Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges

DVD, DS9 S7 (Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges)

Section 31 were one of the best ideas that the series came up with, especially so late in its lifespan. The rogue organisation generally, and Sloan specifically, demanded a sequel. Part of the mystery of the man and his secrets is whether they really exist at all. Is Section 31 a real entity, is it something created by Sloan, based on something that did once exist (as evidenced by 'Enterprise'), or at the least, passed down from centuries past? How can Sloan do all the things he does if he's just a single person with nothing to back him up. I think after this episode it's probably safe to take it for granted that he does have friends all over the place, but whether the other questions can be answered, or ever will be is something to ponder.

Bashir is the perfect template for Sloan's needs. Once again he uses the Doctor's fascination with the undercover, his love of the legacy of spying, and his unfailing duty to Starfleet and his fellow beings to manipulate and control him indirectly, while Bashir thinks he's doing it directly. Aside from the deep and complex world of the undercover operative, the episode has much more to recommend it. Voyager, at last, makes an appearance on DS9! Okay, so it's actually the USS Bellerophon, and it's an excuse for them to save money and use the 'Voyager' sets. The point is, we now know there are other Intrepid Class ships, and short of seeing Bashir and Ross turn up on Voyager this is the next best thing. It's quite a thrill to see them talking in the Ready Room, or sipping Romulan ale, now legalised, in the Mess Hall! Brilliant.

Admiral Ross gets his most substantial storyline, with the surprise double-cross. That such a straitlaced official would join forces with the rogue organisation, is shocking in itself, and lends credence to the view that Section 31 is known about by Starfleet, and unofficially endorsed. Perhaps things would be harder for Sloan if there was no war (you could start going into crazy conspiracy territory and wonder if he had a hand in bringing about war, his schemes are so web-like!), and that without it he might not have the same power. Yet despite his machinations he clearly is interested in the wellbeing of the Federation. All of this makes him such a compelling character.

Cretak (and my, how she's lost weight!), was never quite as compelling, and for her crimes she becomes the sacrificial lamb, in the wrong place at the wrong time. It's a shame she wasn't developed further, as such a pro-alliance Romulan who did her best to fit in, is a rare thing. The trip to Romulus is another rarity, and would have been on many a viewer's wishlist. Starfleet Intelligence, the Tal'Shiar, all these undercover, secretive departments are always fascinating, and this story cements their intrigue. I'm guessing the actual Romulan senate (as seen in 'Nemesis') must have been undergoing renovation so they had to use a smaller room, right?

*****