it takes years or centuries. As Picard and Spock discuss their gently adversarial relationship, Spock comments that Picard may know Sarek "better than his own son did. My father and I never chose to meld." On hearing this, Picard says, "''I offer you the chance to touch what he [Sarek] shared with me.''" As Data watches, Spock places his hand on Picard's face and makes contact with the essence of Sarek that remains in Picard's mind, and Picard thus fulfills the request that Sarek made: Spock's face is suffused with emotion as he realizes the depth of his father's love for him.
 
In caves that Pardek never knew about, the remaining underground movement resolves to continue working for change in Romulan society. Picard promises that the Federation will welcome the day when they don't have to be enemies with the Romulans. Picard and Data prepare to beam up to K'Vada's ship, but Spock chooses to remain behind, saying his work has never been more important. He now understands that true reunification will not happen through diplomacy or politics, but through changing society from within, even if it takes years or centuries. As Picard and Spock discuss their gently adversarial relationship, Spock comments that Picard may know Sarek "better than his own son did. My father and I never chose to meld." On hearing this, Picard says, "''I offer you the chance to touch what he [Sarek] shared with me.''" As Data watches, Spock places his hand on Picard's face and makes contact with the essence of Sarek that remains in Picard's mind, and Picard thus fulfills the request that Sarek made: Spock's face is suffused with emotion as he realizes the depth of his father's love for him.
  +
 
=== Log entries ===
  +
* [[First officer's log, USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D)#2368|First officer's log, USS ''Enterprise'' (NCC-1701-D)]]
   
 
==Memorable quotes==
 
==Memorable quotes==
 
"''I have to ask you about your husband.''"<br />
 
"''I have to ask you about your husband.''"<br />
"''Well, it was nice while it lasted... which husband?''"<br />
+
"''Well, it was nice while it lasted&hellip; which husband?''"<br />
 
"''The dead one, I'm afraid.''"
 
"''The dead one, I'm afraid.''"
 
: - '''Riker''' and '''Amarie'''
 
: - '''Riker''' and '''Amarie'''
Line 149: Line 131:
 
"''Perhaps you would be happier in another job.''"
 
"''Perhaps you would be happier in another job.''"
 
: - '''Sela''' and '''Data'''
 
: - '''Sela''' and '''Data'''
  +
  +
  +
"''I've tried to make it sound Vulcan. A lot of unnecessarily long words.''"
  +
: - '''Sela''', regarding the speech she wrote for Spock to read
   
   
Line 180: Line 166:
   
 
"''Not bad.''"
 
"''Not bad.''"
: - '''Spock''', noting Data's mastery of the [[Vulcan nerve pinch]]
+
: - '''Spock''', noting Data's mastery of the [[Vulcan neck pinch]]
   
   
"''I was with him before coming here. He expressed his pride in you... His love.''"<br />
+
"''I was with him before coming here. He expressed his pride in you&hellip; His love.''"<br />
 
: - '''Picard''', to Spock
 
: - '''Picard''', to Spock
   
Line 191: Line 177:
   
   
"''An inexorable evolution toward a Vulcan philosophy has already begun. Like the first Vulcans, these people are struggling to a new enlightenment and it may take decades or even centuries for them to reach it but they will reach it... and I must help.''"
+
"''An inexorable evolution toward a Vulcan philosophy has already begun. Like the first Vulcans, these people are struggling to a new enlightenment and it may take decades or even centuries for them to reach it but they will reach it&hellip; and I must help.''"
 
: - '''Spock''' explaining to Picard his reasons for remaining on Romulus
 
: - '''Spock''' explaining to Picard his reasons for remaining on Romulus
   
Line 205: Line 191:
   
 
== Background information ==
 
== Background information ==
=== Story and production ===
+
=== Story and script ===
[[File:Gene Roddenberry title card Unification part 1.jpg|thumb|The title card]]
 
 
[[File:Nimoy and Crosby.jpg|thumb|Leonard Nimoy and Denise Crosby on the set]]
 
[[File:Nimoy and Crosby.jpg|thumb|Leonard Nimoy and Denise Crosby on the set]]
 
* "Unification" was created as a tie-in with {{film|6}}. The two episodes were produced after principal photography finished on ''Star Trek VI'', but released a month before the film. [[Spock]]'s dialogue with Picard in the teaser &ndash; referencing the peace talks with the Klingons and the consequences to Kirk and his crew &ndash; therefore served as a teaser for the movie. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation 365]]'', p. 230)
* As with the previous episode, a title card ran before the teaser in tribute to [[Gene Roddenberry]].
 
  +
* [[Michael Piller]] remembered, "''I wanted to tell a story about the maturity of one of drama's great characters. What happens to a Spock in the 85 years between then and now? How has logic and emotion played a part in his life? What is the growth of the man beyond logic? What was the conflict between he and his father and the death and passing of generations? I thought they were meaningful pieces of business to explore the man. ''[&hellip;]'' I felt that the show would be carried by the conflict between Spock and Picard, with Picard ironically representing the father through the mind meld. In fact, it was Picard who represented the original philosophy of ''Star Trek'' and Spock who was moving onto the future, so when the two came together it was sort of a reversal.''" (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'', p. 234)
* The principal photography for "Unification II" took place before the filming of the first part, although several scenes of the first part were filmed during the production of the second part. The episode was filmed between Monday {{d|9|September|1991}} and Wednesday {{d|18|September|1991}} on [[Paramount Stage 5]], [[Paramount Stage 8|8]], [[Paramount Stage 9|9]], and [[Paramount Stage 16|16]]. Additional second unit shots were filmed on Thursday {{d|29|October|1991}} on Paramount Stage 9.
 
  +
* [[Ronald D. Moore]], a fan of {{s|TOS}}, provided Piller with various insights about Spock and [[Vulcan]]s during the break session for this episode. (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'', p. 233)
* Although this was the second part of {{e|Unification I}}, it was the first to be filmed, in order to accommodate [[Leonard Nimoy]]'s schedule. This explains why the episodes were released in reversed order on video in the US ("Unification I" released as episode 108, "Unification II" released as episode 107)
 
* These episodes were created in part to promote {{film|6}}, and although that movie was released later, these episodes were produced after the film, making them Nimoy's final appearance as Spock for eighteen years until 2009's {{film|11}}. Spock's dialogue with Picard in the teaser &ndash; referencing the peace talks with the Klingons and the consequences to Kirk and his crew &ndash; was intended to tie in with {{film|6}}, which was released in theaters less than a month after this episode aired.
 
* According to [[Cliff Bole]], Nimoy originally wanted his son, [[Adam Nimoy|Adam]] to direct "Unification", but this fell through, so he was called in as director, despite it not fitting into his usual four-episode rotation. {{st.com|catching-up-with-trek-director-cliff-bole-part-1||article}} Later, Adam Nimoy indeed directed two episodes of TNG, {{e|Rascals}} and {{e|Timescape}}.
 
 
* This episode and its predecessor share the same titular fashion with {{e|Redemption}} and {{e|Redemption II}} in that they do not contain the word "Part" in the name of the episode.
 
* This episode and its predecessor share the same titular fashion with {{e|Redemption}} and {{e|Redemption II}} in that they do not contain the word "Part" in the name of the episode.
  +
* On Friday {{d|13|September|1991}} the sets were visited by alumni of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, who received a tour on Paramount Stage 8 and 9.
 
  +
=== Production ===
* First UK airdate: 8 February 1995
 
 
[[File:Gene Roddenberry title card Unification part 1.jpg|thumb|The title card]]
 
[[File:Bill Gocke.jpg|thumb|Boom operator Bill Gocke appears in the original "Unification II" (left), but is digitally erased in the Blu-ray release (right)]]
 
* As with the previous episode, a title card ran before the [[teaser]] in tribute to [[Gene Roddenberry]], accompanied by the opening notes to the theme of ''Star Trek''.
 
