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{{realworld}}
 
{{realworld}}
{{sidebar episode|
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{{sidebar episode
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|<!-- See [[Memory Alpha:Episode data project]] -->
 
| aSelf = The Forge
 
| aSelf = The Forge
 
| sTitle = The Forge
 
| sTitle = The Forge
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| nArc0PartNumber = 1
 
| nArc0PartNumber = 1
 
| nArc0PartCount = 3
 
| nArc0PartCount = 3
| wsArc1Desc = [[Vulcan (planet)|Vulcan]] vs. [[Andoria]]
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| wsArc1Desc = {{dis|Vulcan|planet}} vs. [[Andoria]]
 
| aArc1PrevPart = Proving Ground (episode)
 
| aArc1PrevPart = Proving Ground (episode)
 
| aArc1NextPart = Awakening (episode)
 
| aArc1NextPart = Awakening (episode)
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==Summary==
 
==Summary==
 
===Teaser===
 
===Teaser===
In [[2137]], a young [[Vulcan]] male wanders alone through a subterranean tunnel on the [[planet]] [[Vulcan (planet)|Vulcan]]. He finds a sculptured casing that is completely covered in dust. Using a brush, the young Vulcan wipes away the dust from the casing to reveal a symbol. He mutters a single word: "[[Surak]]".
+
In [[2137]], a young [[Vulcan]] male wanders alone through a subterranean tunnel on the [[planet]] {{dis|Vulcan|planet}}. He finds a sculptured casing that is completely covered in dust. Using a brush, the young Vulcan wipes away the dust from the casing to reveal a symbol. He mutters a single word: "[[Surak]]".
   
 
===Act One===
 
===Act One===
  +
:"''Admiral [[Maxwell Forrest]]'s [[personal log, Maxwell Forrest|personal log]]. I've arrived on Vulcan hopeful that the [[Vulcan High Command|High Command]] is finally ready to conduct joint missions with [[Starfleet]].''"
In [[2154]], [[Admiral]] [[Maxwell Forrest|Forrest]] has traveled to Vulcan to learn of the [[Vulcan High Command]]'s decision on whether to start conducting joint missions with [[Starfleet]]. At the [[United Earth Embassy|embassy]], Forrest discusses the matter with [[Ambassador]] [[Soval]] and is surprised to learn that Soval was not consulted by the council. Regarding the Vulcan reluctance to share technologies, Soval explains that [[Human]]s are confusing to them and that the fast progress of Human development in recent years concerns the Vulcans. Suddenly an explosion is heard by the two men and Forrest quickly pushes Soval to the ground as the embassy is engulfed in flames.
 
   
 
Seventeen years later, in [[2154]], Admiral Forrest has traveled to Vulcan to learn of the Vulcan High Command's decision on whether to start conducting joint missions with Starfleet. At the [[United Earth Embassy|embassy]], Forrest discusses the matter with [[Ambassador]] [[Soval]] and is surprised to learn that Soval was not consulted by the council. Regarding the Vulcan reluctance to share technologies, Soval explains that [[Human]]s are confusing to them and that the fast progress of Human development in recent years greatly concerns the Vulcans. Suddenly an explosion is heard by the two men and Forrest quickly pushes Soval to the ground as the embassy is engulfed in flames.
On the ''[[Enterprise (NX-01)|Enterprise]]'', the [[senior officer]]s are enjoying a spirited game of [[basketball]] in [[launch bay|launch bay two]]. [[Phlox]], who is exceptionally good and has to keep switching teams, likens the game to [[Octran]] fertility contests but with more clothing. [[T'Pol]] then summons [[Jonathan Archer|Archer]] away from the game to give him the bad news.
 
  +
 
On the {{NX|Enterprise}}, the [[senior officer]]s are enjoying a spirited game of [[basketball]] in [[launch bay|launch bay two]]. [[Phlox]], who is exceptionally good and has to keep switching teams, likens the game to [[Octran]] fertility contests but with more clothing. [[T'Pol]] then summons [[Jonathan Archer|Archer]] away from the game to give him the bad news.
   
 
[[File:United Earth Embassy aftermath.jpg|thumb|The aftermath at the United Earth Embassy]]
 
[[File:United Earth Embassy aftermath.jpg|thumb|The aftermath at the United Earth Embassy]]
 
:"''Captain's starlog: supplemental. ''Enterprise'' has arrived at Vulcan as ordered. Three days after the bombing of Earth's embassy, the death toll stands at 43 and I have lost my friend, Admiral Forrest. Vulcan authorities still have no lead on who's responsible.''"
 
:"''Captain's starlog: supplemental. ''Enterprise'' has arrived at Vulcan as ordered. Three days after the bombing of Earth's embassy, the death toll stands at 43 and I have lost my friend, Admiral Forrest. Vulcan authorities still have no lead on who's responsible.''"
   
