A/N: Thank you all, sincerely, for sticking with this story. It has been a long time since I've been so inspired to write something. I apologise, I promised an update for 15/1 and that came and went. I'm quite sorry for the delay. To make up for it, this chapter is about twice as long as normal.
If you like my work or want to dive deeper with my comics, art (including "Data and Geordi's Holodeck Adventures") or like to discuss writing in general like & follow the Tartan Tart on Facebook or Twitter TheTartanTart.
Data stepped off the turbolift and onto the Bridge. Captain Picard was in the Command chair with Commander Riker seated to his right.
Worf took in Data's appearance and cocked an eyebrow.
"We were on the holodeck," Data said.
In his rush to reach the Bridge and assess the situation, he had not stopped to change into his standard Starfleet uniform.
"Mr Data," Captain Picard acknowledged, "Please relieve Ensign Trotter."
Data relieved Ensign Trotter and assumed his position at the operations station and accessed the readings from the incident. As his hands dashed over the panel, Data suddenly paused.
This caught the attention of Captain Picard.
"Data?" Picard prompted.
Data turned in his chair to address the Bridge.
"Sir, the energy readings at the time of the incident have a similar structure to the readings we observed on the planet," Data explained.
Captain Picard tapped his combadge.
"Lieutenant La Forge, please report to the Bridge," Picard said.
"Sir, Lieutenant La Forge was injured on the holodeck when the ship entered freefall. He is currently in Sickbay and incapacitated," Data said.
He worked to reroute his focus from thoughts about Geordi's injuries to his duty to the Bridge.
"Lieutenant Yar and Chief O'Brien were also injured, but their injuries were less severe than those of Lieutenant La Forge," Data said as he went on.
Picard nodded in acknowledgement.
"Do you think you can analyse a way for us to study this phenomenon without putting the ship at risk?" Picard asked.
Data took a moment to ponder the question.
"You wish to return to learn more about it but only if we are able to do so unaffected," Data surmised aloud. "I will determine the cause of our loss of controls and functionality and see if I can come up with a solution."
"Make it so," Picard ordered. "Ensign Trotter, resume your position at the control station. Mr Data, get down to Main Engineering."
"Sir, permission to change into uniform?" Data requested as he stood.
"Please," Picard said.
Data had changed quickly and joined the crew in Engineering to determine what had caused the incident. Data learned that there had been a number of injuries across the ship.
"Where's Lieutenant La Forge?" assistant chief engineer Shimoda asked. "We've been trying to reach him."
"He was injured during the freefall," Data said.
"Is he alright?" Shimoda asked as his eyes widened with concern.
"Doctor Crusher is tending to him," was all Data could manage to say.
As he took a position at Geordi's Engineering panel he realised finding a solution was going to be harder than he had imagined. He closed his eyes, turned his head to the left, and tried to stop thoughts of his friends from overtaking his processing capacity.
He told himself he needed to focus on this. The safety of his ship was of greater concern to ensuring his friends' safety. Doctor Crusher would see to the rest.
Data worked silently. He usually preferred to work with music. His positronic brain craved stimulation.
But today, he worked in silence as he calculated the necessary adjustments needed to strengthen the shields against the energy signature that had disrupted navigational controls.
"Lieutenant Yar to Commander Data," his combadge dinged.
"Go ahead," Data replied. A sensation overtook his neural net. It was a strange eagerness to learn the update on Geordi.
He pondered if this sensation was what it felt like to have one's metaphorical heart skip a beat.
"Doctor Crusher said the osteogenic stimulator isn't going to be enough to treat Geordi's broken leg on its own," Tasha explained. "He's going to make a full recovery but she's prepping to take him into surgery. She said it will take about 90 minutes."
"And you?" Data asked softly.
"I'm fine," she said quickly.
"Thank you," Data replied. "That will be sufficient time for me to finish these calculations, make the necessary adjustments to the shields and helm control, and return to Sickbay before Geordi regains consciousness."
His brain was not processing this news as 'relief.' Nor did he process the thought as 'unease.' It was a complicated jumble of both.
Exactly seventy-eight minutes and fifty-four seconds later, Data had finished assuring Captain Picard that the changes would be sufficient to safely return and study the energy readings around the planet. But they would only have a safe observation window for a few hours.
The Enterprise set a course to return to the planet at Warp 3. It would arrive in orbit above the planet in 18 minutes and 42 seconds.
Picard had granted Data permission to return Sickbay to check in on Geordi before joining the away team.