* According to [[Cliff Bole]], [[Leonard Nimoy]] originally wanted his son, [[Adam Nimoy|Adam]], to direct "Unification", but this fell through, so Bole was called in as director, despite it not fitting into his usual four-episode rotation. {{st.com|catching-up-with-trek-director-cliff-bole-part-1||article}} Later, Adam Nimoy indeed directed two episodes of TNG: {{e|Rascals}} and {{e|Timescape}}.
  +
* Due to Nimoy's schedule, the principal photography for "Unification II" took place before the filming of the first part, although several scenes of the first part were filmed during the production of the second part. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'', 2nd ed., p. 185) Bole remarked, "''If this is an education for the people who watch television, sometimes you have to do crazy things.''" (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'', p. 233)
 
* The episode was filmed between Monday {{d|9|September|1991}} and Wednesday {{d|18|September|1991}} on [[Paramount Stage 5]], [[Paramount Stage 8|8]], [[Paramount Stage 9|9]], and [[Paramount Stage 16|16]]. Additional second unit shots were filmed on Thursday {{d|29|October|1991}} on Paramount Stage 9.
 
* On Friday {{d|13|September|1991}}, the sets were visited by alumni of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, who received a tour on Paramount Stage 8 and 9.
 
* For a brief moment, a reflection of boom operator [[Bill Gocke]] was inadvertently caught on camera, appearing in a reflection in the glass pyramid on Neral's desk at the end of the episode. Gocke's image was digitally erased for {{dis|Unification|Blu-ray|the Blu-ray release}}.
  +
* The piece played by Riker in the bar is the beginning of "Freddie Freeloader" by Miles Davis, first released on Davis' album "Kind of Blue" in 1959.
   
 
=== Cast and characters ===
 
=== Cast and characters ===
* [[Malachi Throne]] (Senator [[Pardek]]) was also with Leonard Nimoy during his first appearance in ''[[Star Trek]]'', the first ''[[Star Trek: The Original Series]]'' pilot {{e|The Cage}}, as the voice of [[The Keeper]]. He had also previously appeared as Commodore [[José I. Mendez]] in {{TOS|The Menagerie, Part I}}.
+
* [[Malachi Throne]] (Senator [[Pardek]]) was also with Leonard Nimoy during his first appearance in ''[[Star Trek]]'', the first {{s|TOS}} pilot {{e|The Cage}}, as the voice of [[The Keeper]]. He had also previously appeared as Commodore [[José I. Mendez]] in {{TOS|The Menagerie, Part I}}.
  +
* Leonard Nimoy recalled that his experience filming the two episodes was hectic but enjoyable, a reminder of his days on ''The Original Series'', in contrast to the slower pace of feature films. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'', 2nd ed., p. 185)
* This is Nimoy's third of five ''Star Trek'' appearances without [[William Shatner]]. The other four are {{TOS|The Cage}}, {{TAS|The Slaver Weapon}}, {{film|11}}, and {{film|12}}.
 
* This episode also marks the final appearance of the mysterious character of [[Sela]].
+
* This episode was Nimoy's final appearance as Spock for eighteen years. Excluding archive footage in {{e|Trials and Tribble-ations}}, he next appeared in {{y|2009}}'s {{film|11}}.
 
* This was also Nimoy's third of five ''Star Trek'' appearances without [[William Shatner]]. The other four are [[TOS]]: "The Cage", {{TAS|The Slaver Weapon}}, {{film|11}}, and {{film|12}}.
   
 
=== Continuity ===
 
=== Continuity ===
 
* During {{e|Encounter at Farpoint}}, [[Leonard McCoy]] told [[Data]] that, while he did not possess pointed ears, he sounded "just like a Vulcan." In this episode, Data met the particular Vulcan whom McCoy had in mind.
[[File:Bill Gocke.jpg|thumb|Boom operator Bill Gocke appears in the original "Unification II" (left), but is digitally erased in the Blu-ray release (right)]]
 
 
* [[Geordi La Forge]] was stranded on [[Galorndon Core]] during [[TNG Season 3|third season]] episode {{e|The Enemy}}.
* During his {{e|Encounter at Farpoint|first mission aboard the ''Enterprise''-D}}, Data had been told by [[Leonard McCoy]] that, while he did not possess pointed ears, he sounded "just like a Vulcan". In this episode, he meets [[Spock|the particular Vulcan that McCoy had in mind]].
 
  +
* This was the final appearance of [[Sela]].
* Geordi La Forge was stranded on Galorndon Core during [[TNG Season 3|third season]] episode {{e|The Enemy}}, although there were no references to the ''Enterprise''-D ever having visited the planet before.
 
* [[Neral]] is later mentioned in the ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]'' episode {{e|In the Pale Moonlight}} as being [[Praetor]] in [[2374]]. He later appears, played by [[Hal Landon, Jr.]] in {{e|Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges}}.
+
* [[Neral]] was later mentioned in the {{s|DS9}} episode {{e|In the Pale Moonlight}} as being [[Praetor]] in [[2374]]. He later appeared, played by [[Hal Landon, Jr.]] in {{e|Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges}}.
* This episode contains the first instance of Klingon opera in the series, as well as Worf's avid appreciation for it. There were further mentions of it in ''Star Trek: Deep Space Nine''.
+
* This episode contained the first instance of [[Klingon opera]] in the series, as well as Worf's avid appreciation for it. There were further mentions of it in {{s|DS9}}.
 
* Although it was established in other episodes that [[Data]]'s programming prohibits him from being able to use [[contraction]]s, he inadvertently used a contraction before giving Sela the Vulcan neck pinch when he said, "''I've disconnected certain sensors to allow us to exit. I'm afraid I cannot allow you to warn your guards.''"
* For a brief moment, boom operator [[Bill Gocke]] can be seen in a reflection in the glass pyramid on Neral's desk at the end of the episode. Gocke's image was digitally erased for [[Unification (Blu-ray)|the Blu-ray release]].
 
  +
* Data successfully performed a [[Vulcan neck pinch]] in this episode, one of only a few non-Vulcans to do so. Picard also performed what appeared to be a neck pinch in {{e|Starship Mine}}, although according to the script of the latter episode, that was intended to be a [[carotid artery]] block. {{st-minutiae|resources/scripts/244.txt}}
* [[Data]] inadvertently used a contraction before giving [[Sela]] the Vulcan neck pinch, saying "''I've disconnected certain sensors to allow us to exit. I'm afraid I cannot allow you to warn your guards''".
 
* Data is also the only non-Vulcan/Romulan to successfully pull off the Vulcan neck pinch (at least on screen), except for Captain Picard in the TNG episode "Starship Mine".
 
   
 
=== Sets and props ===
 
=== Sets and props ===
 
* The revealing evening dress worn by one of Omag's female companions was reused as Troi's evening dress in Ten Forward in {{e|Man of the People}}.
 
