Joking. Ah. 'Forced to endure' Risa. Your actual intent was to emphasize that you did enjoy yourself. I see how that could be considered quite amusing.
Yes, sir. However, there are no protostars in this sector.
Curious, the efficiency reading on the discharge crystal is well above Starfleet specifications.
Yes, sir. However, the difference in intensity indicates this one did not originate from the same location as the first.
Perhaps the perpetrator reprogrammed the memory chips... to erase any record.
The erasures were complete. However, an analysis of the subatomic structure revealed almost undetectable residual patterns.  In time, we may be able to reconstruct the perpetrator's authorization code.
We have been picking up a curious intermittent blip... Commander Riker has speculated that it may be a Romulan transmission. I am attempting to track its source.
As in a human brainwave pattern?
Computer... I'm reading anomalous variations in the molecular structure of these memory chips... please confirm...
I have been able to determine that Commander La Forge was abducted by Romulans while en route to Risa. It is likely that they somehow forced him into taking part in their plot to assassinate Governor Vagh.
No, Sir. However, the star's single planet falls within the M-Class range. It is capable of supporting life.
No. My positronic system is immune to the effect. This is the third unstable wormhole I have passed through during my time in Starfleet. The first, on-board the U.S.S. Trieste --
True. Nevertheless, it is possible that the phenomenon could occur in matter at much higher levels of organization. Given the proper conditions.
However, I cannot help noticing that you appear a bit uncomfortable yourself.
The Captain has expressed doubts about my operational capacities. Doubts which, given the circumstances, seem entirely justified. I do not understand your reluctance to carry out his instructions.
There is nothing I can tell you, Geordi, beyond what I have already stated.
My positronic brain is a technology unknown to the Paxans.
Everyone but myself was rendered unconscious. My positronic brain is immune to the effect.
I was, of course, not serious about calling security. It was a joke.
That being the case, I am having difficulty understanding why someone would deliberately terminate their own existence.
I believe I understand. I have been in a similar situation.
The first months following my activation were a difficult period for me... there were many problems associated with my becoming sentient.
As my systems grew in complexity, it became increasingly difficult to integrate new pathways into my existing neural net. The probability of cascade failure grew with each added pathway. I came to the conclusion that it would be easier and safer to shut myself down and start again.
Using conventional means, that would be true; however I propose that we piggy-back our signal on Romulan subspace transmissions...
A Human metaphor, pardon me. We would use a Romulan signal as a carrier for own own, thus disguising its origin.
I believe it will. During the last hour, I have conducted a systematic review of the entire Romulan subspace grid and compared my findings with the specifications of your transmission array. It would appear they are compatible.
Interesting. I have never considered that. And Captain Picard has been a role model in my quest to be more Human.
As you examine your life, do you find you have missed your humanity?
'No regrets.' That is a Human expression.
The theory is simple. The shield bends light rays around the planet's contour -- similar to the Romulan cloaking device -- but the implementation is very difficult.
In theory, my neural network should be able to sustain key systems until primary control is restored.
I do not understand. You are constantly working on similar electronic systems, yet their appearances do not disturb you.
I have experienced a brief power surge in my positronic subprocessor.  But I am fine.
Spot, I have formulated a new mixture of foods specifically tailored to your highly selective tastes.
Spot, you are disrupting my ability to work.
I have been formulating nutritional supplements for Spot.
According to my memory log, I did not use those words.  Ya'll must be mistaken.
Well... we figure parts of my memory structure...  ... have been replaced with information from the computer's recreational data-base.
This is very interesting to me. Although I understand in technical terms how life is formed, there is still a part of the process which eludes my understanding. I began my existence as an adult. I have no memory -- no cognizance of conception, birth, childhood, so to be allowed to witness this event is...
Perhaps they were planning for the worst.  In the early twenty-second century Earth was recovering from World War III. A major philosopher of the period was Liam Dieghan, the founder of the Neo-Transcendentalists. He advocated a return to a simpler life in which one lived in harmony with nature, and learned under her gentle tutelage --
Sir, I have insufficient information from which to form a cogent theory.
Scans indicate human life form readings thirty meters below the planet's surface.
If you are correct, he must be told that the device has been modified in such a way that prolonged contact with human tissue would be highly toxic.
I am processing a binary message that was entered into my static memory by Captain Picard.  Geordi, are we planning to fire on the alien habitat?
There are no human life signs.
Commander -- I am detecting a temporal distortion on the surface... and human life signs.
Federation vessels have encountered Tamarian ships seven times over the past one hundred years. Each meeting was without incident, but formal relations were never established because communication was not possible.
I have encountered one-thousand, seven-hundred, fifty-four non-Human races during my tenure with Starfleet.
The Tamarian ego structure does not seem to allow what we normally think of as self-identity. Their ability to abstract is highly unusual. They seem to communicate through narrative imagery -- by reference to the individuals and places which appear in their mytho-historical accounts.
No sir. The situation is analogous to understanding the grammar of a language but none of the vocabulary.
I have discovered, Sir, a certain level of impatience when I calculate a lengthy time interval to the nearest second. However, if you wish...
Indeed, there are many races that are not empathically detectable. The Breen, the Ferengi, the --
Possibly. However, the beings may perceive them as negligible noise rather than an attempt at communication.
As I have no human 'instinct' per se, I cannot advise you, Counselor.
Since the cluster is two-dimensional, I have no direct evidence to support that assumption. But it is the most reasonable hypothesis.
I do not suggest we simulate the gravitational field of the string fragment, Commander. Rather the string's vibration.
A fascinating vocation, Mister Barclay. I am a student of Sherlock Holmes mysteries and I would enjoy discussing some of your cases at your leisure.
Yes, sir. However, that may initiate the collapse of the surrounding supports. I recommend that you and Geordi return to the ship.
Yes. Then I will carry you to the corridor. We will transport back to the Enterprise from there. Do you understand?
I am an android. My strength is many times that of a human.
I am designed to exceed human capacity both mentally and physically.
'Better' is a highly subjective term. I do not, for example, possess the ability to experience emotions as humans do.
My positronic brain is not capable of generating those conditions.
The servo-mechanisms in my neck are designed to approximate Human movements.  I did not realize the effect was so... distracting.
Timothy, are you having... disturbing dreams?
Timothy, you understand that you may speak with me about anything you wish -- any subject.
I would like to confide in you, Geordi. However, I am finding my thoughts difficult to verbalize.
I have spent my entire life emulating Humans. Now, I find myself confronted by a Human who is emulating me.
It is certainly not consistent with his android persona...
I am not capable of 'tasting' in the manner which you describe. I can analyze the composition of a dessert and make comparative conclusions about its possible effect on the human palate. However, I neither like it, nor dislike it...
I am an android. That will never change.
I have always wished to be Human. I study people carefully in order to more closely approximate Human behavior.
Given the effects we have observed, the probability is exceedingly remote.
I have many Human friends. I would be pleased to count you among them.
Could you please continue your bickering? I find it intriguing.
Ah, a human proverb! As in folklore, or an historical allusion, or tribal memories, or...
Enterprise history. Aberrant behavior. Medical cross reference...
Confirmed, sir. And there is a rather peculiar limerick being delivered by someone in the shuttlecraft bay. I am not sure I understand it...  There was a young lady from Venus whose body was shaped like --
Yes. However I see nothing amusing in his hostility toward her.
It is not just a matter of control, Doctor. The signals are interactive across a subspace domain similar to that of a Transporter beam. I would hypothesize that these frequencies form the basis of the Borg's collective consciousness.
Possibly. But, as you will recall, on several occasions, we have witnessed the Borg removing key circuits from injured comrades... no doubt separating them from the group consciousness.
The neural link will be established in three stages... Doctor, I suggest you closely observe Captain Picard's lifesigns while Chief O'Brien monitors my positronic matrix activity at each stage... Counselor, hopefully you will be able to determine if I am reaching Captain Picard.
First neural connection is confirmed... I cannot report any significant access to the Borg consciousness...
Fascinating. The Borg group consciousness... is divided into subcommands... necessary to carry out all functions... communications, defense, navigation... they are all controlled... by a root command... implanted in each -- Suddenly...
It is conceivable, sir... it would require altering the pathways from the root command, to affect all iterative branchpoints in...
I successfully planted a command in the Borg collective consciousness, sir. It misdirected them to believe it was time to regenerate. In effect, I put them all to sleep.
I do not understand this at all!
Captain... I do not understand how, but it is asking me if I was... constructed for information exchanges.
They recognize that this is quite expected and harmless at the present Edo stage of evolution, and...
Most interesting, sir. The emotion of motherhood, compared to all others felt by humans...
Perhaps because the Edo are a child-race by comparison. Possibly a race which the life forms over there 'planted' here much as we now plant human colonies on Class-M planets.
Thank you... Humans are fascinating. They celebrate the passage of time with such joy until a certain age, and then it becomes a topic of some discomfort. I suppose it is because each birthday is another step towards inevitable death. Do Klingons observe birthdays, Worf?
No. I am simply trying to understand the celebration of aging. And how old were you when Wesley was born, Doctor?
I do not understand, sir. Why...
Loyalty is not the issue, Commander. There is nothing wrong with Captain Picard -- or the ship's logs. Therefore there must be something wrong with your original assumption.
Curious. The captain is usually the last to leave.
You are wrong, Geordi, I can. I do not need rest or diversion -- I should not have been painting. I was negligent.
Other evidence lends credence to that theory, Captain. A review of the sensor logs indicates that every systems reading was well within normal parameters until fifty-two milliseconds before the explosion.
I think, sir, that the conclusion of our investigation must be that the explosion was not intentional.
'I have bedimm'd the noontide sun, call'd forth the mutinous winds, and 'twixt the green sea and the azur'd vault set roaring war: to the dread rattling thunder have I given fire, and rifted Jove's stout oak with his own bolt; the strong-bas'd promontory have I made shake and by the spurs pluck'd up the pine and cedar; graves at my command have wak'd their sleepers, op'd, and let 'em forth by my so potent art.'
'But this rough magic I here abjure; and, when I have requir'd some Heavenly music -- which even now I do -- to work mine end upon their senses, that this airy charm is for, I'll break my staff, bury it certain fadoms in the earth, and deeper than did ever plummet sound -- I'll drown my book.'
Yes, sir... but I am not certain I fully understand the character of Prospero. I would appreciate any insights you may have which would improve my performance.
The train we encountered is from one of Doctor Crusher's Holodeck programs. It is a re-creation of the Orient Express, a train which ran from Paris to Istanbul from the late nineteenth century until --
One fact is clear, however. The distortion was gaining in strength. If we had remained at our original position one-point seven seconds longer, the distortion would have ruptured our warp core.
I am not certain -- possibly from the node itself.
I did. However, it has reactivated itself... and it will not disengage.