Archer is met by [[Administrator]] [[V'Las]], head of the Vulcan High Command, along with Ambassador Soval and [[Stel]], chief investigator of the [[V'Shar|Vulcan Security Directorate]]. After Archer rejects the suggestion that the bomb was planted by [[Andorian]]s, Stel reluctantly reveals that [[Syrrannite]]s are also under suspicion. Archer mistakes this as the name of another species but T'Pol corrects him, explaining that they are a small group of Vulcans who follow a "corrupted" form of Surak's teachings. The Syrranites' logical and peaceful nature make them unlikely candidates. When Archer asks if there is any evidence, Soval points out that the embassy is officially considered to be on [[Earth]] soil therefore placing any investigation of the crime scene under Starfleet jurisdiction.
+
Archer is met by [[Administrator]] [[V'Las]] at ''Enterprise''{{'}}s [[airlock]]. V'Las is the head of the Vulcan High Command. He is joined by Ambassador Soval and [[Stel]], chief investigator of the [[V'Shar|Vulcan Security Directorate]]. After Archer rejects the suggestion that the bomb was planted by [[Andorian]]s, Stel reluctantly reveals that [[Syrrannite]]s are also under suspicion. Archer mistakes this as the name of another species but T'Pol corrects him, explaining that they are a small group of Vulcans who follow a "corrupted" form of Surak's teachings. The Syrranites' logical and peaceful nature make them unlikely candidates. When Archer asks if there is any evidence, Soval points out that the embassy is officially considered to be on [[Earth]] soil therefore placing any investigation of the crime scene under Starfleet jurisdiction.
   
Archer sends [[Malcolm Reed|Reed]] and [[Travis Mayweather|Mayweather]] transport down to investigate the blast site where they uncover an undetonated bomb. Reed scans the device and discovers Vulcan DNA on the controls. A closer scan triggers the device but the two officers manage to [[transporter|transport]] back to ''Enterprise'', seconds before it explodes.
+
Archer sends [[Lieutenant]] [[Malcolm Reed|Reed]] and [[Ensign]] [[Travis Mayweather|Mayweather]] transport down to investigate the blast site where Mayweather uncovers an undetonated bomb. Reed scans the device and discovers Vulcan DNA on the controls. A closer scan triggers the device but the two officers manage to [[transporter|transport]] back to ''Enterprise'', seconds before it explodes.
   
 
===Act Two===
 
===Act Two===
Phlox's investigation matches the recovered DNA to [[T'Pau]], a well known Syrrannite. The Captain asks if she has a previous criminal record, but T'Pol explains that the DNA of every Vulcan is recorded at birth. When Archer attempts to pursue the leads further, however, Stel says that since T'Pau is Vulcan, the overall investigation consequently now falls under Vulcan jurisdiction and that Starfleet assistance is not required. He will have Soval inform them of anything they need to know.
+
Phlox's investigation matches the recovered DNA to [[T'Pau]], a well known Syrrannite. The Captain asks if she has a previous criminal record, but T'Pol explains that the DNA of every Vulcan is recorded at birth. When Archer attempts to pursue the leads further, however, Stel says that since T'Pau is Vulcan, the overall investigation consequently now falls under Vulcan jurisdiction and that Starfleet assistance is not required. He will have Soval inform them of anything they need to know, much to Archer's chagrin.
   
 
[[File:Morgue, The Forge.jpg|thumb|The Human casualties, aboard ''Enterprise'']]
 
[[File:Morgue, The Forge.jpg|thumb|The Human casualties, aboard ''Enterprise'']]
Archer enters ''Enterprise''{{'}}s [[cargo bay]], where the bodies of the Humans lost in the bombing are being held for transport back to [[Earth]]. While quietly reflecting over the coffin of Admiral Forrest, the captain is joined by Soval who notes that the Admiral died saving his life when he could have saved his own instead. Soval makes clear there is no reason or evidence to suggest the Syrranites are responsible for the bombing, and does not understand why they are being accused. He urges Archer not to leave the investigation in the hands of the Vulcan High Command but to question everything and go down to Vulcan, while also promising his full support.
+
Archer enters ''Enterprise''{{'}}s [[cargo bay]], where the bodies of the Humans lost in the bombing are being held for transport back to [[Earth]]. While quietly reflecting over the coffin of Admiral Forrest, the captain is joined by Soval who notes that the Admiral died saving his life when he could have saved his own instead. Soval makes clear there is no reason or evidence to suggest the Syrranites are responsible for the bombing, and does not understand why they are being accused. He urges Archer not to leave the investigation in the hands of the Vulcan High Command but to question everything and go down to Vulcan, while also promising the captain his full support.
   
Meanwhile, [[Koss]] visits T'Pol in her quarters. T'Pol is not particularly pleased to see her husband but he insists that a face-to-face meeting was necessary. He gives T'Pol an [[IDIC]] that [[T'Les]], her mother, wanted passed along claiming it was a family heirloom. Koss explains that the new security conditions on Vulcan, following the bombing, have forced T'Les into hiding because she is actually a Syrranite. T'Pol (having never seen the supposed heirloom before) presents the IDIC to Archer, explaining that it has been modified, and activates it. The IDIC displays a holographic topographical map of [[Vulcan's Forge]].
+
Meanwhile, [[Koss]] visits his wife T'Pol in her quarters. T'Pol is not particularly pleased to see her husband but he insists that a face-to-face meeting was necessary. He gives T'Pol an [[IDIC]] that [[T'Les]], her mother, wanted passed along claiming it was a family heirloom. Koss explains that the new security conditions on Vulcan, following the bombing, have forced T'Les into hiding because she is actually a Syrranite. T'Pol (having never seen the supposed heirloom before) presents the IDIC to Archer, explaining that it has been modified, and activates it. The IDIC displays a holographic topographical map of [[Vulcan's Forge]].
   