* The revealing evening dress worn by one of Omag's female companions was reused as Troi's evening dress in Ten Forward in {{e|Man of the People}}.
* The [[bird]] [[sculpture]]s seen in the bar on [[Qualor II]] were previously seen in [[Karnas]]' office in the [[TNG Season 1|first season]] episode {{e|Too Short a Season}}. They were also featured in [[Q]]'s court room in the pilot episode {{e|Encounter at Farpoint}} and in the final episode {{e|All Good Things...}}
+
* The [[bird]] [[sculpture]]s seen in the bar on [[Qualor II]] were previously seen in [[Karnas]]' office in the [[TNG Season 1|first season]] episode {{e|Too Short a Season}}. They were also featured in [[Q]]'s [[courtroom]] in the pilot episode {{e|Encounter at Farpoint}} and in the final episode {{e|All Good Things...}}
* The bar on Qualor II is a revamp of the ''Enterprise''-D's [[observation lounge]] set.
+
* The bar on Qualor II was a revamp of the ''Enterprise''-D's [[cargo bay]] set. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'', 2nd ed., p. 185)
* The wall decoration in Proconsul Neral's office can be later seen in the [[barbershop]] aboard the ''Enterprise''-D in the [[TNG Season 6|sixth season]] episode {{e|Schisms}}, in the reception area at [[Arkaria Base]] in the episode {{e|Starship Mine}}, and in the [[observation lounge]] in the [[TNG Season 7|seventh season]] episode {{e|Parallels}}.
+
* The wall decoration in Proconsul Neral's office was later seen in the [[barbershop]] aboard the ''Enterprise''-D in the [[TNG Season 6|sixth season]] episode {{e|Schisms}}, in the reception area at [[Arkaria Base]] in the episode {{e|Starship Mine}}, in the [[observation lounge]] in the [[TNG Season 7|seventh season]] episode {{e|Parallels}}, in the office of [[Minister]] [[Kray]] in the {{s|VOY}} [[VOY Season 1|first season]] episode {{e|Ex Post Facto}}, and in [[Annorax]] [[ready room]] aboard the [[Krenim weapon ship]] in the [[VOY]] [[VOY Season 4|fourth season]] episode {{e|Year of Hell}}.
  +
  +
=== Reception ===
  +
* "Unification I" and "Unification II" were the highest rated episodes of TNG since {{e|Encounter at Farpoint}}. (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'', p. 231)
  +
* Michael Piller disagreed with criticisms that Sela's invasion force of three ships was insufficient to invade {{dis|Vulcan|planet}}. He commented, "''That's the only way you ''could'' do it, with a {{w|Trojan horse}}. You couldn't launch an all-out attack.''" (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'', 2nd ed., p. 185)
  +
* Piller was sharply critical of his own teleplay. He recalled, "''When I looked at the second hour of 'Unification', which I'll always consider a character study of Spock, I realized it was ''[&hellip;]'' talky and nothing goes on. I was very unhappy with that.''" (''[[Captains' Logs Supplemental - The Unauthorized Guide to the New Trek Voyages]]'', p. 20)
  +
** He elaborated, "''It's no secret I was disappointed more by my own work on it than anything else. I remember watching it for the first time cut together and saying, 'This is dark, it's flat, who cares, it's talky.' I'm a writer who depends a great deal on his instinct and they almost always lead me in a good direction. This time I don't think they did. If I had it to do over, I would do a science-fiction mystery with weird stuff and get Spock involved in some form or fashion. It was unfortunate that we chose to do another political story so close to the [[Redemption II|stuff we had just done]] on the [[Klingon Empire]]. It was a very politically heavy opening of the season.''" (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'', p. 233)
  +
**Piller was later reminded of this while writing {{DS9|Emissary}}. (''[[Cinefantastique]]'', Vol. 23, No. 6, p. 33)
  +
** He was also disappointed that he hadn't been able to provide more chemistry between Picard and Spock in the script. (''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion]]'', 2nd ed., p. 185)
  +
* Director Cliff Bole also had some criticisms of the final episode, noting that, "''We should have gone out. We should have put some air in that show. We shouldn't have been in a cave so long, we should have gone out and had a little more action.''" However, he thought Piller was too hard on himself, given the tight constraints the production faced. "''We were dealt a hand and we had to deal with it. We had a certain amount of time and I think Michael did a real good job with it.''" (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'', p. 233)
  +
* [[Brannon Braga]] enjoyed the scene between Spock and Data, calling it something that "everyone was waiting for". He also thought that the final scene between Picard and Spock was "very moving". However, he thought the episode focused too much on dry politics and Sela's machinations rather than character development. (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'', p. 234)
  +
* Leonard Nimoy initially expected there might be a sequel to this episode's two-parter. "''For a while, for a moment in time,''" he recalled, "''I thought maybe I would get a phone call saying, 'You know, we want to pick up that thread of the story.' I never heard anything about it and I didn't pursue it.''" ({{film|4}} [[audio commentary]], ''[[Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (Special Edition)]]'' [[DVD]]/''[[Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (Blu-ray)]]'' special features)
 
* A mission report for this episode, by John Sayers, was published in {{STNG|18|50-54}}.
   
 
=== Awards ===
 
=== Awards ===
 
* This episode was nominated for an [[Emmy Award]] for Outstanding Individual Achievement in Art Direction for a Series.
 
* This episode was nominated for an [[Emmy Award]] for Outstanding Individual Achievement in Art Direction for a Series.
 
=== Reception ===
 
* A mission report for this episode by John Sayers was published in ''[[The Official Star Trek: The Next Generation Magazine]]'' Vol. 18, pp. 50-54.
 
   
 
=== Video and DVD releases ===
 
=== Video and DVD releases ===
Line 252: Line 253:
 
* As part of the [[TNG Season 5 DVD]] collection
 
* As part of the [[TNG Season 5 DVD]] collection
 
* In feature-length form, as part of the ''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation - The Complete TV Movies]]'' collection
 
* In feature-length form, as part of the ''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation - The Complete TV Movies]]'' collection
  +
  +
=== Production history ===
  +
* Revised final draft script: {{d|30|August|1991}} {{Star Trek Minutiae|resources/scripts/207}}
  +
* Principal photography: {{d|9|September|1991}} &ndash; [[18 September]] 1991
  +
* Additional second unit shots filmed: {{d|29|October|1991}}
  +
* Premiere airdate: {{d|11|November|1991}}
 
* First UK airdate: {{d|8|February|1995}}
   
 
== Links and references ==
 
== Links and references ==
 
=== Starring ===
 
=== Starring ===
* [[Patrick Stewart]] as [[Captain|Capt.]] [[Jean-Luc Picard]]
+
* [[Patrick Stewart]] as {{dis|Captain|rank|Capt.}} [[Jean-Luc Picard]]
 
* [[Jonathan Frakes]] as [[Commander|Cmdr.]] [[William T. Riker|William Riker]]
 
* [[Jonathan Frakes]] as [[Commander|Cmdr.]] [[William T. Riker|William Riker]]
   
Line 272: Line 280:
 
* [[Malachi Throne]] as [[Pardek]]
 
* [[Malachi Throne]] as [[Pardek]]
 
* [[Norman Large]] as [[Neral]]
 
* [[Norman Large]] as [[Neral]]
* [[Daniel Roebuck]] as [[Jaron]]
+
* [[Daniel Roebuck]] as [[Romulan 24th civilian 018|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[William Bastiani]] as [[Omag]]
 
* [[William Bastiani]] as [[Omag]]
 
* [[Susan Fallender]] as [[Romulan 24th civilian 001|Romulan woman]]
 
* [[Susan Fallender]] as [[Romulan 24th civilian 001|Romulan woman]]
Line 297: Line 305:
 
* [[Judi M. Durand]] as [[Amarie]] (voice)
 
* [[Judi M. Durand]] as [[Amarie]] (voice)
 
* [[Carmen Emeterio]] as [[Romulan 24th civilian 006|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Carmen Emeterio]] as [[Romulan 24th civilian 006|Romulan civilian]]
* [[Susan Fallender]] as [[Romulan 24th civilian 001|Romulan civilian]]
+
* [[Aruni Devi Hansen]] as [[Qualor II bar patron 001|humanoid bar patron]]
* [[Aruni Devi Hansen]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Qualor II bar patron|humanoid bar patron]]
 
