Hippocratic Oath (Episode title)

 The Actual summary of the Star trek Deep Space Nine Episode -- 

Bashir and O'Brien have concluded a bio-survey in the Gamma Quadrant. They pick up a subspace magneton pulse. While investigating, the shuttle crash lands and they are taken prisoner by a renegade group of Jem'Hadar. Its leader, Goran'Agar, got free of his addiction to ketracel white on this planet, the drug that makes them dependent on the Founders. He's brought a group of Jem'Hadar to be cured too, but the planet's 'magic' doesn't work on them. He asks Bashir to help before their supply of white runs out. While the doctor wants to help them, O'Brien is adamantly opposed. Meanwhile, back on the Deep Space Nine station, Worf spots a known criminal in Quark's bar. He thinks the Ferengi is plotting something and is getting increasingly agitated by the way Odo handles security on the station. Worf decides to take matters into his own hands.

My Summary of the episode

Among Star Trek fans this episode serves to empathize the difference between Doctor Bashir and O'Brien's approaches. Frequently the only question stemming from it is whether O'Brien was justified in doing what he did at the end.

Having learned a thing or two about TNG O'Brien since first watching the episode I know his straight-forward 'he's the enemy' perspective actually is true to the character. And personally I love every moment Julian learns another way in which the Jem'Hadar leader is different and this is something he wholeheartedly believes in and could follow. What makes everything work in the end, even after O'Brien destroys his research forcing his escape is the moment he tells Bashir why he did it. It wasn't because he wanted the Jem'Hadar to die or because he was a solider. It was because it was the only way he knew to save Julian's life. He flat out says that "Whatever else you may think of me or what I did; I hope you understand that." Which clears the air and makes forgetting this 'overstep' not only possible but the most natural thing in the world.

I was always with Bashir and O'Brien's stance always seemed unnatural to me. If his attitude here throws you for as much fo a loop, watch the season 4 TNG episode 'The Wounded'. O'Brien is a solider who has seen war and sees things with the simplicity of a solider. Adding all this together and the entire episode is superbly crafted and deeply awesome.

Notes from the internet movie database on this season 4 episode of Deep Space Nine 

And 2 notes of my own.

The writers saw the B-story of this episode as an important indication of how DS9's Worf was going to be different from TNG's Worf. As Ronald D. Moore explains, "He used to be a cop, more or less, on the USS Enterprise-D, but it's not going to be like that anymore. We wanted to keep emphasizing, 'this is not TNG. The station doesn't work like the Enterprise. Worf is going to have some troubles fitting in, but he's going to learn.'"

This episode came from two separate story pitches by two different writers. The first, from Nicholas Corea, was based around the story of a group of Jem'Hadar who were trying to free themselves from their addiction to ketracel-white, the first time the name is used. Previously, it had been described as a "missing enzyme" in "The Abandoned" and simply as a drug to which the Jem'Hadar are addicted in "The Die is Cast". The second, from Lisa Klink, was about O'Brien and Bashir taking opposing sides in a conflict on an alien world - O'Brien sided with the natives, Bashir with the non-natives. The producers liked the idea of Klink's concept, putting O'Brien and Bashir on diametrically opposed sides, but they felt that the details weren't quite right and they got Klink to re-pitch the story several times with different plot elements in place. Producers referred to her story as their The Bridge on the River Kwai episode, and they likened Bashir to Col. Nicholson, the character in that film played by Alec Guinness, who effectively helps the 'enemy'. The problem with Klink's story was that producers couldn't decide exactly what it was that Bashir was trying to do for the enemy, what was causing the conflict between himself and O'Brien - what was the 'Bridge'? Eventually, it was René Echevarria who suggested putting Klink's story together with Corea's, thus providing the Bridge - Bashir was trying to help the Jem'Hadar beat their addiction, and O'Brien was against this idea.

In an interview with the official Star Trek website in 2011, director Rene Auberjonois thought this episode was the one that stood out the most for him out of the eight he directed throughout Deep Space Nine. – constable Odo directed 'Hippocratic Oath' and 7 other episodes When Sisko explains to Worf how Deep Space Nine is different from the Enterprise, he says "Let's just say DS9 has more shades of gray." His sentence has a double meaning. He is talking about DS9 as an in-universe place (in contrast with the Enterprise), but also about the TV show itself, which famously had more moral ambiguity than Star Trek: The Next Generation (where Worf says he "always knew who were my allies and who were my enemies").

When O'Brien confirms Goran'Agar's question about being a soldier, this is in reference to O'Brien's service during the Federation-Cardassian War, and the Setlik III massacre, mentioned in "The Wounded".

...O'Brien's attitude of the Jem'Hadar being the enemy as well as seeing things with the straight forward simplicity of a solider in the first place make a lot more sense if you've seen 'The Wounded'. At this time they were not yet at war with the Dominion and it seems rather out of character for O'Brien to be seeing things in such absolutes.

The aftermath of Bashir and O'Brien's disagreement in "Hippocratic Oath" is followed up in the Prophecy and Change short story "Broken Oaths".

There's a degree of irony with the moral dilemma faced by Bashir and O'Brien - Bashir, despite being a character created for the more morally ambiguous series 'Deep Space Nine' - with many "shades of gray" as Sisko says - takes the more tolerant and forward-thinking attitude with the Jem'Hadar, whereas O'Brien, who served on the Enterprise with the famously tolerant and forward-thinking Jean-Luc Picard on 'The Next Generation', is the one that takes a more hostile and narrow-minded view to the issue. Bashir behaved far more closely to what Picard would have approved of, rather than O'Brien. The storyline of this episode has parallels to the TNG episode 'I, Borg' (1992), which had a very similar moral dilemma.

...While this may be true, I personally don't think it's very ironic which side they fall on. Dr. Bashir is trained to provide help to anyone who needs it. Whether they are 'the enemy' or not. He is led by compassion and his human heart which gets him into trouble or some kind of hot water all the damn time on the station. O'Brien is pragmatic and thinking bigger picture, and his belief that Bashir's bleeding heart might get them into serious freaking trouble is realistic for someone who works with machines and was once a solider himself. O'Brien might have served under Picard absolutely was the most compassionate and philosophical leader in all of freaking Starfleet. Bashir's attitude IS one of the moral shades of gray. His attitude is what presents the moral dilemmas with which the characters of Star Trek Deep Space Nine are so often faced.