 
Against [[Charles Tucker III|Tucker]]'s warnings that the Forge is a "''hell hole''" with electrical sandstorms and geomagnetic instabilities that prevent the use of any technology, Archer decides to transport down to Vulcan with T'Pol in search of the Syrranites. Soval provides data on the gaps in Vulcan satellite surveillance, so that Archer and T'Pol's beam-in won't be monitored, but he remains aboard to assist Tucker with the investigation from orbit.
 
Against [[Charles Tucker III|Tucker]]'s warnings that the Forge is a "''hell hole''" with electrical sandstorms and geomagnetic instabilities that prevent the use of any technology, Archer decides to transport down to Vulcan with T'Pol in search of the Syrranites. Soval provides data on the gaps in Vulcan satellite surveillance, so that Archer and T'Pol's beam-in won't be monitored, but he remains aboard to assist Tucker with the investigation from orbit.
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===Act Three===
 
===Act Three===
 
[[File:T'Pol and Jonathan Archer on Vulcan.jpg|thumb|left|T'Pol and Archer face the task ahead]]
 
[[File:T'Pol and Jonathan Archer on Vulcan.jpg|thumb|left|T'Pol and Archer face the task ahead]]
Archer and T'Pol beam down to [[Gateway]]. T'Pol explains to the captain that it was here that Surak supposedly began his journey into the Forge. Archer questions T'Pol about her apparent lack of belief in some of the stories of Surak. She answers by telling him that Surak's writings from that period were lost and that the current copies of his teaching are open to interpretation &ndash; a fact Archer finds familiarly amusing. Their conversation is abruptly interrupted by a [[Sehlat]] screech. Fortunately, they are able to get to high ground before the creature reaches them. T'Pol tells him about the domesticated sehlat
+
Archer and T'Pol beam down to [[Gateway]]. T'Pol explains to the captain that it was here that Surak supposedly began his journey into the Forge. Archer questions T'Pol about her apparent lack of belief in some of the stories of Surak. She answers by telling him that Surak's writings from that period were lost and that the current copies of his teaching are open to interpretation &ndash; a fact Archer finds familiarly amusing. Later, at night, their conversation is abruptly interrupted by a [[Sehlat]] screech. Fortunately, they are able to get to high ground before the creature reaches them. T'Pol tells him about the domesticated sehlat
 
Vulcan children keep as pets, and says that the wild one may keep them trapped there for several days.
 
Vulcan children keep as pets, and says that the wild one may keep them trapped there for several days.
   
On ''Enterprise'', Phlox is examining the bomb to find other [[DNA]] traces. He discovers that the [[telomere]]s from T'Pau's DNA are too long to belong to the thirty-two year-old Vulcan, and concludes that someone falsified the evidence. They must have been taken from her infant DNA in the Vulcan database. From a recording Reed recovered from the embassy, they are able to pinpoint the moment at which T'Pau's DNA signature was recorded. They are not able to identify the suspect, but the guard on the recording seems to recognize the person. Coincidentally, that same guard is currently in the ''Enterprise''{{'}}s [[sickbay]] &ndash; in a [[coma]].
+
On ''Enterprise'', Phlox is examining the bomb to find other [[DNA]] traces. He discovers that the [[telomere]]s from T'Pau's DNA are too long to belong to the [[2122|thirty-two year-old]] Vulcan, and concludes that someone has falsified the evidence. They must have been taken from her infant DNA in the Vulcan database. From a recording Reed recovered from the embassy, they are able to pinpoint the moment at which T'Pau's DNA signature was recorded. They are not able to identify the suspect, but the guard on the recording seems to recognize the person. Coincidentally, that same guard, [[Corporal]] [[Askwith]], is currently in the ''Enterprise''{{'}}s [[sickbay]] &ndash; in a [[coma]].
   
 
On Vulcan, the Sehlat is driven away by a person named [[Arev]], who claims to be on a pilgrimage. Archer pretends that he is also on a pilgrimage and asks if the three of them can walk together. Arev agrees, but not without saying that the Forge will be hard on the Human. As they walk through the desert, Arev asks some questions of the captain and comes to the conclusion that Archer and T'Pol are not really on a pilgrimage. Their discussion is interrupted by a [[sand fire]] storm.
 
On Vulcan, the Sehlat is driven away by a person named [[Arev]], who claims to be on a pilgrimage. Archer pretends that he is also on a pilgrimage and asks if the three of them can walk together. Arev agrees, but not without saying that the Forge will be hard on the Human. As they walk through the desert, Arev asks some questions of the captain and comes to the conclusion that Archer and T'Pol are not really on a pilgrimage. Their discussion is interrupted by a [[sand fire]] storm.
   
 
=== Act Four ===
 
=== Act Four ===
Aboard ''Enterprise'', Tucker and Phlox speak to Soval, hoping he could find someone capable of [[Vulcan mind meld|melding]] with the comatose guard. Given the taboo nature of the practice, Soval won't even consider their request &ndash; but as he turns to leave, Tucker reveals that the DNA evidence implicating T'Pau had been planted on the bomb. Assured by Phlox that the forgery could be proven, Soval, realizing that the tampering with the DNA records suggests a high-level [[conspiracy]], offers to meld with the guard himself.
+
Aboard ''Enterprise'', Tucker and Phlox speak to Soval, hoping he could find someone capable of [[Vulcan mind meld|melding]] with Askwith, the comatose guard. Given the taboo nature of the practice, Soval won't even consider their request &ndash; but as he turns to leave, Tucker reveals that the DNA evidence implicating T'Pau had been planted on the bomb. Assured by Phlox that the forgery could be proven, Soval, realizing that the tampering with the DNA records suggests a high-level [[conspiracy]], offers to meld with the guard himself.
   