 
* [[Linda Harcharic]] as [[Romulan 24th civilian 005|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Linda Harcharic]] as [[Romulan 24th civilian 005|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Christie Haydon]] as [[Romulan 24th civilian 003|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Christie Haydon]] as [[Romulan 24th civilian 003|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Jacobson]] as [[Romulan 24th civilians 000|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Jacobson]] as [[Romulan 24th civilians 000|Romulan civilian]]
* [[Leonard Jones]] as [[Unnamed Zakdorn#Waiter|Zakdorn waiter]]
+
* [[Leonard Jones]] as [[Zakdorn waiter 001|Zakdorn waiter]]
 
* [[Arvo Katajisto]] as [[Romulan 24th guard 003|Romulan guard]]
 
* [[Arvo Katajisto]] as [[Romulan 24th guard 003|Romulan guard]]
 
* [[Mark Lentry]] as
 
* [[Mark Lentry]] as
** as [[Romulan 24th civilian 007|Romulan civilian]]
+
** [[Romulan 24th civilian 007|Romulan civilian]]
 
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) sciences division personnel#Candlelight lieutenant|Science division lieutenant]]
 
** [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) sciences division personnel#Candlelight lieutenant|Science division lieutenant]]
* [[Heather Long]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Yellow Dabo girl's race|Omag's woman]]
+
* [[Heather Long]] as [[Qualor II Omag's woman 001|Omag's woman]]
 
* [[Manno]] as [[Romulan 24th civilians 000|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Manno]] as [[Romulan 24th civilians 000|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Marco]] as [[Romulan 24th civilians 000|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Marco]] as [[Romulan 24th civilians 000|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Justin McCarty]] as [[Romulan 24th civilians 000|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Justin McCarty]] as [[Romulan 24th civilians 000|Romulan civilian]]
 
* {{dis|Miller|actor}} as [[Romulan 24th civilians 000|Romulan civilian]]
 
* {{dis|Miller|actor}} as [[Romulan 24th civilians 000|Romulan civilian]]
* [[Michael Moorehead]] as [[K'Vada's Bird-of-Prey personnel#Bridge officer|Klingon officer]]
+
* [[Michael Moorehead]] as [[Klingon 24th K'Vada's officer 001|Klingon officer]]
* [[Shauna O'Brien]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Omag's Woman and Dabo girl species|Omag's woman]]
+
* [[Shauna O'Brien]] as [[Qualor II Omag's woman 002|Omag's woman]]
* [[Bill E. Rogers]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Security officer|operations division officer]]
+
* [[Bill E. Rogers]] as [[USS Enterprise-D security guard 022|operations division officer]]
* [[April Rossi (actress)|April Rossi]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Space hooker|space hooker]]
+
* [[April Rossi]] as a [[Ktarian hooker 001|Ktarian hooker]] (as "Space Hooker")
* [[Howard Sands]] as [[Unnamed Humans (24th century)#Qualor II bar patron|Human bar patron]]
+
* [[Howard Sands]] as [[Human 24th Qualor II patron 001|Human bar patron]]
 
* [[Michael Scranton]] as [[Romulan 24th guard 002|Romulan guard]]
 
* [[Michael Scranton]] as [[Romulan 24th guard 002|Romulan guard]]
 
* [[Diane Todd]] as [[Romulan 24th civilian 004|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Diane Todd]] as [[Romulan 24th civilian 004|Romulan civilian]]
* [[Guy Vardaman]] as [[K'Vada's Bird-of-Prey personnel#Helmsman|Klingon helmsman]]
+
* [[Guy Vardaman]] as [[Klingon 24th K'Vada's helmsman 001|Klingon helmsman]]
 
* [[Wayland]] as [[Romulan 24th civilians 000|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Wayland]] as [[Romulan 24th civilians 000|Romulan civilian]]
 
* [[Unknown performers]] as
 
* [[Unknown performers]] as
 
** [[Romulan 24th secretary 001|Neral's secretary]] (voice)
 
** [[Romulan 24th secretary 001|Neral's secretary]] (voice)
** [[Romulan 24th civilian 008|Romulan civilians 8]], [[Romulan 24th civilian 009|9]], [[Romulan 24th civilian 010|10]], [[Romulan 24th civilian 011|11]], [[Romulan 24th civilian 012|12]] & [[Romulan 24th civilian 013|13]] <!--([[Romulan 24th civilians 000]] is used as a placeholder for any unspecified actor-to-unknown-character linked above, when found replace with the correct link used here.)-->
+
** [[Romulan 24th civilian 008|Romulan civilians 8]], [[Romulan 24th civilian 009|9]], [[Romulan 24th civilian 010|10]], [[Romulan 24th civilian 011|11]], [[Romulan 24th civilian 012|12]], and [[Romulan 24th civilian 013|13]] <!--([[Romulan 24th civilians 000]] is used as a placeholder for any unspecified actor-to-unknown-character linked above, when found replace with the correct link used here.)-->
   
 
=== Stand-ins and photo doubles ===
 
=== Stand-ins and photo doubles ===
 
* [[David Keith Anderson]] &ndash; [[stand-in]] for [[LeVar Burton]]
 
* [[David Keith Anderson]] &ndash; [[stand-in]] for [[LeVar Burton]]
 
* {{dis|Eddie|stand-in}} &ndash; stand-in for [[Stephen Root]] and [[William Bastiani]]
 
* {{dis|Eddie|stand-in}} &ndash; stand-in for [[Stephen Root]] and [[William Bastiani]]
 
* [[Melba Gonzalez]] &ndash; stand-in for [[Marina Sirtis]]
 
* {{dis|Henry|stand-in}} &ndash; stand-in for [[Malachi Throne]]
 
* {{dis|Henry|stand-in}} &ndash; stand-in for [[Malachi Throne]]
 
* [[Tim McCormack]] &ndash; stand-in for [[Brent Spiner]], [[Norman Large]], and [[Vidal Peterson]]
 
* [[Tim McCormack]] &ndash; stand-in for [[Brent Spiner]], [[Norman Large]], and [[Vidal Peterson]]
* [[Melba]] &ndash; stand-in for [[Marina Sirtis]]
 
 
* [[Lorine Mendell]] &ndash; stand-in for [[Gates McFadden]], [[Harriet Leider]], and [[Denise Crosby]]
 
* [[Lorine Mendell]] &ndash; stand-in for [[Gates McFadden]], [[Harriet Leider]], and [[Denise Crosby]]
 
* {{dis|Patrick|stand-in}} &ndash; stand-in for [[Leonard Nimoy]]
 
* {{dis|Patrick|stand-in}} &ndash; stand-in for [[Leonard Nimoy]]
Line 342: Line 349:
   
