1648 lines
83 KiB
Plaintext
1648 lines
83 KiB
Plaintext
From henry@cerberus.bhpese.oz.au Sun Dec 12 01:28:05 1993
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["82423" "Sun" "12" "December" "1993" "18:26:42" "+1100" "henry@cerberus.bhpese.oz.au" "henry@cerberus.bhpese.oz.au" nil "1629" "Story - A Cruel Universe" "^From:" nil nil "12"])
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Message-Id: <199312120726.AA10122@cerberus.bhpese.oz.au>
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From: henry@cerberus.bhpese.oz.au
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To: jfy@cis.ksu.edu
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Subject: Story - A Cruel Universe
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Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1993 18:26:42 +1100
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STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
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_
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A CRUEL UNIVERSE
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_
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By Tanya Dean - copyright 1993
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THE ENTERPRISE JOLTED VIOLENTLY.
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Captain Jean-Luc Picard, desperately clutched onto the armrests of his chair
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and struggled to remain seated.
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"An attack?" suggested Worf, the Klingon Security Chief.
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"Negative" said Data checking the Ops console. " Sensors detect an energy
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disturbance in Engineering. Calculated danger level high."
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Captain Picard hit his communicator.
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"Mr. La Forge .... What happened? ..... Geordi, are you all right?
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Geordi? .... Geordi?!"
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There was no reply.
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"Quickly, Data. Go to Engineering. Do you think you'll need any help?"
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Data stood up.
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"Perhaps, sir, depending on how great the danger is."
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"Go with Lieutenant Commander Talon, and be careful, both of you."
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"Aye, sir."
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They ran into the turbolift.
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"Engineering," and the doors hissed shut.
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The smoke in Engineering was thick. Thick enough to cut through with a phaser
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beam. Data managed to get a glimpse of Geordi through the smoke, lying on the
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floor, the VISOR knocked from his head. He ran to his friend, knelt down
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beside him and turned him over.
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"Geordi?" he whispered.
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"Is he all right?" asked Talon, concerned.
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"It would appear so. I detect no internal or external damage. He is
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unconscious and should recover soon. "
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Data then caught a glimpse of Ensign Davies and Gomez through the smoke.
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"Please take Chief Engineer La Forge to sickbay."
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"Aye, sir."
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Sonja Gomez knelt down to Geordi and helped Davies pick him up. They did as
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Data ordered.
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Data stood up and walked further into the smoke with Commander Talon. The
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Enterprise shook violently again and there was an explosion in the
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Engineering Hull. Talon was thrown against the wall. Data leapt to her and
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helped her up.
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"Are you all right?" he inquired, concerned.
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"Yeah" she replied, dusting herself off. "I'm just a little bruised, that's
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all. "
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"Be careful, and stand behind me for protection. We have to locate the
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source of the disturbance before it is too late. "
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A computer terminal exploded, sending sparks flying in all directions. Data
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waited until he calculated it would be safe to proceed. Captain Picard's
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voice sounded over his combadge.
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"Data, have you located the source of ..."
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"Not as yet, Captain. The smoke emissions are substantially thick, but
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judging from the force of the explosions, I believe we are getting closer."
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"Maintain an open frequency, Mr. Data."
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"Aye, sir."
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The bridge shook forcefully. Counsellor Troi was thrown from her chair.
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Captain Picard gave her a hand up. The lighting then began to flicker.
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"Picard to Data. Are you any closer?"
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Another vigorous jolt threw the captain onto the floor.
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"Captain! ...." came Data's voice, with extreme urgency, "the disturbance
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has been located in the antimatter containment tanks! If it cannot be sealed
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off, the antimatter core must be emergency-dumped, otherwise the Enterprise
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will be destroyed."
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"Copy, Commander. Do what you have to - and hurry ..."
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Back in Engineering, Data and Commander Talon had made their way to the
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antimatter containment tanks. Data saw the cause of the problem.
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"The fissure is large, Captain, but I believe I can seal it off, with a
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little ...."
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"Data - Don't yap, just do it."
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"Yes, sir."
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Data began to weld the split closed. A fierce explosion blew out of the
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containment tank. Data was standing directly in front of it, took the full
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brunt of the explosion and was thrown back a few meters.
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"Data!" yelled Commander Talon.
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"Data!" came Jean-Luc's urgent voice, "what happened?!"
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Commander Talon looked around and pushed her communicator.
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"Captain, this is Lieutenant Commander Talon. Data was welding the crack and
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was knocked unconscious by an explosion. I can continue."
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"Hurry."
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She completed welding the fissure, then an explosion struck her. Her reddish
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brown hair caught fire. Commander Talon instantly slapped the fames out. She
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was hurt, but attended to Data, who had just regained consciousness.
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"Everything's under control, Captain," she reported.
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"Thank you, Lieutenant. You and Data may return to the bridge."
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Data began to stand. He saw Talon was hurt. Her leg was bleeding heavily,
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due to a large, deep incision at the rear of her thigh. It took and effort
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to stand up.
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"I shall escort you to sickbay" offered Data.
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Talon smiled. "Thanks." She tried to hide the pain in her voice, but it was
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not hidden from Data. He tapped his communicator.
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"Captain, reporting to sickbay. Lieutenant Commander Talon has been wounded."
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" Badly? "
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"Negative, sir. The wound looks painful, but there appears to be no
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permanent damage."
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"Report to the bridge as soon as possible."
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"Acknowledged, Captain."
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Data then gently picked up the Commander.
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"Hey ...."
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"Am I holding you too tightly?"
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She smiled and shook her head. Data carried her into the turbolift.
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"Sickbay."
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He arrived at the required destination and laid her on the biobed, just as
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Geordi was leaving.
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"Data .... is everything ...."
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Data gave his friend a short nod.
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"Everything is under control, Geordi. Are you all right?"
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"Yeah, Data, I'm fine. Thanks."
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Data smiled at him. La Forge then left for his post .
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Doctor Beverly Crusher walked toward Commander Lucia Talon, medical tricorder
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in hand.
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"Is it very painful?"
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"A little" winced Lucia. "It's hurting more .... owww .... I think
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something's stuck in there ...."
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"Doctor Crusher, I believe I can help."
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Beverly looked up at Data.
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" Be careful. "
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Data gave her a nod.
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" Yes, Doctor. I know exactly what I am doing. I have done this before. "
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Data took a piece of synthetic material and wiped away the blood. Lucia's leg
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was continuing to bleed quite heavily. The android then placed his hands on
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the back of her leg. Lucia had expected the hands of a machine to be rough,
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hard and cold, but Data's were quite the opposite. Data saw what was stuck
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inside her leg. A small piece of metal. He slowly began to pull it out. Lucia
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winced, expecting the operation to be extremely painful, but the android's
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gentle touch surprised her. She felt no pain, other than what she had felt
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before the operation. Data placed the metal splinter down on the ledge.
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"The operation has been completed successfully, Doctor," he informed. He
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then looked down at Lucia, on the biobed. "Are you feeling all right,
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Commander?"
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"Yes, Data. Thank you, and thank you too, Doctor."
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Beverly smiled. She then sealed Commander Talon's wound. Data helped her off
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the bed and returned with her to the Main Bridge.
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"Is everything under control, Data?" was the captain's first question.
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"Affirmative, sir" replied the Second Officer. "The situation in Engineering
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has returned to normal. The antimatter is contained and Lieutenant Commander
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Talon is fine."
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Picard tapped his communicator. "Geordi, is everything all right down there?"
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Geordi looked around, then touched his communicator.
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"Yes, sir. Everything's fine. It's like nothing happened."
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"Have you any idea what caused the ...."
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"No, Captain. Sensors detect nothing at all. I've scanned for just about
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everything. I'll keep you posted. La Forge out."
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As Lieutenant Commander Lucia Talon walked towards the helm, Captain Jean-Luc
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Picard noticed her short black miniskirt, which rose well above her knees. As
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she leaned over to the console, her skirt lifted further. The sight of her
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slender, shapely legs caught more of Picard's attention - made him raise an
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eyebrow.
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Worf too found it hard to look away. He managed to pull his eyes back to
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tactical with some effort. Commander William Riker tried to focus his
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attention on the viewscreen, but failed miserably. He could not keep his eyes
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off her. If it wasn't for a quick snappy gesture from Picard's hand, Riker
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would have fallen out of his chair.
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Data, confused at what the fuss was about, looked with curiosity at Commander
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Talon's legs. Becoming frustrated when he couldn't figure it out, he turned
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back to the Ops console. Lucia, unaware of the commotion she was causing, sat
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down at Conn. She then looked over at Data and smiled. Data wanted to ask her
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what was so special about her legs, but decided against it and smiled
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politely back at her. He then turned back to his console.
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"Captain," came Worf's booming voice, "StarFleet Command is hailing us."
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Jean-Luc frowned.
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"Open hailing frequencies, Mr. Worf."
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"Frequencies open, sir."
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Captain Picard stood up and walked toward the viewscreen.
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"On main viewer."
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Admiral Elita Onel appeared on the viewscreen.
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"Greetings, Enterprise," she said. "StarFleet has an urgent rescue mission
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for you. We have checked and confirmed that you are the closest Federation
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starship to a derelict vessel in which positive life signs have been
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confirmed. We are not exactly sure what type of vessel it is, but we believe
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it may be Federation. The vessel has been located in the Neutral Zone."
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Picard tensed. "Admiral," he began, "have you any idea of the difficulties
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that mission would cause?"
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"StarFleet is aware of the difficulties and dangers involved in this
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mission, Captain Picard. There may be many people on that ship that need
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you. You have your orders, but proceed with extreme caution."
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"We'll do our best, Admiral."
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"I know you will, Jean-Luc. I know the Enterprise will not let us down.
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Onel out."
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The viewscreen went blank.
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"Wonderful ...." muttered Riker
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Captain Picard eyed the crew and rubbed his chin. "Mmmm... we have a
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problem ...."
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"Entering the Neutral Zone will appear provocative, Captain," warned his
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First Officer. "The Romulans ....."
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"I'm aware of the danger, Number One, but if we do not enter, the people in
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that vessel will most certainly die."
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"I realize the importance of this mission, Captain," said Worf, "but we are
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taking a substantial risk."
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"I know, Lieutenant, but the Admiral has a point - There may be people on
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that ship who need our help. Who knows how many? And we will also be taking
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a risk if we disobey StarFleet."
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"Captain," cautioned Worf, "it may also be a Romulan trap."
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"We cannot automatically assume the Romulans are involved, Lieutenant. Set
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co-ordinates for the Neutral Zone."
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Captain Picard then tapped his communicator. "Engineering, we need Maximum
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Warp for as long we can hold."
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"Aye, sir," came Geordi's voice. "Maximum Warp."
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"Data," said the Captain, turning to Ops, "travelling at Maximum Warp,
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exactly when will we reach the derelict?"
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"Forty-eight hours, twenty-two minutes, and fifty-thr..."
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"Thank you, Mr. Data. That was exact enough."
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"Of course, Captain, the time will vary as the derelict continues to drift
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further away or toward us. I cannot be certain in which direction it is
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drifting."