 
[[File:Arev.jpg|thumb|Arev, a Vulcan philosopher who guides Archer and T'Pol across Vulcan's Forge]]
 
[[File:Arev.jpg|thumb|Arev, a Vulcan philosopher who guides Archer and T'Pol across Vulcan's Forge]]
In the Forge, the three "pilgrims" find a shelter from the sand fire storm. After seeing T'Pol's IDIC, he realizes who she is. Arev says that he has respect for the captain's actions (regarding the [[P'Jem]] sanctuary, in particular) and agrees to bring them to the [[T'Karath Sanctuary]] when the storm is over. T'Pol's mother is hiding there with the other Syrannites.
+
In the Forge, the three "pilgrims" find a shelter from the sand fire storm in a [[cave]]. After seeing T'Pol's IDIC, he realizes who she is. Arev says that he has respect for the captain's actions ([[The Andorian Incident (episode)|regarding]] the [[P'Jem]] sanctuary, in particular) and agrees to bring them to the [[T'Karath Sanctuary]] when the storm is over. T'Pol's mother is hiding there with the other Syrannites.
   
 
Archer then tells him the real reason they are there. Archer explains that the [[Vulcan High Command|High Command]] claim the Syrannites believe in a corrupted version of Surak's teachings. To that, Arev answers that some say Surak's ''[[katra]]'' was found and is now carried by a Syrannite. According to the rumor, all who mind meld with him may touch Surak's mind. Looking at T'Pol, Arev says that Surak said the mind meld was the heritage of all Vulcans, whether they believe in it or not.
 
Archer then tells him the real reason they are there. Archer explains that the [[Vulcan High Command|High Command]] claim the Syrannites believe in a corrupted version of Surak's teachings. To that, Arev answers that some say Surak's ''[[katra]]'' was found and is now carried by a Syrannite. According to the rumor, all who mind meld with him may touch Surak's mind. Looking at T'Pol, Arev says that Surak said the mind meld was the heritage of all Vulcans, whether they believe in it or not.
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[[Awakening (episode)|To be continued...]]
 
[[Awakening (episode)|To be continued...]]
   
==Memorable Quotes==
+
==Memorable quotes==
 
"''We don't know what to do about Humans. Of all the species we've made contact with, yours is the only one we can't define. You have the arrogance of [[Andorian]]s, the stubborn pride of [[Tellarite]]s. One moment you're as driven by your emotions as [[Klingon]]s, and the next you confound us by suddenly embracing [[logic]]!''"<br />
 
"''We don't know what to do about Humans. Of all the species we've made contact with, yours is the only one we can't define. You have the arrogance of [[Andorian]]s, the stubborn pride of [[Tellarite]]s. One moment you're as driven by your emotions as [[Klingon]]s, and the next you confound us by suddenly embracing [[logic]]!''"<br />
 
"''I'm sure those qualities are found in every species.''"<br />
 
"''I'm sure those qualities are found in every species.''"<br />
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: - '''Stel''', '''Tucker''', and '''Soval'''
 
: - '''Stel''', '''Tucker''', and '''Soval'''
   
==Background Information==
+
==Background information==
 
* This episode marks the death of [[Maxwell Forrest]]. However, he dies off-screen, and his death is not apparent until Archer's log entry.
 
* This episode marks the death of [[Maxwell Forrest]]. However, he dies off-screen, and his death is not apparent until Archer's log entry.
 
* This episode reveals (or at least confirms) that there is a [[United Earth Government]]. Its Great Seal has already appeared in {{e|Home}}.
 
* This episode reveals (or at least confirms) that there is a [[United Earth Government]]. Its Great Seal has already appeared in {{e|Home}}.
 
* This is the only episode in the [[Vulcan Reformation]] trilogy that was shot on location, as scenes in the Forge were shot at an industrial site in Simi Valley, in Ventura County, northwest of Los Angeles. On the road leading there from the main street, the production staff were amused to see a coincidental sign for "[http://www.vulcanmaterials.com/ Vulcan Materials Company]".
 
* This is the only episode in the [[Vulcan Reformation]] trilogy that was shot on location, as scenes in the Forge were shot at an industrial site in Simi Valley, in Ventura County, northwest of Los Angeles. On the road leading there from the main street, the production staff were amused to see a coincidental sign for "[http://www.vulcanmaterials.com/ Vulcan Materials Company]".
 
* Filming began on Tuesday, {{d|14|September|2004}} and ran for the usual seven work days through Wednesday.
 
* Filming began on Tuesday, {{d|14|September|2004}} and ran for the usual seven work days through Wednesday.
* [[Robert Foxworth]] previously played [[Admiral]] [[Leyton]] in the ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]'' episodes {{e|Homefront}} and {{e|Paradise Lost}}.
+
* [[Robert Foxworth]] previously played [[Admiral]] [[Leyton]] in the ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]'' episodes {{e|Homefront}} and {{e|Paradise Lost}}. Interestingly enough, {{e|Homefront}} also opened with the bombing of a diplomatic conference.
 
* The script and production report at {{brokenlink|http://www.startrek.com/startrek/view/news/article/6776.html|text=StarTrek.com}} establish that the Earth [[embassy]] was in [[Shi'Kahr]].
 
* The script and production report at {{brokenlink|http://www.startrek.com/startrek/view/news/article/6776.html|text=StarTrek.com}} establish that the Earth [[embassy]] was in [[Shi'Kahr]].
 
