Attempting to find a specific Episode.

[Cofla]

Greetings.

I have been attempting to track down a specific episode of TNG for a friend but only have limited info. I figured this would be the place to ask.

At the end of the episode in question Picard and (I believe) Riker are having a conversation about the nature of the universe. Picard talks about how this universe could be being observed by others and, in turn, that universe could be similarly observed. Sort of a box-within-a-box-within-a-box thing.

I don't know what lead to this conversation, this is just how the episode was described to me. I have wracked my brain and cannot think of a single episode that this could be from. Initially, I thought it could be 'The Royale' but it was not the case.

Hopefully, this jogs someones memory.

Thanks guys,

Craig.

 

[Guy Gardener]

RIKER: How did you do it, sir?
PICARD: We managed to programme the holodeck inside the holodeck, and use the same ruse that Moriarty used on us.
DATA: When he was attempting to contact the real Bridge, he was in fact speaking to a simulation.
TROI: You mean he never knew he hadn't left the holodeck?
PICARD: In fact, the programme is continuing even now inside that cube.
CRUSHER: A miniature holodeck?
DATA: In a way, Doctor. However, there is no physicality. The programme is continuous but only within the computer's circuitry.
BARCLAY: As far as Moriarty and the Countess know, they're half way to Meles Two by now. This enhancement module contains enough active memory to provide them experiences for a lifetime.
PICARD: They will live their lives and never know any difference.
TROI: In a sense, you did give Moriarty what he wanted.
PICARD: In a sense. But who knows? Our reality may be very much like theirs. All this might be just be an elaborate simulation running inside a little device sitting on someone's table. Well, we have a newborn star to study. Mister Barclay, you will keep that safe?
BARCLAY: Aye, sir.
(everyone else leaves)
BARCLAY: Computer, end programme.

S06E12. Ship in a Bottle.

The second Moriarty adventure.

 

[Terok Nor]

Sounds like the Season 7 episode where Picard and Riker finally get it on.

 

[Finn]

I think the op's friend is remembering elements from several episodes thinking it was a single episode, which isn't unusual. Some of the descriptions the OP made made me think of Where Silence Has Lease.

Picard doesn't usually have a cerebral or deep conversation like that with Riker.

 

[Mutai Sho-Rin]

Mr. Gardener is right on the money.