Perfected Heavenly Journeys

Almost as soon as he'd arrived in the desert, he'd been 'greeted' by a Saracen lord and his attendant. The lord had challenged him for possession of the horse he'd rescued from his shipwreck. Initially the man had charged Balian while remaining on his horse. On foot he'd barely stood a chance. It wasn't long into the 'skirmish' Balian declared himself the Baron of Ibelin and demanded a fair fight. After the claim was translated by his attendant, the lord obliged. A fair fight was not only deserved, it was expected. Balian won the skirmish easily. The blood from the final wound had gotten all over the servant's horse. An instant later the man was flat on his back in the sand. Walking up to him, Balian noticed he had a young, handsome face, and strangely showed no sign of distress, he put his hands in front of himself, palms up.
“I understand.” Balian responded. “It's not needful, but I understand. Get up.”
The stranger did so. It was only after he found a pack of dates and seeds, shoving several handfuls into his mouth, that he spoke again. “You have taken it very well I have killed your master.” The man didn't answer verbally, only gave a perplexed look. “Why are you not upset?” Balian clarified.
“We are taught nothing happens to those who believe unless Allah has made it so. I have no reason to regret my master is now in paradise. Although I could wish he had not left so suddenly.”
“I believe I understand. We can't stay out here. Take me to Jerusalem?”
“I will bring you.” The man said, easily.
“How long though? I mean the journey, how far are we away from Jerusalem?”
“We should be there by nightfall.” Came the instant, soft reply.
The assertion was perfect. It was almost dusk when they trotted their horses close to the walls of the Holy City. Balian had kept side by side with his companion riding this far, but pulled himself just barely ahead of the stranger as they drew close. It was a gesture the man apparently understood as he slowed his steed and lowered his head slightly. A palm tree stood not far from the David Gate. It was a good place to rest. Balian drank a gulp of water and offered it to the stranger; an offer the man politely declined. Balian had remounted his horse at trotted several paces to the gate before he realized he was traveling alone.
“What is the matter?” Balian asked, looking back with a concerned expression.
“If it's all-right, I'll put a cloak around my face.” Came the cryptic reply.
“That's fine. But that's not what I mean.” Balian said shortly.
“Please, let it wait until we are safe, and a good way inside.”
“...All-right.”
The city of children and soldiers that was Jerusalem sprawled out before them. After passing some pottery stalls and more than a few fruit and herb sellers, Balian stopped in front of a water trough. The stranger dismount and patted the neck of the steed he'd been riding. After rummaging around in his sack he found a carrot stub to offer the beast.
“...Either you hide your feelings well or your people are not as passionate as we are led to believe.” Balian said suddenly. “I meant to explain my last question. I don't know much about life here but it IS strange to me...I don't even know your name?”
“I am called 'Nassir'. 'champion' or 'supporter'. What do you intend to do with me?”
“I can't ask you to follow me.” Balian replied thoughtlessly. “I go to the mound at Gethsemane. I am Godfrey's son, the baron of Ibelin, yet I'm a stranger here. I don't know what following me would mean for you. Will you be all-right on your own?”
The shock on Nassir's face was considerable. “I...yes. Your style makes sense now. Your fighting style I mean. It was unlike anything taught here. That last move in particular. I admit, I do not understand why...” His words failed him completely.
“Why I refuse to take you with me against your will as a slave, a prisoner or some such mess? In the village I'm from...I was not a slave but had no other status. I will not use a title I'm not sure I earned to make anyone feel inferior. Go. What was the name of the man I killed?”
“His name was Mummad-al-Fais.” Nassir answered easily, mounting his own horse, and smiling.
“Please believe me...I hope he is in paradise now.” Balian offered simply.
“Thank you for your kindness.” The man answered. He raised his hand, palm up, and rode away.
“Who is this man?” Saladin asked in Arabic.
“Balian of Ibelin, the son of Godfrey and his heir.” Nassir replied easily.
“He led his people today? And obviously failed.”
“He led his army, to protect those who would have been caught between our swords. He did not fail at that. I have no right to take his life. I would sooner give him mine.” Saladin looked amazed. “I once had Mummad al Fais challenge a man I saw as nothing but a shipwrecked stranger, for possession of the horse the man had with him. We often took each-other's cloaks as we had that day. It looked to Balian as if my 'lord' had challenged him and I was simply being an interpreter. When he declared who he was the fight became even, and Mummad al Fais soon lost. Thinking I was the servant of the man he'd killed in combat he could have claimed me as a prisoner or a slave. Even knowing he was Godfrey's heir, I expected nothing else from him. Yet when we came to Jerusalem he handed me the reins of the horse and told me to go my own way in peace. PLEASE, let me do so now.”
Saladin turned to Balian. “Salaam Ali-kum.” He stated gravely.
“Alai-i-kum Salaam.” Balian responded in just as calm a voice.
“There will be no battle today. I hope in our lifetime. I knew your father once. I am glad to see his valor and kindness live on. God be with you both.” He turned and rode away.
Balian turned to Nassir as Almaric walked to them. “Who is this man?” The solider asked.
“A nobler heart and a truer one than I could have imagined. Nassir started. “You are a person of nobility who is indeed a noble man. Where do you go from here?”
“If you will have me, I will go with you.” Nassir answered simply. “God has opened my eyes to one great truth. Faith when it is sincere is blest, no matter which religion it comes from. I believe God brought us together again. It is my duty to God, to my king to follow where you go. What do you say?”
“I hope you are not suggesting following behind me.” But if you would come as a friend and an equal, I can honestly say nothing would make me happier.”
“Tiberias, will you ask the king if my friend may come with me?”
“I need not.” the Marshall replied. “The king is eager to meet him.”
I walked a couple of paces behind Balian as we were led before Baldwin IV. There were few candles in the sitting room. I somewhat expected to be either announced or scowled at the instant the king saw my face. Neither happened. I simply bowed at the waist and smiled faintly.
'Salaam Ali-kum.” the king told me in a cordial tone.
“Alai-i-kum Salaam.” I answered. “I hope you will not think it empty praise or false courtesy if I say this is truly an honor and a privilege.”
“What may I call you?”
“I...I am called Nassir, majesty.” Stunned as I was, I could not say any more than that. He did know me, and remembered even now that I could not always be the same as I was.
“My friend,” The king said to Balian. “We have decided that you shall take command of the armies of Jerusalem. Guy will not be satisfied with his position in the shadow the threat you represent. He will meet what he perceives as enemies of God. Will you look after my nephew as you've watched over me?”
“I will do what I can..” Balian answered softly.
“There is more. Would you marry my sister Sybilla were she free of Guy DeLusigian?”
My friend was quiet for such a long time after that I almost feared for his health. “If she were somehow free of her marriage, I would join with her. But I will not cause her to be free of Guy of her husband so I can be with her. Unless he can be gone without being killed I must refuse.”
“You'd rather risk a war at his hands than be with a woman you love?” The Marshall curtailed.
“I would rather preserve my own soul and leave the rest of the matter to God himself, yes.” Balian answered firmly. “Believe me when I tell you, God can make a way for his will and his plan for this world, whether we who claim to shape our own lives see a path or not. I will not presume to make God's will happen, even if I could claim to know what it was. 'A king may move a man, but the soul belongs to the man'...You told me once. You have my love, but I cannot...'gain the whole world and forfeit my own soul'.”
“I believe I understand.” Was Baldwin's only verbal response. He seemed resigned to what he saw as the only alternative: a war with my people.
“Forgive me,” I whispered. “but I believe I know another way.”
“You have our undivided attention.” Tiberias told be plainly.
“Guy is as war hungry and power-mad as the lord at Kerak. If he declared to meet my people in battle, he would lead the fight himself, whether his actions are sanctioned or not?”
“Undoubtedly. But how does going to war help? That's what we are trying to avoid.”
“A battle will eventually break out anyway, no matter what any of us do.” I answered as simply as I could. “The fear of war will not keep a fragile peace in place for long. Not when so many of us, on both sides, yearn for the victor of winning a war over the other side. Except victory is assured for only one side when the fighting does start. Without stratagem or divine intervention, Guy would never win a battle against my lord Saladin. I believe Balian and I were brought together for some great good, beyond changing each-other's minds. Until now, I could not see for myself what else might change for the better.”
“I hope you're not suggesting we ensure Guy's death in battle. That would be much the same.”