* The questions that Arev asks Archer in the desert ("''Who said 'Logic is the cement of our civilization, with which we ascend from chaos using reason as our guide'?''" and "''What is [[Kiri-kin-tha]]'s First Law of Metaphysics?''") are from {{film|4}}, when the computer in the Vulcan temple asks them of [[Spock]]. The answers are "''[[T'Plana-Hath (matron)|T'Plana-Hath]], Matron of Vulcan Philosophy''" and "''Nothing unreal exists''", respectively.
 
* The questions that Arev asks Archer in the desert ("''Who said 'Logic is the cement of our civilization, with which we ascend from chaos using reason as our guide'?''" and "''What is [[Kiri-kin-tha]]'s First Law of Metaphysics?''") are from {{film|4}}, when the computer in the Vulcan temple asks them of [[Spock]]. The answers are "''[[T'Plana-Hath (matron)|T'Plana-Hath]], Matron of Vulcan Philosophy''" and "''Nothing unreal exists''", respectively.
 
* Arev/Syrran's transference of Surak's ''katra'' to Archer is an homage to [[Spock]]'s transfer to [[Leonard McCoy]] in {{film|2}} (revealed in {{film|3}}). As in the films, Syrran tells Archer to "remember," albeit in [[Vulcan language|Vulcan]].{{brokenlink|url=http://www.startrek.com/startrek/view/news/article/6776.html}}
 
* Arev/Syrran's transference of Surak's ''katra'' to Archer is an homage to [[Spock]]'s transfer to [[Leonard McCoy]] in {{film|2}} (revealed in {{film|3}}). As in the films, Syrran tells Archer to "remember," albeit in [[Vulcan language|Vulcan]].{{brokenlink|url=http://www.startrek.com/startrek/view/news/article/6776.html}}
  +
* The sehlat is a Vulcan creature mentioned in {{TOS|Journey to Babel}}. It was described by Spock's mother [[Amanda Grayson|Amanda]] as a "fat teddy bear," and that Spock himself was quite fond of this pet. Responsive to Dr. McCoy's teasing, Spock added that the "teddy bears" were alive and had six-inch fangs.
* After the [[ENT Season 1|Season 1]] episode {{e|Shuttlepod One}} and [[ENT Season 3|Season 3]]'s {{e|Carpenter Street}}, this is the third and final episode in which no scene takes place on ''[[Enterprise (NX-01)|Enterprise]]''{{'}}s bridge.
+
* After the [[ENT Season 1|Season 1]] episode {{e|Shuttlepod One}} and [[ENT Season 3|Season 3]]'s {{e|Carpenter Street}}, this is the third and final episode in which no scene takes place on {{NX|Enterprise}}'s bridge.
 
* The uniform type Archer wears in the desert has its rank pips on the collar, similar to [[TNG]], DS9, and [[VOY]] style uniforms.
 
* The uniform type Archer wears in the desert has its rank pips on the collar, similar to [[TNG]], DS9, and [[VOY]] style uniforms.
 
*The security desk in the embassy was previously used as the Helm console on the {{USS|Pasteur}} from {{TNG|All Good Things...}}.
 
*The security desk in the embassy was previously used as the Helm console on the {{USS|Pasteur}} from {{TNG|All Good Things...}}.
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===Uncredited Co-Stars===
 
===Uncredited Co-Stars===
*[[Dionne Anthony]] as a [[Unnamed Vulcans (22nd century)#Vulcan Syrrannites|Vulcan Syrrannite]]
+
*[[Dionne Anthony]] as a [[Vulcan 22nd century Syrrannites|Vulcan Syrrannite]]
 
*[[Rafael Boza]] as [[Corporal]] [[Askwith]]
 
*[[Rafael Boza]] as [[Corporal]] [[Askwith]]
*[[Michael Cassidy]] as an [[Unnamed Humans (22nd century)#Earth embassy officials|Earth embassy official]]
+
*[[Michael Cassidy]] as an [[Human 22nd century Earth embassy officials|Earth embassy official]]
*[[Jeff Doba]] as a [[Unnamed Vulcans (22nd century)#Vulcan Syrrannites|Vulcan Syrrannite]]
+
*[[Jeff Doba]] as a [[Vulcan 22nd century Syrrannites|Vulcan Syrrannite]]
*[[Dieter Horneman]] as a [[Unnamed Vulcans (22nd century)#Vulcan Syrrannites|Vulcan Syrrannite]]
+
*[[Dieter Horneman]] as a [[Vulcan 22nd century Syrrannites|Vulcan Syrrannite]]
*[[Richard Kent]] as a [[Unnamed Vulcans (22nd century)#Vulcan Syrrannites|Vulcan Syrrannite]]
+
*[[Richard Kent]] as a [[Vulcan 22nd century Syrrannites|Vulcan Syrrannite]]
*[[John Jurgens]] as a [[Unnamed Vulcans (22nd century)#Vulcan Syrrannites|Vulcan Syrrannite]]
+
*[[John Jurgens]] as a [[Vulcan 22nd century Syrrannites|Vulcan Syrrannite]]
*[[Aouri Makhlouf]] as a [[Unnamed Enterprise (NX-01) personnel#Male medical officer|medical crewman]]
+
*[[Aouri Makhlouf]] as a [[EnterpriseNX sciences medical officer 003|medical crewman]]
*[[Jennifer Nash (extra)|Jennifer Nash]] as a [[Unnamed Vulcans (22nd century)#Vulcans at United Earth Embassy|Vulcan at embassy]]
+
*{{dis|Jennifer Nash|extra}} as a [[Vulcan 22nd century embassy Vulcan 2|Vulcan at embassy]]
 
