Riker is captured by a planet on that is being investigated by the Federation prior to being officially contacted. The civilization is just on the verge of space travel but still believe themselves to be the only beings in the universe. Thus, the presence of Riker, an alien, comes as quite a shock to the leaders of the planet. In order to save Riker, Picard must violate the Prime Directive and make his presence known to the people of the planet ahead of schedule.

Producer: David Livingston
Director: Cliff Bole
Teleplay: Dennis Russell Bailey, David Bischoff, Joe Menosky, Ronald D. Moore, Michael Piller
Story: Marc Scott Zicree

Guest Cast:

George Coe (Durken)
Carolyn Seymour (Mirasta)
George Hearn (Berel)
Michael Ensign (Krola)
Steven Anderson (Nilrem)
Sachi Parker (Tava)
Bebe Neuwirth (Lanel)