“You wanted a way for him to be...not a threat but not murdered. And I am not saying we should do anything to ensure his defeat. Only that you not actively work against his plans. The mullah is always saying that God alone determines the results of battles. It seems Guy and his men also believe this. I am saying let him start a battle with my people...And it will be that much easier to avoid a war breaking out between our peoples. Unless it's by his own hand, Guy would almost certainly not be killed in the battle. War has seemed like a dream of glory or a nightmare one cannot escape for so long now. I know it sounds horrible but nothing is helped by a lack of conflict based solely on the dread of it. Each of us need to see this thing clearly., both people who yearn for and who fear battle. I believe we would all make the choice to avoid all out war if faced with the reality of such a conflict.”
“Strange as it is to hear you say this; I honestly think it makes sense.” Balian whispered.
“We agree.” Baldwin IV answered. “When I am gone, you must not encourage him in this endeavor. But neither should you stand in his way.”
“Forgive me sire, but may I withdraw?” I asked the king. “You have my love, but the destiny of your kingdom is your own. I wish neither credit nor blame for what happens to belong to me. As odd as this may sound...you are masters of your own fate here.”
“Self-destiny Sajiq?” The king told me in easily. “Of course, but stay nearby alright.”
“Of course sire.” I answered him. I bowed and withdrew.
Several minutes later I was waiting outside, in the corridor or passage not too far from the king's quarters. I saw a young boy watching me. He was richly dressed but seemed so quiet and withdrawn, he might have been the son of a servant. He did not back away as I walked up to him. I stopped about 30 paces away and smiled, as softly as I knew how.
“Salaam little one.” I told the boy. He looked at me with a kind smile and some wonder.
“Ala-i-kum Salaam.” He told me in a soft, firm voice. “Who are you?”
“I am called Nassir. I was a solider in Saladin's army. And when Balian found me...Forgive me sire I didn't realize.” I put my hands behind my back and bowed my head.
“I'm not king yet.” He told me. “Even if I were, you would not be one of my subjects.”
“Yes I would. I am not one of your people, but for as long as I live in Jerusalem I am one of your subjects. And I am honored to be.” He looked at me as if asking for clarification, so I continued. “I am not one of your people, I gladly live under your authority. I...I served Baldwin's father here in court before my lord Saladin called me back to Damascus. I follow my friend Balian the lord of Ibelin. Balian has sworn an oath to serve the peace and the king. I give you my word sire, I will do the same.”
“You are a nobleman among your people?” I heard a woman's voice ask.
I turned and the Princess of Jerusalem looked at me. I bowed at the waist and raised myself. “Yes, Milady. Though I would prefer to leave that alone for the moment. I'm not here because of who I am to my people, but because my lord Balian was invited to speak with the king and asked me to come with him.”
“You know Balian?” She told me. I could make nothing of her tone.
“I honor him and I love him.” She looked at me sharply. “You find it strange I should feel such things? He set me free. When he thought I was nothing more than a servant, and had the right to claim me as his prisoner or his slave he set me free. We parted with sincere wishes of peace that day, and very much on even ground. That unto itself would in-debt me to him. I am endeared to him for another reason.”
“He seems to inspire loyalty as well as confidence. And I know him well, for having known him hardly at all. Why do you cling so much to him?”
The Marshall Tiberias walked up at that moment. I was never happier to be interrupted in a conversation. Balian himself did not fully know the reason or depth of my affection for him. It would be wrong to tell any one else before speaking the truth to his face. So I simply bowed my head and asked if I could go wait for Balian. Sybilla did not seem to have a problem with this. Nor did the young man. Tiberias himself seemed to have a problem with my courtesies however. He asked the two royals to go ahead of him to the great hall and as soon as they were out of earshot, he turned to me with cold eyes. “Why do you hide who you are?”
“I do not know what they would expect of me.” I answered. “I am a stranger to them, and they do not know my history. That being so, I cannot expect them to treat me as Baldwin himself might do.”
“That's what I'm asking. Why do you not tell them who you are.”
“This is who I am.” I told him rather shortly. “Hiding my condition is not lying about my quality. I am showing them exactly who I am, not what the world would call me. Balian and I share many qualities. But none more than this: a desire to be seen as who, not what we are. For our friends to understand that who we are is showed and proved by our hearts and minds more than any title or label we are given, would be the most glorious hope we could achieve. I will not claim my rank as though it were my identity. PLEASE do not treat me as if the ceremony of my position defined the quality of my heart.”
“You are so much like Balian...And Godfrey.” Tiberias told me smoothly.
“I was surprised Balian is so much like his father. I'll take that as praise not a compliment.”
“Is there a difference?” Tiberias asked me easily.
“Your intentions in what you say can make something a false compliment, or empty flattery. Praise is by definition sincere. The way we would praise God, it cannot be out of selfish ambition or deceit. It's how our language is formed. Apparently even changed to French the thought remains.”
“A nice thought. There is one thing in this to praise that has barely been mentioned yet.”
I was about to ask Tiberias to elaborate on his comment, but Balian walked up to me, not having heard anything but the last bit of what I'd said. I smiled faintly, told Tiberias 'Au revoir' and we parted ways. Balian and I were not thirty paces down the hall when he turned to face me squarely. “We need to talk.”
“Indeed so.” I answered. I did not look him in the face until we returned to Almaric's house. The solider had not said much to me since his questions about my choice to remain as I am. I couldn't help hoping the weight on Balian's mind was unrelated. The thought of having that conversation so much was already about to change, was intimidating. Balian led me to the room I had chosen as my own, and almost as soon as we both entered, he sank to the floor. I crouched in front of him, trying to read the expression on his face.
“I agree with you. Guy must be allowed to believe he's succeeded. He cannot be openly opposed to any avail as leader of the armies. I want to hear from you, without reservation...”
“I want this peace to last beyond Baldwin's reign. I know you feel the same.”
“Yes. I just wish I didn't feel like I was sending a man to his death to ensure that peace.”
“Guy will lose. I am almost certain he will not die. He cannot defeat my lord Saladin in combat. It is logic and numbers that my people will win. It does not have to lead to all out war. Without the likes of Guy and Reynald stirring up trouble, your testimony and mine will stand for our intentions.” Balian looked up sharply. A smile smile started to appear on his face. “What is it?”
“For a moment it sounded like you'd placed yourself on our side of this divide. I understand you meant those of us who seek peace rather than war, on both sides of this nonsense. You and I hold to our faith rather than our religion and have a sense of compassion that is not limited to our own people. Still...it was both a surprise and a....” His voice faded and he looked at his hands. “What do you think of me?”
“You are a man of honor and seek peace within yourself and with others.” I had to slow myself down to avoid laughing out loud. “You care more about pleasing God than what any one here thinks of you...whether they are your fellows in rank or your followers. More strange and wonderful is you trust what you yourself believe God is like. You chase after the will of God through your own eyes instead of what anyone else would tell you God is like...what they believe God would have you do. And because of this you see both the heart of God and the reality of life more clearly than anyone except Father David ever would.”
“ 'Father David'?”
“That is what my people call the knightly priest I met here. He is as much a true shepherd of his flock as he is an example of what true faith is. He's the only man I ever knew before I challenged you, to understand that faith, when it is real is good...no matter which religion it supports. But he had holy orders...It was to be expected he would see spiritual matters more clearly.”
“What is the matter?” Balian asked in a quiet voice.
“Almaric asked me once how much I gave up to come here. He wanted to know what my life had been like among my own people, as if what I lost was the measure of what I had gained. But I don't see it as losing anything. My life here with you has been sweeter and more...has been and is worth more to me than anything I gave up when I followed you here. God himself must have more of a reason to bring us together. I should not speak for God. I honestly didn't mean to. There is more we can do here together for our peoples and the peace Baldwin has maintained these past six years than we ever could have without each-other. But that is not the only reason, is it? If everything we think is about to happen actually does come to pass...I hope that will not be the final...I hope we may stay together even after this scene in the play of this world comes to a close. My life was richer just for knowing you better. I hope you feel the same way.”
“The friendship we have runs deeper than words or thoughts could express? I do. God might have put us together on this earth for some great good. I'm just glad I was able to know someone like you.”
“It is indeed a mysterious move of God that I...” Balian started to glare at me. “WE found someone so much like ourselves on the opposite sides of whatever line our peoples draw to divide ourselves. Which I suppose is part of the reason I feel so certain of this, and so hopeful.”
“Remind me to ask you what the story of your life has been like!” Balian exuded. I was surprised and for once I did not bother hiding it. “I knew you were an officer in the army, our equal of a knight. But I didn't know you were also this educated and gentle.”