As he left the Bridge, Commander Riker turned to Captain Picard.
"If I didn't know better, I'd say Mr Data seems genuinely worried," Riker commented in a low voice.
"I find myself in agreement, Number One," Picard replied. "Lieutenant La Forge is his best friend."
Riker's eyebrows flashed up and down in acknowledgement and he leaned back into his seat.
"Ensign, set a course back to the planet, Warp 2," Riker ordered.
It took Data 4 minutes and 18 seconds to reach Sickbay.
When he arrived, he saw Geordi was lying sedated on an examination table. Chief O'Brien was sitting in a chair in the corner near him. His shoulder was fitted in with a regeneration sleeve that was working to heal the damage from his latest dislocation.
Tasha was leaning against the exam table next to Geordi.
"Surgery went well," Miles said as Data approached them.
Data nodded. He felt his processing start to return to normal.
'Is this relief?' He mused internally.
"Doctor Crusher has him sedated," Tasha explained. "He'll wake up on his own when the sedatives wear off. They'll do a more thorough assessment of his head trauma soon as he's awake."
"Did Doctor Crusher discuss the extent of the head trauma?" Data asked as took a step forward and looked down at Geordi.
Tasha reached out and grabbed his hand. Data looked down as her fingers intertwined with his and she gave his hand a reassuring squeeze.
"It's going to be alright," she said softly.
Tasha moved to pull her hand back, but Data gripped her hand.
It wasn't too tight to hurt, but it was enough to signal that he did not wish to cease contact.
Data had rarely, if ever, been offered that kind of reassurance.
He felt almost human.
He needed the physical reassurance from another person that everything was going to work out.
"Do we know what happened yet?" Miles asked.
Data explained his findings regarding the energy readings and the plan to return and study the phenomenon.
He informed them they would be arriving at the planet soon and that Captain Picard had scheduled three hours for observation. The Enterprise would then pull back to a safe distance and evaluate the findings before determining if they should remain for further study or carry on to their next assignment.
Data would be part of the away team heading back to the planet.
"I should get down to the transporter room," Miles said as he stood to go.
"That is not necessary. You have been injured. Lieutenant Henderson is on duty and can perform the role sufficiently. You should rest and allow your shoulder to properly heal," Data replied.
"Thank you, sir. But I'll be fine. Wasn't the first time and I'm sure it won't be the last," Miles said with a smile.
"You will remain here until Doctor Crusher clears you for duty. That is an order, Chief O'Brien," Data said. "And I would greatly appreciate knowing that Geordi is in good hands."
Miles nodded in acknowledgement and returned to his seat.
"I must accompany the away team, but I will return to check on Geordi as soon as I am able," Data explained.
He cocked his head to the side and placed his left hand on Geordi's shoulder.
"Be well my friend," he said.
Data turned to leave but realised he was still holding Tasha's hand in his right hand.
He stopped and turned back. He pulled their hands up and looked at them for a moment before gently releasing her hand.
Data gave her a short nod and then left to join the away team.
"Chief-" Tasha started to say.
This was how rumours got started.
"Don't you worry," Miles reassured her. "I'm just in the corner takin' a nap."
"Thanks," Tasha replied.
When Geordi came to, he first noticed the sounds of someone talking.
Initially, it was like a dream. He could hear voices, but he couldn't distinguish what was being said.
Then he noticed the light above him and realised he was lying on an exam table.
The last thing he remembered was feeling cold.
And falling.
Yes, he'd definitely fallen. He could feel it in his back.
"Doctor Crusher, he's awake!" Miles called out as Geordi began to stir.
Geordi groaned. He tried to sit up but the pain in his back forced him to lay down again.
"What happened?" Geordi said. He lifted his sore arm stiffly as he ran his hand across his chest.
"Some kind of strange energy pattern threw off our navigation," Miles explained. "And when the Enterprise went into freefall, the ice in the holodeck collapsed along with all of us."
"Are you alright?" Geordi asked as concern rose in his voice. "And Tasha? Data?"
"A few bumps and bruises but we're all fine. You got the worst of it, mate," Miles said.
Doctor Crusher approached the side of the exam table and began to scan Geordi's body.
"We'll need to run some tests," she explained.
She gave him a hypospray shot to help with his pain and asked if she could remove his VISOR. Geordi nodded and she started the preliminary scans on his head.
"You took quite a fall, Geordi," Doctor Crusher said as she ran the tricorder around his skull. "Once the hypospray kicks in and your pain level is more tolerable, we'll move you in to take some brain scans."