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"By how much will the time vary, Data?"
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"Approximately four to seven seconds, sir."
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Jean-Luc sighed. "Thank you .... thank you, Data ...."
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As the Enterprise soared into Maximum Warp, Captain Picard addressed his
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third in command.
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"Data, brief Lieutenant Commander Talon on our previous encounters with the
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Romulans."
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"Yes, Captain."
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Data pushed the rotating Ops console away from him turned towards Commander
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Talon and began.
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"... and then ...."
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"Data ..." interrupted Captain Picard, tediously, "- I said brief."
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Data turned to him. "Yes, I .... I know, Captain. I apologize." He pulled
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back to Ops. He knew he got carried away sometimes ...
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Lucia had taken everything in quite well. She was a quick learner, well she
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had to be to be helmsman of the Enterprise. She had listened to Data well and
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made notes in her head of what he had said. Lucia was puzzled at how an
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android's voice could sound so calm and gentle. Frankly, when Captain Picard
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called Data off, she wanted him to go on. She then discreetly glanced over at
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him.
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Hmmm .... Quite good looking for an android ..... In fact .... very good
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looking ....
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"Lieutenant Commander Talon," said the captain, "come to my Ready Room. "
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Lucia looked around. "Yes, sir."
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She stood up and followed him. The doors hissed shut behind them.
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"Sit down" offered Jean-Luc.
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He waited for Lucia to be seated, then said, "this is not the best of
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circumstances, Commander. You are our newest bridge crewman. Do you feel
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confident with this situation?"
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"Captain," began Commander Talon, her tone serious, "I realise the danger
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and risk involved in this mission. I don't mean to sound modest, but I am
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the helmsman of the Enterprise, because I was the best in the Academy. I
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joined StarFleet for a challenging career. I know the risks that come with
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the StarFleet Uniform. I am confident, sir and I will do my best to serve
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you, the Enterprise and StarFleet, always."
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Captain Picard nodded.
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"Thank you, Commander. Dismissed."
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Captain's Log, Stardate 46209.4:
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A derelict vessel has been located in the Neutral Zone. StarFleet
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Command has informed us that they have detected life forms aboard it
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and since the Enterprise is the closest Federation vessel, have
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ordered us to rescue all survivors. It is an extremely dangerous and
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risky mission, but I agree it must be done. I have taken into account
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that we may be heading straight into a trap. We are proceeding with
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extreme caution.
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Lieutenant Commander Talon was off duty, and was walking down one of the
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Enterprise's many corridors. She had never been on a starship as large as the
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Enterprise before and was amazed at her size and technology. Lucia turned
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around and looked back at where she had been. She then began to walk
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backwards. Unaware of who or what was in front of her, she turned around and
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bumped smack into Lieutenant Commander Data.
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"Oh .... sorry .... excuse me ..... I didn't see you ....."
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The android was puzzled.
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"I realize the fact that you did not see me," he said, "but may I inquire as
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to why you were walking backwards?"
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Lucia smiled.
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"This ship ...." she said. "She's amazing .... massive. No matter where you
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turn, she never seems to come to an end."
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"The Enterprise is a large starship" confirmed Data, "but everything comes
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to an end. I am off duty, Commander Talon. If you desire, I would be willing
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to show you around."
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"That'd be wonderful, Data. Thank you, but are you sure you won't get lost?"
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Data nodded. "It is understandable to assume that one could get lost on the
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Enterprise, but I being an android, I have the entire lay out of the ship
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stored in my memory."
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"I keep on forgetting that you're an android. You seem so .... human."
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Data smiled. The smile then faded away.
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"You are not angry or disappointed in the fact that I am not human?"
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"No. I don't have any prejudice against you, Data. Some of the nicest people
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you meet aren't human. I have to admit, sometimes I wish I was an android as
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well."
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"Being an android has many advantages," pointed out Data, "but I would
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gladly give them all up to be human."
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Lucia smiled.
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"It'd be nice if we could swap bodies."
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Data had a puzzled look on his face as he looked up and down her body. "That
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is not possible" he concluded.
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"I know, I know, but I wish it were."
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Data nodded.
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There was a short pause.
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"Now" said Commander Talon, suddenly, "how about showing me around?"
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Data gave a nod. "Certainly."
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He began showing her various aspects of the Enterprise, being very careful
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not to bore the Commander with explicit detail.
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Hours later ...
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"Thanks, Data. I feel as if I know my way around this ship backwards."
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"I would not recommend that, Commander," advised Data. "You may know your
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way around the Enterprise backwards, but you do not know who is in front of
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you. You may bump into someone - again."
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Lucia laughed.
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"You're really something ...." she complimented. "And please, call me Lucia."
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"Thank you, Lucia," Data said automatically, not entirely sure what he was
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thanking her for.
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Data stopped in front of a door in the corridor.
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"What's in there?" asked Lucia.
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"This is my personal quarters" replied Data, walking inside as the door
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hissed open. "You may come inside, if you desire."
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"Thank, you, Data."
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Lucia followed him in. Data was puzzled at the slight excitement he detected
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in her voice, but he decided not to say anything more. Lucia then looked
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around. Data's quarters were quite spacious. Something bright then caught her
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attention.
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"What's this?" she asked.
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"One of my paintings" answered Data.
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"It's beautiful .... You painted it yourself?"
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Data nodded. "Of course I had to be taught how to paint. Geordi, my best
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friend taught me, but all my work is original."
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Lucia turned to another of Data's paintings. "What is this one?"
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"It is not yet completed. It does not appear to be a painting of anything in
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particular, but much human art falls into the same category. I have been
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studying many ancient painters, the most interesting being, Da Vinci, Van
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Gogh, Michelangelo, Picasso, Pro Hart..."
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"Pro Hart?" inquired Lucia.
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"A twentieth century Australian painter. I find his work most interesting.
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Perhaps also the most unusual."
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Captain Picard's voice sounded over Lucia's communicator.
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"Lieutenant Commander Talon, please report to the bridge."
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She tapped her insignia. "On my way, Captain."
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She took another look at the android's painting, then started to leave.
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"I'll see you later, Data."
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Lucia left for the bridge. Data turned to his unfinished painting and began
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to work on it.
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Later, Lucia returned to Data's quarters and sounded the door buzzer.
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"Come in" said Data, continuing to paint.
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Lucia entered. Data put his paints down on the ledge.
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"Data," she began, "I've got a surprise for you."
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Lucia produced a wrapped parcel from behind her back.
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"A gift?" said Data, confused, "I thank you, but why? It is no special
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occasion."
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"I know, but just open it."
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Data took the parcel from Lucia and ripped the wrapping off, as Wesley had
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once told him he was supposed to do, but being careful not to damage what was
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inside.
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"It is a tapestry" he said, examining it.
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Lucia nodded.
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"I got it for you to do. You seem to like art so much, you'll enjoy it. Do
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you know how ..."
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"Affirmative. I have observed humans sewing. Thank you, Lucia."
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"Don't mention it. By the way, how long do you think it'll take you?"
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Data glanced at the tapestry.
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"It contains three hundred and ninety-two lines, each containing two hundred
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and fourteen stitches .... I would estimate - nine minutes and twenty
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seconds."
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"What?! These usually take weeks .... months ..... Oh yeah.... I forgot,
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androids can work faster than humans."
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"That is correct, Lucia, but even though I could finish in under ten
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minutes, I would like to do it slowly, as if I were human."
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Lucia smiled. "That's lovely, Data."
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Data then hesitated. "Lucia," he said, "I have to report to Engineering to
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assist Geordi in increasing shield efficiency. We are going to need it if
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things turn ugly with the Romulans."
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Lucia nodded. "I agree."
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Data put the tapestry down. "I will start this later. Sorry. I have to go.
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Duty calls."
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"It's okay, Data. I know the feeling."
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Data frowned a little, puzzled, but decided not to say anything. They then
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both left his quarters.
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The Enterprise without warning, rocked violently.
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"Captain!" came the chief engineer's urgent voice, "it's happening again!"
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Jean-Luc was preoccupied with wrestling the armrests of his chair, to remain
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seated.
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|
"Copy, Geordi. Do everything you can to keep .... whatever it is away from
|
|
the antimatter containment tanks."
|
|
"Aye, sir, but that's not gonna be easy."
|
|
"Do you need any extra hands down there?"
|
|
"If we can't rectify the damage no amount of extra people will help. We're
|
|
doing the best we can. I'll keep you posted. La Forge out."
|
|
"Geordi," said Data, glancing at him, "perhaps if we can locate the source
|
|
of the disturbance, you may be able to counter its effects. I would
|
|
hypothesize that the near disaster which struck the Enterprise before was
|
|
caused by the same ..."
|
|
"Gotcha, Data."
|
|
|
|
The Enterprise continued to shake vigorously.
|
|
"Captain," came Geordi's voice, "I've scanned for everything and anything.
|
|
The only thing I've been able to detect is very faint. It seems to be a
|
|
strange energy of some sort. "
|
|
"Theorize."
|
|
"I'm not sure, sir. It appears to be constantly changing. It isn't anything
|
|
we're familiar with. I can't even make it our with the VISOR. We've managed
|
|
to keep it away from the antimatter, for now. Things should quieten down,
|
|
but I'm not sure how long the peace can be maintained."
|
|
"Geordi, run a further analysis on the energy and try to find its source.
|
|
Keep me posted."
|
|
"Aye, sir."
|
|
|
|
A few moments later ...
|
|
Data instantly tapped his insignia.
|
|
"Captain," he reported, with some element of surprise, "it appears that the
|
|
source of this strange energy is emanating from within the Neutral Zone .... "
|
|
Captain Picard's eyes widened.
|
|
"Are you sure, Data?"
|
|
"I have checked three times and confirmed, sir."
|
|
"Captain, it has to be the Romulans" accused Worf, anger burning inside him.
|
|
"They are trying to destroy us."
|
|
"There is not enough evidence to make such an accusation, Lieutenant. The
|
|
alien energy has never been encountered by the Enterprise or any other
|
|
Federation vessel, so it probably has never been encountered by the Romulans
|
|
either."
|
|
Worf agreed, reluctantly.
|
|
|
|
One hour later, Lieutenant Commander Talon was in her quarters, frustrated
|
|
and confused, pacing back and forth, back and forth. The door buzzer sounded.
|
|
Lucia did not want to be bothered.
|
|
"Come in" she said, a little harsher than she had intended.
|
|
Then her anger vanished.
|
|
"What are you doing?" Data asked, puzzled, as he walked into her quarters.
|
|
"I'm worried Data .... I'm off duty and I can't think straight. This Romulan
|
|
situation's really getting to me. What makes me even more angry, is there's
|
|
nothing I can do about it."
|
|
"Come with me" said Data, offering her his hand.
|
|
"Where are we going?"
|
|
"Holodeck Two. You need to relax, then you will operate with higher
|
|
efficiency."
|
|
Lucia smiled. "Thanks, Data."
|
|
|
|
They arrived at the entrance to Holodeck Two.
|
|
"Have you ever been to the holodeck?" Data asked.
|
|
"No, I haven't."
|
|
"What setting is to your liking?"
