dismantle the fleet, -
- we'd be defenceless before
an aggressive species on our territory.
The opportunity here is
to bring them to their knees.
Then we'll be in a better position
to dictate terms.
- Sir...
- Captain Kirk?
The Klingons
have never been trustworthy.
I agree with Admiral Cartwright.
This is a terrifying idea.
It is imperative that we act now
to support the Gorkon initiative, -
- lest more conservative elements
persuade his empire -
- that it's better to attempt
a military solution and die fighting.
You, Captain Kirk,
are to be our first olive branch.
We are to rendezvous with the vessel
which is bringing Gorkon to Earth -
- and to escort him safely through
Federation space.
Me?
There are Klingons who feel the same
about the peace treaty as yourself, -
- but they'll think twice about attacking
the Enterprise under your command.
I have personally vouched for you
in this matter.
You have personally vouched...?
You will extend Chancellor Gorkon
full diplomatic courtesy, Captain.
- A full Ambassador is better equipped...
- If there's no further business...
...I wish you and your crew Godspeed.
Thank you, ladies and gentlemen.
I remind you this meeting is classified.
I don't know whether to
congratulate you or not, Jim.
I wouldn't.
We volunteered?
There's an old Vulcan proverb.
"Only Nixon could go to China."
How could you vouch for me?
- That's arrogant presumption.
- My father requested that I open...
I know your father is the Vulcan
Ambassador, but you know how I feel.
- They're animals.
- Jim...
- There is an historic opportunity here.
- Don't believe them! Don't trust them.
- They're dying.
- Let them die.
Has it occurred to you that this crew is
due to stand down in three months?
We've done our bit for king and country.
You should have trusted me.
Control, this is S-D 103,
approach to Space dock. Over.
You are clear to deliver Captain Kirk
and party to N.C.C. 1701 Alpha.
- Captain on the bridge!
- As you were. Lieutenant...?
Val'eris, sir. We were told you needed
a helmsman, so I volunteered.
It is agreeable to see you again.
She was the first Vulcan to graduate
at the top of her class at the Academy.
- You must be very proud.
- I don't believe so, sir.
She's a Vulcan, alright.
Let's get this over with.
Departure stations.
- Scotty? Did you find the engine room?
- Right where I left it.
Stand by.
Uhura, get me the dock master.
Control tower reading, sir.
Control, this is Enterprise
requesting permission to depart.
This is Control. Permission to depart
granted. 30 seconds for port gates.
- Clear all moorings.
- Awaiting port gates from this mark.
- All lines clear.
- Aft thrusters.
Thank you, Lieutenant.
1 quarter impulse power.
Captain, regulations specify
thrusters only while in space dock.
Jim...
You heard the order, Lieutenant.
Aye, sir.
Captain's log. Stardate 9522.6.
I've never trusted Klingons,
and I never will.
I can never forgive them for
the death of my boy.
To escort the Chancellor of the Klingon
High Council to a peace summit -
- is problematic, at best.
Spock says this could be an historic
occasion. I'd like to believe him.
But how on Earth can history get past
people like me?
- Sorry.
- You could have knocked.
We are almost at the rendezvous, sir.
I thought that you would like to know.
Permission to speak freely, sir.
It is an honour to serve with you.
You piloted well out of space dock,
Lieutenant.
I've always wanted to try that.
You've done well, Val'eris.
As your sponsor at the Academy I've
followed your career with satisfaction.
And as a Vulcan,
you have exceeded my expectations.
I do not understand this representation.
It's a depiction
from ancient Earth mythology.
"The expulsion from Paradise."
- Why keep it in your quarters?
- To remind me that all things end.
It is of endings that I wish to speak.
Sir, I address you
as a kindred intellect.
Do you not recognise...