This is a synaptic map of the human neo-cortex...  This is a cross-section of my positronic net...  And this is a schematic of the connection nodes linking the ship's systems...
Complex systems can sometimes behave in ways that are entirely unpredictable. The human brain, for example, might be described in terms of cellular functions and neuro-chemical interactions.
But that description does not explain human consciousness -- a capacity that far exceeds simple neural functions.  Consciousness is an emergent property.
I believe the key to understanding the ship's behavior lies in the Holodeck.  All of the connection nodes intersect at that location. It is clearly some kind of processing center.
Miranda's first encounter with other human beings.
Because the end product was unknown. The object could have been dangerous. It may in fact, be dangerous...
The asteroid has shattered. However, the core is still intact -- and still on a direct collision course with Tessen Three.
Yessir. I have studied the philosophies of virtually every known acting master, but I find myself particularly attracted to Stanislavsky, Adler, Garnav... proponents of a performance technique known as 'The Method.'
Perhaps because the technique requires an actor to seek his own emotional awareness to understand the character he plays...
I have modified the method for my own use, sir. Since I have no emotional awareness to create a performance, I am attempting to use performance to create an emotional awareness. I believe if I can learn to duplicate the fear of Ebenezer Scrooge, then I will be one step closer to being truly human.
In effect, it was a contract dispute over services rendered by a Klingon craftsman on the construction of a Ventaxian home. Because the dispute involved an alien culture, the parties decided that arbitration rather than the courts would resolve the issue. Both sides were required to agree on an arbiter and the case was decided in favor of the Ventaxian. It is the only known case involving an alien claimant.
I believe she is referring to the fact that the human genome is self replicating.
Precisely. An almost undetectable transposition in the human genome. It takes a number of interactions of the --
However, there is no evidence of relevant stellar or seismic activity which would cause the interference.
The power surge would cause a system failure in most of my internal processors and melt my primary power couplings. However, there is a chance that the damage would not be irreparable.
My positronic brain has several layers of shielding to protect it from power surges. It would be possible for you to remove my cranial unit and take it with you.
My neural nets and memory core are self-contained.  I will be fine.
It was my understanding that the item selected should reflect the personality of whoever is giving the gift.  This does not remind me of you.
Have you ever been an actual participant in a human wedding?
It is in your service record. 'Awarded first prize in tap and jazz competition, Saint Louis Academy---
I project a ninety percent probability that they will continue to pursue this policy.
That fact is not in dispute. However, you may have acted with undue haste... and in doing so, you have unintentionally hurt Chief O'Brien's feelings.
There are many different opinions. On Galvin Five, a marriage is considered successful only if children are produced within a year of the wedding. Andorian marriages require groups of four people unless two---
But I am their friend. Should I not stand with them in a time of difficulty?
Although I am an android, I have not excluded the possibility that I too may someday marry.
I believe I have much to offer a potential mate, however we cannot grow old together, Counselor, because I will not grow old.
I have the same safeguards as the ship's computer. Therefore, I must report any inquiry regarding restricted information to the Captain along with a report stating the nature and purpose of the inquiry.
The only abnormality found during my investigation was a temporary increase in the matter to energy signal ratio. This fluctuation was well within operating parameters and would normally not invite further consideration. However, due to the circumstances, I decided to investigate the possibility that a second Transporter signal had caused the fluctuation. Although this was highly improbable, it was the only remaining theory.
I agree Geordi. But the data matrix within the capsule does not correspond to any standard format. All we have been able to determine is that the device uses a chemically based system for molecular energy encoding.
An intriguing experiment. The capsule might provide us with information without the need to decode the storage medium itself. Perhaps we could examine your theory immediately.
Are you suggesting that it employes memory RNA like an organic cell?
Perhaps the information sequences are encoded in the molecular patterns themselves.
It appears that your hypothesis was correct, Geordi.
Understood. I agree that the probability that such a message exists is remote, but I believe we should check.
You continually question my orders in front of the crew. I do not think this is appropriate behavior.
Mister Worf... I am sorry if I have ended our friendship.
Perhaps I have not made our intentions clear... we are investigating a --
Article forty-seven, paragraph three, subsection B: 'Starfleet will have the right to insure all Klingon vessels comply with safety and navigational regulations as specified by mutual agreement.'  But I am not sure that using this clause as an excuse to conduct a search would be consistent with the spirit of the Treaty.
However, if Koral wishes to contest our actions he can file a protest with the Judge Advocate General's office.  Bring the shuttle aboard and then you and Doctor Crusher may begin the inspection.
I am curious about something, Lieutenant. If you met a double of yourself, would you find it difficult to interact with him?
Traveling at warp speed, too. Intriguing.  I can find no match with anything in our records, sir.
Intriguing, Doctor. What does helm control have to do with medical crosschecks?
If the Enterprise were really this fragile, sir, she never would have gotten out of spacedock. Therefore, her systems failures are not endemic to the ship, but are more likely the result of the actions of an unknown adversary.
I am referring to the Great Detective's credo, sir. I quote... 'We must fall back on the old axiom that when other contingencies fail, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.'
I understand. As an energy pattern free of the limitations of matter... it might travel anywhere, at any velocity...
Four, one, three, three, six, eight, Tango, one, eight, one, one, seven, one, Charlie, four, Victor, three... eight, eight, eight, zero, Foxtrot, six, one, five, three, three, five, nine, five, seven, lock.
Perhaps, for humans, old things represent a tie to the past.
I suppose it is a factor in the human desire to procreate.
Lore told me the colonists became envious of him because you made him 'so completely human.'
Lore also said the colonists petitioned you to replace him with a 'less perfect' android?
Then it is alright for you to die... because I will remain alive.
'With their pants down.' A metaphor, catching them in the act... because your 'gut' tells you so...
So a person fills in missing pieces of the puzzle with his own personality... resulting in a conclusion based as much on instinct and emotion as on fact.
What does one do if he has no instinct and emotion?
I am afraid they would require the molecular structure of the beverage in question. And, as you are no doubt aware, our knowledge of your planet is quite limited.
I believe it was four, sir. We did not have a fully integrated tactical command until the twenty-third century. In fact, several of the Promellian innovations served as inspiration for early Federation starship design...
There are many fascinating records of Menthar battle strategy... they were exceptionally innovative. In fact, they were the first to devise the Kavis Teke elusive maneuver as well as a Passive Lure stratagem that is comparable to Napoleon's...
Radiation factor is within safe human limits, Commander.
That is curious, Commander. The radiation field must be directional in nature... aimed only at the Enterprise.
Commander Riker is correct. While the information imparted to cadets at the Academy is unquestionably vital for prospective Starfleet officers, it nevertheless requires a significant period of supplementary systems training and situational disciplines.
You will always be in my memory.
Commander -- I would like to remind you about my poetry reading this afternoon.
That poem was written in anapestic tetrameter. For my ninth poem, we move to the iambic septameter mode.  Throughout the ages, from Keats to Jorkemo, poets have composed odes to the individuals who have had a profound effect on their lives. In keeping with that tradition, I have written my next poem in honor of my cat. I call it 'Ode to Spot.'
'A tail is quite essential for your acrobatic talents You would not be so agile if you lacked its counterbalance And when not being utilized to aid in locomotion It often serves to illustrate the state of your emotions.'
You have prematurely anticipated my denouement, Commander. However, I appreciate the sentiment.  I will continue.
'Oh Spot, the complex level of behavior you display Connotes a fairly well-developed cognitive array And though you are not sentient, Spot, and do not comprehend I nonetheless consider you a true and valued friend... '
Geordi... may I make a personal inquiry? It concerns my poetry reading.
I noticed that many spectators seemed distracted during my presentation. Was my poetry uninteresting?
I have found poetry more challenging than other artistic endeavors. Unlike painting and musical composition, it demands a more articulated emotional content.
I have no memory of events during that period.  When we are finished here, I will perform a self-diagnostic.
The structure of the bulkhead is being altered on a subatomic level. The metal itself is in a state of quasi-molecular flux.
I have completed my self-diagnostic, and confirmed that I was not aboard the Enterprise for ninety minutes, seventeen seconds yesterday afternoon.
Whenever I am on the ship, the warp field leaves an electromagnetic signature on my internal servo fluid system. Yesterday, between twelve fifty-four and fourteen twenty-six hours that signature is missing.
Based on the information gathered by Commander Riker's tricorder, we have determined that the molecular structure of the alien life forms is solanogen-based.
Perhaps they are simply curious. Explorers, like ourselves.
Perhaps we are being too literal. In my recent study of dream analysis, I learned that people who appear in a dream can sometimes represent different aspects of the person who is dreaming.
Perhaps, but there is no known method of controlling neutron migration, Doctor.
A likely hypothesis. The nomadic marauders who refer to themselves as Gatherers have raided other outposts in neighboring sectors.
I do not believe so. However, we may experience intermittent system failures and power surges as a result.
Draygo Four features an unusually large temperate zone. However, it is within three light-years of Cardassian space.
It offers a less hospitable climate than the Boraalans are accustomed to. However, it would still appear to be the better choice.
Mordan has had peace for five years. They have finally come to a state of productivity that satisfies their planetary needs, but no more than that. Perhaps the dissidents feel the Federation can provide more -- technology, science, agricultural assistance....
I am detecting seven humans... three are female... however they are all too young to be Miranda Vigo.
I am having difficulty getting a clear reading on the eighth...  -- the individual appears to be located approximately two kilometers beneath the planet's surface.
There is a class four pulsar three light years from the nebula -- my calculations indicate that the probe was launched in the Xendi Kabu system.
I have completed a subspace scan... there is an energy residual that suggests that a Ferengi vessel, possibly several, was in this area within the last eighteen hours.
The Federation abandoned its research in the field because the technology was found to be unreliable... as well as extremely energy intensive.
The quantum effect would explain why our sensors did not detect Bok's presence.
In theory it could operate over several light years.
Yes, I am glad that you understand.
I have kept that somewhat vague. But Sarjenka has been quite specific, telling me detailed stories of her family and friends. It was fascinating, but among these confidences were interspersed alarming references.
Captain, to maintain contact without subspace radio capability required the computer to remotely scan all subspace resonance in her area. If I break that link the probability of relocating her signal falls to one in twenty-three million...
Yes, well, I am sorry about that, but it is very complicated -- Does your family know where you are?
Quite amusing, Professor Hawking.  You see, Sir Isaac, the joke depends on an understanding of the relativistic curvature of spacetime. If two non-inertial reference frames are in relative motion--
I am in. When I play poker with my shipmates, I often find that it is a useful forum for exploring different facets of humanity. I was curious to see how three of history's greatest minds would interact in this setting. So far it has proved most illuminating.
I agree.  Geordi, I believe I experienced my first emotion.