|
|
Lucia then giggled, her cat-like eyes sparkling. "Um .... something
|
|
romantic ...."
|
|
Data hesitated and turned to her. "I am afraid my experience in romance is
|
|
somewhat ... limited...."
|
|
Lucia looked sympathetic. She then turned to the computer.
|
|
"Computer," she said, "program a moonlit seaside on a crisp clear night."
|
|
There was a moments pause. "Program complete. You may enter when ready."
|
|
The holodeck doors slid apart, revealing the program specified. Data and
|
|
Lucia stepped inside and the doors closed behind them.
|
|
"Oh Data ..... I never imagined it could look so real ...."
|
|
Lucia gazed into the purple sky, which deepened toward the horizon.
|
|
"It's .... it's wonderful ...."
|
|
"The holodeck is always extremely accurate in simulating real situations."
|
|
An ocean wave broke on the shore. Lucia ran to the rim of the water and
|
|
touched the next incoming wave. She jumped back as it touched her feet. She
|
|
then fell backwards, and Data caught her.
|
|
"I still can't believe how real this all is ...."
|
|
She and Data began to walk along the sand.
|
|
"Forgive me," started Data, pausing and putting his right hand into the
|
|
left, "but I do not understand how a moonlit seaside scenario is considered
|
|
to be .... romantic."
|
|
"Data, it's romantic because it's peaceful, calm and beautiful. The way the
|
|
moonlight sparkles on the ocean .... the dim light, the quietness,
|
|
stillness ... That's why people have candle lit dinners ...."
|
|
Data stopped walking. I remember he thought, the candle lit dinner with Jenna
|
|
D'sora. I failed then, and it is going to happen again. I do not want to hurt
|
|
Lucia as I did Jenna. Perhaps I will come to an understanding of romance, but
|
|
I will never truly feel it?
|
|
When Data dragged himself back to the present moment, he noticed Lucia's
|
|
light green eyes were staring into his.
|
|
"Hey ...." she said, "you with me?"
|
|
In the past, Data would have been puzzled and said `I have been here all
|
|
along,' but he had come a long way since then.
|
|
"I was just .... thinking about something ....."
|
|
"It's all right, Data. What were you thinking about?"
|
|
"I would rather not discuss it .... I ...."
|
|
"I understand. You don't have to. Everyone has private thoughts they don't
|
|
want to talk about."
|
|
"Lucia ...." said Data, quickly changing the subject, "I can never
|
|
physically be human, but being with humans for so long, I have learnt so
|
|
much about them. I understand many aspects that I did not in the past, but
|
|
there is so much I do not understand .... You seem very understanding,
|
|
Lucia .... could you...."
|
|
Data hesitated. Lucia gazed into his innocent golden eyes.
|
|
"Help you to become more human?"
|
|
He slowly nodded. "Please" he said, quietly.
|
|
"Sure, Data. It'll be my pleasure."
|
|
"Thank you" he whispered, sincerely.
|
|
Lucia then sneezed.
|
|
"Ah ..... That is one thing which I would like to know more about."
|
|
"What?" asked Lucia, confused.
|
|
"Sneezing. How do humans do it? I keep trying, but I cannot seem to get it
|
|
right." Data tried to sneeze.
|
|
Lucia laughed.
|
|
"What is so funny? I also find human humour difficult to understand." Data
|
|
sounded frustrated.
|
|
"Hang on, Data - One thing at a time. A sneeze is an involuntary action. You
|
|
can't control it. It just happens."
|
|
"How?"
|
|
"Well, there's two ways one can sneeze - one, from a disease called a cold,
|
|
which is quite rare now, and two, when the nose is irritated." Lucia sneezed
|
|
again. "You see? I didn't control that. I haven't got a cold. There's
|
|
something very small inside my nose which is making me sneeze."
|
|
"I see" said Data. " Is there any possible way I could sneeze? .... Just
|
|
once?"
|
|
"I don't know, Data ..... Um .... Wait a second." Data paused. "I have
|
|
waited a second."
|
|
Lucia smiled again. "Just wait a little longer - Computer, freeze program and
|
|
change setting to a middle-classed old fashioned restaurant."
|
|
In a flash, the setting changed to a late twentieth century restaurant. Data
|
|
and Lucia found themselves sitting at the corner table. Data looked around to
|
|
familiarise himself with the surroundings. He then turned back to Lucia and
|
|
saw her pick up a small glass object, with holes at the top.
|
|
"Sniff this" she said.
|
|
Data looked confused.
|
|
"What is it?" he asked, as he took it from her.
|
|
"Just sniff it, Data, and sniff hard."
|
|
Data curiously eyed the object that Lucia had given him, and sniffed hard. He
|
|
then looked inquisitively at her.
|
|
"I do not understand why ....."
|
|
Then it happened. For the first time in his life - Data truly sneezed. He
|
|
could not believe it. He hardly had any time to be surprised, before he
|
|
sneezed again, and again.
|
|
"I finally did it!" he exclaimed. "What was in that object?"
|
|
"Pepper."
|
|
"Pepper? Is that not an additive humans use to enhance flavour of certain
|
|
foods?"
|
|
"It also makes you sneeze, Data."
|
|
Data smiled. "Thank you."
|
|
"Nah ..... It was nothin' really."
|
|
Together they stood up, walked toward the exit of the restaurant and out into
|
|
the street, the crisp, cold night air all around them. Lucia slipped her arm
|
|
through Data's, then gave him a kiss.
|
|
The two were then violently thrown onto the floor. The holodeck scene
|
|
instantly changed back to the beach setting, then to the restaurant, then to
|
|
the street and then it was blank. Showing only the glowing yellow grid.
|
|
"Commander Data, report to the bridge immediately!"
|
|
|
|
The holodeck doors appeared and began to slide open and closed.
|
|
"How will we know when to go through?"
|
|
Lucia readied herself to make the dash.
|
|
"Wait" said Data. "You may injure yourself. Perhaps I can hold the doors
|
|
open."
|
|
Data took hold of one door and then the other, holding them apart with his
|
|
immense android strength. Lucia darted out underneath him. Data quickly
|
|
released the doors and leapt out of the way as they slammed shut.
|
|
"Holodeck deactivated" came the voice of the computer.
|
|
"Phew .... We got out of there just in time" gasped Lucia.
|
|
Data made sure she was not hurt.
|
|
He then stood up and charged into the turbolift. The ride was rocky, but he
|
|
soon arrived on the bridge and instantly was at his post.
|
|
"What do you make of that, Mr. Data?"
|
|
Captain Picard pointed to the viewscreen.
|
|
"It appears to be a cloud of ionized gas particles, Captain, but the sensors
|
|
disconfirm that. It is an energy cloud of some kind, but of what kind, I
|
|
cannot be sure."
|
|
There was a pause. Then the Ops terminal gave a buzz. Data glanced down at it
|
|
and his eyes widened.
|
|
"Captain!" he exclaimed, "the sensors have confirmed the energies of this
|
|
cloud to be identical to the alien energy Geordi detected in Engineering."
|
|
"Shields up! Red Alert!"
|
|
Data's fingers flew across the Ops console.
|
|
"Captain, shields will not have any effect. Sensors indicate the alien
|
|
energy is already aboard the Enterprise, and levels of it are increasing at
|
|
alarming rates in the Engineering Hull."
|
|
|
|
Engineering was in utter chaos. Geordi was madly trying to secure the
|
|
antimatter containment tanks. He slapped his combadge.
|
|
"Captain! Everything's going haywire down here! We're doing everything we
|
|
can, but the energy levels are increasing fast. If it keeps up, we're gonna
|
|
have to dump the antimatter core."
|
|
"Do what you have to, Geordi. Picard out. Data, is there any way to stop
|
|
it?"
|
|
Jean-Luc's voice was full of urgency; the android was calm as ever.
|
|
"I am trying, sir, but the energy appears to be fluctuating and therefore is
|
|
altering readings."
|
|
"Captain!" came Geordi's urgent voice, "the energy is beginning to overload
|
|
the antimatter containment tanks! I'm gonna have to dump it."
|
|
"Make it so."
|
|
Geordi began initiating the sequence to emergency dump the antimatter.
|
|
"Captain! .... Something's gone wrong! .... I can't dump the core! It won't
|
|
budge .... And it's going to blow in less than four minutes! ...."
|
|
A shiver ran up the spines of all on the bridge, with the exception of Data,
|
|
who was busily monitoring the Ops console.
|
|
"Captain ..." he said, "the alien energy is beginning to spread from the
|
|
Engineering Hull, throughout the entire ship. It has not yet reached the
|
|
Saucer Section. I suggest we prepare for Emergency Saucer Separation. I can
|
|
see no way to save the Engineering Hull. If we separate, at least one of the
|
|
sections will be saved."
|
|
Jean-Luc took a deep breath, wishing there was another way out of this. A way
|
|
to save everyone.
|
|
Data's thoughts were for his best friend, Geordi La Forge. They had been
|
|
through so much together and Geordi had always been there when Data needed
|
|
him.
|
|
Thank you, Geordi. Thank you for everything. I wish I could save you, but I
|
|
can't. I'm sorry ... Goodbye ....
|
|
"Make it so" said the captain, after a pause. "Separate."
|
|
Worf began the sequence for Emergency Saucer Separation.
|
|
"Captain! The controls are not responding! Separation is impossible ...."
|
|
Picard spun to tactical. "What?!"
|
|
"The energy has now infiltrated the Saucer Section, Captain," informed Data.
|
|
"Estimated time to total destruction of the Enterprise, two minutes and
|
|
forty seconds."
|
|
This is the end Jean-Luc thought. The end. I have always known the risks
|
|
involved being the captain of a starship, I always knew it would come. But
|
|
not now. Not like this ...
|
|
"Captain!" called Data, abruptly, "I believe there may be a way to save the
|
|
Enterprise."
|
|
Picard spun towards him.
|
|
"What will be involved, Captain, is ...."
|
|
"Forget the explanation, Data!" snapped Riker. "Do it! We only have about a
|
|
minute left."
|
|
"Forty-nine seconds, sir." Data tapped his communicator.
|
|
"Transporter Chief, lock onto the coordinates of the antimatter containment
|
|
tank in Engineering and beam it directly into the centre of the energy
|
|
cloud."
|
|
"Data?" questioned Picard.
|
|
"I know exactly what I am doing, Captain."
|
|
"Proceed with the transport."
|
|
The antimatter core was beamed to the coordinates specified by the Second
|
|
Officer.
|
|
"Raise shields" ordered Picard.
|
|
The galactic explosion witnessed was spectacular. All but Data were
|
|
temporarily blinded by its brightness. The Enterprise rocked heavily. When
|
|
she stabilized, Data checked the Ops console.
|
|
"Captain," he said comfortably, "the alien energy is no longer aboard the
|
|
Enterprise. The antimatter totally disintegrated it."
|
|
Relief overwhelmed everyone, except Data.
|
|
The chief engineer's voice sounded over the Captain's communicator.
|
|
"Bridge, everything's A-OK down here" he informed. "A few injuries, but
|
|
that's all."
