TROI STEPPED ONTO THE BRIDGE expecting to face the grim tension of a disaster’s aftermath. Instead she was relieved to find the mood one of guarded optimism. The young officers who surrounded Captain Picard seemed to be drawing their calm surety from him.

“Counselor,” Picard said. “Just in time.”

She moved to her seat and nodded to Perim, who was seated in Riker’s chair, on the other side of the captain from Troi. The planet Tezwa grew large on the main viewscreen as the ship dropped out of warp. The Klingon and Tezwan fleets all were posed in space, like a re-created image from a history text.

“We’ve entered orbit, Captain,” Magner said.

At ops, Le Roy worked quickly, analyzing sensor readings. “The guns and firebases have been destroyed, sir. All effects appear to have been implosive, as predicted.”

Picard nodded. “Mr. Wriede, any reports of casualties?”

The tactical officer peered at his console. “Scanning Tezwan military frequencies now,” he said. “Initial reports indicate limited injuries—but no fatalities, at the firebases or the artillery units.”

“Very good,” Picard said. Troi felt the captain’s relief at the news, even though he was maintaining a steady, calm façade. “Open a channel to the office of the Tezwan prime minister. And raise Fleet Captain Krogan, as well.”

“Aye, sir,” Wriede said as he began hailing the surface.

Troi turned to consult privately with the captain. “What’s our next move?…Reopening the dialogue between the Klingons and the Tezwans?”

“Not yet,” Picard said. “There’s something I need from the Tezwans first.”

Troi shot him a questioning look.

With a wry smirk he added, “Their surrender.”