“Sajiq, I consider the question asked. I'll tell you. If you had to find out the truth when we spoke with Saladin, that would be a shame and an embarrassment I could not live with. I would be devastated if even for one second you thought I was a liar. Saladin would be disappointed in me if I'd hid such a thing.”
“You said something like it before. I take it there was more to it than I knew?”
“Even knowing Guy's temperament and the inexperience of the king, my lord Saladin would need assurance that Guy was not sanctioned when he leads the charge against my people. That is where my testimony becomes both needful and perfectly sincere. Aside from the fact that such a moment is not fit for a revelation, you deserve to know this instant why it would make a difference.”
“I...I do not understand.”
I had known this moment was coming. I was certain he would accept me for what I was. I hoped he would forgive my concealing myself this far.. I was beginning to suspect Balian would understand and see my heart better than most, and would know where to look, what was important. I clasped his hands in mine and bowed my head over them. “I have not lied to you. I am called Nassir. It does mean champion or supporter. But it is a description, not my given name. Among my own people, without a disguise, I am Imad Al Din.”
“Does that mean...I cannot...” The shock on Balian's face was heartbreaking, but somehow seemed misplaced. “Does that mean Saladin is your father?”
“That name is a gift and a title. It means 'the righteousness of the faith'. Mine says I am as close to a true image of faith that can be found. As though if true faith could be seen through a looking glass, I am a close resemblance. And I am close to my lord Saladin, I suppose you might say close as family. But no, we are not related by blood.”
“Which is why he would trust you so implicitly. I'm a little muddled. Why did he let you go?”
“No, I'M a little muddled...why would he not?”
“It's not seen as abandoning your people, joining with us...with me?”
“Balian!” I told him, I couldn't help laughing. “As long as my duty to you does not break my oath of loyalty to my people, there is no conflict of interest. It does not by the way. Our kingdoms are at peace and the three of us want it to stay that way. Following where I believe I am led to go is not something my lord Saladin would ever dissuade me from. He knows you valor and honor for himself. It is the very reflection of Godfrey's own persistence and character. Your father was a great man...”
“You knew him...?”
“Not well. But he was one of the few officers in the army of Jerusalem we could respect for more than just his skill with a weapon, or strategy. He held on to his own convictions and the ideals of peace without wavering or exception. I could not know for sure when we first came to Jerusalem, but now I have seen and experienced the compassion and tenderheartedness for myself...You are your father's son.”
“You lived here before?” Balian asked me bluntly. “You just admitted you were even a greater nobleman among your people than I thought of you.” He continued softly. “You must have met Baldwin himself earlier in your life. At least, that would explain your desire to stay out of everyone's way...And why you did not seem out of place earlier, but were not at all comfortable either.”
“I...I did not wish to be...declared I guess is the word. Apparently he remembered that of me.” I just realized where all this confusion is coming from.”
“Please explain.” Balian told me gently.
“I did not hide my condition to prove a point or anything of the sort. Even when I served Baldwin in his court I preferred to be seen as nothing but a Saracen in his service, and I had actually been his father's friend, so it was easy for them to honor my wishes. When I came before him today, I was not sure he would remember me, or see me for who I truly was. THAT is why I stayed at peace and hidden. I wanted to be seen and known as who I truly was, not what the world would make of me or what people would treat me as because of a title. I simply wanted to earn whatever treatment or consideration people gave me. I wanted it to belong to me. I hope you can understand.”
(later on)
“Why are you here?” I asked the man as courteously as I could.
“How do you mean?” He responded with what might have been concern.
“I am certain you don't mean any harm. But I cannot stop thinking you are...something or someone else, than what you pretend to be.”
“Well, you know I am a nobleman among my own people, and I am following where I feel I am being led to go. What else matters? I mean, why do I need to have any other purpose here?”
“Alright, let me be direct. Can I count on you to stand with us when the time comes, not just for Balian but for the sake of peace?”
“You may rest assured sir, most of my people want nothing but peace. From what I can see, the same can be said of yours. I always knew Guy DeLusigian would try to make war on my people. He wanted to meet in battle who he sees as the enemies of God, eager for his own glory therein. I am in part responsible for letting that happen. Regardless of what ELSE this means, I will do what I can to make sure that WAR as we know it does not come from his reckless hate.”
“I am sorry I ever doubted your intentions.”
“I hid who I really was.” He answered simply. “You needed to be sure I wasn't hiding anything else. Trust me, I understand. The only thing is...I need to be there...when MiLord Saladin (Sala-ho-deen) responds to this...to the aggression Guy has offered. That is why I stayed here after Kerak. I am...an in person witness to what I already believed. With such a witness and testimony, even the Mullah will be forced to accept that I speak the truth I've seen, not just my own belief based on my perspective.”
“Then we better get going. He approaches even now.” I told him with a faint smile.
Saladin stood in front of the young king of Jerusalem, his closest advisor just behind him. Sybilla, the queen mother of Jerusalem stood just behind her son. There were very few others in the great hall, just Balian of Ibelin, the Marshall Tiberias and 3 courtiers, to stand as witness for whatever might happen. A side door to the great hall opened and Imad walked in. He walked to stand aside from the others, as a mediator...then reconsidered and stood beside his friend.
“Salaam Ali-kum.” Baldwin the 5^th stated formally.
“Alai-i-kum Salaam.” Saladin replied. “I have come to address the actions of Guy DeLusigian, the captain of the armies of Jerusalem, to learn if he truly speaks for his people and to bring peace, if not justice between our peoples.” The sultan stated, as though to the entire room. He faced Imad directly. “Will you speak for them? Have you the authority?”
“I have the experience to know what they would say, and have seen the truth of it with my own eyes. I have their trust and faith on such things. I do not believe I should speak as their representative. You must hear their words from their lips, or it will mean nothing.”
“Very well.” he turned to address the court again. “I have no intention of returning Guy to you. I only wish to know if his actions were sanctioned, or was he truly a renegade. I only need to hear it from Tiberias or the king himself, I will not doubt their words.”
“Guy used his authority to make war on the Muslims.” Tiberias stated in his gravelly, coarse voice. His intentions were his own. We will do what we must to ensure his actions die with him. We will make no attempt to rescue him from your hand.”
Saladin looked up with surprise and a knowing smile. “He is a convenient answer then? It only makes sense that you are willing to give him up for the sake of peace?”
Tiberias looked confused. And stepped forward to address the misconception. “MiLord, if you did return him to us, we would execute him as a war criminal. While I am sure there are many in this kingdom who would agree with his ideals, no one in this court wants open war.”
“Can you confirm that?” Saladin asked of Imad, in Arabic. Who looked sideways to Balian, as if to ask permission to answer without reserve. A request which was granted with a slight nod of his head and a look of pride.
“I can affirm that this warmonger we speak of was very nearly removed from office before Baldwin the Fifth even came to the throne. Balian of Ibelin was to be chosen for this role.” He waved his hand to indicate the man of whom he spoke. “And Balian is a man of justice and honor as well as courage and honesty. He would speak for all of them if he could. That is, if his words were heard, his thoughts would be those of the entire kingdom. And if my life these last months has taught me anything, it is that we want nothing but understanding and communication between our peoples.” He blushed at his choice of words. “Balian and I, as well as the Marshall Tiberias and the King himself.”
“Who is Balian and why do you match yourself with him?” Saladin asked quickly.
“Balian of Ibelin, is the son of Godfrey and his heir. I do not put myself with the Marshall or even with the child-king. I put myself with Balian and would follow him to the ends of the Earth. The story of how I matched myself to him and how we met is best kept for another time. What should be known now is that I matched myself to him. It was a freely given choice and the beginning of greatness. He defends both his king and the peace we have established between our two great kingdoms. I hope this stands until either of our deaths.”
Tiberias understood enough Arabic to know the glowing terms Imad had used for Balian. King Baldwin, who was barely 13, understood only that Imad was an ally and an advocate for their kingdom, and someone King Saladin would listen to. Balian himself kept his expression as neutral as he could, while listening to what he was sure was Imad's defense of both himself and the sincerity of the king's intentions. He knew Imad's feelings about him and was certain at least some of what he had heard had been a description of their bond.
x