 
===References===
 
===References===
  +
[[20th century]]; "[[Idiom|a little]]"; "[[Idiom|a lot]]"; [[ability]]; [[acceptance]]; [[accusation]]; [[adjournment]]; ''[[Aktuh and Maylota]]''; [[alliance]]; [[Amarie's ex-husband 001|Amarie's ex-husband]]; [[ambassador]]; "[[Idiom|an ulterior motive]]"; [[Andorian blues]]; [[answer]]; {{class|Apollo}} ([[Apollo envoy 001|Vulcan starships]]); [[argument]]; [[arms trader]]; [[arrival]]; [[arrogance]]; "[[Idiom|as you wish]]"; [[attitude]]; [[Bardakian pronghorn moose]]; [[Barolian freighter]]; [[Barolian trade route]]; [[Bendii Syndrome]]; [[Beta Quadrant]]; [[Blues]]; [[border]]; [[building]]; [[business partner]]; "[[Idiom|by all means]]"; [[bypass]]; [[cafe]]; [[carrier wave]]; [[cave]]; [[century]]; [[children]]; [[choice]]; [[cipher key]]; [[code prefix]]; [[coin]]; [[colleague]]; [[colony]]; "[[Idiom|come in]]"; [[common man]]; [[computer]]; [[conquest]]; [[cooperation]]; [[coordinates]]; [[course]]; [[conversation]]; [[cowboy diplomacy]]; {{class|D'deridex}} ([[D'deridex warbird 007|Romulan warbird]]); [[databank]]; [[day]]; [[decade]]; [[defector]]; [[destination]]; [[dinner]]; [[diplomacy]]; [[disappearance]]; [[disruptor array]]; [[distrust]]; [[dream]]; [[Dulisian IV]]; [[Earth]]; [[east]]; [[emotion]]; [[emotional disarray]]; [[emotional impediment]]; [[enemy]]; [[enemy of the state]]; [[enmity]]; {{USSr|Enterprise|NCC-1701}}; {{USSr|Enterprise|NCC-1701-A|-A}}; [[entry code]]; [[entry sequence]]; [[environmental support system]]; [[envoy]]; [[evacuation]]; [[event]]; [[evidence]]; [[evolution]]; "[[Idiom|excuse me]]"; [[experience]]; [[expression]]; [[explanation]]; [[face]]; [[failure]]; [[father]]; [[Federation]]; [[Federation space]]; [[feeling]]; [[Ferengi]]; [[file]]; [[fingerprint]]; [[flower]]; "[[Idiom|fool's errand]]; [[friend]]; [[Galorndon Core]]; [[generation]]; "[[Idiom|go ahead]]"; "[[Idiom|good for you]]"; [[guard]]; [[habit]]; [[hair]]; [[hand]]; [[heart]]; "[[Idiom|hello]]"; {{dis|hierarchy|politics}}; [[history]]; [[hologram]]; [[holographic program]]; [[honor]]; [[hostility]]; [[hour]]; [[Human]] ([[Humanity]]); [[husband]]; "[[Idiom|I don't care]]"; "[[Idiom|in addition]]"; "[[Idiom|in any event]]"; "[[Idiom|in effect]]"; "[[Idiom|in good company]]"; "[[Idiom|in spite of]]"; '[[Idiom|in the meantime]]"; "[[Idiom|in your name]]"; "[[Idiom|in your own way]]"; [[information]]; [[intellect]]; [[intercept course]]; [[invasion force]]; [[investigation]]; [[job]]; {{dis|judgment|concept}}; {{revname|James T.|Kirk}}; [[jar]]; [[K'Vada's Bird-of-Prey]]; [[Klingon]]s; [[Klingon Civil War]]; [[Klingon opera]]; [[Ktarian]]; [[leader]]; [[leadership]]; [[logic]]; [[love]]; [[meeting]]; "[[Melor Famagal]]"; [[metaphor]]; [[mission]]; [[mission of peace]] ([[peace mission]]); [[money]]; "[[Idiom|move over]]"; [[movement]]; [[napkin]]; [[neck]]; "[[Idiom|not at all]]"; [[noise]]; [[number]]; [[number one]]; [[nurse maid]]; "[[Idiom|of course]]"; "[[Idiom|off with you]]"; "[[Idiom|on board]]"; "[[Idiom|on my way]]"; "[[Idiom|on the contrary]]"; [[opportunity]]; [[pacifist]]; "[[Idiom|pardon me]]"; [[peace]]; [[peace initiative]]; [[peace talks]]; [[phaser]]; [[piano]]; [[piggyback]]; [[place]]; [[plan]]; [[political landscape]]; [[politics]]; [[populated area]]; [[prejudice]]; [[pride]]; [[priority 1 distress call]]; [[prisoner]]; [[problem]]; [[progressive encryption lock]]; [[province]]; [[quality]]; [[Qualor II]]; [[quest]]; [[question]]; [[rank]]; [[red alert]]; [[reform]]; [[regret]]; [[representative]]; [[respect]]; [[reunification]]; [[right of passage]]; [[risk]]; [[role]]; [[role model]]; [[Romulan]]; [[Romulan Central Information Net]]; [[Romulan disruptor]]; [[Romulan Guard]]; [[Tal Shiar|Romulan intelligence]]; [[Romulan language]]; [[Romulan Neutral Zone]]; [[Romulan Senate]]; [[Romulan Star Empire]]; [[Romulan underground movement]]; [[Romulus]]; [[room]]; [[Rutian archaeological vessel]]; [[Sector 213]]; [[security scanner]]; [[sequence]]; [[sensor display]]; [[session]]; [[skill]]; [[sleeve]]; [[smuggler]]; [[song]]; "[[Idiom|sooner or later]]"; "[[Idiom|sort of]]"; [[specification]]; [[public speaking|speech]]; [[Holographic duplicate#Spock|Spock]] (hologram); [[Spock One]]; [[Starfleet]]; [[state dinner]]; [[statement]]; [[story]]; [[subspace channel]]; [[subspace frequency]]; [[subspace grid]]; [[subspace log]]; [[subspace signal]]; [[subspace transmission]]; [[subspace transmitter]]; [[suck salt]]; [[suggestion]]; [[superior]]; [[surface]]; [[symptom]]; ''{{dis|T'Pau|starship}}''; "[[Idiom|take a seat]]"; "[[Idiom|thank you]]"; [[theft]]; {{dis|theme|music}}; [[thousand]]; [[title]]; "[[Idiom|to be honest]]"; [[toy]]; [[trade route]]; [[traditionalist]]; [[trail]]; [[transmission array]]; [[transponder]]; [[trap]]; [[troop]]; [[Uhlan]]; [[underground]]; "[[Idiom|very well]]"; [[visit]]; [[visual range]]; [[voice]]; [[Vulcan]]s; [[Vulcan defense vessel]]; [[Vulcan language]]; [[Vulcan neck pinch]]; [[Vulcan philosophy]]; [[Vulcan salute]]; [[Vulcan separation]]; [[Vulcan (planet)]]; [[waiter]]; {{revname|Romulan|warbird}}; [[warship]]; [[way of life]]; '[[Idiom|well done]]"; [[wife]]; "[[Idiom|wild goose chase]]"; {{dis|wing|building}}; "[[Idiom|wish you well]]"; [[word]]; [[writing]]; [[year]]
''[[Aktuh and Maylota]]''; [[Andorian blues]]; {{class|Apollo}} [[Bardakian pronghorn moose]]; [[Barolian freighter]]; [[cafe]]; [[carrier wave]]; [[cowboy diplomacy]]; {{class|D'deridex}}; [[defector]]; [[disruptor array]]; [[Dulisian IV]]; [[Earth]]; [[Ferengi]]; [[Galorndon Core]]; {{revname|James T.|Kirk}}; [[Klingon]]s; [[Klingon Civil War]]; [[Klingon opera]]; "[[Melor Famagal]]"; [[number one]]; [[prejudice]]; [[priority 1 distress call]]; [[progressive encryption lock]]; [[Qualor II]]; [[red alert]]; [[Romulan]]; [[Romulan Guard]]; [[Tal Shiar|Romulan intelligence]]; [[Romulan language]]; [[Romulan Neutral Zone]]; [[Romulan Senate]]; [[Romulan Star Empire]]; [[Romulus]]; [[Rutian archaeological vessel]]; [[Sector 213]]; [[Holographic duplicate#Spock|Spock]] (hologram); [[Spock One]]; [[subspace frequency]]; [[suck salt]]; ''{{dis|T'Pau|starship}}''; [[Uhlan]]; [[unnamed Apollo class starships|unnamed ''Apollo''-class starships]]; [[Vulcan]]s; [[Vulcan nerve pinch]]; [[Vulcan (planet)]]; [[Vulcan defense vessel]]
 
   
====Unused production references====
+
==== Unused production references ====
 
[[Memphis]]
 
[[Memphis]]
   

Revision as of 01:01, 20 September 2020

Real world article
(written from a Production point of view)

On Romulus, Picard and Data meet with Spock, who claims to be trying to reunite the Romulans and Vulcans. While Spock works to achieve his goal, powers within the Romulan government seek to pervert his mission into an invasion of the Federation.