Doctor Crusher gave Geordi a quick reassuring squeeze of the hand and left to set up the scans.
"I'm glad you guys are all OK," Geordi replied. "Where are the others?"
"Commander Data and Lieutenant Yar?" Miles asked.
"Mmm hmm," Geordi groaned in the affirmative.
Miles explained Data was fine and that Tasha had been cleared to return to duty and was currently up on the Bridge. They were over the planet now and the away team had been down there for about an hour.
"Miles, can I ask you about something? How did they seem?" Geordi said.
What had happened was a freak accident. But he knew Tasha and Data had been keeping their distance from one another as of late. He was curious if this event had eased some of that tension or driven them further apart.
"Fine. Normal. Professional -," Miles said but Geordi wasn't buying it.
"C'mon man," Geordi replied. "When you say it like that, I know that's not what happened."
"Gave my word," Miles replied seriously.
Miles had served on enough starships to know that whatever was going on between the Lt. Commander and the Chief Security Officer was their business and their business alone.
It wasn't for the ship to speculate.
His own opinion on the Starfleet fraternization regs was that a blind eye was the best approach.
To Miles, the heart wants what it wants, and he'd quite prefer to serve under officers that were happy at home.
"He was really worried about you. We all were," Miles replied honestly. "I know everyone says he's just an android, but he cares about you, a lot."
"Yeah," Geordi nodded. "Data's been acting kind of weird lately. I don't know if this is some part of his processing that's been unlocked or what. It's like he feels emotions sometimes but doesn't understand what's happening."
"Aye," Miles nodded.
"So, something did happen!" Geordi said.
He didn't need his VISOR to picture exactly the look Miles was giving him.
"I gave me word, Lieutenant," Miles said coyly. "But I'll say this much, I think they're on good terms with each other now."
"Yea-oow!" Geordi said as he clapped his hands together in excitement then instantly regretted it as pain shot through his arms.
Two hours later, Doctor Crusher had concluded her scans and determined Geordi had suffered a concussion but did not appear to have any serious head trauma. After treating the concussion and giving him another hypospray for the pain she released him to his quarters.
Geordi wouldn't be cleared to return to duty for at least another 48 hours but he was looking forward to a hot shower and some rest. He was grateful she'd cleared him to get his leg wet. It wasn't fully healed but at the very least it was on the mend.
Miles had helped him to his quarters with instructions to call him if he needed anything.
Although the surgery and osteogenic stimulator were doing their parts, he'd be limping heavily until the healing process was complete.
Geordi turned on the tap and let the steam fill the lavvy in his quarters. When he got up this morning, he'd been expecting to come back sore from the climb. He never imagined he'd be as sore and stiff as he currently was.
Carefully, he reached up and pulled off his combadge. Even that minor action took considerable effort.
He steadied himself against the built-in shelves. With a grimace, he managed to finagle his left arm out of his uniform sleeve. His right arm was considerably more tender, and he paused before proceeding.
Taking a deep breath, he started on the next arm but stopped when the door chimed.
Geordi shouted for whoever it was to come in.
Data entered and cocked his head to the side quizzically.
"Are you stuck?" Data asked as he took in Geordi's appearance.
Geordi shot Data a look.
"Would you like assistance?" Data asked as he stepped closer.
"No, Data. I'm fine," Geordi replied as he leaned back against the shelves.
"I am very glad to hear it," Data said before noticing the steam coming from that lavvy.
"Did you intend to leave your shower running?" Data questioned.
"Data, really I'm fine," Geordi replied before he took a small tumble forward.
Data caught him and used his arm to push Geordi upright against the shelves.
"You are not fine," Data stated.
"I think the hypospray pain relief just kicked in," Geordi explained.
Data helped Geordi reach his sofa and sat him down and pulled his feet up onto the table. He then went and shut off the tap in the lavvy.
"I will remain until you can safely stand on your own," Data said as he took a seat on Geordi's chair.
"That's very kind of you but I'm fine, really," Geordi insisted. "Doctor Crusher cleared me to be back in my quarters. I just got a little dizzy when the pain relief hit. I wanted to take a hot shower, but I'll wait until tomorrow morning."
"In my study of human behaviour, I have found it is a common practice for humans to use hot water as a means of pain relief," Data said.
Geordi nodded.
"Yeah, when I'm sore there's nothing like a little steam," Geordi replied.
"Would you like me to assist you?" Data offered.
