Object

Picard's English Saddle

A well‑fitted English riding saddle placed on an Arabian mare within the holodeck. Constructed of smooth, dark leather with a firm pommel and cantle, narrow flaps, metal stirrups, and a cinched girth; sized for a single rider and showing signs of recent use but carefully maintained. The saddle feels tactile and responsive in the holodeck’s simulated environment—already‑saddled when Picard approaches; he smooths the mare’s mane, mounts, and rides with the tack providing secure, manual control. (Consolidated from duplicate entries that referred to the same physical saddle.)

3 appearances

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

3 moments

S2E15 · Pen Pals

Picard's Private Mount: Solitude, Control, and a Quiet Invitation

The English saddle and bridle appear already fitted on the Holodeck horse when the doors open, directly fulfilling Picard's specification and visually confirming his control and authenticity requirements for the ride.

Before: Instantiated within the Holodeck program (not visible to corridor until doors open).

After: Visible on the horse in the glade and ready for Picard to mount and use.

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S2E15 · Pen Pals

Picard's Horse — A Quiet Ritual of Agency

Picard requests 'English tack' and the scene shows a bridle and saddle already fitted to the horse, authenticating the equestrian experience, enabling him to claim direct control and signaling the holodeck's precise responsiveness.

Before: Not physically present in the corridor; programmed into the holodeck and materialized on the horse when the doors open.

After: Fitted to the horse in the glade, ready for Picard to use.

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S2E15 · Pen Pals

Picard's Quiet Ritual on the Holodeck

The English saddle and bridle function as both practical equipment and a focal prop for Picard's ritual: already fitted to the mare, they enable mounting and movement, offer a familiar tactile interface for the captain, and symbolically anchor his attempt to steady himself before the ethical conflict.

Before: Pristine, taut and properly fitted on the holodeck mare; ready for use and positioned for immediate mounting.

After: Remains fitted and in use while Picard rides into the trees; continues to serve its functional role without visible change.

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