*[[Kara Zediker]] as [[T'Pau]] (still picture)
 
*[[Kara Zediker]] as [[T'Pau]] (still picture)
 
*[[Unknown performers]] as
 
*[[Unknown performers]] as
**[[Unnamed Humans (22nd century)#Earth embassy officials|Eight Humans at Earth embassy]]
+
**[[Human 22nd century Earth embassy officials|Eight Humans at Earth embassy]]
**[[Unnamed Enterprise (NX-01) personnel#Female medical officer (2154)|Female medical officer]]
+
**[[EnterpriseNX sciences medical officer 002|Female medical officer]]
**[[Unnamed Vulcans (22nd century)#Vulcans at United Earth Embassy|Male Vulcan at embassy]]
+
**[[Vulcan 22nd century embassy Vulcan 1|Male Vulcan at embassy]]
 
**[[Unnamed Starfleet personnel (22nd century)#Earth embassy officer|Female science division officer]]
 
**[[Unnamed Starfleet personnel (22nd century)#Earth embassy officer|Female science division officer]]
 
**[[Unnamed Starfleet personnel (22nd century)#Earth embassy officers|Three operations division officers]]
 
**[[Unnamed Starfleet personnel (22nd century)#Earth embassy officers|Three operations division officers]]
**[[Unnamed Vulcans (22nd century)#Vulcan Syrrannites|Vulcan Syrrannite]]
+
**[[Vulcan 22nd century Syrrannites|Vulcan Syrrannite]]
   
 
===Stunt doubles and [[stand-in]]s===
 
===Stunt doubles and [[stand-in]]s===

Revision as of 04:11, 17 January 2016

Template:Realworld

When Earth's embassy on Vulcan is bombed, the investigation puts Archer and T'Pol on the trail of a Vulcan religious faction hiding in a treacherous desert.

Summary

Teaser

In 2137, a young Vulcan male wanders alone through a subterranean tunnel on the planet Vulcan. He finds a sculptured casing that is completely covered in dust. Using a brush, the young Vulcan wipes away the dust from the casing to reveal a symbol. He mutters a single word: "Surak".

Act One

"Admiral Maxwell Forrest's personal log. I've arrived on Vulcan hopeful that the High Command is finally ready to conduct joint missions with Starfleet."

Seventeen years later, in 2154, Admiral Forrest has traveled to Vulcan to learn of the Vulcan High Command's decision on whether to start conducting joint missions with Starfleet. At the embassy, Forrest discusses the matter with Ambassador Soval and is surprised to learn that Soval was not consulted by the council. Regarding the Vulcan reluctance to share technologies, Soval explains that Humans are confusing to them and that the fast progress of Human development in recent years greatly concerns the Vulcans. Suddenly an explosion is heard by the two men and Forrest quickly pushes Soval to the ground as the embassy is engulfed in flames.

On the Enterprise, the senior officers are enjoying a spirited game of basketball in launch bay two. Phlox, who is exceptionally good and has to keep switching teams, likens the game to Octran fertility contests but with more clothing. T'Pol then summons Archer away from the game to give him the bad news.

United Earth Embassy aftermath

The aftermath at the United Earth Embassy

"Captain's starlog: supplemental. Enterprise has arrived at Vulcan as ordered. Three days after the bombing of Earth's embassy, the death toll stands at 43 and I have lost my friend, Admiral Forrest. Vulcan authorities still have no lead on who's responsible."

Archer is met by Administrator V'Las at Enterprise's airlock. V'Las is the head of the Vulcan High Command. He is joined by Ambassador Soval and Stel, chief investigator of the Vulcan Security Directorate. After Archer rejects the suggestion that the bomb was planted by Andorians, Stel reluctantly reveals that Syrrannites are also under suspicion. Archer mistakes this as the name of another species but T'Pol corrects him, explaining that they are a small group of Vulcans who follow a "corrupted" form of Surak's teachings. The Syrranites' logical and peaceful nature make them unlikely candidates. When Archer asks if there is any evidence, Soval points out that the embassy is officially considered to be on Earth soil therefore placing any investigation of the crime scene under Starfleet jurisdiction.

Archer sends Lieutenant Reed and Ensign Mayweather transport down to investigate the blast site where Mayweather uncovers an undetonated bomb. Reed scans the device and discovers Vulcan DNA on the controls. A closer scan triggers the device but the two officers manage to transport back to Enterprise, seconds before it explodes.

Act Two

Phlox's investigation matches the recovered DNA to T'Pau, a well known Syrrannite. The Captain asks if she has a previous criminal record, but T'Pol explains that the DNA of every Vulcan is recorded at birth. When Archer attempts to pursue the leads further, however, Stel says that since T'Pau is Vulcan, the overall investigation consequently now falls under Vulcan jurisdiction and that Starfleet assistance is not required. He will have Soval inform them of anything they need to know, much to Archer's chagrin.

Morgue, The Forge

The Human casualties, aboard Enterprise

Archer enters Enterprise's cargo bay, where the bodies of the Humans lost in the bombing are being held for transport back to Earth. While quietly reflecting over the coffin of Admiral Forrest, the captain is joined by Soval who notes that the Admiral died saving his life when he could have saved his own instead. Soval makes clear there is no reason or evidence to suggest the Syrranites are responsible for the bombing, and does not understand why they are being accused. He urges Archer not to leave the investigation in the hands of the Vulcan High Command but to question everything and go down to Vulcan, while also promising the captain his full support.