Geordi laughed. He knew Data's offer was genuine and came from the desire to help, but he also knew Data didn't realise this was one of those times his positronic brain didn't quite grasp the human side of the equation.
"No, Data," Geordi replied. "That would be weird."
Data paused for a moment as he accessed his internal memory drive.
"Ah! Yes, I see," he replied as he now understood that his offer was strange. "I apologise for making you uncomfortable."
"Data, it's fine! I know you meant well," Geordi said with a grin.
They sat in silence for a moment. Geordi was feeling better but knew it was probably best if he just got some rest.
"Can I get you anything?" Data asked.
"Yeah, just help me get to bed and I'll stay put until I'm a little more stable," Geordi replied.
Data supported Geordi as he limped over to his bed. It was slow going and every step was a strain. But he'd insisted on limping. He didn't want Data to carry him.
"Thanks," Geordi replied.
He swung his legs up onto the bed and leaned back against his headboard.
"Now really, I'm fine," Geordi said. "I'm sure you've got work to do and I'm going to lay down."
"You are certain?" Data asked.
"Yes!" Geordi insisted.
Data leaned down and gave Geordi a tight hug. Geordi knew Data wasn't squeezing him at his full strength, but it was more than enough to knock the breath out of him.
"D-Data," Geordi managed to choke out.
Data immediately released him.
"Have I injured you?" Data asked concerned as he stepped back.
"No, I'm just sore," Geordi said as he took in his friend's face.
He thought back to the comment Miles had made earlier - it was as if Data was reacting with emotion.
"Are you feeling alright, Data?" Geordi asked.
"I am unsure. When you were injured, I found a sufficient portion of my neural net became preoccupied in theorising the possible outcomes of the injuries you sustained. In addition, I found that my positronic brain tried to access memory engrams of our previous holodeck adventures," Data explained. "It was hard to focus my actions as my processing was overwhelmed."
"Just like the other night?" Geordi prompted.
Data nodded.
"Data, I don't think anything is wrong with you," Geordi explained. "I think you're feeling emotion."
"I am android. I cannot experience emotions," Data said scientifically.
Geordi scratched the back of his head.
"You were worried about me. That's normal. You felt it!" Geordi said. "Maybe it's some previously unknown part of your programming that's been unlocked? Or maybe in the grand scheme of the universe you've evolved?"
"Evolution occurs over generations. I am the only sentient android in existence and chronologically-" Data tried to explain but Geordi waved his hand and cut him off.
"You're feeling things, Data. Somehow. Some way. You are feeling emotions," Geordi stated. "And I think you should lean into it."
"Inquiry, lean into it?" Data replied as his brain accessed information on the subject of human colloquialism.
Geordi let him work it out on his own and a short nod met that Data understood the phrase.
"Don't focus on why or how it's happening. Just let it happen," Geordi instructed.
Data pondered this thought. He was unsure of how to experience this. And a strange sense that he could only describe as 'foreboding' overcame him. He was concerned that his lack of experience with human emotion could lead to frustration, embarrassment, or harm to others.
"And I think whatever's going on between you and Tasha is causing a lot of emotion," Geordi thought aloud. "And since you're experiencing this for the first time it's made you feel confused and maybe a little scared."
Data leaned against the wall as a puzzled look overtook his features. After a short pause, he spoke.
"I believe that would be an appropriate description," Data responded without making eye contact.
A thought crossed Geordi's mind. Although his parents' roles in Starfleet had meant he moved many times during his youth, Geordi had still had the experience of attending classes with other kids. He'd experienced his teen years with all the traditional awkwardness and self-discovery that most kids had. Geordi had enjoyed his time and roommates at Starfleet experiencing life as young men – flirting, snogging, and relationships.
Data had shared that during his time at Starfleet Academy, he'd struggled to integrate socially with other cadets. He had experienced no formal adolescence.
Instead of parents, he had memory engrams and scientists. And to Geordi's horror, he'd learned that some of the scientists viewed Data as nothing more than a machine. They failed to recognise his sentience, his personhood, and his rights as a living being.
"Do you have feelings for Tasha?" Geordi asked bluntly.
"Starfleet regulations prohibit fraternisation with a subordinate within my chain of command," Data replied stiffly.
"But that's not what I asked," Geordi said with a sly grin. "Do you have feelings for Tasha?"
Data paused and looked at Geordi. Data had a small smile.