|
|
"Good to hear it, Geordi," smiled Jean-Luc. "We owe our lives to Data."
|
|
Geordi smiled and nodded. "That's my pal."
|
|
Data smiled, grateful to hear his friend's voice.
|
|
Will Riker sat down in his chair.
|
|
"Phew .... another moment and that thing would've cooked our goose."
|
|
Data turned around in his chair, his quizzical look taking over his fair
|
|
complexion. "Goose, sir? I detect no ...."
|
|
Will smiled and shook his head. "Don't worry about it, Data. If it wasn't
|
|
for you, the ..."
|
|
"The goose would have been cooked, sir?"
|
|
Jean-Luc, Deanna and Will smiled.
|
|
"Something like that, yes."
|
|
Data gave a small smile, but still looked confused.
|
|
"Captain," he then said, "we are now travelling on impulse power. The time
|
|
we will take to reach the derelict has altered from the original. Our ETA at
|
|
its coordinates are six hours and thirty-one minutes."
|
|
"Thank you, Data."
|
|
Captain Picard then looked at his Second Officer, and something faint caught
|
|
his attention.
|
|
"Data, what's that?"
|
|
Data frowned and looked puzzled. "What is what, Captain?"
|
|
"That - on your face?"
|
|
Data looked at his reflection in the Ops console. He blinked and quickly
|
|
wiped the dash of lipstick away.
|
|
"Er .... nothing .... Captain ....."
|
|
Will Riker looked away and a smile broke out on his face.
|
|
"Dismissed, Mr. Data," said Jean-Luc, not wanting to pursue the matter.
|
|
Data gave an abrupt nod and walked promptly to the turbolift. He could feel
|
|
the eyes of the entire bridge crew watching him. Why are they all staring at
|
|
me? Did I say or do something wrong?
|
|
Data did not turn around. The bridge crew were even more surprised when they
|
|
heard the android sneeze just as the turbolift doors were about to open.
|
|
"Excuse me, please."
|
|
Data then entered the lift without saying another word.
|
|
Will Riker turned to Jean-Luc, eyes wide.
|
|
"Was that a sneeze, sir?"
|
|
The captain raised his eyebrows and gave a surprised nod.
|
|
"Yes, Number One, I believe it was."
|
|
|
|
Lieutenant Commander Talon was Ten-Forward, sitting alone, with one of
|
|
Guinan's specialities in hand. Commander Riker walked to her table and sat
|
|
next to her.
|
|
"Mind if I sit here?"
|
|
Lucia looked at him. "I suppose not."
|
|
Frankly she wished Data would come.
|
|
"So, why's a beautiful girl like you sitting all alone?"
|
|
The statement caught Lucia off guard.
|
|
"I .... I don't know .... Just wanted a drink I guess...."
|
|
Riker eyed her. "Come on ... I think you're lonely ..."
|
|
Lucia was getting slightly agitated.
|
|
"Come with me .... I'll take you to the holodeck."
|
|
"I've already been to Holodeck Two with ...."
|
|
Lucia's voice trailed off. Riker was interested.
|
|
"With who?"
|
|
Lucia wouldn't answer.
|
|
"Come on ...." insisted Riker. "Who with? ...."
|
|
"With all due respect, sir, It's none of your business."
|
|
Riker looked a trifle offended at that.
|
|
"I'm sorry ...." he said with an apologetic face. "You know ... the light of
|
|
this place makes your eyes look beautiful..."
|
|
"Commander..."
|
|
At that moment, Data walked into Ten-Forward.
|
|
Thank God ... thought Lucia.
|
|
"Excuse me, Commander, but I'm really not interested."
|
|
Riker nodded, a trifle upset. Lucia stood and walked to Data.
|
|
"Hi, Data," she said.
|
|
Data turned around to face her. "Hello, Lucia."
|
|
"Let's go" she said softly.
|
|
"But I have only just arrived ..."
|
|
Lucia looked around and saw Riker's eyes fixed on her. She gave him a fierce
|
|
look. Riker instantly looked away. Lucia kissed Data and the two walked out
|
|
of Ten-Forward. Riker watched them go. He didn't take his eyes away from the
|
|
entrance, until a familiar figure stood before him. Riker looked up.
|
|
"Guinan."
|
|
"Can I get you something?"
|
|
Riker hesitated, then said, "no ... no thanks."
|
|
"You jealous?"
|
|
Riker looked up at Guinan. "What about?"
|
|
Guinan looked at him, implying Riker knew exactly what about.
|
|
"I don't know .... she's a beautiful woman, but I can't help feeling happy
|
|
for Data."
|
|
"So, ask yourself again - Are you jealous?"
|
|
Riker looked at her and after a pause softly said, "I guess not."
|
|
|
|
Data and Lucia were walking down the corridor.
|
|
"Somebody should keep that Riker on a leash."
|
|
Data was not sure he understood what Lucia meant, but said nothing about it.
|
|
"Lucia," he then said, "I have I have lost my tapestry needle."
|
|
"No problem, Data. I'll get you another."
|
|
At that moment, Captain Picard's voice sounded over both their communicators.
|
|
"Commander Data and Commander Talon, please report to the bridge - Now."
|
|
"On our way, Captain," transmitted Lucia.
|
|
They walked to the turbolift and the doors opened. Data gestured to Lucia to
|
|
enter the turbolift first. He then followed her.
|
|
"Main Bridge."
|
|
The doors hissed shut.
|
|
|
|
The turbolift opened. Lieutenant Commander Data and Talon walked onto the
|
|
bridge.
|
|
"You sent for us, Captain?" inquired Data.
|
|
"Yes, I did, Data. StarFleet Command has hailed us urgently and we've lost
|
|
the signal."
|
|
"I shall attempt to relocate it, Captain."
|
|
Data sat at Ops and Lucia sat at Conn. She stood up instantaneously with a
|
|
ear-piercing shriek. Startled, Jean-Luc looked quickly at her.
|
|
"Commander, explain ...."
|
|
"Data ...." she said, gingerly, "I've found your needle."
|
|
Then embarrassed, she sat down again without saying another word. She handed
|
|
the needle to Data, who gave her nod. He opened his mouth, but found he did
|
|
not know how to say what he was thinking - feeling. He wanted to apologise,
|
|
but didn't know how. Lucia could see this and smiled.
|
|
"It's all right," she mouthed to him.
|
|
Data was quite relieved that Lucia was not in the slightest, angry with him.
|
|
She is so understanding .... he thought. She treats me as if I were a human
|
|
and she cares about me.
|
|
Data looked over at Lucia, who was busily studying her console.
|
|
No matter how much I wish I could have any feelings for her, I must remember
|
|
- I am incapable of emotion. I will have to live with that for the remainder
|
|
of my existence ...
|
|
|
|
"Mr. Data, have you located the frequency?"
|
|
Data was deep in thought.
|
|
Perhaps someday I will learn what emotions actually mean, but will I ever
|
|
truly feel them? This is a question that can only be answered in time, if
|
|
answered at all.
|
|
|
|
Irritated, the captain raised his voice.
|
|
"Mr. Data, is there something wrong with your hearing?"
|
|
Data blinked.
|
|
"Negative, sir. I am functioning at optimum level. My hearing is ...."
|
|
"This is the third time I'm asking you."
|
|
"I apologise, Captain. I was .... thinking about something."
|
|
"Kindly think about your duty. Have you located the frequency?"
|
|
"Not as yet, sir."
|
|
|
|
A few moments later ....
|
|
"Captain, I have something. It is very faint. Audio only."
|
|
"Is it the StarFleet message?"
|
|
"I believe so, sir."
|
|
"Pipe it through, quickly."
|
|
"Enterprise ..." came the urgent voice of Admiral Onel. "This is an
|
|
extremely urgent warning. The Romulans have blamed the Federation for the
|
|
destruction of three of their Warbirds, due to an unknown alien energy
|
|
source. They are aware of your mission into the Neutral Zone and believe you
|
|
are going to attempt to destroy them. They will be waiting for you,
|
|
Jean-Luc. They may even attempt to intercept the Enterprise. "
|
|
"Admiral, we are not responsible" emphasized Picard. "The energy almost
|
|
destroyed the Enterprise as well."
|
|
"I know, you are not responsible, Captain Picard. All our attempts of
|
|
negotiation with the Romulans have failed completely. You must be extremely
|
|
careful."
|
|
"Thank you for the warning, Admiral. We are taking all the necessary
|
|
precautions. We've already manage to increase shield efficiency by
|
|
thirty-seven percent."
|
|
"Jean-Luc, even if you fail, StarFleet will always know you did your best.
|
|
The name Enterprise will never be forgotten. StarFleet out."
|
|
"One disaster after another ...." muttered Picard. "There won't be any
|
|
prizes for the person who guesses what's going to happen next ..."
|
|
|
|
A few hours later, Data and Lucia were off duty, and were in the turbolift,
|
|
going to their separate quarters. Data was unaware of it, but Lucia was
|
|
staring at him.
|
|
He's been so kind to me .... When my leg was hurt, he was so gentle .... And
|
|
aboard the holodeck .... that was so romantic. It was beautiful, even though
|
|
Data didn't understand it as I did. Maybe he did inside, but didn't know
|
|
what it was .... I feel so sorry for him. He tries so hard and never seems
|
|
to get what he deserves. All he wants is to be human ....
|
|
Lucia quickly wiped a tear from her cheek as Data turned around. The
|
|
turbolift doors hissed open. Lucia walked out and Data continued on to deck
|
|
fifteen.
|
|
|
|
In her quarters, Lucia sat in her chair and turned the computer monitor
|
|
toward her.
|
|
"Computer," she said, "requesting all available information on Lieutenant
|
|
Commander Data."
|
|
"Working ..."
|
|
"Lieutenant Commander Data was the second sentient android created by Doctor
|
|
Noonian Soong, earth's foremost robotic scientist. He has a computational
|
|
speed of 60 trillion operations per second and a total storage capacity of
|
|
800 quadrillion bits.... "
|
|
The computer continued with Data's technical schematics and history in
|
|
StarFleet. Lucia was very impressed, with Data's medals and achievements.
|
|
"Intriguing .... as Data would say ..... Computer, you said Data was the
|
|
second android. Who was the first?"
|
|
"The first sentient android created by Dr. Noonian Soong was Lore."
|
|
The computer went on to tell Lucia more about Lore.
|
|
"An android with a criminal record. Data's evil twin ... Weird family... I
|
|
wonder how Data feels about Lore?..."
|
|
|
|
Quite a while later, the computer had finished. Lucia was glad to have more
|
|
of an understanding of Data.
|
|
|
|
Data was in his quarters, reading a book, entitled HANDLING FIGHTS IN A
|
|
RELATIONSHIP - The Male Role.
|
|
He finished the book in a matter of seconds.
|
|
"Most intriguing ...." he found himself saying. "Perhaps I will do better
|
|
this time ...."
|
|
Data put the book on the ledge. He then sat down and continued with his
|
|
tapestry enjoying the peaceful pastime. Realising he had almost run out of
|
|
brown wool, he left to get some more. While he was gone, Lucia walked into
|
|
his quarters.
|
|
"Data ...." she called.
