re: Patrick Stewart returning to Star Trek

What I think would be best for Picard, letting it take place after the Dominion War. Picard works to keep the alliance between Federation, Klingon Empire, Romulan Empire, and Cardassia as they and all of the Alpha Quadrant rebuild after a very long and destructive war. The Dominion and Borg could make some occasional appearences if needed.

Picard was one of the best at Diplomatic Missions, and keeping the peace with the Romulans would require a lot... Or keeping the Romulans and the Klingons from going at it as well.