Summary

Teaser

Spock asks Captain Picard why he is on Romulus, and Picard tells him he is there to ask him the same question on behalf of Starfleet. Spock refuses to answer, telling Picard that his mission is a personal one of peace and will inform Starfleet when it is neccessary. Picard reminds Spock that he is in a position to heavily compromise Federation security; Spock asks Picard to leave and Picard refuses, saying that despite all that he has achieved on behalf of the Federation, Spock's sort of "cowboy diplomacy" is not easily tolerated.

"If you wish to undertake a mission with obvious repercussions for the Federation, then you should discuss it with the Federation. I'm here as their representative."

Picard also has the unhappy task of informing Spock that his father is dead. Taking a moment to take in the news, Spock then asks Picard to walk with him.

Spock reveals that he is aware of the mind meld that Picard and his father shared to allow Sarek to complete his final mission at Legara IV. Picard tells Spock it was an honor, and Spock agrees that Sarek was a great representative for the Vulcan people and for the Federation. Picard then tells Spock of Sarek's pride in him, but Spock brushes this off as part of the emotional onslaught Sarek suffered due to his illness but Picard disputes this… those feelings came from the heart. Spock is uncomfortable with this, and starts to tell Picard why he is on Romulus: some time earlier he became aware of an underground movement learning Vulcan philosophy that have been declared enemies of the Romulan government. However some members are sympathetic to the cause like Senator Pardek, who was the one who asked Spock to come and take the first step towards the reunification of Vulcan and Romulus. Picard is very surprised: it has been centuries since the Romulan society split from the Vulcan people and have developed several fundamental differences and Spock admits that reunification may be unlikely. However, if it succeeds, the benefits brought would be immense. The 'first step' that Pardek spoke of concerns a young and idealistic proconsul in the Romulan Senate who is promising reform: they may be able to convert him to their movement. When Picard asks Spock why he hasn't mentioned this either to the Federation or to the Vulcans, Spock says that it was a personal decision based on what happened with his small role in the early overtures to peace with the Klingons.

"It was I who committed Captain Kirk to that peace mission, and I who had to bear the responsibility for the consequences to him and to his crew."

Spock states that he is unwilling to risk anyone's life but his own in this venture and once again asks Picard to leave. Picard states that he almost suspects Spock's judgment is being influenced by his emotions. Spock states that Picard speaks almost as Sarek would if he were there. Picard replies that he speaks only as a Starfleet officer and cannot ignore the risks to Spock. Spock then remarks that Picard is, in his own way, as stubborn as another captain of the USS Enterprise that he once knew.

Picard takes that as a compliment, remarking that he is in good company.

Act One

Data, having returned to the cloaked Klingon Bird-of-Prey in orbit of Romulus, obtains the assistance of Captain K'Vada to access the Romulan Central Information Net, and to send a transmission to the Enterprise, piggybacking it on Romulan transmissions. In exchange, he promises to give the Klingons access to any Romulan information he uncovers.

Back on Romulus, a Romulan civilian comes to Picard and Spock's table bearing a flower – a signal that Pardek will shortly arrive. Picard and Spock discuss the underground movement, with Spock noting that it has members in four provinces and is a serious concern to the Romulan leadership, while Picard expresses skepticism regarding its chances of success, which Spock urges him to reconsider. A Romulan boy, D'Tan, arrives with an antique Vulcan book telling the history of the separation. Pardek arrives, rebukes the boy gently for bringing the book into the open, and they leave. Pardek tells Picard and Spock that Spock's presence has greatly inspired the movement, and informs them that the proconsul will meet with Spock.

Act Two

"First officer's log, stardate 45245.8. The Enterprise remains at Qualor II while we continue to investigate the theft of a surplus Vulcan ship. The trail has led us to the former wife of a deceased smuggler."

Riker enters a bar near the Qualor II surplus depot and encounters Amarie, a four-armed pianist and the former wife of the smuggler who died when he and the Enterprise traded phaser fire over the stolen deuterium tanks from the depot. While killing her ex was a good start for bargaining, she agrees to provide the commander information on his business partners, in exchange for jazz lessons. In between notes, she informs him that Omag, "a fat Ferengi", will be in the bar at some point and will have the information Riker seeks.

On Romulus, Pardek and Spock meet with Proconsul Neral. He expresses enthusiasm for their movement, even greeting Spock with "Live long and prosper", and saying he may be able to obtain the support of the Romulan Senate and is prepared to publicly endorse reunification. When Spock expresses surprise at Neral's views on unification, Neral replies that the "old guard" and "old school" leaders have lost the respect of the people. The average Romulan is tired of the wars with the Klingon Empire and the border incidents with the United Federation of Planets. But after Spock leaves, Sela enters the room – she has heard the whole conversation, and Neral has tricked the underground.

In the caves, Spock shares the good news, despite Picard's skepticism. In private, Spock and Picard argue, with Picard accusing Spock of being swayed by Romulan emotions, and Spock insinuating that Picard is over-influenced by Sarek, possibly even by the results of his mind meld with the ambassador. Picard remarks that this is the second such accusation, and then states that, while the mind meld was a profound experience and that Sarek's essence will always be a part of him, his judgment was still his own. In the end, Spock agrees that there is, most likely, a larger plan being played out by the Romulans and that, in order to find out what is going on, Spock will play along.

Act Three

Omag and his women

Omag enters

Back aboard K'Vada's ship, Data is attempting to access the information net; Spock provides the last necessary cipher in order to access it. Picard leaves to remove his Romulan ears and Spock notes that the captain has an almost Vulcan-like quality, which Data is surprised by given that Picard has been his role model in his quest to become more Human. Spock is fascinated by this telling Data that his "efficient intellect, superior physical skills and no emotional impediments" gives him what many Vulcans strive for their entire lives… and yet he wishes to be Human. Data then notes that Spock is half-Human, yet chose to live a Vulcan way of life thereby abandoning what the android has always aimed for. Data then asks Spock if, as he looks back on his life, he ever misses his Humanity. Spock replies that he has no regrets. Data points out that 'no regrets' is a Human expression. Spock considers this, then simply responds with "fascinating."

In the bar on Qualor II, Worf requests a theme from Aktuh and Maylota, in which Amarie joins with gusto. Soon, Omag enters the bar loudly complaining about the Klingon opera and Worf informs Riker on the Enterprise of his arrival. Riker arrives shortly much to the chagrin of Omag, and mocks the commander's request for information on the Vulcan ship much to the laughter of his two female partners. Riker turns to Worf and then throws the tray of food all over Omag and his partners and lifts up and intimidates the arrogant Ferengi into revealing that he delivered the Vulcan ship to a Barolian freighter near Galorndon Core under threat of losing his right of passage in the sector, and making Riker very unhappy. Satisfied with his information, he throws Omag back on his chair and wipes his mouth with a napkin and tucks it into Omag's shirt, and politely tells him to enjoy his dinner.

Act Four

Riker is communicating with Picard over the piggybacked subspace signal, who brings him up to date about the negotiations with Proconsul Neral. The use of a stolen Vulcan ship by the Romulans makes no sense to the goal of unification but Picard believes it's worth looking into. The Enterprise then proceeds to Galorndon Core at warp eight.