|
|
She saw there was no one here. She then walked towards Data's unfinished
|
|
tapestry.
|
|
"He's good at this ...." she said to herself. "Most intriguing ...."
|
|
Lucia then looked on the ledge and saw the book.
|
|
"Ohh .... that poor guy ...." she said quietly, sympathetically. "He tries
|
|
so hard .... I'll play along with him ...."
|
|
Lucia then turned and looked again at the tapestry. At that moment, Data
|
|
walked into his quarters and saw Lucia in there, with her back to him.
|
|
Now is my chance .... he thought.
|
|
He put the wool over the book and looked at Lucia.
|
|
"Get out of my way" he snapped.
|
|
Lucia turned around and looked at him.
|
|
"What?" she asked, a little confused.
|
|
"You are in my way" snapped Data impertinently. "Move."
|
|
Lucia realised what Data was trying to do.
|
|
"You're a very rude android" she hissed, playing along with him.
|
|
Data then slapped her across her face with the correct amount of pressure.
|
|
Lucia put her hand over her cheek, shook her head and recovered. She then
|
|
tried to grab Data's arms, but he grabbed hers first. Lucia pushed against
|
|
him, forcing him backwards. Data knew he could easily better her, but he was
|
|
limiting his strength to that of a human his size and build. Data forced
|
|
Lucia backwards and onto the floor. He was on top of her in no time, holding
|
|
her down. Lucia pushed the android off her, climbed on top of him and held
|
|
him down with all her strength. Lucia then eased her grip on Data's wrists.
|
|
Data grabbed her arms. Lucia didn't retaliate, but drew her head closer to
|
|
Data's and kissed him. Data released his grip on Lucia's wrists and slowly
|
|
put his arms around her back. Then he stopped.
|
|
"No .... no ... I cannot do this ...." he said, sitting up.
|
|
"Why not, Data?" asked Lucia. "I'm sorry if I've... "
|
|
"No .... it is not your fault .... It is mine .... I tried to have a
|
|
relationship before and it did not work. I hurt Jenna's feelings. I did not
|
|
mean to ...."
|
|
Gently, Lucia kissed Data.
|
|
"No ...." said Data, raising his voice. "I can't!"
|
|
Data blinked, frowned a little then inclined his head to one side.
|
|
"I used a contraction!"
|
|
He hugged Lucia, perhaps a little too hard. Lucia coughed, shook her head,
|
|
then smiled.
|
|
"Sorry ..." he said, an apologetic look on his face.
|
|
Lucia smiled.
|
|
"You can, Data, if you put your mind and heart to it."
|
|
"That's ... just it " said Data, "I do not have a heart."
|
|
"You do, Data .... just ...."
|
|
"Lucia, I do not. I cannot feel anything."
|
|
"You can feel, Data, you just don't realise it. "
|
|
"But how can ...."
|
|
"Data, I'm sure you've heard the story of the Tin Man, how he wanted a heart
|
|
so badly, he didn't realise that he already had one. I believe it's the same
|
|
with you."
|
|
Data gave a small smile. "How can I know if that is true?"
|
|
"You will know in time, Data, all good things succumb to those who wait and,
|
|
Data, nothing you do will offend or hurt me. I know that is not your intent."
|
|
Data nodded. "I am extremely grateful to you, Lucia, for being so
|
|
understanding. It would seem no one had ever understood me this well, apart
|
|
from my close friends."
|
|
Lucia smiled. "It is my pleasure, Data, always, and, " Lucia inclined her
|
|
head to one side, "you would not consider others as friends if you did not
|
|
have any emotions."
|
|
"I have never thought of it like that before, but, Lucia, as much as I would
|
|
like to think I have emotions, I ...."
|
|
Lucia put her finger over Data's mouth.
|
|
"How do you feel about your brother Lore?" she asked.
|
|
"How do you know about...."
|
|
"I was looking in some computer files."
|
|
"Lore is jealous of me and he is evil."
|
|
"Was he always like that?"
|
|
"My father, Dr. Soong would not have made him evil. Lore said that the
|
|
colonists rejected him. Perhaps that is why he turned against him."
|
|
"Have you ever tried to understand him?" Lucia asked. "Perhaps he wouldn't
|
|
be evil if someone accepted him."
|
|
Data nodded. "Perhaps, but I have yet to confront him again to test that
|
|
theory."
|
|
Lucia smiled. "Where were we, Data?.... Yes .... right here...."
|
|
They started kissing passionately.
|
|
|
|
"Lucia," said Data, after a while, "most humans would find it hard if not
|
|
impossible to have a relationship with a machine. You ...."
|
|
"Data .... you're not a machine ....."
|
|
"I am a machine, Lucia. I was created by ...."
|
|
"Yes, Data. I know Dr. Noonian Soong. You have the components of a machine,
|
|
but you are sentient. Machines are not sentient. I don't like the term
|
|
'machine' to describe you."
|
|
Data looked at her, inquisitively.
|
|
"What ... term would you choose, then?"
|
|
"Data, you're .... I like to think of you as a mechanical life form."
|
|
Data's expression showed he agreed.
|
|
"And," said Lucia smiling, gently putting her arm around his back,
|
|
"-Computer, dim the lights - You're a very sexy android..."
|
|
|
|
Commander William Riker was on his way to the bridge.
|
|
"Picard to Riker."
|
|
The First Officer tapped his communicator.
|
|
"Riker here, sir."
|
|
"Locate Commander Data, and both of you report to the bridge."
|
|
"Aye, sir."
|
|
Riker turned to the computer.
|
|
"Computer," he said, "locate Lieutenant Commander Data."
|
|
"Lieutenant Commander Data is in his private quarters."
|
|
Commander Riker walked to Data's quarters. He sounded the door buzzer. There
|
|
was no reply. Riker then opened the door and took a step inside.
|
|
"Dat ...." he began to say.
|
|
His gaze then met the floor, where he saw Lieutenant Commander Data and
|
|
Lieutenant Commander Talon rolling around on the floor, kissing passionately,
|
|
seeming to have a wonderful time. Will's eyes almost shot out of their
|
|
sockets, as he stood there, gaping like a goldfish. He then stepped out of
|
|
Data's quarters and silently began to walk the other way. Despite the initial
|
|
shock, Will could not help smiling to himself.
|
|
"Pinocchio's discovered women ...."
|
|
William then hopped into the turbolift.
|
|
"Bri...dge."
|
|
|
|
The turbolift doors hissed open and Commander Riker stepped out onto the
|
|
bridge.
|
|
"Number One, where's Data?"
|
|
"Uh .... he's busy at the moment, Captain .... very busy .... It's not
|
|
urgent is it?"
|
|
" No " said Picard. " No one is manning the Ops station at the moment. I
|
|
need to estimate the time we have left before we reach the derelict vessel.
|
|
No matter. I'll do it. "
|
|
Jean-Luc then sat at Ops and flexed his fingers.
|
|
"Three hours, twenty-nine minutes."
|
|
"And thirty-five seconds ..." added Will with a smile.
|
|
|
|
Meanwhile, in Data's quarters, the two still lay close together on the floor.
|
|
Lucia sensed someone else was near. She looked sidewards and shrieked. A face
|
|
was peering at them.
|
|
"Do not be alarmed" said Data. "This is my friend, Spot."
|
|
"You didn't tell me you had a cat, Data."
|
|
"You never asked."
|
|
Lucia smiled and gently stroked Spot. The cat began to purr. Data then stood
|
|
up, holding both Lucia and Spot in his arms. The cat jumped onto the ledge
|
|
and pawed the wool. Data put Lucia down. Lucia saw the book again. She picked
|
|
it up.
|
|
"Data, you don't need this to impress me."
|
|
Data seemed to be embarrassed, but said nothing as Lucia continued. "I like
|
|
you the way you are. You try so hard to be human. Perhaps just be yourself
|
|
for a change."
|
|
Data nodded. "Thank you, Lucia. I will make a note of that."
|
|
He then gently kissed her.
|
|
"Data," she said, "can you do some more of this painting? I would love to
|
|
see you paint."
|
|
Data smiled at her, picked up his paints and began. The painting did not take
|
|
him long to complete, as he was almost finished.
|
|
"Now ..." he said, putting the paintbrush down. "What should I entitle it,
|
|
Lucia? Any ideas?"
|
|
"Data .... this is your painting. Your work of art. You created it. You
|
|
think of a title. You probably have more ideas than I do anyway."
|
|
Data nodded. He had a thoughtful look on his face. He then looked at his
|
|
painting.
|
|
"As I said to you before, it is not a painting of anything in particular. It
|
|
is simply free strokes of the brush. "
|
|
Data inclined his head to the right and paid particular attention to the
|
|
colours merging freely into one and other.
|
|
"Ah" he said, abruptly. "I have an idea."
|
|
"I knew you would, Data," smiled Lucia, putting her hand around his back.
|
|
Data then picked up a fine brush, dipped it in brown paint and bent down to
|
|
the painting. He painted the title in the left hand corner.
|
|
|
|
Freedom
|
|
Lt Commander
|
|
Data
|
|
|
|
"Data .... that's beautiful" gasped Lucia. "Freedom .... that is exactly
|
|
what your painting portrays."
|
|
She then gazed directly into Data's luminous golden eyes.
|
|
"Data .... how can you have given the painting such a beautiful name if you
|
|
had no feelings?"
|
|
The android's confused look took over his complexion.
|
|
"I do not know, but I told you I have no ...."
|
|
"Shhh, Data, " silenced Lucia, gently. "You do have emotions, you just don't
|
|
realise it."
|
|
Data smiled, not of pleasure, but with what appeared like pain, longing.
|
|
"I wish I could believe that."
|
|
Lucia put her arms around Data and gave him a light hug.
|
|
"Believe it, Data. You ...."
|
|
"Shhh," said Data quietly, as he kissed her, gently.
|
|
|
|
Captain's Log, Stardate 46236.5:
|
|
We have entered the Neutral Zone and are on full alert. As yet we
|
|
have had no confrontation with the Romulans. I have a feeling,
|
|
however that may change - soon.
|
|
|
|
"At least we haven't bumped into the Romulans" pointed out the First
|
|
Officer, hoping the situation would not change. "Mr. Worf, can you locate
|
|
any Romulan vessels?"
|
|
Worf checked tactical. "Not as yet, sir. Sensors indicate no other vessels in
|
|
this area besides the Enterprise and the derelict. But, sir, the Romulans may
|
|
'bump into us' if they are cloaked."
|
|
"Understood, Lieutenant. Keep scanning."
|
|
"Aye, sir."
|
|
A few moments later, Worf looked up from tactical.
|
|
"Captain, detecting an unusual energy source ...."
|
|
Jean-Luc looked out of the viewscreen. He instantaneously hit his combadge.
|
|
"Commander Data, Commander Talon, report to the bridge - Immediately."
|
|
"Damn" cursed Lucia, under her breath. "Always in the middle of
|
|
something ...."
|
|
She zipped up the top of her uniform and Data wiped the lipstick off his
|
|
face. He then touched his communicator.
|
|
" On our way, Captain."
|
|
Data and Lucia raced into the turbolift.