Meanwhile, Koss visits his wife T'Pol in her quarters. T'Pol is not particularly pleased to see her husband but he insists that a face-to-face meeting was necessary. He gives T'Pol an IDIC that T'Les, her mother, wanted passed along claiming it was a family heirloom. Koss explains that the new security conditions on Vulcan, following the bombing, have forced T'Les into hiding because she is actually a Syrranite. T'Pol (having never seen the supposed heirloom before) presents the IDIC to Archer, explaining that it has been modified, and activates it. The IDIC displays a holographic topographical map of Vulcan's Forge.

Against Tucker's warnings that the Forge is a "hell hole" with electrical sandstorms and geomagnetic instabilities that prevent the use of any technology, Archer decides to transport down to Vulcan with T'Pol in search of the Syrranites. Soval provides data on the gaps in Vulcan satellite surveillance, so that Archer and T'Pol's beam-in won't be monitored, but he remains aboard to assist Tucker with the investigation from orbit.

Act Three

T'Pol and Jonathan Archer on Vulcan

T'Pol and Archer face the task ahead

Archer and T'Pol beam down to Gateway. T'Pol explains to the captain that it was here that Surak supposedly began his journey into the Forge. Archer questions T'Pol about her apparent lack of belief in some of the stories of Surak. She answers by telling him that Surak's writings from that period were lost and that the current copies of his teaching are open to interpretation – a fact Archer finds familiarly amusing. Later, at night, their conversation is abruptly interrupted by a Sehlat screech. Fortunately, they are able to get to high ground before the creature reaches them. T'Pol tells him about the domesticated sehlat Vulcan children keep as pets, and says that the wild one may keep them trapped there for several days.

On Enterprise, Phlox is examining the bomb to find other DNA traces. He discovers that the telomeres from T'Pau's DNA are too long to belong to the thirty-two year-old Vulcan, and concludes that someone has falsified the evidence. They must have been taken from her infant DNA in the Vulcan database. From a recording Reed recovered from the embassy, they are able to pinpoint the moment at which T'Pau's DNA signature was recorded. They are not able to identify the suspect, but the guard on the recording seems to recognize the person. Coincidentally, that same guard, Corporal Askwith, is currently in the Enterprise's sickbay – in a coma.

On Vulcan, the Sehlat is driven away by a person named Arev, who claims to be on a pilgrimage. Archer pretends that he is also on a pilgrimage and asks if the three of them can walk together. Arev agrees, but not without saying that the Forge will be hard on the Human. As they walk through the desert, Arev asks some questions of the captain and comes to the conclusion that Archer and T'Pol are not really on a pilgrimage. Their discussion is interrupted by a sand fire storm.

Act Four

Aboard Enterprise, Tucker and Phlox speak to Soval, hoping he could find someone capable of melding with Askwith, the comatose guard. Given the taboo nature of the practice, Soval won't even consider their request – but as he turns to leave, Tucker reveals that the DNA evidence implicating T'Pau had been planted on the bomb. Assured by Phlox that the forgery could be proven, Soval, realizing that the tampering with the DNA records suggests a high-level conspiracy, offers to meld with the guard himself.

Arev

Arev, a Vulcan philosopher who guides Archer and T'Pol across Vulcan's Forge

In the Forge, the three "pilgrims" find a shelter from the sand fire storm in a cave. After seeing T'Pol's IDIC, he realizes who she is. Arev says that he has respect for the captain's actions (regarding the P'Jem sanctuary, in particular) and agrees to bring them to the T'Karath Sanctuary when the storm is over. T'Pol's mother is hiding there with the other Syrannites.

Archer then tells him the real reason they are there. Archer explains that the High Command claim the Syrannites believe in a corrupted version of Surak's teachings. To that, Arev answers that some say Surak's katra was found and is now carried by a Syrannite. According to the rumor, all who mind meld with him may touch Surak's mind. Looking at T'Pol, Arev says that Surak said the mind meld was the heritage of all Vulcans, whether they believe in it or not.

On Enterprise, Soval, Phlox and Trip meet with V'Las and Stel. When they ask who the real culprit is, Soval reveals the truth – it is Stel. They claim to have an eyewitness who identified him as the one who planted the bomb in the embassy. When Stel and V'Las ask to speak with the witness, Phlox says that his patient is in a coma. After Soval admits to performing a mind meld, Stel protests, noting that telepathic evidence is inadmissible. V'Las informs the ambassador that he will be summoned to appear before the High Command to account for his actions.

Act Five

In the Forge, the storm is gaining in strength. T'Pol is hit by an electric discharge while trying to reseal the cavern entrance. Another discharge hits Arev, deadly this time. Just before dying, Arev mind melds with the captain saying that he must carry "it" to the sanctuary.

On Enterprise, Soval is going to turn himself in to the Vulcan High Command. When Tucker protests and accuses the ambassador of not trusting Humans, Soval responds "Peace and Long Life", suggesting that he has more respect for Tucker than the engineer realizes.

Archer is awakened by T'Pol. He says Arev said something to him, which turns out to be the Vulcan word for "Remember," but neither Archer nor T'Pol understand what it means. They agree to continue searching for the sanctuary, which is supposed to be nearby, after burying Arev. Archer has strange intuitions and finds the sanctuary easily. As they enter through a disguised portal, Archer tells T'Pol not to resist. Inside, they are seized by a group of armed Vulcans.