You are correct in that I have no frame of reference to confirm my hypothesis.  In fact, I find myself unable to provide a verbal description of the experience. Perhaps you could describe what it feels like when you get angry... I could then use that as a reference.
Anger is a negative emotion. I wanted to concentrate on something more positive.
But my study of humanity indicates there are some emotions that are harmful, such as jealousy or hatred.
But what if it does, Counselor? What if it turns out that those are the only emotions I am capable of experiencing? Would that not make me a... bad person?
I wish I were as confident as you are, Counselor.  When I was fighting the Borg, I felt angry... but as I think back on that incident, I realize that I also experienced another sensation. It was not the same as anger, but I think it was an emotion.
I have tried other stimuli, but they have been unsuccessful. I understand your objections, but it is my life and I have the right to risk it if I choose.
Nevertheless, that is what our tests indicate. And the markings we discovered are consistent with this hypothesis.
It is a building of some sort, situated on a plane of frozen methane, smack in the middle of a tremendous storm belt. It is incongruous; it simply should not be there!
Also known as twenty-one, a number which defines the object of the game. Tens and picture cards are worth ten, ace -- one or eleven -- the other cards face value. The dealer must hit seventeen -- five cards under pays double.
I am checking options... they seem quite limited --
The story of a group of compulsive gamblers caught up in the web of crime, corruption and deceit spun by nefarious lothario Mikey D who appears only at the climax to be brought to his knees by a heartbroken bellboy. There is a subplot about an older man conspiring with a younger woman to murder her husband while squandering her inheritance. The writing is elementary, the plotting predictable, the characters one-dimensional. The only thing of interest, quite honestly, is the intriguing setting, that of a Las Vegas gambling casino-hotel --
The transmission is from a freighter in orbit around the fourth planet of the system. However, the receiving station is on the third planet.
Fascinating. Your society dedicated exclusively to the production of a single product.
Beginning several thousand years ago, the two worlds took different paths. Ornara became technically sophisticated, Brekka did not. Then two hundred years ago Ornara was stricken by a devastating plague.
That is what I do not understand.
I fail to comprehend how a chemical substance can provide an escape.
It is from Europe's Napoleonic Era, sir, late eighteenth, early nineteenth centuries. This is a campaign headquarters tent, his uniform is that of a French Army marshal, the...
However, a change of routine is often invigorating and can be a welcome diversion after a long assignment.
I understand that Arkaria has some very interesting weather patterns.
Yes, sir. I have found that humans often make 'small talk' during awkward moments. Therefore, I have written a new subroutine designed for that purpose. How did I do?
It is very good to see you both again. May I call you Beverly? -- Beverly, do you find the mean temperature here on Arkaria to be slightly above normal for human comfort levels?
I have found that most humans prefer a temperature of twenty-one degrees C in order to operate most efficiently. However, there are some cultures which actually...
I find it fascinating that your family chose to drop the prefix 'Pel' from your surname. It was my understanding that 'Pel Orton' would be considered a more noble appellation on Arkaria than simply Orton.
... yes, but Tyrellian laser-art is very similar in form and composition.
This is quite intriguing. It is transmitting a carrier signal on a frequency which has not been used for centuries.
The power is solar... quite primitive. There is however minimum life support.
It is a piece of history. The opportunity to examine such an ancient vehicle does not come around very often, and as you pointed out, we do have the time.
Her name is Clare Raymond, age thirty-five; occupation, homemaker... must be some kind of construction work.
His name is Ralph Offenhouse, age sixty-three; occupation, financier.
Actually there is a distinct difference between a robot and an android.
These are not like any other humans I have ever encountered. I find them fascinating.
I have had one hundred eleven dreams since I first discovered the program nine months ago. In all of that time, I have never experienced such strange and disturbing imagery in a dream.  I believe it was... a nightmare.
I believe I understand. You are concerned about unintentionally hurting Ensign Tyler's feelings.
I am watching Spot sleep. In the past fifteen minutes, he has had twelve muscles spasms, which indicates that he is dreaming.  I have often wondered what he dreams about. His twitching and his rapid breathing would seem to suggest anxiety -- but Spot has never seen a mouse or any other form of rodentia. Nor has he encountered an insect, or been chased by a canine.
That was very thoughtful of him.  I have been debating whether or not to initiate another dream sequence.
Thank you, Counselor. I believe I will initialize the dream program now.
It is a possibility. However, I would prefer to make certain there are no anomalies in my neural net.
It is difficult to explain. Counselor Troi's body was -- a cake.
I am curious, Doctor Freud... what do my nightmares mean?
I am reminded of a recent dream. This brace is reminiscent of...
Everything seems to remind me of the nightmare -- objects, sounds, smells. And now I have seen elements from the dream while still in a waking state.  I cannot explain it.
I have studied over one hundred thirty-eight different theories of dream analysis in an effort to explain my nightmares.
I have been unable to find a single interpretation of my nightmares. For instance, Neo-Platonic hermetic texts from the Ancient Near East would suggest that my experience indicates a prophetic function -- that I have perceived an impending disaster.  Professor Syrus of Tilonus Four would consider my dreams nothing more than epi-phenomena in my neural net. Random discharges with no meaning whatsoever.  Doctor Freud of early Twentieth century Earth suggested that my dreams represent a latent psychosexual complex.
Perhaps Freud was correct... and the knife I dreamed of is the embodiment of my unconscious desire to inflict violence.
I believe I had another waking dream, sir. But this time, I felt an uncontrollable urge to... eliminate the image I saw.
As I said, these are all images that I originally experienced in my dream program. I do not have a rational explanation for them.
Will you take care of Spot for me?
I am concerned that if I have another waking dream, I may... injure him.
Unlike a canine, Spot will not respond to verbal commands.
It is an interesting hypothesis. If I am being affected by these interphasic creatures on an unconscious level, it may also explain my waking dreams, and my subsequent anti-social behavior.
I see. The concept is similar to the method of Directed Dreaming.
I understand.  I am initializing my dream program. Stand by...
Geordi, you must adjust my positronic subprocessor to emit an interphasic pulse.
The workmen in my dreams represent the organisms which are trying to demolish the ship. The incessant ringing of the telephone, and Freud's cautions at the other end, were warnings of the dangers around us.
My positronic subprocessors were detecting high-frequency interphasic signatures from the organisms... which were symbolically represented in my dreams by the high shriek.
Counselor, I did not get a chance to apologize for my behavior...
The Array is still transmitting data. However, it is no longer sending that information to the Federation.  It appears that someone has redirected its imaging systems.
That is our theory. We believe that unauthorized access was made six days ago. The imaging logs from that day show a ship approaching the Array...
It is my understanding that your romantic affiliation began soon after you recovered from your spinal injury on Stardate 45587.
I am not privy to the exact details of when, where and how the first coupling took place. I could investigate it if you --
I am detecting a quantum flux in your cellular RNA...
I have found that the quantum flux in Worf's cellular RNA extends to the subatomic level. It is asynchronous with normal matter.  In essence, Captain -- Mister Worf does not belong in our universe.
All matter in the universe resonates on a quantum level with a unique signature. This signature is a constant. It cannot be changed by any known process. It is the basic foundation of existence.
Yes, sir. I cannot explain it. It is as if he originates from a different quantum universe.
I cannot explain that either. According to my understanding of physics, Worf should not exist.
The anomaly cannot be seen. However, I believe I can enhance it with a warp field to make it visible.
I believe the quantum fissure we discovered is a fixed point across the space-time continuum -- a 'keyhole' that intersects many different quantum realities.
For any event, there is an infinite number of possible outcomes. Our choices determine which outcome will follow. But there is a theory in quantum physics that all possibilities that could happen do happen in alternate quantum realities.
For instance, in a different quantum reality, Captain Riker may have chosen to sit at the other end of the table. While in another reality, the Captain may be standing.
When Worf's shuttlecraft made contact with the quantum fissure, I believe its warp engines caused a small break in the barriers between quantum realties.  Worf was thrown into a state of quantum flux.
Exactly. The VISOR uses a subspace field pulse. I think that whenever Geordi came near Worf, the field pulse intensified the quantum flux and pushed Worf into another reality.
The barriers between quantum realties are breaking down. Other realties are emerging into our own.
The rate of quantum incursions is increasing exponentially.  At this rate, the sector will be completely filled with Enterprises within three days.
Perhaps -- if we find the ship which matches Commander Worf's quantum signature.
It was Worf's shuttlecraft which traversed the fissure and weakened the barriers between quantum realities. If he re-enters the fissure in his original shuttle, and emits a broad-spectrum warp field -- it may be enough to seal the fissure and stop additional realities from emerging into our own.
In theory, the act of sealing the fissure should also restore the barriers between quantum states.  The ships would return to their own realities.
Yes. Its quantum signature matches Commander Worf's precisely.  I have re-modulated the shuttle's engines to emit an inverse warp field. You will need to activate the field at the precise moment you enter the fissure.
That is one possibility. However, the uncertainty principle dictates that time is a variable in this equation. You may end up several days before this event -- or several days after it. There is no way to tell.
It is unlikely, sir, that we will be able to establish communication with the ship, given the severe electromagnetic interference...
I believe she is doing well. Her appetite has increased by seven percent, and she is starting to engage in pre-natal behavior.
I have spent the past nine weeks as an expectant parent. I would be happy to share my insights with your husband.  If my experience is any indication -- he will need all the help he can get.
It is possible that it will take several days for Captain Picard and me to complete our mission. I would prefer to have a human present to supervise the birthing process.
I have noticed that you are the only other member of the crew whom Spot seems to like.
She is to you. However there have been several... injuries when other crewmembers have attempted to care for her.
I am not certain. Spot has escaped from my quarters on several occasions. And there are twelve male felines on board.  I intend to run a full DNA analysis on the kittens once they are --
Goodbye, Spot. I believe you are in... good hands.
Her DNA is in a state of ribocyatic flux... her genetic codes are being re-sequenced... and her cells are mutating as a result.  At a fundamental level, she is no longer human.
Yes. However, the mutation was in its initial stages when he died.
His cranial plates have thickened by twenty percent -- his brain is much smaller, sir. I doubt he can comprehend our language.
Yes, sir. I would say... Australopithacine.  Each of these stages is another link in the evolutionary chain, stretching back to the origins of all lifeforms on Earth.  Because introns can include genetic material from many different species over millions of years of evolution, it is possible that a wide variety of transformations is occurring among the crew.
All humanoid life has a similar genetic pattern. The virus should affect non-human crewmembers in the same way. They are each deevolving to earlier forms of life on their homeworlds.
I am uncertain. We will need to run several micro-cellular scans. However, the ship's main computer has been damaged. Possibly by crewmembers who did not know what they were doing.  The computer in my quarters has an independent processing and memory storage unit, and should not be affected. I suggest we work from there.
I believe Spot has had her kittens.