Earth-42: A NEw Beginning

 Earth -42: A new Beginning

Nikita and I were together, alone but together for more than a week. The alien would come, feed us, ask us a few rather simple questions and then leave. I was having trouble making heads or tales of him.

“Okay, my guess is if he wanted us dead we'd be dead right now, so what's his story?”

“I don't know. He's a GREEN Martian.” She said definitively. “If he's lived his life as alone as I have he's lived it for at least 3 times as long. He's forgotten how to trust people, especially humans. Other aliens wouldn't be as hard.”

“That I can understand.” I said glumly.

Three days later the alien came to take me away. He grabbed me by the arm and started to literally drag me out of the room. “No leave him alone!” Nikita cried out.

“You want to die instead?” The man asked her in a threatening voice.

Nikita's voice was low but distinct. “Yes, I do.”

I cannot believe you are actually going to kill him; I do not see this in you. 'Discerner of the motivations and intentions of the heart' is a name for my people. But if you were going to kill one of us, I'd rather it be me than him. If for no other reason than that would make sense!” She turned to look at me. “And obviously there is another reason. Listen I am quite familiar with how ignorant humans can be, especially when they're scared. But I'd think if you were angry at either of us it would be a freak of nature like me, not quite literally the best human I have ever known!”

By this time the alien had released me from his grip and was starring at Nikita with something stronger than curiosity. A sentiment I shared with him. But Nikita wasn't finished. “I seriously cannot understand why you hate him. Hate is reserved for Whites and for the worst of humans. Hank would fit in among White Martians. My word for him translates as 'ignorant, arrogant asshole'. But Whites are...something else. They are Crishnaka-Sareth. Or near enough.”

“You've lived under the Whites?” The alien said in a voice of which I could make nothing.

“I've lived under Hank Henshaw; for more than 15 years. He scared the hell out of me. And if I wasn't so busy being scared of him I'd have laughed in his face. You confuse the hell out of me. And if I wasn't so busy being confused for you, I'd weep for you.” Her voice took on an exasperated edge. “Is there literally any thing else that needs saying?!”Answering her own question, she sat down, tucked her feet behind her and looked away from us.

I looked over at the man, trying to judge if the outburst had hit home. It clearly had done: the man was staring with wide, sad eyes. Staring at me. “I was wrong about you. And I'm sorry.”

That's when I finally realized. “You thought I was...her keeper?”

“I thought she was Enkaren and you were keeping her calm.”

“Demios Pah, Tor-ek Nitch-a.”

“WHAT?!” I exclaimed. “Nikita, what the hell was that?”

“She says I've dishonored the name of my ancestor. And she'd not wrong.”

“Stop it!” Nikita cried out. The green-skinned alien stopped in his tracks. He turned to Nikita with a prompting look. “He's done nothing to deserve this. I would think if anything you'd be after me.”

“Are you saying you'd rather die instead?”

“...Yes.” Nikita answered her voice low but distinct.

“I would rather be killed than let him die. I would think if you'd be angry at either of us it would be a freak of nature like me. Not quite literally the best human I have ever known. So if nothing else at least that would make sense!”

A single look told Nikita the outburst had hit home. The man, the alien, instantly dropped his arm and released her friend. “There was no need for any of this Sajen. There never was, was there?”

“I...I misread the situation.” The alien said as if he were a schoolboy getting dressed down for misbehaving. A feeling that would only deepen as the conversation continued.

“And that's the worst thing about all of this. All you had to do was ask. I would have told you. Hell you're a Martian you could have read my mind. I would have permitted it! How quickly we become the things we hate and we don't even realize it.” Nikita walked to the far end of the room sat on the floor with her feet crossed in front of her and turned her head away from her host. Displaying a universally recognized 'I don't want to talk to you' attitude.