|
|
|
|
"Data." Picard's voice was somewhat urgent. He pointed to the viewscreen.
|
|
"Is that the same type of energy cloud that almost destroyed the Enterprise?"
|
|
Data sat at Ops and checked the console.
|
|
"Confirmed, Captain. The energy readings are identical, and appear to have
|
|
the same fluctuations."
|
|
It's going to happen again thought Jean-Luc. How can we stop it this time?
|
|
"Captain ...." Data's voice sounded very surprised. "The sensors are reading
|
|
possible life signs."
|
|
"Life signs?" Jean-Luc was astonished. " Are you sure?"
|
|
The Enterprise was then blasted by the cloud. Captain Picard stood his ground.
|
|
"Shields up, quickly! Red Alert. Arm phasers and photon torpedoes."
|
|
"Armed, sir. Shields up," boomed Worf.
|
|
The Red Alert klaxon blared and the blood red glow flooded the bridge.
|
|
"Captain," said Data, turning in his chair, "the cloud is definitely showing
|
|
signs of sentience. Readings also indicate a single phaser blast or photon
|
|
torpedo will instantly destroy it."
|
|
The Enterprise was blasted a second time.
|
|
"Shields holding, sir," boomed the Klingon, "but power has been reduced by
|
|
twelve percent. I suggest we destroy the creature now, while we still have
|
|
the chance - Before it destroys us."
|
|
Data looked at the viewscreen. "Captain .... it is changing both color and
|
|
form...."
|
|
Jean-Luc turned and saw what was happening. He too was puzzled.
|
|
"Captain!" exclaimed Counsellor Troi suddenly, "I'm sensing fear -
|
|
unbelievable fear .... What ever that is out there, it is alive. It is
|
|
terrified."
|
|
Bill Riker saw the anguish in Deanna's eyes, almost identical to the pain she
|
|
had sensed at Farpoint. He felt sympathetic. I'm with you, Imzadi ...
|
|
"Captain, we are being hailed by the creature" interrupted Worf.
|
|
"Open hailing frequencies."
|
|
"Aye, sir. Hailing frequencies open."
|
|
A message came through, but in alien tongue.
|
|
"Patch in Universal Translator, Mr. Data."
|
|
"Done, sir."
|
|
".... Don't hurt me ..... Please don't kill me .... " begged The creature,
|
|
sounding as though it was crying." I mean you no harm...."
|
|
"Then why did you fire on our vessel?" barked Riker.
|
|
"I did not know your intent. I .... I was frightened .... I'm sorry, I ...."
|
|
"This is a Federation Starship" interrupted Picard, "not designed for war,
|
|
but for peaceful purposes. We have no wish to harm you. I assure you, we
|
|
come in peace. May I remind you, it is you who attacked the Enterprise in
|
|
the first place. Who are you? - What are you?"
|
|
Deanna could sense the creature had calmed considerably. Bill saw her
|
|
relaxing and felt grateful.
|
|
"I am Y'ran" introduced the creature. "You have my sincere apologies,
|
|
Enterprise. I attacked you in self defence, but I realise, now, reason
|
|
should have come first. I had no idea I had provoked you into readying your
|
|
weapons."
|
|
"A necessary precaution" explained Lieutenant Worf. "You did not know our
|
|
intent and we did not know yours. It is fortunate our shields were
|
|
operating."
|
|
Y'ran apologised again.
|
|
"Apologies accepted, Y'ran," forgave Jean-Luc, "but now we must ask you to
|
|
leave this sector of space. Your being here has created difficulties and may
|
|
lead to a war."
|
|
Y'ran was confused. "I do not understand."
|
|
"You are in a sector of space which we call the 'Neutral Zone.' By being
|
|
here, you have complicated matters with us and the Romulans. The matter goes
|
|
back ..."
|
|
"I understand" said Y'ran. "I detected energy readings here - identical to
|
|
those given off by my people, but I discovered that I was picking up my own
|
|
signal beam, which had somehow come into contact with this vessel. I will
|
|
leave and continue my search elsewhere."
|
|
"Search?" inquired Jean-Luc.
|
|
"It is a long story ..." began Y'ran, "but I will shorten it. Our sector of
|
|
the universe is many millions of light years from here. Long ago, a black
|
|
hole appeared, and almost all of my people perished inside it. Only a
|
|
handful of us managed to escape, but we lost all contact. I have been
|
|
roaming the universe in search of them ever since the catastrophe. - Ten
|
|
million years ago. I send out signal beams to try to locate them, but so far
|
|
it has been in vain."
|
|
"Captain," said Data. "I believe Y'ran's signal beams were the cause of our
|
|
problems."
|
|
"Explain, please" came the voice of Y'ran.
|
|
"We encountered a strange alien energy ..." Picard began to explain.
|
|
He concluded with, "... we were able to destroy the last one, but only just."
|
|
"You have my sincere apologies. I did not know my signal beams would cause
|
|
harm. I am so sorry .... I cannot believe I caused harm to other life
|
|
forms ...."
|
|
"It was not your intention" comforted Counsellor Troi, sensing Y'ran's
|
|
guilt, despair and pain. "You have our sympathy."
|
|
"Thank you, Enterprise. I will leave you now."
|
|
Y'ran did as he promised and zoomed out of sight, perhaps on his way back to
|
|
his galaxy, possibly to come into contact with his people someday.
|
|
|
|
Data's eyebrows went up, higher than anyone had ever seen them go.
|
|
"Captain ...." he began, almost in disbelief. "Y'ran accelerated from zero
|
|
to warp nine point nine-nine in less than one second, without any warp
|
|
propulsion systems ...."
|
|
Commander Riker raised his eyebrows.
|
|
"I'd call that fast .... Now, we'd better get this rescue mission under way
|
|
so we can hotfoot it out of here before the Romulans ....."
|
|
Data looked up at him, an inquisitive look in the android's eyes. "Inquiry -
|
|
Hotfoot?"
|
|
"Forget it, Data."
|
|
Data tilted his head a little, then turned back to Ops.
|
|
"We are approaching the derelict craft, Commander Riker," he informed.
|
|
"Captain," interrupted Worf, abruptly, his head shooting up from tactical.
|
|
"A vessel is approaching. It is a Romulan warbird."
|
|
Riker tensed. "Uh oh .... "
|
|
"Their disruptors are reading as fully armed " informed the Klingon.
|
|
"Be ready for anything" said Captain Picard, "but keep calm, everyone."
|
|
Despite the captain's words, tension on the bridge was escalating.
|
|
"Captain, the Romulans are hailing us."
|
|
"Open hailing frequencies, Mr. Worf."
|
|
"Open, sir."
|
|
Two Romulans appeared on the viewscreen of the Enterprise's Main Bridge.
|
|
"I am Captain Tarogh. I demand you explain your illegal presence in the
|
|
Neutral Zone."
|
|
"I am Captain Jean ...."
|
|
"We know who you are, Picard! " snapped Tarogh. "Explain your...."
|
|
"We know we are in the wrong" admitted Jean-Luc. "We have orders from
|
|
StarFleet Command to rescue ...."
|
|
"Don't hide it from us, Picard. We know why you are here. You are here to
|
|
destroy us."
|
|
"You are wrongfully accusing us. We ...."
|
|
"Do not lie!" fumed Tarogh. "Three of our finest Warbirds were destroyed by
|
|
an energy the Federation somehow developed. I will not let you destroy us,
|
|
do you hear?!" Tarogh's anger was threatening to explode any second.
|
|
"We are not going to destroy you" assured Jean-Luc. "We are innocent. The
|
|
energy you speak of was also encountered by us."
|
|
Captain Picard explained about their encounter with Y'ran.
|
|
"I do not believe you, Picard," concluded Captain Tarogh. "If you had
|
|
encountered the energy, the Enterprise would have been destroyed."
|
|
Picard was firing up, but he kept his cool. "The reason we were not
|
|
destroyed, Captain Tarogh, is we beamed our antimatter core out of the
|
|
Enterprise, destroying the energy cloud. If we had not done that, you would
|
|
not be talking to us right now."
|
|
Captain Tarogh took a moment to think. The viewscreen on the bridge of the
|
|
Enterprise went blank.
|
|
Tarogh to his second-in-command.
|
|
"Talez, scan the Enterprise. If you detect any antimatter aboard it, I will
|
|
destroy it without warning."
|
|
Talez performed the scan. No antimatter is aboard, sir. Perhaps we can trust
|
|
them."
|
|
"Perhaps, but if it they did not destroy our Warbirds, who did? ...."
|
|
"I do not know, sir."
|
|
Tarogh nodded. "Open hailing frequencies."
|
|
"The Enterprise is standing by, Captain."
|
|
|
|
"Captain," called Worf, looking up from tactical at the Romulan Warbird,
|
|
"the Romulans are powering down their disruptors."
|
|
Tension eased on the bridge.
|
|
|
|
Once again, the two Romulans appeared on the viewscreen.
|
|
"Enterprise, we have confirmed that no antimatter is aboard your ship. We
|
|
are considering that you have told us the truth. I may have overreacted.
|
|
My ... only brother was on one of the Warbirds destroyed ... But, Captain
|
|
Picard, there is still the matter of your violation of the Neutral Zone."
|
|
Jean-Luc began to explain. "We have orders from StarFleet Command to rescue
|
|
any survivors that may be inside a derelict vessel that has been located in
|
|
the Neutral Zone. I too disfavor this situation..."
|
|
He finished with, "... I realise our presence here aroused your suspicion,
|
|
and appears provocative, but, Captain Tarogh, we are here for one reason and
|
|
one only - To save lives. Nothing more."
|
|
"Proceed with your rescue mission, Captain Picard, but be warned, if you
|
|
try anything suspicious, we will not hesitate to fire."
|
|
The viewscreen went blank.
|
|
"Sir," said Worf, "the Romulans are rearming their disruptors."
|
|
Picard turned. "Counsellor?"
|
|
"At this moment, they do not intend to fire, Captain. I sense confusion,
|
|
anger and grief. Tarogh is under a tremendous amount of emotional pain due
|
|
to the loss of his brother. I cannot be sure if he will act on his threat.
|
|
Romulans are extremely unpredictable. I suggest we proceed with caution."
|
|
"I'm with Deanna" agreed Will. "Let's be careful."
|
|
The bridge crew focused their attention on the strange looking derelict
|
|
craft. It was floating in outer space, appearing to be motionless.
|
|
"Magnify, Mr. Data," said Picard.
|
|
The craft looked even stranger when the image was magnified.
|
|
"Can you identify it, Data?"
|
|
The third in command shook his head.
|
|
"Negative, Captain. It is unlike any craft the Enterprise or any other
|
|
Federation vessel has ever encountered."
|
|
"Captain," said Lucia, abruptly, "I'm picking up life signs, but I can't be
|
|
sure what type."
|
|
Picard turned to Ops. "Mr. Data, elaborate."
|
|
"Life signs have been detected, Captain, but sensors cannot be certain if
|
|
they are biological, mechanical or other. Judging from these scans, the life
|
|
forms aboard are not humanoid."
|
|
"Open hailing frequencies."