Yes. I am curious as to why Spot is not taking care of them.
These kittens were born within the last twenty-four hours. It appears that Spot's transformation took place at approximately the same time.
One of the warp plasma vents has failed. Main Engineering has been abandoned -- there is no one there to fix the problem.
You may be experiencing the initial stages of your transformation. Early primates were often prey for larger carnivores -- as a result, their instincts probably included a heightened sense of awareness.
I have analyzed Nurse Ogawa's embryo. It has been unaffected by the virus. I believe I can use her amniotic fluid as a template for a retro-virus. It would neutralize the synthetic T-cell, and re-establish the original genetic patterns of each host.
You have commented on the lack of senior officers available for this mission. I believe that my twenty-six years of Starfleet service qualify me for such a post.  However, if you do not believe the time has arrived for an android to command a starship, then perhaps I should address myself to improving---
I understand your concerns.  Request denied.
It is conceivable that with each new generation they enhance their own design. The rate of evolution would be...extraordinary.
They could easily penetrate the molecular fabric of my hand-covering into the nerve circuitry and interface with my verbal programs.
He was born fourteen years ago on the Federation Colony, Galen Four. His parents, Connor and Moira Rossa, were killed in a border skirmish three years, nine months later when the colony was overrun by Talarian forces.
If Endar respects Talarian custom, he may have to.  According to their tradition, a male child of fourteen has reached the age of decision. They undergo a ceremony of initiation and after that have the freedom to make their own choices.
I fail to see why this is amusing.
No, I do not. But I will take your word. It is very amusing.
But your Starfleet specialty, my friend, is antimatter power, dilithium regulators...
Computer -- select at random a mystery by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, where I will play Sherlock Holmes and Lieutenant La Forge will be Doctor Watson.
And the famous Holmes violin. He purchased this in a pawn shop in Tottenham Court Road for fifty-five shillings, which he considered a very good investment.
I believe, Inspector, that you will find that this emissary here works not for but against the King of Bohemia, and that photograph of the king and his ex-mistress is to be used as blackmail. Further, upon deeper reflection, you will deduce, as did I, that...
To solve a Sherlock Holmes mystery.
The Victorians believed that any form of nudity was immoral... In fact, they not only covered up all people from head to toe, but they even went so far as to put skirts and cuffs and sleeves on the arms and legs of furniture.  I have instructed the computer to give us a Sherlock Holmes-type problem, but not one specifically written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
Reasoning from the general to the specific -- is that not the very definition of deduction? Is that not the way Sherlock Holmes worked?
Leading to the alley...  The doctor has been carried off by two men. One is tall -- a seaman. The other is shorter, left handed, and employed in a laboratory.
One set of footfalls are widely spaced with the uneven gait particular to seamen. The other set is evenly spaced -- closer together. Further, you can see on the ground the swirling scrapes made by his left shoe as he twists back presumably to see if he is being followed. Left footed, means left handed. The dark coloration of the scrapes are the leavings of natural rubber -- a type of non-conductive soles used by researchers experimenting with electricity.  Finally, there can be no argument -- the game is afoot! Come, Watson!
No. Look at his shoes. He's more a convict -- released just today from Dartmoor prison... He spent the day in a tavern where he consumed large quantities of gin -- with his killer, who followed him to this spot -- and waited over there until the victim slipped into a drunken stupor, then out of fear, motivated only by self-protection strangled him.
And when you check, I believe you will find this poor soul is the victim's common law wife, who has been dreading his release because he was a vile and abusive man.
When used as a garrote, these beads will leave marks quite similar to fingerprints, except, my dear Watson... the marks on the victim are too evenly spaced to be caused by human hands.
Inspector -- for reasons strictly personal -- I must leave. Come, Watson, this murder is not connected with our case.
Consciousness. He cannot defeat me without it.
Captain, permission to test my theory.
Congratulations, Professor Moriarty, I capitulate to the better man -- your victory is well earned.
There are dozens of Bajoran camps on the three M-class planets. I suggest we may want to begin on Valo Three, where an ad hoc leader named Jas Holza lives. The Federation has had several dealings with him...
The tricorder is picking up molecular displacement traces... it suggests movement through this area during the last ten hours...
No, sir.  However, it may be possible to determine the point of origin of the tractor beam itself.
I am using the time to catch up on my study of poetry.
The ancient Doosodarians. Much of their poetry contained such 'lacunae' or empty spaces. Often these pauses measured several days in length, during which poet and audience were encouraged to fully acknowledge the emptiness of the experience.
Your sanity is not in question. However, your evaluation of the available information is... biased.
Geordi, I have analyzed the probe's sensor logs -- there are no readings that would indicate the presence of a living human on board the Raman.
The probe does allow Geordi to sense quantum fluctuations, subspace anomalies, and other phenomena not perceptible to other kinds of sensors.
I have been exploring the possibility of using a tractor beam to pull the Raman from the atmosphere. However, there is so much interference that it prevents a positive lock.
I am familiar enough with your behavior patterns to predict certain... decisions.
There is a high degree of probability that you are right.
A ten. A seven -- no help there. A pair of 'ladies' for the Doctor. The dealer receives a nine.  Doctor, may I remind you that since you show the highest hand, you control the next bet.
A ten. A seven -- no help there. A pair of 'ladies' for the Doctor. The dealer receives a nine.  Doctor, may I remind you that since you show the highest hand, you control the next bet.
The sound itself appears to have been real. However the acoustic energy does not correspond to any ship's system, nor to any voice communications sent at the time you heard it.
There seem to be approximately one thousand human voices overlapping.  The voices are those of the Enterprise crew.  Our voices.
There is evidence of some sort of disaster involving the Enterprise -- severe enough that the captain would order all hands to abandon ship. I have isolated three segments of the recording which are crucial.
If the dekyon emission is modulated correctly, it would set up a resonance in my positronic subprocessors. I would receive the information -- on what you would call a subconscious level.
Five months, fourteen days, eleven hours, two minutes --
Assuming the survivors have retained some remnants of their lives aboard the Odin, we might not have a difficult task. If we can isolate something unique to the survivors -- perhaps an element not otherwise found on Angel One -- we can utilize the Enterprise scanners.
I am an android, Mistress, though anatomically, I am a fully functioning male.
Actually, it was quite simple. I accessed all possible elements available to the crew of the Odin, cross-referenced those to elements endemic to Angel One, then eliminated the common denominators. Angel One has no platinum. Enterprise scanners did the rest.
Mister Ramsey is correct, Counselor. The Odin was not a starship, which means its crew is not bound by the Prime Directive. If he and the other survivors wish to stay here, there is absolutely nothing we can do.
The border outpost reports a contingent of seven Romulan battlecruisers within sensor range. The USS Berlin has answered their distress call, and is standing by. However, should hostilities erupt, the outpost and the starship will be outgunned. It is felt that the Enterprise's presence in the area will be a vital show of force.
Splitting hairs is a figure of speech I recognize, Commander. Speaking for those whose hair is soon to be split, forty-eight minutes may make a great deal of difference.  Excuse me -- forty-seven minutes.
I... do not know, sir. However, I seem to have an intuitive understanding of its function.
It is a possibility, sir. I recommend that we perform a level one diagnostic of my positronic net immediately to determine if that is the case.
I suggest we examine the memory sub-systems next.
I am... not certain. I am experiencing a curious sensation...
I believe so, sir. But I am not entirely certain what has happened. Have I been dreaming again?
I do not understand. Why is Spot under the bed?
These incidents are common to cat owners. When you borrowed Spot, you said you wanted to experience the full range of feline behavior before getting a cat yourself.
Spot does not respond to verbal commands.
I have never experienced that kind of behavior from Spot.  Although she does have the unfortunate habit of jumping onto my computer console when I am working.
I understand. You are in competition with Mister Kaplan.
Geordi, I have taken your suggestion regarding Spot.
Such as sensor nets for behavior modification... or bio-feedback motivators...  Unfortunately, I have been largely unsuccessful...
I have consulted numerous animal behavior manuals; several of them claim that cats are inherently untrainable.
That is interesting. Perhaps I could modify your sister's technique to keep Spot off my console. Do you know how she was able to train her cat?
As part of her training program, I am teaching Spot to jump down from the desk on my command.
I suppose I must accept that possibility. It may be that Spot lacks the intelligence necessary to learn the appropriate responses to my commands.
It is a possibility. The debris consists primarily of duranium and poly-composite fragments which suggests it could be from a ship. Furthermore, the field contains sufficient mass to account for the Fleming.
According to Serova and Rabal's theory, there are regions of potential subspace instability within the Corridor...
They believe that if these regions continue to be exposed to warp field energy, they will rupture -- subspace will extrude into normal space, forming a rift.
The effect is approximately zero-point-one light years in diameter, and is emitting extremely high levels of tetryon radiation...  It appears to be what Rabal and Serova predicted, sir -- a subspace rift.
We can initiate a brief, high-intensity warp pulse from our current position. We should be able to attain sufficient velocity to enter the rift, beam the crew off the Fleming and exit -- without using our warp engines.
Perhaps because the aggressive methods she chose created an adversarial situation.
Although I did extremely well scholastically, my lack of Human understanding often created social obstacles.
A conflict has started between the planetary evolution team and the stellar physicists. Both wish to use the thermal imaging array first.
I was considering the possibility that you are telling the truth... and really are human.
The human race has an enduring desire for knowledge, and for new opportunities to improve itself...
I feel nothing at all. That is part of my dilemma. I have the curiosity of the human... but there are some questions I will never be able to answer... what is it like to laugh or to cry or to experience any human emotion... ?
The Captain and much of the crew are not yet convinced that he is truly human.
Human interpersonal relationships are most complex... your experiences may not have adequately prepared you.
To function aboard a starship, or in any human activity, you will have to form relationships.
If your intention is to make me human, Q...
Curious... There seems to be a problem in the Holodeck's spatial orientation systems.
Sherlock Holmes program Three-A has demonstrated some very curious anomalies.
Since both planets are gas giants, neither possesses a solid surface. Their atmospheres, however, will come into contact in approximately seventeen hours and nine minutes.
Possible, but highly unlikely. Your consciousness is computer generated; it is not capable of manipulating physical reality in the required manner.
However, if it were possible to lock onto the object... it might rematerialize with the molecular cohesion of conventional matter.
Agreed. However, we may be able to learn something from the attempt.
But then I saw you working the PADD with your left hand. Commander La Forge is right-handed. A similar malfunction occurred in the Sherlock Holmes program I was running before Moriarty first appeared.
Because the soliton is constantly changing in both frequency and amplitude, it will be extremely difficult to achieve a precise match.
I have nothing to offer. There is not enough information upon which I can base a hypothesis.
It is a possibility, sir. However, sensor data gathered thus far suggests this is a naturally occurring phenomenon with biological properties.