“She's comparing you to Hank Henshaw.” Jeremiah explained. “Someone who treated her like an enemy for absolutely no reason and literally tortured her to convince her to reveal the truth...what ever that was. But there was no truth to be found. She wasn't a danger to anyone. And if Hank had looked at her for 5 seconds and seen anything other than a human-looking alien...he would have seen what was right in front of his face: seen her for the innocent person she was. But Hank didn't bother to look. He actually got off on hurting aliens...even helpless ones like her.”

“And you broke her free.” Realization blanketed the strangers face. Followed quickly by a look of unmitigated shame. “You broke her free from the D.E.O.”

“ I couldn't stand by and let her get tortured for information she didn't actually have. I released her from...well she was propped up for enhanced interrogation and I shut off the device. I knocked Hank out and put him in that chair, which I kept turned off. She asked me if I wanted to come with her. She said I didn't deserve to be trapped in the D.E.O any more than she did. So we made our escape together.” He turned and squarely face the man. “You are the third alien and the 14^th face we have seen in the 8 weeks since that day. And she is quite right. All you had to do was ask. She would have told you anything. Force, much less pain was never needed. And in fact got in the way. I say this with as much experience as she has. She actually literally laughed at Hank for making that assumption. It was the last thing I expected. Making both of you equally blinded by your own prejudicial assumptions as far as she's concerned.”

“And she still didn't stand up for herself. Well, she probably didn't think she could reach me, any more than she could have gotten through to that thick-headed human you keep talking about. But she stood up for you. At least I was right about that part...I guess.”

“Okay, I'm a little lost.”

“Everything that lives has an instinctual fear of dying. But only humans have such a strong sense of self-preservation. Even those who would go out of their way to help and to protect others would still tend to put their own lives and safety first if it came down to it. She's different. She put your safety above her own. She gets a lower grade in self-preservation than she does in protective instincts. Which is unbelievably rare in the galaxies.”

“Well that makes sense” Jeremiah said without thinking. “She told me her race was rare. Not like superior but few and far between. That there literally aren't many of them left.”

Understanding once more blanketed the man's narrow face. “She's Xavallen. That explains it. That explains a lot actually.”

A new use for a great monologue.

Puddleglum's speech in Silver Chair to the Witch of the Northern Woods who had almost convinced them  Narnia or 'overland' wasn't even real in the first place:

"One word, Ma'am," he said, coming back from the fire; limping, because of the pain. "One word. All you've been saying is quite right, I shouldn't wonder. I'm a chap who always liked to know the worst and then put the best face I can on it. So I won't deny any of what you said. But there's one thing more to be said, even so. Suppose we have only dreamed, or made up, all those things - trees and grass and sun and moon and stars and Aslan himself. Suppose we have. Then all I can say is that, in that case, the made-up things seem a good deal more important than the real ones. Suppose this black pit of a kingdom of yours is the only world. Well, it strikes me as a pretty poor one. And that's a funny thing, when you come to think of it. We're just babies making up a game, if you're right. But four babies playing a game can make a play world which licks your real world hollow. That's why I'm going to stand by the play-world. I'm on Aslan's side even if there isn't any Aslan to lead it. I'm going to live as like a Narnian as I can even if there isn't any Narnia. So, thanking you kindly for our supper, if these two gentlemen and the young lady are ready, we're leaving your court at once and setting out in the dark to spend our lives looking for Overland. Not that our lives will be very long, I should think; but that's a small loss if the world's as dull a place as you say."

He was talking about whether there was anything after you die and if God in Christ...if Christianity was anything more that a children's fantasy. But this is exactly how I feel about the stories on which I was raised. They aren't real but they do matter. And were always more important to me than anything that actually happened in my life or any TV series grounded in the real world. I am who I am because of Power Rangers, the way it was when I was growing up. I have the view of humanity I have because of Star Trek and actually I think so do a lot of other people have learned courage, cooperation and determination in the face of adversity from Star Trek but they are also an example of what we could be as a race. Even if that dream has mostly died out by now. And I learned true heroism and becoming a hero in-spite of circumstance and that those who surround the titular heroes with superpowers are possibly more important and greater heroes than the masked and super-powered individuals themselves from Flash and Arrow. As well as having father figures that aren't actually your father and how team Flash is a family to each-other and anyone who happens by thier path tends to think of team Flash as like a family to them as well -and team Arrow as a place to belong to be better than yourself, live for something more important than just your own little life and to make a difference- but that's unique to those two shows specifically.

As Puddleglum said....the made up things are a good deal more important than the real ones.

Also there is a conversation, a moment really in the Wonderworks production that is not in the book. Because the book which was written in the late 50's at the latest would not have had the action-packed moment in which the prince of Underland actually puts a sword to Eustace and says "Prepare yourself for death" because he had so casually insulted the honor and virtue and the great lady he served. Puddleglum intercedes. 

"He's just a child."

 The Prince swings his sword around "Do you want to die instead?"

 Puddleglum shows true compassion and fortitude and replies perfectly honestly.

"Not especially. But if it's a choice between..me and a child..you'd better kill me."

A No Longer Shrouded Legacy

 In reference to my characters of Miri and Nikita/Sasha. Anyone familiar with my Merlin stories knows Nikita/Sasha. As does anyone who has read my stories about the Arrow, Flash Supergirl. Sasha is the name of my semi-autobiographical character in ANY story I write that takes place in modern times. Whether Superman and J'onn are her closest friends or Aaron Hotchner and Spencer Reid in Criminal Minds.

What most people don't know is that Miri/Nikita/Sasha are all literally the same idea and the same person. An alien named Nikita called herself Sasha Jordan Scott to people who didn't know she was an alien. I introduced myself that is my autobiographical character introduced herself to the BAU of Criminal Minds as "Sasha Jordan Scott, most people call me 'Sarah'." And in any further BAU stories there is a character "Sasha Jordan Scott known as 'Sarah' to her friends".

Nikita, the Xavallen, the human looking alien through whose eyes ANY of Earth-9 or Earth-21 are seen in my stories shares none of my history and all of my perspective and personality.

 She is also far similar to the names I was using back in the day, when I would chat with Hercules and Ioulus, Robin and his team in Sherwood. And when Beastmaster was one of my favorite shows and I basked in the glory and genuine wisdom of such a world. (The four lands the Mydlands, the territories, the uplands, and the downs. Beastmaster was described in its opening narration as taking place 'In an age when nature and magic ruled the world'). Nikita/Sasha was that same person. Literally she woke up after 17 years and found one last place to belong. She found an idea she would live to defend and a friend she would die to protect. This isn't part of my story this was my experience with that identity. One I wrote a shadow or a copy of. I wrote my Camelot/Merlin stories in memory and in testament to this part of my own life. This was literally my experiences with the show and what these character meant to me. Most but obviously not all comes out in my writings. My writings are not an imitation...they are a reflection showing as much of the substance as I can speak. Which is why they have so much substance.