On K'Vada's ship, Data has accessed Romulan communications logs and finds a transmission to a Barolian ship near Galorndon Core. K'Vada points out that the Barolians often run that trade route and the transmission was probably routine, but Data counters that the signal includes the code prefix of Romulan Intelligence. The signal is a mere four digits: 1 4 0 0.

On Romulus, D'Tan catches up with Spock and shows him small carved stones, which Spock describes as the syllabic nucleus of the Vulcan language. D'Tan reveals that his parents taught him Vulcan when he was small, to prepare for the Romulans' inevitable reunification with their Vulcan cousins. Summoned by Picard and Data, Spock returns to the cave. They share the message with him, and Spock immediately realizes that the proconsul has deceived him and that the Vulcan ships are involved, as the time set for Spock's announcement regarding reunification was 1400 hours the following day. Suddenly, Romulan troops led by Commander Sela burst in and capture Spock, Picard, and Data; Spock realizes that Pardek has betrayed him. Sela tells Spock that his dream of reunification will still happen, but simply taking a different form… the Romulan conquest of Vulcan. She and her Romulan troops take Spock, Picard and Data out of the caves by disruptor.

Act Five

"First officer's log, supplemental. The Enterprise has reached Galorndon Core near the border of the Neutral Zone."

In orbit of Galorndon Core, the Enterprise receives a message, ostensibly from Picard, advising them that the initiative is successful and ordering to hold their position. Although the proper coded sequence was used, Riker seems to have reservations.

Spock, 2368

Spock in Sela's office on Romulus

On Romulus, Spock, Data, and Picard are brought into Sela's office. She informs them that Spock will read a speech encouraging the Vulcans to welcome the "peace envoy". Picard realizes the Romulans will be using the stolen Vulcan ship, and Sela reveals there's actually three stolen ships full of troops and she has sent fake orders to the Enterprise in Picard's name ordering them to remain in their present position and when the Vulcan ships cross the Neutral Zone the ship will be too busy to stop them. Picard points out that Starfleet will not just sit idly by while the Romulans attempt to conquer one of the Federation's founding members, but Sela states that by the time Starfleet get to Vulcan, the Romulans will be so firmly entrenched on the planet there'll be no getting rid of them and thus reunification will be a fact of life. When Spock refuses to read Sela's statement or any other, she threatens him with death, but he logically deduces that she would execute him and his companions in any event. Sela then reveals a programmable holographic version of him that will read the speech. She then leaves to order the ships on their way, locking the three in her office. Data and Spock immediately set about to access the Romulan computer system.

Back in orbit of Galorndon Core, the Enterprise detects the oncoming Vulcan ships and moves to intercept.

Picard, Spock, and Data in Sela's office

"Not bad."

Sela returns to her office to find her three prisoners gone, and is immediately confronted by Riker and two security officers. She shoots at them, but the beam passes through them – holograms. While they are distracted, Spock and Picard emerge from the wall – also a hologram – and incapacitate Sela's guards (Spock with a Vulcan neck pinch, Picard with a right hook to the jaw), and get the drop on her. But she blusters that her forces will be on Vulcan before they can alert anyone.

Dr. Crusher arrives on the bridge saying she's received an urgent distress signal from Dulisian IV calling for emergency evacuation. The only vessel in range is a Rutian archaeological vessel, which is ill-equipped to handle the crisis. Just before they divert to assist, they receive a message from Romulan space: at first it appears to be Sela's holographic simulacrum of Spock, but midway through the script changes and Spock – the real Spock – warns them the ships are carrying a Romulan invasion force, and must be stopped at all costs. The Romulans hastily cut off the transmission, but Riker has heard enough, and tells Dr. Crusher to verify the signal from Dulisian IV, as it is probably fake.

Data confirms that the message was sent before the Romulans were able to cut it off. Sela, now truly stymied, blusters that they will never leave the Senate building. Data rejoins that he has already prepared their escape route, and neck pinches Sela, and the three make good their escape from the senate building.

The Vulcan ships begin to retreat to the Neutral Zone, with the Enterprise in pursuit. Suddenly, a D'deridex-class warbird uncloaks and readies its disruptors; Riker calls red alert and prepares for a fight, but the warbird opens fire, destroying the three Vulcan ships, then re-cloaks as quickly as it appeared. La Forge and Troi note with shock that there were over 2,000 Romulan troops aboard the Vulcan ships, but the Romulans destroyed their own invasion force rather than let them be captured.

In caves that Pardek never knew about, the remaining underground movement resolves to continue working for change in Romulan society. Picard promises that the Federation will welcome the day when they don't have to be enemies with the Romulans. Picard and Data prepare to beam up to K'Vada's ship, but Spock chooses to remain behind, saying his work has never been more important. He now understands that true reunification will not happen through diplomacy or politics, but through changing society from within, even if it takes years or centuries. As Picard and Spock discuss their gently adversarial relationship, Spock comments that Picard may know Sarek "better than his own son did. My father and I never chose to meld." On hearing this, Picard says, "I offer you the chance to touch what he [Sarek] shared with me." As Data watches, Spock places his hand on Picard's face and makes contact with the essence of Sarek that remains in Picard's mind, and Picard thus fulfills the request that Sarek made: Spock's face is suffused with emotion as he realizes the depth of his father's love for him.

Log entries

Memorable quotes

"I have to ask you about your husband."
"Well, it was nice while it lasted… which husband?"
"The dead one, I'm afraid."

- Riker and Amarie


"Well, you did kill my ex-husband, and that's not a bad start."

- Amarie


"Move over."
"Oh, just what I needed: another pair of hands."

- Riker and Amarie


"What is that dreadful noise?! It sounds like a Bardakian pronghorn moose!"

- Omag, in response to Worf's and Amarie's singing in Klingon


"Where's the waiter?! Is there no waiter in this sorry place?!"
"Is there a problem?"
"Yes, I need more napkins."
"Use your sleeve."
"What did you say?"
"Use one of their sleeves, I don't care."

- Omag, with female companions, mistakes Riker for a waiter


"Let me explain what will happen to you if you don't tell me about the Vulcan ship. Your right of passage through this sector will be revoked, and more than that, I will be very unhappy."

- Riker, threatening Omag


"I think I'll take this opportunity to remove my ears."

- Picard


"Do not be distressed. Your dream of reunification is not dead. It will simply take on a different form: the Romulan conquest of Vulcan."

- Sela, to Ambassador Spock


"Excuse me, I'm just finishing up a speech–for you, Mr. Spock. I rather enjoy writing. I don't get to do it very often in this job."
"Perhaps you would be happier in another job."

- Sela and Data


"I've tried to make it sound Vulcan. A lot of unnecessarily long words."

- Sela, regarding the speech she wrote for Spock to read


"I hate Vulcans. I hate the logic, I hate the arrogance. Very well."

- Sela, in response to Spock's uncooperativeness.


"I'm afraid I don't know too much about Romulan disruptor settings."

- Spock, holding Sela at gunpoint


""Cowboy diplomacy?""

- Spock


"As you examine your life, do you find you have missed your Humanity?"
"I have no regrets."
"'No regrets.' That is a Human expression."
"Yes. Fascinating."

- Data and Spock


"In your own way, you are as stubborn as another captain of the Enterprise I once knew."
"Then I am in good company, sir."

- Spock and Picard


"This is Ambassador Spock of Vulcan. By now, Federation sensors are tracking three Vulcan ships crossing the Neutral Zone. These ships carry a Romulan invasion force and must be stopped. I repeat, these ships carry a Romula—"

- Spock


"Not bad."

- Spock, noting Data's mastery of the Vulcan neck pinch


"I was with him before coming here. He expressed his pride in you… His love."

- Picard, to Spock


"Curious, that I should hear him so clearly now that he is dead."