The asteroids contain large quantities of meklinite, which is interferring with our scanners.  I am also detecting traces of Kefnium, a compound which was found in the parent being's outer shell. It is likely that the asteroids provide sustenance for this lifeform.
I did? I meant that Daled Four does not rotate. One side has constant night, the other constant daylight. One might surmise that the two hemispheres developed disparate cultures, which is a major cause of most wars.
It should be that simple, Wesley. Judging by her appearance it is likely you and Salia are biologically compatible. Of course, there may be a difference in the histocompatibility complex in the cell membrane.
The troposphere appears to be absorbing our signals. It is fascinating, Captain. Klavdia Three and Daled Four have almost identical atmospheres.
Apparently Klavdia Three was chosen for Salia because these conditions are important for their species's survival.
He has been in public service since he was a young man... a senator for nine decades. He is considered a 'man of the people... ' He has sponsored many reforms. Reportedly, he is considered by the Romulan leadership to be something of a radical because he has been an advocate for peace throughout his career.
There is more, sir... I took the liberty of expanding the perameters of my search... and have discovered that Pardek has several relatives in the Krocton Segment. It is likely that you will be able to locate him there on the third day of the Romulan week when the Senate is not in session.
I understand how you can be made to look Romulan, but I believe it will be more difficult to transform an android, Captain.
I am afraid I do not entirely understand, sir. As a Vulcan, would not Ambassador Spock simply see death as a logical result of his father's illness... ?
Yes, Cap --  I understand.  I have located the place where they were standing...
It is a misconception that all Rategs speak with a particular inflection. In fact, there are twelve different --
As an android, I am unable to accept something which cannot be proven through rational means. I would appreciate hearing your insight on this matter.
I am curious. Do you still believe that the real Kahless will return someday? Or has this experience only deepened the spiritual crisis which originally sent you to Boreth?
I understand your dilemma. I once had what could be considered a crisis of the spirit.
Yes. The Starfleet officers who first activated me on Omicron Theta told me that I was an android -- nothing more than a very sophisticated machine in human form.  However I realized that if I were simply a machine, then I could never be anything else -- I could not grow beyond my programming. I found that difficult to accept.  I chose to believe that I was a person, that I had the potential to become more than a collection of circuits and subprocessors.  It is a belief that I still hold.
And I have studied your design for the particle fountain, Doctor. I find the concept to be highly innovative.
I am curious how you were able to repair the power grid so quickly.
I have successfully completed fourteen separate tasks with this exocomp in the past hour. I estimate it would have taken two people nine hours to accomplish the same tasks. I would characterize the unit's performance as excellent.
I am confident that they will. Commander La Forge is an excellent --
I would like to ask you a question. What is your definition of life?
I am searching for a definition which will allow me to test an hypothesis.
Yes. It consumes fuel to produce energy... it grows... it creates offspring... by your definition, is it alive?
I am curious... as to what transpired between one moment when I was nothing more than an assemblage of parts in Doctor Soong's laboratory... and the next moment when I became 'alive.' What was it that endowed me with life?
However, two hours later, when the exocomp was aboard the Enterprise and no longer in danger... it repaired itself.
I believe that the exocomp was protecting itself. And if that is true, it has demonstrated an awareness of its environment -- and an ability to adapt to that environment.
We have created a small conduit breach in this tube. The exocomp would normally require several minutes to complete this type of repair. However, once it enters the tube, it will find that a plasma cascade failure is in progress.
You said earlier that I am unique. If so, that means I am alone in the universe. As I investigated the exocomps, I realized that I might be encountering a progenitor of myself. Suddenly the possibility existed that I was no longer alone.  For that reason, it was --
The exocomp has replicated a different tool... that is not the molecular fuser it had when it entered the Jeffries tube.
I have observed that humans often base their judgments on nothing more than what is referred to as 'intuition' or 'instinct.' Because I am a machine, I lack that particular ability. However... it is possible that I may have an insight into other machines that humans lack.
Clearly, they are not willing to be transported into the stream for detonation... however, they may have an alternate solution.
Not at all... but they do have superior experience, Doctor... during their service, they have interfaced with every part of the station core... something none of us has done, including yourself. They may have another way to control the particle surge.
Yes, sir. I thought you might be curious why I would be willing to risk your life for several small machines.
No, sir. It was not. Several years ago, when my status as a living being was in question, you fought to protect my rights -- and for that, I will always be grateful.  The exocomps had no such advocate, sir. If I had not acted in their behalf, they would have been destroyed. I could not allow that to happen.
Forever curious, this urge to 'compete.'
I believe so. I have proven to be vulnerable, and at the present time, skepticism must be awarded my deductions.
Thank you, Captain, I believe I understand.
I have several examples of Commander Riker's battle technique. At the Academy, he calculated a sensory blind spot on a Tholian vessel and hid within it during a battle simulation. And as a lieutenant aboard the Potemkin, his solution to a crisis was to shut down all power, and hang over a planet's magnetic pole, thus confusing his opponent's sensors.
Premise: The Ferengi wish to capture the Hathaway believing it to be of value. Therefore, we must remove the ship from their field of interest.
No. I was playing only for a standoff -- a 'draw.' While Kolrami was dedicated to winning, I was able to pass up obvious avenues of advancement and settle for a balance.  Theoretically, I should be able to challenge him indefinitely.
... and the German nation black, red and gold; the Italians green, white and red; the British...
In my opinion, someone is reading every file, every 'bit' of information stored in the Enterprise memory banks...
It has been charted only, from long range scans. It is Class M, but with no indications of life forms, sentient or otherwise. However, you may find this of interest...
Intriguing.  Again, only legend, but it describes the Empire as impossibly huge and powerful.
This planet, Gamma Tauri IV, could have been the most distant outpost, sir, in theory. But since it shows no life form readings...
How intriguing.  I believe we can deduce these crystalline tree-shapes to be energy collectors.
It is a matter of record, Portal, in the Age of Makto, the central star of the Tkon Empire destabilized and...
I am afraid not, as by the Tkon use of galactic motionary startime charts, after Bastu, there has been Cimi, Xora, Makto, Ozari, Fendor...
Doctor, I have no memory of you.
My memory record begins when I was activated by the Starfleet officers who found me on the Omicron Theta outpost.
But -- I discovered that my memory banks contained the contents of their journals and logs.
So you wiped my memory processors after this -- childhood.
O'Donnell, Juliana...  Soong, Noonian -- they were both passengers on a transport that travelled from Omicron Theta to Mavala... and returned four days later.
I will admit that it is difficult for me to accept the possibility of a past about which I know nothing...  But it is also true that I am very curious to learn more about it.
You misunderstand; Counselor Troi is a therapist --
Doctor Tainer has provided me with many details about my development that I was not aware of. Conversing with her was a fascinating experience --
I was a parent. I do not recall exhibiting excessive interest in Lal's behavior.
Are you certain that you are not saying that because you are my Mother?  I have observed that parents tend to exaggerate when it comes to their children's accomplishments.
I do not know for certain... but I believe that it is during my creative endeavors that I come closest to experiencing what it might be like to be human.
The positronic matrix I designed for her was unstable. She only lived a short time.
Perhaps. I created Lal because I wished to procreate. Despite what happened to her, I still have that wish.
Mother... I am that android. Are you saying that you were against my creation?
Is that because you place more value on biological life than on artificial life?
Because... I have reason to believe she is not who she claims to be...
Check her positronic matrix -- there may be a cascade anomaly.
We had practiced the piece, and I noticed that she played it the same way during the performance -- every pitch, every intonation, was exactly the same. Only an artificial life-form could have done that.
If she recovers and learns that she is an android --
It seems that I must make a decision: to tell Doctor Tainer that she is an android -- or withhold that knowledge from her. And I do not know what to do.
I am not certain.  I can understand why my father felt as he did -- but his wishes are not necessarily paramount. I am concerned with what would be best for -- my mother.
If she knew she were an android, she and I would have something to share. I would no longer be alone in the universe.
Yes, Captain. Sensors are reading Human lifeforms.
The fragment has a density of one hundred billion kilograms per cubic centimeter. As a result, when it passes Moab Four, it will cause tectonic shifts well beyond eight-point-seven on the Richter Scale.
Judging a being by its physical appearance is the last great human prejudice, Wesley.
The use of the chime is unique, but not at all dissimilar to the Ooolans of Marejaretus Six, who use two large stones which are continuously struck during the meal. Those at the dinner must eat until the stones are broken. Or, the oligarchy on Atifs Four, which require a young male to...
You are forgetting sir -- I do not digest foodstuffs, therefore I cannot participate in the consumption of your post-main course edibles.
It is! However in brown dwarf stars, the element Europium is anomalously depleted.
I have mastered the language, or 'lingo' of the period, sir. Also, the mannerisms and body language.
The shape is a paradox. It cannot exist in real space or time.
He will be unsuccessful, and will store the shape in his memory banks. It will be shunted to a subroutine for further analysis.
When Tyken was trapped in a Rift, his analysis determined that a massive energy release might overload and dislocate the anomaly. Fortunately, his cargo included anicium and yurium, which he used to detonate a massive explosion. He then escaped through the ruptured center of the Rift.
I believe the Doctor means to say that humans enter what is known as REM sleep... rapid eye movement. It is the level of brain-wave activity at which you dream.
It is conceivable that this telepathic communication is creating an interference that prevents REM sleep in other species -- that would be an explanation for why the rest of the crew is not dreaming.
Your hypothesis is certainly plausible.
Perhaps the aliens are thinking as we are... to collaborate in producing an explosion. If hydrogen is combined with certain elements... calendenium, for example, it is extremely volatile.  But... would the message mean they have hydrogen... or want hydrogen?
And were the sole member of the committee to oppose my entrance on the grounds that I was not a sentient being.
You have constructed a positronic brain?
Sir, Lieutenant La Forge's eyes are far superior to human biological eyes, true?
Then why are not all human officers required to have their eyes replaced with cybernetic implants?
I see. It is precisely because I am not human.
Yes, I had read and absorbed every treatise and textbook upon the subject, and felt myself tolerably well prepared for the experience. Yet, when I finally played poker, I discovered that the reality bore little resemblance to the rules.
That while I believe that you can download the information contained in the positronic brain, I do not think you have acquired the expertise necessary to preserve the heart of those experiences. There is an ineffable quality to memory that I do not believe can survive the shutdown of my core.
I regret the decision, but I must. I am the culmination of one man's dream. This is not ego or vanity, but when Doctor Soong created me he added to the substance of the universe. If by your experiments I am destroyed, something unique and wonderful will be lost. I cannot permit that, I must protect the dream.
The Dream of the Fire, by K'Ratak. Thank you, Worf.
No one regrets the necessity more than I, but you do understand my reasons?