|
|
"Open, sir," came Worf's voice.
|
|
"This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the USS Enterprise. We have been sent to
|
|
rescue you."
|
|
There was a pause.
|
|
"No response, Captain," informed Worf.
|
|
The captain then tapped his communicator. "Picard to Transporter Chief. Can
|
|
you get a fix on the life forms in the derelict? "
|
|
"Negative, sir. Not yet. The energy of that Y'ran creature's signal beam is
|
|
aboard the derelict and is interfering with the transporter, but we can
|
|
transport something or someone there."
|
|
Captain Picard then turned around.
|
|
"Number One, prepare a minimal Away Team."
|
|
"Aye, sir. Data. Talon."
|
|
Data and Lucia stood up and followed the First Officer to the turbolift. The
|
|
doors hissed open, and they entered.
|
|
"Transporter Room Three."
|
|
|
|
The three of them stood on the transporter pads and set their phasers on stun.
|
|
"Energize" said Riker.
|
|
The Away Team shimmered as they were beamed directly aboard the derelict.
|
|
They instantly drew their phasers. Seeing there was no apparent danger, the
|
|
weapons were lowered. Riker pushed his combadge.
|
|
"We're here, Captain, but we have not as yet seen anyone."
|
|
"This is a relatively small ship" added Data, "so I would hypothesize that
|
|
there are few survivors."
|
|
"Understood" said Picard. "Maintain open frequencies."
|
|
"Aye, sir."
|
|
The Away Team split up and began searching. Further on, Data was detecting
|
|
possible life signs. As he drew the tricorder upwards, he noticed several
|
|
forms of plant life in what seemed to be scientific observation capsules.
|
|
"No survivors have been located as yet, Captain," he reported, "but the
|
|
tricorder has located several forms of plant life which appear to be
|
|
contained for scientific study. Perhaps this was what the sensors detected."
|
|
"Perhaps, Data, but there may be survivors. Keep searching."
|
|
"Aye, sir."
|
|
|
|
Captain Picard touched his combadge. "Chief, can you get a fix on the Away
|
|
Team? I want them beamed up immediately if anything goes wrong."
|
|
"Aye, sir. I haven't got an exact fix, but I'm working on it. I'll keep you
|
|
posted."
|
|
|
|
Data left the plants and made his way to what appeared to be the Main Bridge.
|
|
There, he saw three navy blue skinned people lying on the floor. He turned
|
|
one of them over. Data pushed his communicator.
|
|
"Captain, I have located three motionless humanoid life forms aboard the
|
|
Main Bridge of the derelict vessel. Two male, one female. They do not appear
|
|
to be any form of life that we or any other Federation vessel have
|
|
encountered. They are ..." Data then stopped.
|
|
"Captain," he said, "judging from their uniforms, the plants and the
|
|
structure of this vessel, I would theorize that it was intended purely for
|
|
scientific purposes, and..."
|
|
"Mr. Data ..." interrupted Picard, "it doesn't matter what their purpose is.
|
|
Are they showing any life signs?"
|
|
Data drew his tricorder and checked. "No, sir. None."
|
|
"Have you any idea as to what killed them?"
|
|
"I cannot give an exact account, Captain. They appear to have been dead for
|
|
some time. I would hypothesize that there was an explosion aboard the bridge.
|
|
All three of them have extensive burns to their bodies. Perhaps it was a
|
|
scientific experiment than went drastically wrong."
|
|
"Copy, Data. Thank you. Number One? Lieutenant Talon?"
|
|
"Talon's with me, Captain. Other than the plant specimens, and ourselves, we
|
|
are detecting no life signs here."
|
|
The derelict then shook violently.
|
|
"Away Team! What happened?!" exclaimed Jean-Luc, concerned.
|
|
Data hit his combadge. "The vessel jolted, sir, reason unknown."
|
|
A female voice sounded over the access panels of the derelict.
|
|
|
|
"I am Captain Yondea Mirana. This is my final mission on the Tieo.
|
|
Due to an extremely dangerous discovery, which we can only describe
|
|
as an entity, that sends out pulses of highly destructive energy, I
|
|
am forced to destroy ourselves and the Tieo. If our discovery falls
|
|
into the wrong hands, the of the entity which calls itself Y'ran,
|
|
could be used for destructive purposes, resulting in the cataclysmic
|
|
obliteration of the Universe. Our Dolmarian legend has it that long
|
|
ago, these creatures created a black hole in space which destroyed
|
|
entire worlds. We feel it is necessary to sacrifice ourselves for
|
|
this reason. What are three lives compared to all life in the
|
|
Universe? The Tieo must be destroyed to save the future. She was
|
|
built entirely for peaceful, scientific purposes, not for war.
|
|
|
|
END OF LOG --"
|
|
|
|
|
|
There was a pause, and then the computer blipped.
|
|
" The self destruct mechanism has been activated. The Tieo will self
|
|
destruct in seven minutes and fifty seconds. Forty nine .... Forty eight ..."
|
|
|
|
"Picard to Transporter Chief. Beam the Away Team up - Now."
|
|
"I can't, Captain!" he replied, madly punching the transporter controls.
|
|
"There's too much interference ....."
|
|
"We need that transporter. The Away Team is in considerable danger. The
|
|
derelict is going to ...."
|
|
"I know, sir. Believe me, I'm doing everything I can."
|
|
"Well do better" barked the captain. "Picard out."
|
|
|
|
Data dashed away from the entrance to the bridge.
|
|
The Tieo jolted vigorously. Lucia was thrown into Will Riker's arms.
|
|
"Quick!" he yelled, as some shelving came tumbling down, "we have to get
|
|
outta here!"
|
|
Lucia and Will ran as fast as they could down one of the corridors. One of
|
|
the ship's computer terminals blew apart near Lucia. She screamed and was
|
|
thrust to one side.
|
|
"Lucia! ...." shouted Will, desperately ripping through the smoke and
|
|
sparks," are you all right?"
|
|
"Yeah ... I'm fine .... sir."
|
|
"Forget protocol for now. Our lives come first."
|
|
Will helped her up. They then continued to run down the corridor, with
|
|
explosions ripping all around them.
|
|
|
|
"Picard to Transporter Chief ... Are the ..."
|
|
"I've got something, sir! Yes! I'll be able to beam them up."
|
|
"Do it! Now!"
|
|
"Aye, sir."
|
|
Picard then turned to tactical.
|
|
"Hail the Romulans, Mr. Worf."
|
|
"Frequencies open, sir."
|
|
"Captain Tarogh, all life forms on the derelict vessel whom we were sent to
|
|
rescue were found to be dead. We are now pulling out of this sector."
|
|
Without a word, the Romulan vessel vanished.
|
|
"They have engaged their cloaking device, sir," informed the Klingon.
|
|
"I'm going to the Transporter Room Three. You have the bridge, Mr. Worf."
|
|
The security chief gave a curt nod. "Yes, Captain."
|
|
|
|
Commander Riker and Lieutenant Commander Talon dematerialized in the
|
|
glistening transporter beam and re-materialized on the transporter stage.
|
|
Captain Picard met them in the Transporter Room. Riker walked off transporter
|
|
pad. He then looked around.
|
|
"Where's Data? ...."
|
|
Lucia saw a StarFleet communicator insignia on the transporter stage, bent
|
|
down and picked it up.
|
|
"No! ...." she gasped. "He's still on that ship .... this is only his
|
|
combadge...."
|
|
She looked desperately at Captain Picard.
|
|
"Captain .... we have to go back for him...."
|
|
"The Tieo's going to blow in less than five minutes" said Riker.
|
|
"Captain ...." said Lucia, frantically, ".... we have to go back for Data.
|
|
We can't let him die ...."
|
|
Jean-Luc took a deep breath. "Lucia, there's not enough time. There's no way
|
|
you can save him in four minutes."
|
|
"Still, Captain, I have to try."
|
|
"No, Lieutenant. Losing one friend and valid crew member is bad enough. I do
|
|
not want to lose two - And the Romulans may still be out there."
|
|
"I appreciate your concern, Captain, but ...."
|
|
"No, Lieutenant."
|
|
"Please, Jean-Luc ...."
|
|
"No, Lucia. I cannot let ...."
|
|
"Permission to insult, sir," snapped Lucia, sarcastically.
|
|
"Not granted" Picard shot back. "You are to return to the bridge -
|
|
immediately."
|
|
Lucia was silent for a short moment. She then looked behind Captain Picard.
|
|
"Data!!" she exclaimed. "You made it!!"
|
|
Picard, Riker and the Transporter Chief spun around, but there was no one
|
|
there. The diversion created enough time for Lucia to activate the
|
|
transporter.
|
|
"Override!" yelled Picard.
|
|
"I can't, sir!"
|
|
Picard wanted to feel angry, but for some reason, he was not.
|
|
"How can anyone punish such bravery?"
|
|
|
|
Commander Talon was beamed directly to the Tieo.
|
|
"This vessel will self destruct in three minutes and thirty- nine seconds.
|
|
Thirty eight ...."
|
|
"I have to find him ...." Lucia said to herself, determined.
|
|
She began frantically began searching.
|
|
"DATA!! WHERE THE @#$% ARE YOU??!!"
|
|
Explosions erupted all around her and the ship's hull was beginning to break
|
|
apart. Some of the higher ledges tumbled down. Lucia quickly manoeuvred out
|
|
of the way. She then looked towards an open door. She ran to it and looked
|
|
inside. She saw the three dead scientists, but they were not her concern. Her
|
|
concern was Data. As Lucia ran in the other direction, she tripped over a
|
|
large slab of metal on the floor, which was on an angle. She peered under it.
|
|
"Data!!"
|
|
Lucia instantaneously knelt down to him and used all her strength to free him
|
|
from underneath the metal. She was a little confused, however. Data was much
|
|
stronger than her, so why couldn't he have freed himself? Lucia then gasped,
|
|
horrified. There was another, very sharp piece of metal which had sliced
|
|
through Data's chest and was still stuck inside him and he was bleeding
|
|
heavily. Lucia winced.
|
|
"Data, are you all right? ...."
|
|
There was no reply. The android just lay there, motionless.
|
|
"Data .... Data say something, please!...."
|
|
Lucia managed to pry the metal loose and take it out of him. She cut her
|
|
hands, and they started bleeding, but she was too worried about Data to
|
|
notice the pain. Data slowly began to open his eyes. Lucia gasped with relief.
|
|
"Where .... where am I? ..." asked Data, weakly. "I cannot see..."
|
|
"You're on the Tieo, Data. It's set to self destruct. I came back for you."
|
|
"No ...." said Data, weakly, sounding as though he was in pain," save
|
|
yourself, Lucia."
|
|
"No, Data. You're hurt. You're dying ... You need me. I didn't come back
|
|
here to watch you die."
|
|
"My destruction is inevitable now, Lucia, but you can still escape. Go now,
|
|
while you still have a chance .... please ..."
|
|
"No way, Data. You're coming with me. We're both coming out of this - alive."
|
|
"Lucia, I am ... I'm too heavy for you .... You may not make it. Leave me
|
|
here."