- Spock, about Sarek


"An inexorable evolution toward a Vulcan philosophy has already begun. Like the first Vulcans, these people are struggling to a new enlightenment and it may take decades or even centuries for them to reach it but they will reach it… and I must help."

- Spock explaining to Picard his reasons for remaining on Romulus


"Is it so important that you win one last argument with him?"
"No, it is not, but it is true that I will miss the arguments; they were, finally, all that we had."

- Picard and Spock, about Sarek


"Ironically, you may know Sarek better than his own son does. My father and I never chose to meld."
"I offer you the chance to touch what he shared with me."

- Spock mind melds with Picard and discovers how deeply Sarek cared for him (last lines)

Background information

Story and script

Nimoy and Crosby

Leonard Nimoy and Denise Crosby on the set

  • "Unification" was created as a tie-in with Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country. The two episodes were produced after principal photography finished on Star Trek VI, but released a month before the film. Spock's dialogue with Picard in the teaser – referencing the peace talks with the Klingons and the consequences to Kirk and his crew – therefore served as a teaser for the movie. (Star Trek: The Next Generation 365, p. 230)
  • Michael Piller remembered, "I wanted to tell a story about the maturity of one of drama's great characters. What happens to a Spock in the 85 years between then and now? How has logic and emotion played a part in his life? What is the growth of the man beyond logic? What was the conflict between he and his father and the death and passing of generations? I thought they were meaningful pieces of business to explore the man. […] I felt that the show would be carried by the conflict between Spock and Picard, with Picard ironically representing the father through the mind meld. In fact, it was Picard who represented the original philosophy of Star Trek and Spock who was moving onto the future, so when the two came together it was sort of a reversal." (Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages, p. 234)
  • Ronald D. Moore, a fan of Star Trek: The Original Series, provided Piller with various insights about Spock and Vulcans during the break session for this episode. (Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages, p. 233)
  • This episode and its predecessor share the same titular fashion with "Redemption" and "Redemption II" in that they do not contain the word "Part" in the name of the episode.

Production

Gene Roddenberry title card Unification part 1

The title card

Bill Gocke

Boom operator Bill Gocke appears in the original "Unification II" (left), but is digitally erased in the Blu-ray release (right)

  • As with the previous episode, a title card ran before the teaser in tribute to Gene Roddenberry, accompanied by the opening notes to the theme of Star Trek.
  • According to Cliff Bole, Leonard Nimoy originally wanted his son, Adam, to direct "Unification", but this fell through, so Bole was called in as director, despite it not fitting into his usual four-episode rotation. Unification II (episode) Later, Adam Nimoy indeed directed two episodes of TNG: "Rascals" and "Timescape".
  • Due to Nimoy's schedule, the principal photography for "Unification II" took place before the filming of the first part, although several scenes of the first part were filmed during the production of the second part. (Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion, 2nd ed., p. 185) Bole remarked, "If this is an education for the people who watch television, sometimes you have to do crazy things." (Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages, p. 233)
  • The episode was filmed between Monday 9 September 1991 and Wednesday 18 September 1991 on Paramount Stage 5, 8, 9, and 16. Additional second unit shots were filmed on Thursday 29 October 1991 on Paramount Stage 9.
  • On Friday 13 September 1991, the sets were visited by alumni of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, who received a tour on Paramount Stage 8 and 9.
  • For a brief moment, a reflection of boom operator Bill Gocke was inadvertently caught on camera, appearing in a reflection in the glass pyramid on Neral's desk at the end of the episode. Gocke's image was digitally erased for the Blu-ray release.
  • The piece played by Riker in the bar is the beginning of "Freddie Freeloader" by Miles Davis, first released on Davis' album "Kind of Blue" in 1959.

Cast and characters

Continuity

Sets and props

Reception

Awards

  • This episode was nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Individual Achievement in Art Direction for a Series.

Video and DVD releases

Production history

Links and references

Starring

Also starring

Special guest star

Guest stars

And

Co-stars

Uncredited co-stars

Stand-ins and photo doubles

References

20th century; "a little"; "a lot"; ability; acceptance; accusation; adjournment; Aktuh and Maylota; alliance; Amarie's ex-husband; ambassador; "an ulterior motive"; Andorian blues; answer; Apollo-class (Vulcan starships); argument; arms trader; arrival; arrogance; "as you wish"; attitude; Bardakian pronghorn moose; Barolian freighter; Barolian trade route; Bendii Syndrome; Beta Quadrant; Blues; border; building; business partner; "by all means"; bypass; cafe; carrier wave; cave; century; children; choice; cipher key; code prefix; coin; colleague; colony; "come in"; common man; computer; conquest; cooperation; coordinates; course; conversation; cowboy diplomacy; D'deridex-class (Romulan warbird); databank; day; decade; defector; destination; dinner; diplomacy; disappearance; disruptor array; distrust; dream; Dulisian IV; Earth; east; emotion; emotional disarray; emotional impediment; enemy; enemy of the state; enmity; Enterprise, USS; Enterprise-A, USS; entry code; entry sequence; environmental support system; envoy; evacuation; event; evidence; evolution; "excuse me"; experience; expression; explanation; face; failure; father; Federation; Federation space; feeling; Ferengi; file; fingerprint; flower; "fool's errand; friend; Galorndon Core; generation; "go ahead"; "good for you"; guard; habit; hair; hand; heart; "hello"; hierarchy; history; hologram; holographic program; honor; hostility; hour; Human (Humanity); husband; "I don't care"; "in addition"; "in any event"; "in effect"; "in good company"; "in spite of"; 'in the meantime"; "in your name"; "in your own way"; information; intellect; intercept course; invasion force; investigation; job; judgment; Kirk, James T.; jar; K'Vada's Bird-of-Prey; Klingons; Klingon Civil War; Klingon opera; Ktarian; leader; leadership; logic; love; meeting; "Melor Famagal"; metaphor; mission; mission of peace (peace mission); money; "move over"; movement; napkin; neck; "not at all"; noise; number; number one; nurse maid; "of course"; "off with you"; "on board"; "on my way"; "on the contrary"; opportunity; pacifist; "pardon me"; peace; peace initiative; peace talks; phaser; piano; piggyback; place; plan; political landscape; politics; populated area; prejudice; pride; priority 1 distress call; prisoner; problem; progressive encryption lock; province; quality; Qualor II; quest; question; rank; red alert; reform; regret; representative; respect; reunification; right of passage; risk; role; role model; Romulan; Romulan Central Information Net; Romulan disruptor; Romulan Guard; Romulan intelligence; Romulan language; Romulan Neutral Zone; Romulan Senate; Romulan Star Empire; Romulan underground movement; Romulus; room; Rutian archaeological vessel; Sector 213; security scanner; sequence; sensor display; session; skill; sleeve; smuggler; song; "sooner or later"; "sort of"; specification; speech; Spock (hologram); Spock One; Starfleet; state dinner; statement; story; subspace channel; subspace frequency; subspace grid; subspace log; subspace signal; subspace transmission; subspace transmitter; suck salt; suggestion; superior; surface; symptom; T'Pau; "take a seat"; "thank you"; theft; theme; thousand; title; "to be honest"; toy; trade route; traditionalist; trail; transmission array; transponder; trap; troop; Uhlan; underground; "very well"; visit; visual range; voice; Vulcans; Vulcan defense vessel; Vulcan language; Vulcan neck pinch; Vulcan philosophy; Vulcan salute; Vulcan separation; Vulcan (planet); waiter; warbird, Romulan; warship; way of life; 'well done"; wife; "wild goose chase"; wing; "wish you well"; word; writing; year

Unused production references

Memphis

External links

Previous episode:
"Unification I"
Star Trek: The Next Generation
Season 5
Next episode:
"A Matter of Time"