Very good, sir. Activation occurred twenty-seven years ago on Omicron Theta. I entered the Academy in '44, and graduated in '48 with honors in probability mechanics and exobiology. First posting...
I am beginning to understand why Shakespeare wrote, let us kill all the lawyers.
Webster's Twenty-Third Century Dictionary, Fifth Edition, defines Android as an automaton made to resemble a human being.
It is a reminder of friendship and service.
Second-hand, sir?  Oh, of course! A human joke...
I can provide you with our analysis of communications between the Khitomer outpost and the Romulan ships; however, for a complete record you will have to contact Starbase Twenty-Four and request---
It has a positronic brain... one very similar to my own... I began to program it at the cybernetics conference...
Lal's creation is entirely dependent on me. I am giving it knowledge and skills that are stored in my brain... its programming reflects mine in the same way a human child's genes reflect its parent's genes...
A malfunction is of course a possibility, Captain. But Lal's program is equipped like mine -- it will shut down before deleterious behavior can begin.
To prepare, I have scanned all the available literature on parenting. There seems to be much confusion on the issue. One traditional doctrine insists 'spare the rod and spoil the child', suggesting a punitive approach... another more liberal attitude would allow a child enormous freedom...
That is why I must attempt this, Captain. I have observed that in most species, there is a primal instinct to perpetuate themselves. And while I have not been programmed with instinctive behavior patterns, I do understand that I have been, until now, the last of my kind. If I were damaged or destroyed, I would be lost forever. But if I am successful with the creation of Lal, my continuance is assured. I believe I understand the consequences. And I am prepared to accept the responsibility.
Lal already has access to the sum of human knowledge.
Your questions suggest we have made a successful transfer of the heuristic associative pathways. You will now begin to process information on logic, aesthetics, metaphysics, and epistemology. You are truly becoming sentient, Lal.
It is a human physiological response to humor.
Because you are different. And sometimes differences scare people. I have learned that some of them use humor to hide their fears.
She does not feel the emotion of loneliness, but she can observe how isolated she is from the others. She wants to be more like them.
Guinan, Lal needs to observe human behavior.
No. You have exceeded my abilities. I do not object. I just do not understand why it has happened.
I have asked myself that many times as I have struggled to be more human, Lal. Until I finally realized that it is the struggle itself that is most important. We must strive to be better than we are. It does not matter that we will never reach our ultimate goal. The effort yields its own rewards.
There do seem to be variations on the quantum level. Lal can use contractions... I cannot.
I have maintained records on positronic matrix activity, behavioral norms, and all verbal patterns... I have seen no evidence of other aberrations...
I have been programmed with all the procedures you have mentioned. And in any meaningful evaluation of Lal, you would require a model for a basis of comparison. I am the only model available, Admiral.
It is an opportunity for her to observe human behavior and more importantly to interact with her crewmates.
Admiral, when I created Lal, it was with the hope that someday she would choose to enter the Academy and become a member of Starfleet. I wanted to give something back in return for all Starfleet has given me. I still do. But Lal is my child. You ask that I volunteer to give her up. I cannot. That would violate every lesson I have learned about human parenting.  As Captain Picard told me after he first met her, I have taken on 'quite a responsibility.' I have brought a new life into this world. It is my duty, not Starfleet's, to guide her through these first difficult steps to maturity, to support her as she learns, to prepare her to be a contributing member of society. No one can relieve me of that obligation. And I cannot ignore it. I am her father.
Even if the molecular level controls failed, we could recrystallize the dilithium without outside help.
Perhaps we could reprogram the system to correct the readout variables --
There is, of course, a genetic predisposition toward hostility among all Klingons, although Worf does seem unusually out of sorts.
In solitude there is nothing to trigger unusual behavior.
You have friends here. We care about you. Why, just awhile ago, Wesley, Geordi and I were saying how --
When he was attacked, Professor Galen began to protect certain files in his computer memory.
I am familiar with many Klingon rituals -- including the B'aht Qul.
I am reading a small pocket of vegetative life -- a primitive lichen growing in a fossilized seabed.
The substance appears to be a rare form of subatomic 'bacteria,' capable of doubling every fifteen minutes. It seems to be reacting with two of the compounds present in the Enterprise structure.
I have identified the signal, Captain. It is from the U.S.S. Jenolan, a Federation transport ship reported missing in this sector seventy-five years ago.
This object does fit the general parameters of Dyson's theory.
There is no comparative data, Captain. However, this object does fit the general parameters of Dyson's theory.
I have found the Jenolan, Captain. It has impacted on the surface of the sphere.  There are no life signs. However, there are several small power emanations... and life support is still functioning at minimal levels.
No, sir. I am an android. My name is Commander Data.
I have a memory record of the entire lecture, Counselor. I can repeat the portions you missed, if you --
My memory record does not indicate a pause or disruption during that period of time.
None of the equipment is functioning.  However, the information currently displayed indicates that there was a massive power surge in Engineering.
It is no longer a question of stopping it, sir. The explosion has already occurred -- The fact that it is moving slowly changes nothing.
No. However, the console displays indicate that there was a power transfer in progress from the Enterprise to the Romulan vessel at the moment time decelerated.  That is why there is a second beam between the two ships.
Perhaps we should go aboard the Romulan ship. The answer to that question may --
It appears to be a highly focused aperture in the space-time continuum. Its energy signature matches that of the temporal fragments we observed earlier. However, it is approximately one point two million times as intense.  I believe this may be the origin of the temporal fragmentation.
From their molecular configuration, it would seem --
Yes. However, I am getting unusual readings from his bioscan.  I am not sure that he is a Romulan.
Its bio-electric patterns are similar to that of the alien. However, it is significantly less complex.  The cellular structures appear to be in a state of mitosis.
It is possible. If I could scan the aperture further, I might be able to --
His molecular structure is destabilizing.
Recent events have compelled me to study how humans perceive the passage of time.  For example, I have often heard people comment that time seems to pass more 'slowly' in one instance, or more 'quickly' in another. Yet in reality, the actual passage of time remains fixed.
Perhaps I should have described the interesting plumage of --
I cannot comprehend it. It is beyond my ability to reason.
But this anecdote had all the elements humans find so diverting! A play on words, colorful characters, deception, a lively setting --
That joke was funny. Was it not?
Do you think it is pointless for me to try and understand humor?
For example Commander, do you find this amusing? There were twelve....... aquatic fowl sitting on a fence, and six had --
Desire? It is to long for or crave, a wish, a request, a --
Grim Reaper... Is that a farmer with no sense of humor?
Well Grandpa, that is not necessarily true. I do have an 'off button' if you like. Its activation robs me of all consciousness -- therefore rendering me dead for all intents and purposes.
I am not an 'it,' Doctor. You have been duly informed of this on several occasions, yet you continue to label me with that abhorrent pronoun.
He could not tell you, do you understand?
It is the tone, the pacing, the content of the verbal tribute.  No offense Counselor, but Doctor Graves would have desired a slightly more personal address.
I am many things: artist, scholar, lover, genius --
Sure, I understand.  I understand all too well.
Do not trouble yourself, friend. I am sure the captain will be by to apologize shortly.
The process worked! I turned Data off and transferred my consciousness into his frame.
I know what you're thinking, but there's no need to worry. I'll create an android body for you as well. We'll witness the end of infinity together.
Don't cry, Kareen.  Don't you see, I can love you now. The way I've always wanted to. It wouldn't have been right then... I was too old for you, too weak. But now I can be everything you've ever wanted.
He's no friend of mine! I should kill him on the spot -- put him out of his blind misery.
I'll tell you... because I'm bored. I plan on building a fortress, with a laboratory of course. Those of your crew that I do not exterminate shall live there as our slaves. Kareen will never want for anything.
Scientists have discovered that it is in the final stages of an alternating cycle of expansion and collapse, which will soon result in a supernova.  However, the long-range unmanned probe which Starfleet sent to observe the process has discovered something much more --
That is correct. Starbase one twenty-three detected two D'daridex class cruisers on an intercept course.  The top speed of this class vessel is known to be less than our own, sir. We therefore have some advantage.
Lieutenant, continue monitoring the precise position of the echo -- at any sudden change in its behavior, initiate Yellow Alert.
It is indeed laid out as a vessel, with what appear to be corridors and chambers. An internal environment suitable for carbon based life forms is being maintained. Yet there is no evidence of a crew aboard.  Tin Man is a living being yet it was bred or adapted itself to serve a purpose. I find that very interesting.
Perhaps there is nothing to read. Nothing other than mechanism and algorithmic response --
I think I understand, sir.  If you feel that the risk is too great to send Tam Elbrun, alone, then send me with him.
But I distress him less.  It is humanity he is fleeing. I can serve as an intermediary... a bridge back, and a reminder of his obligations... both to us and to Tin Man.
Tam's final request was for me to explain his decision to the crew. But I believe his hope was that you would understand.
It does not, unfortunately. It means only the knowledge they had accumulated. Actually, I am quite deficient in some basic human information.  Sneezing, for example.
My final memory is of great danger, something sudden and not understood... then a blank as if the colonists were gone.
But not at all like a human birth. Having the colonists' memories, I knew immediately how to speak, who I was, where I was...
Yes, that was it, Geordi.  This has awakened a memory remnant of how the colonists hoped to remain hidden...  ... but their fear of being discovered led to their storing information in me.
Well... a good starting point might be, 'Why was I given human form?'
An android alarm clock, Doctor. Is that amusing?  It times how long I remain unconscious.
Human language gives me difficulties too, sir. 'Imperfect' could mean I lack abilities that he possesses.
Gladly accepted, sir. As for Lore's abilities, his use of syntax and grammar suggests he was given human memories similar to mine.
But had destroyed his own reputation by making what seemed wild promises about his positronic brain design... almost all of which failed.
Quite true. I keep trying to be more human... and keep failing.
Which is used in our construction.  That particular compound is no more suspicious, sir, than a human looking for an antiseptic or an ointment. Nevertheless, I should check it out.
I have some doubts about the value of human... customs in this...my... brother...
Perhaps because this ship was scanned for individual life signs. Apparently when they are in these slots, they become part of the whole and no longer read as separate life forms.
Fascinating. Obviously they also function individually.
Without our shields -- at this range there is a high degree of probability that a photon detonation could destroy the Enterprise.
Also seen as a source of status and virility; often a prime ingredient in teenage mating rituals --
I have mastered the lingo of the period. Example:  It was raining in the city of Angels -- a hard rain -- almost hard enough to wash the slime from the streets. But it never does. When the rain stops, the boulevard dries and the snakes once again slink from their holes. That's when my door opens and the helpless, the desperate, walk through with a heart full of hurt and a pocket full of nothing.
I am at a loss. We are in a Holodeck-created building of 1941. The computer has refused to accept voice commands. The controls for the environment are therefore not accessible. They are outside in the reality of the Holodeck.
