We kick this episode off with Picard giving a smirk of approval to the notion of selling weapons to both sides of a conflict. America's disposition toward the middle east comes to mind but I digress. We learn that Riker was offered his own ship before accepting the post of second officer on the Enterprise. Riker's unwillingness to take command is a recurring theme throughout TNG. I sort of wish they spun him off mid series but whatever.
Next, we meet a holographic arms merchant who understands how the universe actually works: "Peace through superior firepower." Picard is impressed so he sends an away team down to make contact and negotiate a sale.
We quickly learn that Starfleet technology can't melt Tritanium so it's a good thing we are here. Looks like we might get to score a free sample, but a reconnaissance drone shows up and traps Riker in a stasis field. Realizing Riker won't be able to close the deal Picard puts Geordi in charge of the ship and beams down to the planet himself with Crusher in tow.
The super dooper sci fi weapon that destroyed a planet has garbage aim but it still manages to chase Picard and Crusher into a hole.
Back in space we meet yet another chief engineer. This time it's Lt. Logan, and he means business. Geordi handles him nicely by putting him in charge of the saucer section and sending him off into space with all the other nonessentials.
Back on the planet Tasha, Riker and Data tangle with another drone while Picard raises Crusher's legs and keeps her warm. She gets tired of his company though, so Picard goes to meet the with the salesman, gets the low down on the Echo Papa 607, and closes the deal.
Jokes aside, this episode is pretty good for season 1, and not half bad when considering the series as a whole. Geordi really feels like a character, Riker and Tasha show hints of sexual chemistry, Worf has some good one liners, and Wesley is nowhere to be found.
Verdict: A season 1 standout.
Fun facts:
Android's can survive 11.75 meter drops without issue. Picard must have landed on something soft.
Lorenz is the mathematician that developed chaos theory.
The alternative name for the Enterprise is the lollipop. She's a good ship.