"A horrible death at the end of a GOOD life is preferable to a quiet death at the end of an empty one." -- At least 3 characters I've written. As well as any TV character I'd cheer on. And the core of anyone I'd follow to hell and back.

Miri/Nikita/Sasha are various names for a semi-autobiographical character. It was my identity. All three of them are name I went by back when I traveled to Merlin, Stargate Sg-1, Hercules the Legendary Journeys and Beastmaster. Used at various times for the same person: me. My friends in Camelot know me by both names: Nikita and Sasha. Which is why I use those same names for my self-made character in Flash Superman D.E.O. stories.
In my final story I ever wrote about Sasha staying with her friends in Camelot, with Merlin, Arthur, Lancelot and Gwaine these friends who had known her for 6 years and she had known for just as long. It was my goodbye to the character but She was not saying goodbye. I finally had her state the attitude and belief that had guided her not only the entire time she'd known them, but ever since she was Miri, the child of peace, walking the Mydlands and ancient Greece. Anyway, they knew she'd rather spend one year of life worth living than 5 years of life where she might as well be dead. This was the other thing that drove her, as it drove so many of her role models: A horrible death that means something is preferable to a peaceful life that comes to nothing. It was originally close to "A horrible death and the end of a good life is preferable to a painless death at the end of an empty one."

I just didn't want her to say anything that Macabre or morose so I had her say it the other way instead. So the reason the Xavallen Nikita in my Alt Earth stories share not only the name but so many of the same qualities as the Nikita/Sasha from Camelot who was best friends with Gwaine, believed in Merlin and called Prince/King Arthur 'Kristaan' is that she is made as much out of that friend, that child of nature and of Peace that was Miri/Nikita/Sasha, as she was made out of the Mennonite, white, autistic a-typical fiercely loyal and far more open-minded than most, non-denominational Christian, damn near empathic American human.  She just happens to be IN non-magical times. In a world full of current events-problems-awareness and struggles.

Pretender Summaries

 Incredible camaraderie exceptional acting (Early season 4 episode called Road Trip)

Speaking of the Wizard of Oz plotline it was a beautiful romp with all three of the main characters from the center perfectly happy to be following Jarrod's clues and jumping through his hoops. Despite her complaining Ms. Parker seems to trust that whatever they will find at the end of this yellow brick road will be worth the mystery. And Sidney seems more than a little amused as he goes running around like rats in a maze. Like literally he calls it that and it doesn't bother him at all. Maybe he feels that he owes Jarrod this after keeping so many things secret for so many years. The 3 of them are the 3 musketeers and it's beautiful. I didn't know the actress to play Zoe from anything but I imagine she was a major name as a female actress at the time as well as a bombshell. Also the one time Jarrod assumes something other than the best about someone he is 100% wrong and you can see real regret in his eyes. He's always really good at reading emotional cues and micro-expressions but the one time he makes a conclusion based solely on the facts and the evidence- rather than the person - right in front of his face he is seriously almost disastrously wrong. But Zoe and Jarrod are each-other's first honest and deeply committed relationship. Again: Stellar!

I couldn't put this in my actual Imdb summary but one of the reasons I fell so hard and fast for this show was that the main character had a high emotional interpersonal perception but was raised in a very sheltered environment. Sheltered as in away from the trappings of the outside world if not very comfortable or warm. Both of which sound very much like my own upbringing. In fact, my own ESP type perception of people and emotions is apparently tied directly into my high functioning autism. Which Jarrod is a type of savant and you can tell he's the good kind of weird. And when I trusted my inner sense about people I was almost always right. When I went with common sense of logic or 'the most probably explanation' I was almost always led astray. So I am laughing with a twinge of sadness that the one time Jarrod decides the most 'obvious' explanation is the right one, instead of counting on his deep almost innate understanding of people, he offends the woman. Having demanded the truth from her when she actually had told him the truth to begin with. And her story was more tragic than he'd considered.

Or to say it even more personally relevantly than that. Jarrod always has MY approach on dealing with people. the one time he takes my brother Phil's approach instead he is disastrously wrong. Which gives me a sense of almost validation that my emotional approach, my people-oriented perceptions of the world are actually preferable to the 'superior' fact-based "most probable explanation" driven approach of my brother Phil. Because it was when Jarrod drew conclusions based on what was right in front of him and what 'made sense', instead of going with what he felt from the person in front of him and what his own instincts were telling him that he stuck his foot SO far down his mouth he had to decide what kind of wine went with hip bone.

Jarrod Learns Something we all Know (mid season 3 episode called Extreme)

Jarrod's chosen disguise clashes with his actual innocence. Even people who have never been to a strip joint before still know what one is. And Some of the best dialogue related to Jarrod's inexperience with the world happens in this episode. But of course that's not what I'm talking about. For over a year Sidney has been forced to be repressive fo his parental feelings concerning Jarrod. His work requires an objectivity of course but the more he let himself feel responsible for Jarrod's upbringing the more guilt he would feel about letting Jarrod go through what he did all those years. To the point of actually lying to Jarrod near the beginning of season 2 when Jarrod called and asked if he ever thought about what it would have been like to be his father. And Sydney just recently found out he is one, he has a son who grew up never knowing him. The kid finds out it completely the wrong way. And Sidney's impassioned speech slash plea to Nicholas on behalf of the man who raised him - to the son he never knew about the man who raised him always being there for him, loves you as much as if he'd given you life is heart-warming and incredibly telling. Especially since Nicholas asks him if he ever felt that way about anyone and Sidney admits that he did once. A child, long ago. Not realizing Jarrod can actually hear him. The way Jarrod feels about Sidney has always been clear as day. And now Jarrod is finally in on the fact that Sidney shares those feelings. Even if he still can't admit it.

Summary: An episode out of nowhere full of Smoke (the series finale...unfortunately)

There are so many people and secrets in this episode that were never even hinted at in the episodes leading up to it. In fact the one thing that is consistent with previous episodes is Ms. Parkers intense and inexplicable hatred and mistrust of Jarrod. The heart of the story, other than Ms. Parker and Jarrod both searching for the truth was Sydney's relationship with Jarrod. This was especially true in Road Trip and Junk earlier in the season. But Jarrod and Boots barely say anything to Jarrod the entire episode and the last scene the two of them have is so quote “classic” it's cliché. Catherine Parker having that extra-normal sixth sense and Sydney already knowing she faked her death were never even hinted at the entire series and yet were the biggest parts of the episode. Well besides having 2 people who can't stand each-other sharing a sibling in common. Which would be pretty powerful drama if done believably. And this was anything but natural unfolding of events. And it's unfortunately enough the series finale. Jarrod never says goodbye to Sidney and in fact Sydney had been fading further and further away from everyone for the past 6 episodes. But there was no mystery or explanation hinted at. It was simply that the plot line which was the heart of the show was minimized to allow more time for the Ms. Parker plot and the unraveling of the mystery of her life and her past. A mystery that ultimately went nowhere with very few answers ever found.

Errand of Mercy (name of the episode)

 Star Trek TOS: "Errand of Mercy"

John Colicos as Commander Kor

"A shame, Captain. It would have been glorious."