|
|
"Shut up, Data - That's an order."
|
|
Lucia then smiled and helped Data stagger to his feet. The gash in the
|
|
android's chest was large. Lucia was not sure how much it was hurting him,
|
|
but it looked as though the android was in excruciating pain.
|
|
"This vessel will self destruct in one minute and ten seconds... nine ..."
|
|
Data was quite heavy, but Lucia was determined to save him.
|
|
" Come on ..." she said. "We don't have much time."
|
|
Data did his best to walk, but found it quite difficult in his damaged
|
|
predicament. His eyesight was beginning to return to him, but he saw only
|
|
blurred visions. Lucia staggered with him away from the exploding machinery,
|
|
out of danger.
|
|
As they were staggering away, a sharp piece of metal sliced into Lucia's
|
|
ankle. She shrieked with pain. Data stopped. He spoke weakly, but with
|
|
concern. "Are you all right, Lucia?"
|
|
"Yes .... I'm okay .... it's just my ankle, but saving our lives .... your
|
|
life is my main concern right now."
|
|
Data appreciated Lucia's concern for him, but did not want her to sacrifice
|
|
herself on his account. Lucia managed to locate a corridor which appeared to
|
|
be safer than the others. She gave Data his communicator and hit hers.
|
|
"Enterprise, two to beam up."
|
|
"There's a malfunction .... The transporter is only capable of beaming one
|
|
person up at a time."
|
|
There was a pause.
|
|
"You go first, Lucia," said Data, breaking the silence.
|
|
"No, Data, you ....."
|
|
"I thank you and appreciate all you have done for me. I commend your
|
|
bravery, but...."
|
|
"But nothing, Data. You go first .... I love you."
|
|
Data smiled weakly.
|
|
" Thank you for everything, Lucia. I appreciate all you have done for me,
|
|
and I shall remember your kindness, always. I wish I could say 'I love you
|
|
too', and return your love."
|
|
"You already have, Data."
|
|
Data was confused, but before the android could say anything, Lucia pushed
|
|
his communicator in his hand, but not before she kissed him, passionately.
|
|
" Enterprise," she said, "one to beam up."
|
|
Before Data could do anything, he was beamed aboard the Enterprise. The
|
|
android collapsed on the transporter stage.
|
|
" Captain, Data's badly wounded, he...."
|
|
"Get him to sickbay" barked Picard from the bridge. "Have you got a fix on
|
|
Commander Talon?"
|
|
"I'm trying, sir, but there's too much interference ...
|
|
Sir .... I think I have something! Energising transporter!"
|
|
The image of Lucia began to form on the transporter stage.
|
|
"Anything?" asked Jean-Luc.
|
|
"Negative, sir. I almost got her, but I've lost her signal."
|
|
|
|
>From the viewscreen, the entire bridge crew witnessed the Tieo detonate in an
|
|
enormous, violent, spectacular explosion.
|
|
"Shields up" said Picard, automatically
|
|
The bridge crew were left temporarily visionless by the blinding glare.
|
|
Captain Picard then bashed his combadge. "Transporter chief.... " he said
|
|
urgently. "Anything?"
|
|
There was a pause, then, "negative, sir. Nothing."
|
|
Jean-Luc pushed his lips together. He took a deep breath and
|
|
pushed his communicator.
|
|
"Doctor Crusher, how's Data?"
|
|
"He's bad, Captain. Geordi and I are working on him."
|
|
"Any improvement in his condition?" asked Will, concerned.
|
|
"Not much Commander," said Geordi. "He suffered a considerable amount of
|
|
damage. His chest has been ripped open. I believe with our help and his
|
|
automatic repair systems ...."
|
|
"Geordi," interrupted Jean-Luc, "is there any hope Data can be repaired?"
|
|
" Fortunately his positronic brain was not damaged, but there has been a
|
|
substantial amount of internal damage and he's lost a lot of his chemical
|
|
nutrients."
|
|
"Mr. La Forge, Doctor Crusher, keep us posted."
|
|
"Aye, sir."
|
|
Geordi looked at his friend's wounded body. "Please don't die, Data ...."
|
|
|
|
Later in sickbay ....
|
|
"There .... that should do it."
|
|
Geordi finished welding Data's chest. Doctor Crusher looked at him and nodded.
|
|
"I hope so."
|
|
The two waited anxiously. Data's eyes opened a few seconds later and he sat
|
|
up without effort. He looked down at his chest, then looked up.
|
|
"Geordi?"
|
|
Geordi smiled and tapped his combadge.
|
|
"Captain, Data's A-OK."
|
|
"Excellent, Geordi," smiled Jean-Luc. "I'll join you with Commander Riker
|
|
and Counsellor Troi in sickbay."
|
|
"Yes, sir."
|
|
Data then looked around.
|
|
"Doctor? .... I am on the Enterprise ...."
|
|
|
|
Captain Picard arrived in sickbay moments later. Data took a few seconds to
|
|
recall what had happened.
|
|
"Data, are you all right?"
|
|
There was a moments pause.
|
|
"Yes, Captain, I am fine. All my systems are operating. Where is Lucia?"
|
|
Jean-Luc hesitated.
|
|
"Has something happened to her?" asked Data, concerned when he saw the look
|
|
on the captain's face. "Was she not beamed aboard the Enterprise?"
|
|
Jean-Luc paused for a while.
|
|
"You were beamed up first, Data," explained Will. "We tried desperately to
|
|
lock onto Lucia, but there was too much interference. We were unable to save
|
|
her ... I'm sorry. ..."
|
|
Data paused for a long while.
|
|
"She .... she sacrificed herself for me ...."
|
|
Jean-Luc nodded. Neither he, nor Geordi, Will, Deanna or Beverly could
|
|
explain the strange look in Data's golden eyes. Neither could Data. He slowly
|
|
slid off the biobed and walked towards the exit.
|
|
"She died honourably, Data."
|
|
Data turned around and looked at Captain Picard.
|
|
"Yes, Jean-Luc," he said, his voice sincere. "I know that, and I will never
|
|
forget it. I will respect and remember her, always."
|
|
Data then left sickbay without saying another word. Deanna watched him go.
|
|
"Captain, I'm sensing ...."
|
|
Jean-Luc raised his finger, silencing her.
|
|
"I know, Deanna. So am I."
|
|
|
|
|
|
Back on the bridge, the entire crew had assembled.
|
|
|
|
"Lieutenant Commander Lucia Talon has demonstrated extreme value and courage
|
|
in her self sacrifice. We shall remember her, always."
|
|
"We shall remember ...." repeated the entire bridge crew in unison and
|
|
respect.
|
|
Jean-Luc then sat down. Ensign Rager at the Conn, looked over at Data.
|
|
"Sorry about Lucia," she said softly, sadly.
|
|
A million things flew through Data's head, but all he could do was nod and
|
|
say, "me too ...."
|
|
Data was confused. He felt Lucia's death was his fault. felt Guilt? .... am
|
|
I feeling guilt? How is this possible? I cannot feel anything ....
|
|
Rager was deep in thought about Lucia as well. She barely heard the order
|
|
from Captain Picard.
|
|
"Ensign Rager, take us out of the Neutral Zone and lay in a course for the
|
|
nearest Starbase. Proceed on half impulse power."
|
|
She did not comply. Captain Picard raised his voice.
|
|
"Ensign Rager .... "
|
|
She jerked. "Captain?"
|
|
Captain Picard repeated his order.
|
|
"Sorry, sir. I was thinking about Commander Lucia .... Aye, sir.
|
|
Co-ordinates laid in, one half impulse."
|
|
"Engage."
|
|
|
|
As the Enterprise sailed through space on impulse power, Data
|
|
turned in his chair and stood up.
|
|
"Captain, request permission to return to my quarters."
|
|
Jean-Luc nodded. "Granted, Data."
|
|
Data left the bridge and entered the turbolift. The doors hissed closed.
|
|
"Deck two."
|
|
|
|
Data soon arrived at his quarters. He walked inside and looked at his Freedom
|
|
painting. He then turned around and saw the tapestry on the ledge. Images of
|
|
Lucia flew through his head.
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Second Officer's Personal Log, Stardate 46240.0:
|
|
|
|
Data explained in his Log, the times he had with Lucia from beginning to end.
|
|
The tragic end.
|
|
|
|
... I should have been the one killed, not her. She gave me
|
|
everything she could and understood me better than anyone. Lucia
|
|
loved me and I once again, I was incapable of loving in return. I
|
|
feel so inhibited. Lucia said that I do have emotions, but I don't
|
|
realise it. Is this true? I hope so. I shall remember you, Lucia -
|
|
always."
|
|
|
|
|
|
Data then picked up his - Lucia's tapestry, left his quarters and slowly
|
|
walked into the turbolift.
|
|
"Ten-Forward."
|
|
|
|
Data reached his destination. The Ten-Forward lounge, normally buzzing with
|
|
social excitement was now totally deserted. Not a soul to be seen or heard.
|
|
Data slowly walked to the front of the lounge and sat down by the window. He
|
|
gazed out at the stars.
|
|
"You okay?" came Guinan's soothing voice.
|
|
Data jerked, then turned his head toward her.
|
|
"I did not think anyone would be here."
|
|
"I'm always here, Data."
|
|
Data turned his eyes away from her and looked down at Lucia's tapestry and
|
|
played with the wool.
|
|
"She was so kind to me ...." he said, softly. "And understood me so well."
|
|
Data looked into Guinan's eyes.
|
|
"It is not fair, Guinan .... Why ...."
|
|
"A lot of things in life are not fair, Data, but we just have to accept
|
|
them."
|
|
Data closed his eyes, then opened them and slowly nodded.
|
|
"She did not deserve to die. I did."
|
|
"No you didn't, Data. Lucia loved you very deeply. That's why she chose to
|
|
sacrifice herself. She did it because she wanted to. You life was more
|
|
important to her than her own."
|
|
"I realize that, Guinan and I will always respect her for her sacrifice,
|
|
but...."
|
|
"A thing you are going to have to learn about being human, Data, is
|
|
accepting pain."
|
|
Data then realised had advanced further in his never ending struggle to
|
|
become human. He wanted to feel happy, but he was not. He had suffered such a
|
|
great loss in the process, in a way he felt he was better off before.
|
|
"Thank you, Guinan," he said, grateful for her understanding,
|
|
"but I would like to be left alone now."
|
|
Guinan gave a small smile and a single nod. She then turned and seemed to
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disappear in her flowing clothes behind the Ten-Forward bar.
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Data looked down at Lucia's tapestry. He picked up the threaded needle and
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began to sew. He was surprised when he saw a small droplet of water on the
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tapestry. He wiped his eye, amazed. He was crying. For the first time in his
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life. Real tears. Yet, despite this achievement, he was not happy. He then
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gazed at the billions of stars outside, and whispered sadly, softly, If I am
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capable of love, at all - I love you, Lucia.
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------------------------------------------------------------
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Tanya "Lore" Dean,
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15/11A Cambridge St
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Sydney NSW 2111
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AUSTRALIA
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Since Tanya does not have direct access to the net
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please address any email to:
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henry@cerberus.bhpese.oz.au
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