To be continued...

Memorable quotes

"We don't know what to do about Humans. Of all the species we've made contact with, yours is the only one we can't define. You have the arrogance of Andorians, the stubborn pride of Tellarites. One moment you're as driven by your emotions as Klingons, and the next you confound us by suddenly embracing logic!"
"I'm sure those qualities are found in every species."
"Not in such confusing abundance."

- Soval and Maxwell Forrest, in the halls of Earth's embassy on Vulcan


"Ambassador... are Vulcans afraid of Humans?"

(Soval answers with a slight nod)

"Why?"
"Because, there is one species you remind us of."
"Vulcans."

- Forrest and Soval


"There are those on the High Command who wonder what Humans would achieve in the century to come, and they don't like the answer."
"We're not the Klingons. We only want to be your partners, to do what the nations of Earth have learned to do: to work together in common cause."

- Soval and Forrest, just before a bomb explodes in the embassy


"This is a most enjoyable sport – reminiscent of Octran fertility contests... except we're fully clothed, which is probably for the best!"

- Phlox, to Captain Archer, after winning another game


"Sounds like that Klingon Opera Hoshi made us listen to."

- Archer to T'Pol, referring to the cry of the sehlat


"Vulcans do not lie."
"I've dealt with the High Command. Vulcans can lie and cheat with the best of them."

- Arev and Archer


"I don't know if this has ever been attempted with a Human before."

- Soval, to Tucker, as he attempts a Vulcan mind meld with the comatose Corporal Askwith


"I'm good for a few more days."
"Captain, you're not Vulcan."

- Archer and T'Pol, as he turns down her offer of water


"A witness?"
"The guard recognized the person who brought in the bomb we found in the rubble..."
"The Syrranite woman - T'Pau..."
"No...it was you!"

- Stel, Tucker, and Soval

Background information

  • This episode marks the death of Maxwell Forrest. However, he dies off-screen, and his death is not apparent until Archer's log entry.
  • This episode reveals (or at least confirms) that there is a United Earth Government. Its Great Seal has already appeared in "Home".
  • This is the only episode in the Vulcan Reformation trilogy that was shot on location, as scenes in the Forge were shot at an industrial site in Simi Valley, in Ventura County, northwest of Los Angeles. On the road leading there from the main street, the production staff were amused to see a coincidental sign for "Vulcan Materials Company".
  • Filming began on Tuesday, 14 September 2004 and ran for the usual seven work days through Wednesday.
  • Robert Foxworth previously played Admiral Leyton in the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine episodes "Homefront" and "Paradise Lost". Interestingly enough, "Homefront" also opened with the bombing of a diplomatic conference.
  • The script and production report at Template:Brokenlink establish that the Earth embassy was in Shi'Kahr.
  • The questions that Arev asks Archer in the desert ("Who said 'Logic is the cement of our civilization, with which we ascend from chaos using reason as our guide'?" and "What is Kiri-kin-tha's First Law of Metaphysics?") are from Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home, when the computer in the Vulcan temple asks them of Spock. The answers are "T'Plana-Hath, Matron of Vulcan Philosophy" and "Nothing unreal exists", respectively.
  • Arev/Syrran's transference of Surak's katra to Archer is an homage to Spock's transfer to Leonard McCoy in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (revealed in Star Trek III: The Search for Spock). As in the films, Syrran tells Archer to "remember," albeit in Vulcan.Template:Brokenlink
  • The sehlat is a Vulcan creature mentioned in TOS: "Journey to Babel". It was described by Spock's mother Amanda as a "fat teddy bear," and that Spock himself was quite fond of this pet. Responsive to Dr. McCoy's teasing, Spock added that the "teddy bears" were alive and had six-inch fangs.
  • After the Season 1 episode "Shuttlepod One" and Season 3's "Carpenter Street", this is the third and final episode in which no scene takes place on Enterprise's bridge.
  • The uniform type Archer wears in the desert has its rank pips on the collar, similar to TNG, DS9, and VOY style uniforms.
  • The security desk in the embassy was previously used as the Helm console on the USS Pasteur from TNG: "All Good Things...".

Links and references

Starring

Guest Stars

And

Co-Star

Uncredited Co-Stars

Stunt doubles and stand-ins

References

Andoria; Andorians; basketball; battery; candle; coffin; coma; dampening field; DNA; Earth; Earth Starfleet; emergency transporter lock; Gateway; geomagnetic interference; gravity switch; IDIC; inner eyelid; junction room; katra; katric ark; Kiri-kin-tha; Klingon opera; Klingons; metaphysics; meter; morgue; Mount Seleya; Newton, Isaac; Octran; P'Jem; Plain of Blood; Porthos; retinal imaging scan; sand fire; secondary security bank; sehlat; standard year; Starfleet Command; sun glasses; Surak; surveillance recorder; Syrrannite; Tellarites; telomere; Time of Awakening; T'Karath Sanctuary; T'Plana-Hath; United Earth Diplomatic Corps; United Earth Embassy; Vulcan's Forge; Vulcan Genome Registry; Vulcans; Vulcan (planet); Vulcan High Command; Vulcan mind meld; Vulcan Security Directorate

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"The Augments"
Star Trek: Enterprise
Season 4
Next episode:
"Awakening"