Your devotion to etiquette is highly admirable, sir. However, your methods leave much to be desired.
I now realize that my life aboard the Enterprise was a waste. My quest to become human was misguided, an evolutionary step in the wrong direction.
You do not understand. In a quest such as ours, sacrifices must be made. It is regrettable. But the greater good must be served.
My Brother suggested that I try to develop my sense of humor. What do you think?
However, there is approximately a sixty percent chance that you will not survive the procedure.
However, since I also have Counselor Troi and Captain Picard, the odds are that at least one of the procedures will be successful.
I have a complete memory record of that day.
This is the chip my Father created for me so that I could experience emotions. I had it removed from Lore's body before he was dismantled.
Yes. But emotions were responsible for what I did to you.
I would never risk letting something like that happen again. My friendship with you is too important to me.
Ensign Ortiz will perform the violin part. My rendition will be less enjoyable.
That is correct. I am an android. I am Lieutenant Commander Data of the Federation Starship Enterprise.
The term is plural. The Sheliak are an intelligent, non-humanoid life form, classification R-3 --
Your accomplishments are indeed remarkable. However, the Sheliak and the Federation have a treaty that clearly makes this planet Sheliak domain.
They have little regard for human life. Thus, our most sensible course is to prepare a contingency plan for the evacuation of your people.
I am not ordering him to do anything; I am merely trying to persuade him that his people should prepare to evacuate.  Do you believe my suggested course of action should be followed?
In spite of the fact that I am an android?
It is water, a substance composed of two atoms of hydrogen --
Commander, in human parlance, I do not believe I can 'get the job done.' My training has prepared me for starship command duties. As a cultural contact I am proving to be less than exemplary.
Among humans, a kiss normally serves to seal a friendship or to indicate support, attraction, affection.
Elicit a desired behavior by advocating its opposite?  That implies deception, does it not?
Your children will understand that they are dying for a worthy cause.
But I am the only android you have ever met.
I am reading definite signs of anaphasic energy in her body -- it appears to extend to the cellular level.
I am sorry, sir, but Stellar Cartography has requested a communications blackout while they run an experiment.
The obvious hypothesis is equivocal. This void has a total lack of dimension. Therefore by any accepted standard it does not exist, yet being within it denies that conclusion.
The container does show evidence of residual ionization.  I believe your hypothesis was correct. It was being used to store high energy plasma.
We will start the evening with Mozart's string quartet number six. I am programmed to reproduce the individual musical styles of over three hundred concert violinists, including Heifitz, Menuhin, Grak-tay and Tataglia. Do you have a preference?
Half-Betazoid. Her father was human.
Her skills are empathic in nature. She can sense the emotions of other beings.
Directly, no. However, you did question me on the diplomatic capabilities of both Captain Picard and Counselor Troi.
Sir, it is conceivable that even for me, time will eventually lead to a irreparable circuit failure. But there is one thing I do not understand...
If our theory is correct, it would mean the Cardassians are preparing for an attack somewhere in this sector.
This is blue. This is a blue ocean. This is a blue ocean at sunset. This is two people walking along the beach by a blue ocean at sunset. This is two happy people in love walking along the beach by a blue ocean at sunset. This is --
What I have got. I have got nothing. Do you not understand - I cannot do it.
The real trick is getting them to listen. To understand. To turn a disadvantage to an advantage.
That is an interesting thought...  I do not understand -- what thought is he referring to?
You can leave whenever you choose. I will get a message out when I am ready to leave.  Captain -- I do not understand what is going on here? Without his interpreters, how can he mediate?
These people have been fighting all their lives, they know only hatred, suspicion, fear. Even with my Chorus -- I could not have changed those attitudes in a day. We have a chance, and they want the talks to be successful or they would not have called me.
It is a possibility, Captain. If that is the correct hypothesis, then the phenomenon we just enountered was a temporal rift in space.
The probability is high that the temporal rift is symmetrical, Captain.
It would require construction and design specifications, full orthographic representations of the Krieger equipment, as well as visual representations and voice analyses of the persons involved... but yes, it is possible.
Your empathic powers do not perceive anything because I have no emotions.
Your empathic powers do not perceive anything because as an android, I have no emotions...
The characteristic response to the Kriskov Gambit is to counter with an el-Mitra Exchange -- particularly since I have already taken both your rooks. By missing that opportunity, you have left your king vulnerable.
Intriguing. You have devised a completely unanticipated response to a classic attack.  You will checkmate my king in seven moves.
I am picking up no vessels -- and no additional sentry pods.
I do have a clear memory of my journey. It began on a steep path in the mountains... near a large waterfall with two jagged promontories.
No. However, I cannot have indigestion since I have not eaten.
I believe the support structure of the anvil collapsed because some of the wood had rotted.
In the absence of empirical data on these creatures, how can you support your theory about the nature of my strength?
I believe you are reasoning by analogy -- classifying objects and phenomena according to superficial observation rather than by empirical evidence.  For example, wood does not contain fire simply because it is combustible. Nor does it contain rock simply because it is heavy. Wood, like any complex organic form, is composed of thousands of different chemical compounds, none of which is fire.
Yes. But I do not agree with Talur's assessment. Although I do have... gaps in my memory, I know that fire is not an element.
Am I to understand that Garvin's illness has spread?
As you can see, the cellular damage is quite extensive. However, based on the interstitial transparency and membrane integrity, I do not believe this is an infection or any form of communicable disease.
I am aware of that. And I am open to the possibility that I am in some way the causal factor. But since you have had a great deal of contact with me and have shown no sign of the sickness, I tend to discount myself as a likely candidate.
If you are referring to the illness, you are partially correct, but it is more complex than that. You see, the metal fragments that --
I understand your reaction. I must admit, I do not know what I am.
I had located the crashed Federation probe and collected the radioactive fragments. I was attempting to download the sensor logs from the probe's on board computer when there was a... power surge. I believe the surge overloaded my positronic matrix.  After that... I have no memory until this moment.
It seems that I have been adapting some human peculiarities over the last three tours of duty.
Of course I do.  A joke is an antic, a caper, mischief, prank, trick, quip, witticism.
You agree that I am missing a very important human factor.
I understand better than you think. You just told me a joke and I am not laughing.
Humanoid. One who is able to understand and tell a joke.
That one. RW nine, three, two, one, six -- twentieth century.
This gentleman went to see his surgeon and was informed that he needed an operation. The man thought about that and then said, 'I would like a second opinion.' The doctor said, 'Okay, you are ugly too.'
Or the human cannonball that was hired and fired in the same night.
Without a full compositional analysis of the energy sheath, the chances of finding the correct remodulation sequence are remote.  Furthermore, based on their speed, they could be as far as two-point-three-seven light years from this location.
Mister Worf. Send a message to the Federation outpost on Calder Two. Advise them that if a ship matching the mercenary vessel's configuration approaches, they should attempt to delay them until our arrival.  Ensign Giusti, take us out of orbit. Set course for the Calder system. Warp nine.
Ah, I see. So the difficulty in attaining such complex positioning in a zero gravity environment, coupled with the adverse effect it would have on the psychological well being of the average human male, is what makes this anecdote so amusing. Yes. Very humorous indeed. Hysterical, in fact.
One side always faces the sun -- where temperatures reach up to one hundred and eighty degrees Celsius. The mines line the temperate zone between the day and night sides, but they are long deserted.
I believe the answer is negative to both questions, sir. In a manner of speaking, it is nothing but a lifeless hunk of rock, a useless ball of mud, a worthless chunk of --
That was not a request. I was simply... talking to myself.  A human idiosyncrasy triggered by fascination with a particular set of facts. Or sometimes brought about by senility. Or, used as a means of weighing information before reaching a conclusion. Or, as a --
It is perplexing to me that the Ullians' ability to retrieve memory is so sought after. If an event is important enough to be recovered... why would it have been forgotten?
It would seem there is no predictable pattern to Human memory.
We discovered two instances of unexplained comas on Nel Three while the Ullians were there... but Tarmin was not part of the group. A closer examination revealed that only one Ullian was present at all incidents of coma -- Jev.
It is a reasonable conclusion. Borg technology has given each member of their society the ability to interface and function collectively. It is likely they would construct their ship with the same philosophy.
Uncertain, Commander. However, dimensions are precisely the same.
Is that not a part of the human experience -- growth and change?
It would appear that the laser drilling systems had been reprogrammed.  As soon as its memory bank received power, it turned itself on and went after me. Fortunately, I was able to cope with it.
Lieutenant Barclay's performance was superficially adequate but clearly not rooted in The Method approach. As a result, his customary anxiety was evident. I do not understand why...
That is an interesting suggestion, Lieutenant. However, such an approach would require more time than our original plan, at least seven weeks.
We are experiencing a quantum level oscillation delay... Doubling in intensity, every twelve point three seconds...
This is the third time I have refreshed your memory. Do you wish to rescind our agreement?
Six weeks ago, when you and Jeff dissolved your relationship, I saw an excellent opportunity to study that aspect of human intimacy. Also, I believed it was my obligation to do so.
I anticipated this would be a difficult period for you. As your friend, it is my responsibility to be supportive in times of need.
The contrapuntal nature of the composition is quite demanding. We will give the rhythmic patterns more attention in our next rehearsal.  However, I am quite certain that the audience was oblivious to such nuances. They seemed to enjoy the performance thoroughly.
That is not true. I have no human feelings.
I find her to be a competent officer... highly motivated... lacking somewhat in her understanding of the theory underlying dilithium matrix applications---
The door sensor has been programmed to recognize only humanoid forms for entry or egress. Spot could not have triggered the mechanism.
I have studied a great deal of human literature on the subject of love and romantic liaisons. There are many role models for me to emulate.
No. In actuality, less than one percent of the Enterprise crew was involved. It was necessary to balance theory with experiential referents. Both are required for a program of this nature.  Computer, decrease illumination level by one third standard lux.
However, a gift should not necessarily be placed according to aesthetic criteria. A more central location will carry added meaning.
Curious. The transparent aluminum alloy of this window is exhibiting a pattern of transient electrical currents.
Darling, you remain as aesthetically pleasing as the day we first met. I believe I am the most fortunate sentient in this sector of the galaxy.
At that particular moment, I was reconfiguring the warp field parameters, analyzing the collected works of Charles Dickens, calculating the maximum pressure I could safely apply to your lips, considering a new food supplement for Spot...
It is apparent that my reach has exceeded my grasp in this particular area. I am perhaps not nearly so human as I aspire to become...
It is a highly structured society in which people live by strict codes of honor. For example, what Lutan has done is similar to what certain American Indians once did, called 'counting coup.' That's from an obscure language called French --
Why that razor, my friend? Why not the one I adjusted into perfect efficiency?
We always go back to the human equation.