"Errand of Mercy" served as the introduction of Klingons to the Star Trek universe, and the episode's "inception of war" plot was just about the perfect setting to do so. Kor is arguably the most complex and well-written Klingon character in the series, and Colicos delivers a splendid performance, taking the excellent scripted dialog and elevating it immeasurably. As I've mentioned before, Michael Ansara's Kang may have been the prototype for the stoic, physically imposing, no-nonsense Klingon warrior, but Kor's character expressed his views in intellectual and philosophical terms and was so engaging and developed that he would have been fascinating as any species, thanks to Colicos' brilliant performance.

We first meet Kor as he and the rest of his invasion force arrive on Organia and begin the Klingon occupation. He enters the Organian council chambers with an air of confident authority.

KOR: This is the ruling council?

AYELBORNE: I am Ayelborne, temporary head of the council. I bid you welcome.

KOR: No doubt you do. I am Kor, military governor of Organia. Who are you?

AYELBORNE: He is Baroner, one of our leading citizens.

KOR: And he has no tongue?

KIRK: I have a tongue.

KOR: Good. You will be taught how to use it. Where is your smile?

KIRK: My what?

KOR: The stupid, idiotic smile everyone else seems to be wearing. A Vulcan. Do you also have a tongue?

SPOCK: I am Spock, a dealer in kevas and trillium.

KOS: You do not look like a storekeeper. Take this man. Vulcans are members of the Federation. He may be a spy.

KIRK: He's no spy.

KOR: Well, have we a ram among the sheep? Do you object to us taking him?

KIRK: He's done nothing. Nothing at all.

KOR: Coming from an Organian, yours is practically an act of rebellion. Very good. (to the Council) So you welcome me. Do you also welcome me?

KIRK: You're here. There's nothing I can do about it.

KOR: Good honest hatred. Very refreshing. However, it makes no difference whether you welcome me or not. I am here and will stay. You are now subjects of the Klingon Empire. You'll find there are many rules and regulations. They will be posted. Violation of the smallest of them will be punished by death.

AYELBORNE: We shall obey your regulations, Commander.

KOR: You disapprove, Baroner.

KIRK: You need my approval?

KOR: I need your obedience. Nothing more. Will I have it?

KIRK: You seem to be in command.

KOR: Yes. I am. I shall need a representative from among you. Liaison between the forces of the occupation and the civil population. Smile and smile. I don't trust men who smile too much. You, Baroner, you're the man.

KIRK: Me? I don't want the job.

KOR: Have I asked whether or not you want it? We Klingons have a reputation for ruthlessness. You will find that it is deserved. Should one Klingon soldier be killed, a thousand Organians will die. I will have order. Is that clear?

AYELBORNE: Commander, I assure you our people want nothing but peace. We shall cause you no trouble.

KOR: I'm sure you will not. Take the Vulcan to the examination room. You, come with me. I will familiarise you with your new duties.

KIRK: And Mister Spock?

KOR: You are concerned?

KIRK: He is my friend.

KOR: You have a poor choice of friends. He will be examined. If he is lying, he will die. If he is telling the truth, he will find that business has taken a turn for the worse. Take him. You do not like to be pushed. Very good. You may be a man I can deal with, Baroner. Come with me.

We see immediately that the Kirk and Kor characters have an interesting and entertaining relationship dynamic. Because Kor is a Klingon he is accustomed to dealing with opposition and hostility in the course of his duties. The Commander seems disappointed, even aggravated at the Organian passive and compliant attitudes, Kirk's alter ego exhibits a much more familiar reaction to his presence and Kor responds to it favorably by comparison.

KOR: From this day on, no public assemblages of more than three people. All publications to be cleared through this office. Neighbourhood controls will be established, hostages selected. A somewhat lengthy list of crimes against the state.

KOR: You do not like them? Well?

KLINGON: He is what he claims to be, Commander, a Vulcanian merchant named Spock. His main concern seems to be how he would carry out his business under our occupation.

KOR: Nothing else?

KLINGON: The usual. A certain amount of apprehension regarding us. The mind is remarkably disciplined.

KOR: You are sure?

KLINGON: I used force four, which is sufficient to break down any pretence.

KOR: Very well, Lieutenant. Would you like to try our little truth finder?

KIRK: I don't understand.

KOR: It's a mind-sifter or mind-ripper, depending on how much force is used. We can record every thought, every bit of knowledge in a man's mind. Of course, when that much force is used, the mind is emptied. Permanently, I'm afraid. What's left is more vegetable than human.

KIRK: And you're proud of it.

KOR: It is a tool, a weapon. Somewhat drastic, but very efficient.

KIRK: Are you sure you're all right?

SPOCK: Perfectly, Baroner. But it was an interesting experience.

KOR: All right, Vulcan, you may go. But you are an enemy alien. You will be under our scrutiny at all times. If I have to warn you

SPOCK: Not necessary, Commander. I understand you very well.

KOR: Return to your council, Baroner. You will receive our official notifications as soon as they are published. In the meantime keep the people in order. It is your responsibility.

KIRK: Or I will be killed.

KOR: That is exactly right. You will be killed.

The scenes featuring Shatner and Colicos are some of the best found in Star Trek and each actor plays their part brilliantly to create an iconic character rivalry.

Kirk decides to take action in the form of guerilla tactics in order to inspire the Organians to resist the Klingon occupation. With Spock's help Kirk destroys a Klingon ammunition dump. Once back in the Organian council chambers Kirk explains to Ayelborne the reasons for his actions, which Kor overhears through a listening device and arrives with his men to arrest the admitted saboteurs.

KOR: You speak of courage. Obviously you do not know the difference between courage and foolhardiness. Always it is the brave ones who die. The soldiers. I hope you will continue to savour the sweetness of your life. You disgust me.

AYELBORNE: What are you going to do with him, Commander?

KOR: What is always done with spies and saboteurs. He will be killed, after he has had first-hand experience of our mind scanner.

AYELBORNE: There's no need to use your machine on him, commander. I can tell you his name. It is Captain James T. Kirk.

KIRK: Ayelborne!

KOR: What? Captain of the USS Enterprise. A starship commander. And his first officer? I had hoped to meet you in battle, but...

AYELBORNE: For some reason, he feels that he must destroy you, Commander, just as you feel you must destroy him.

KOR: That's going to be rather difficult now. Isn't it, Captain? What an admirable people. Do you always betray your friends?

AYELBORNE: I didn't want you to harm him. I'm sorry, Captain. It was for the best. No harm would come of it.

KIRK: I'm used to the idea of dying, but I have no desire to die for the likes of you.

KOR: I don't blame you, Captain. Lock up the Vulcan. Take the Captain to my office. We'll have a talk before I do what must be done.

Colicos plays Kor's reactions in this scene brilliantly. The revelation that he is in the presence of a Starfleet captain and his first officer is clearly thrilling to Kor and Colicos is masterful at portraying the Klingon's joyful surprise. Later, in Kor's office, the two adversaries finally have a chance to verbally spar on equal terms for the first time in the episode.