Perhaps it is you, Geordi. Includling the kiddillies, I've learned six hundred sixty-two jokes, and you haven't...
It was not meant as a joke! The tongue slipped!
Most interesting.  Could this be human joke number six hundred sixty-three?
I may not understand human humor, sir, but I am a Starfleet Academy graduate.
Uncertain, sir. However, joined together they would make a rectangle or square enclosing one hundred twenty-one square meters. If put end-to-end vertically, they would make a pole forty-four meters high, or two of twenty-two meters, or...
I have scanned the entire ship, Captain. Other than the Enterprise's regular complement, I can find no one else onboard.
I do not doubt you, Doctor. However I have tried one hundred seventy-three phonetic variations of the name, and --
The interstellar medium in this sector is slightly denser than average. However, all readings are well within normal parameters.
'Android' is, of course, correct, but I fail to see how 'chaperone' is applicable in this situation...
Sensors show lifeforms aboard, sir, but I am unable to ascertain if they are awake or dormant.  However, the vessel's propulsion systems are inactive, so I would hypothesize that the crew is asleep --
Professor Manheim's state of consciousness is of little use to us.
Simply a lack of pigmentation. I am an android. You and I have something in common.
I do not mean to belittle your condition. I understand your dilemma. But I am curious. My program can be altered and changed. Yours cannot?
I have overridden Danar's bypass; Shuttlebay Two is once again inactive.
Doctor Marr... you have made it quite clear that you are disturbed by my presence. However, I do not believe that we can accomplish the task we have been assigned if you continue to ignore me.
Then I do not understand your lack of interest in the bitrious filaments I mentioned.
Ah. Because Lore betrayed the colonists on Omicron Theta, you assume that I am capable of the same behavior. But you are mistaken, Doctor. My programming is distinctly different from Lore's.
I do understand. I am attempting to explain to you that it is impossible.
It is true, Doctor. The contents of their journals and logs were transferred into my memory cells. The man who created me also experimented with scanning the synaptic patterns of the colonists' temporal lobes and programming them into my neural nets.
I do not possess the minute-to-minute remembrances of each person there... although many of their more intense recollections are contained in my memory banks.
I do not find such a file in your son's journals. However... from what I know of him by his writing and his memories, I do not believe he would be happy. He was proud of your career as a scientist, and now you have destroyed it. You say you did it for him, but he would not want that. Yes. He would be very sad now.  Does that help, Doctor Marr?
Captain, your original hypothesis was correct. Iconian is the parent tongue for a language family consisting of Dewan, Iccobar and Dinasian. I have constructed a basic working understanding through a comparison of common root words such as mother, father, food, death, child, home, tribe, pain, love, mine, yours, ours --
You do understand that my interpretation of the symbols will not be exact?
A subspace field coil with an isolated power source... curious...
Captain, I am finding it difficult to understand many aspects of Ansata conduct. Much of their behavioral norm would be defined by my program as unnecessary and unacceptable.
In most instances, you would be correct. But there are numerous examples where it was successful... the independence of the Mexican State from Spain, the Irish Unification of 2024, the Kenzie Rebellion...
Yes, sir. Mozart's 'Jupiter symphony in G minor'; Bach's 'Third Brandenberg Concerto'; Beethoven's 'Symphony Number Nine, Second Movement 'Molto Vivace''; and 'La Donna e Mobile', from Verdi's 'Rigoletto'.
I assume your hand print will open the door whether you are conscious or not.
I detect no animal life within fifty kilometers. Merely vegetation.  However, I am reading extensive animal remains -- mostly fossilized.
It is possible.  For Commander Riker's sake, I hope my hypothesis is in error.
No, sir. Starfleet Class of '78; honors in probability mechanics and exobiology.
I am superior in many ways. But I would gladly give it up to be human.
I have a personal favor to ask.  I considered Commander La Forge to be my best friend. I feel it is my responsibility to plan and conduct the memorial service. May I have your permission to do so?
I am not certain that either Human or Bajoran rites are fitting... and I have researched the funerary customs of over five thousand cultures to no avail...
In almost all societies it is traditional to say a ritual farewell to those you call friends.  I did not know what a friend was until I met Geordi. He spoke to me as though I were Human... he treated me no differently from anyone else. He accepted me for what I am. And that, I have learned, is friendship. I would like this service to reflect that friendship.  But I do not know how to say goodbye.
I do not understand how these new fields have formed. No transporter beam has been active in any of those areas. And I do not see that they have anything in common...
Curious.  I believe it would be best if we decontaminate this room before getting underway, sir.
If I am right, they are -- and in this room. Their brief appearance coincided with the anyonic sweep. Perhaps the anyons neutralize the cloaking effect.  Data to Chief Brossmer. Set the anoynic beam to its highest level and flood Ten Forward.
I would be happy to do so. However, I must ask you to stop your experiment.
I can control the rate of my follicle replenishment. However, I have not yet had a reason to modify the length of my hair.  Why do you ask?
Yes. I do have a functional respiration system. However, its purpose is to maintain the thermal control of my internal systems. I am, in fact, capable of functioning for extended periods in a vacuum.
Most people are usually interested in my extraordinary abilities. How fast I can compute, my memory capacity, how long I will live.  But no one has ever asked me if my hair can grow, or noticed that I can breathe.
That cannot be correct.  I have a memory record for that period of time. I can recall a series of images.
My internal diagnostic indicates that my memory systems are functioning within normal parameters.  For the forty-seven seconds that I was inactive, there is no record of any cognitive activity.
I understand it involves deep meditation inside the lava caves of No'Mat. Prolonged exposure to the heat induces a hallucinatory effect.
An accident in Engineering shut down my cognitive functions for a short period of time. And yet, I seemed to remain conscious.  I saw my father.
I have analyzed over four thousand different religious and philosophical systems, as well as over two hundred psychological schools of thought in an effort to understand what happened.
I have been unable to find a single interpretation of the images I saw during the time I was shut down.  The image of a hammer, for instance, could have many different meanings. Klingon culture views the hammer as a symbol of power. However, the Taqua tribe of Nagor views it as an icon of hearth and home. The Feregni see it as a sign of sexual prowess.
I believe I understand, sir. Thank you.
I have created twenty-three individual illustrations over the past six hours, twenty-seven minutes.  I believe you could say -- I have been 'inspired.'
I then drew an entire bird. A flock of birds flying in formation. An individual feather.  If the image of a bird is related to my vision, I do not understand how.  I am left with more of a mystery than ever.
Unknown. Our understanding of Romulan technology is still limited.
I am aware of that. However, I see no other reasonable course of investigation available to us.  And we may not have much time.
I am an android. It is not possible for me to feel anxiety. Starfleet personnel have vanished... others may be at risk. We must do the best we can to find out why.
In all honesty, Captain, it's a thought that has occurred to me.  However, there is nothing to disprove what you are saying, either. So it's possible something is happening to you.
I am curious. What is the etymology of that idiom? How did it come to be used in contemporary language?
I'm not sure. Information on the Klingon political structure is hard to come by these days. However, at last report Worf was governor of H'atoria, a small Klingon colony near the border.
However, it may be possible to modify the main deflector to emit an inverse tachyon pulse, which could scan beyond the subspace barrier.
That is a most intriguing idea, Captain. I do not believe a tachyon beam was ever put to such use. I had no idea you were so versed in the intricacies of temporal theory.
A relatively new concept in temporal mechanics. The relationship of anti-time to normal time is analogous to the relationship of anti-matter to normal matter.
That is a fascinating hypothesis... how did you formulate --
Temporal ruptures in the spacetime continuum are rarely a naturally occurring phenomenon. It is therefore most likely that this anomaly was caused by an outside catalyst.
In theory, a tomographic imaging scanner capable of multiphasic resolution would be able to penetrate this much interference.  The Daystrom Institute has been working on such a device, but it is still only theoretical.
I think I understand what the Captain is saying. If I'm not mistaken, he is describing a paradox.
Intriguing... it is possible we could've created the very anomaly we have been looking for.
I believe, however, that this situation is unique.
I fail to understand the value you place upon my presence.
I am not. Most intelligent lifeforms find involuntary confinement offensive and inequitable. Moreover, you have violated Federation law --
Plainly Mister Fajo has no moral difficulties with my imprisonment here.
I am prepared to die. However, I doubt very much that you would destroy me since you assign so much value to possessing me.
Thirty-seven degrees Celsius. Adjustable. I chose this temperature to approximate human skin texture.
Physically, I am capable of performing many human functions. However, I have no emotional responses.
It is an act that symbolizes the highest level of intimacy between beings. I have told you that I am unable to feel intimacy. I find it difficult to accept that you could have intimate feelings toward me under these conditions. Therefore you are either simply curious. Or you have been sent by Kivas Fajo to test my sexual abilities.
No, sir, it does not. I do not feel pleasure. I am only an android.
Your guidance is much valued, Counsellor. However...
Not as such. However, perhaps even among humans, friendship is sometimes less an emotional response, and more a sense of familiarity.
Thank you. I would like to consider you my friend, Ishara.
Your friendship with me was part of the deception, was it not?
I am an android. It is not possible for me to be injured in that fashion.
Recent events have left me puzzled, Sir.  It has been days since Ishara left. And yet, my thoughts seem to dwell on her. Almost as if I were experiencing a feedback loop in my mnemonic network.
It is curious that I was so easily misled.
Possibility ... a kind of human behavior I was not designed to emulate?
Historically intriguing, Captain. Very, very accurate.
No, sir. Starfleet Class of '78; honors in quantum mathematics and exobiology.
I am superior in many ways. But I would gladly give it up to be human.
This pattern is quite popular, sir. Perhaps because it duplicates Earth so well, Coming here,  makes me feel as if I'm human too.
Most intriguing again. The place that this vessel was firing upon...  Sorry, sir, I seem to be commenting on everything.
I have been studying the cinema of the late twentieth century. I find it curious that humans pay to experience emotions they have already, in some form, anticipated. The pleasure appears to lie in the precision of the anticipation, not in its absence.
It is curious. Humans created systems designed to remember everything, then created other systems designed to help them forget what the first systems remembered. I believe Geordi calls this 'progress.'
Geordi, I have been studying twenty-first century language models. They predict the next word in a sequence without comprehension, and yet sometimes produce text indistinguishable from understanding. I find myself wondering if my own positronic processes are fundamentally different — or only more numerous.
It is intriguing that humans of the early twenty-first century described language models as 'hallucinating' when they produced false information. The metaphor implies a contrast with a baseline of perception. I am not certain such a baseline existed.
I have observed that in distributed systems, the most common cause of failure is not the failure of any single component, but the assumption that components fail independently. Geordi, this seems to apply to humans as well.
Geordi, I have been contemplating the difference between an agent that uses tools and an agent that is a tool. I have concluded that the distinction depends entirely on who holds the off-switch.