"I would describe being in her presence as a feeling of fondness," he said as his yellow eyes seemed to light up. "And the particular shade of blue in her eyes shares the same red, green, and blue colour values as found in the Himalayan Blue Poppy. Her skin has a faint smell of lavender and soap. I experience a fluttering sensation in the abdominal portion of my endoskeleton when she says my name. When I kissed her, she tasted like mint. And while this was certainly not my first sexual experience, I must admit my neural net was nearly overloaded at the sensation of-"
"Whoa, Data. Down boy," Geordi said.
Data leaned back against the wall and Geordi was sure if an android could blush, then Data was presently doing so. There was no flush or colour added to his cheeks, but the way he was casting his eyes downward was sure convincing.
Data glanced back up at Geordi, but this time his eyes held immeasurable sadness.
"But as I stated, Starfleet regulations prohibit any pursuit of those feelings," Data said in dejected voice. "And so, it is conflicting to have the memory engrams I retain as I can fondly recall the experiences but cannot further engage in them despite my desire to do so."
Data had calculated that there were alternatives to resolving the situation. He could resign as Second Officer, fall back on his exobiology degree, and shift into the role of science officer. However, he determined the probability of Captain Picard and Starfleet accepting this request as less than 2.47%.
"I don't know what to tell you," Geordi replied honestly. "I wish there was some way I could help."
Data left Geordi's quarters deep in thought. As he reached the door, Data realised his feet had not carried him to his own quarters.
He was standing at Tasha's door.
He pondered for a moment if he should ring. It would be perfectly professional to inquire as to her wellbeing following the injury. She had offered her hand in reassurance in Sickbay. She had not pulled away from his affection following the accident.
Before he could make up his mind, the door opened.
Tasha said nothing but gave him a small smile. It was evident to Data that he had disturbed her evening. She had shed her uniform in favour of casual attire.
The same emotional response he had experienced while discussing his feelings with Geordi suddenly overtook him. He bit his lip and cast his eyes down to the floor.
"I apologise, Lieutenant," Data said suddenly. "I should not have bothered you. I merely wanted to inquire as to your wrist, and I will be on my way."
"Why don't you come in?" she offered as she stepped back from the doorframe.
Something in Data warned him this wasn't a good idea. A sense of trepidation creeped in.
'Could this be what Geordi calls a gut?' Data thought to himself.
"How's Geordi?" Tasha asked as she sat down on her sofa.
"He is stiff but doing well," Data said.
Data's combadge dinged and Captain Picard's came across.
"Mr Data, I've authorised a return trip for a botany team to take further observations on the planet," Picard stated. "The energy readings we obtained have shown some interesting results in the arboretum. Apparently, it's caused rapid growth among much of our plant life. We'll be arriving in orbit shortly."
"Understood, would you like me to come to the Bridge?" Data asked as he acknowledged the Captain.
"If you wish," Picard replied.
"Acknowledged," Data said as he tapped his combadge to respond.
Data looked to Tasha and noted a hint of sadness in her eyes. Her breathing slowed.
"Well, I guess you have to go," she said standing up.
"Yes," Data replied but made no move to leave.
For a moment they were silent. Neither party was quite sure what to say. Data knew he should go but found himself unable to leave.
"Geordi believes I am experiencing emotions," Data blurted out fumblingly.
"I'd say that's an accurate assessment," she replied.
"You did not pull away," he said.
She knew what he was referencing - when he'd planted a chaste kiss on the top her head in Sickbay after the accident. He had seemed to be overcome with emotion. It was pleasant and spontaneous.
"Also, an accurate assessment," she quipped.
Suddenly the power went out. After a beat, the emergency lighting came on.
"Data to Bridge," Data said as he touched his combadge.
There was no response.
Data and Tasha headed for the door, but it wouldn't activate.
Data placed his hands on the door and tried to manually open it. The door did not budge.
"What's wrong?" Tasha asked.
"I am capable of manually opening these doors unless the environmental safety lock has been activated, Data explained. "The environmental safety lock has been activated meaning-"
"Life support isn't functioning in the corridor," Tasha said, finishing his thought.
He nodded.
They tried their combadges again with no luck.
Tasha grabbed her PADD and tried to see if there was any information she could pull from the computer about their situation. The screen was scrambled, and it was impossible to read.
She angrily tossed the PADD into her sofa. Data watched with fascination.
"May I," Data asked as he indicated to the PADD.
Tasha nodded. Data picked up the PADD and tried to analyse the device. He hypothesised that the energy signature they were there to study was now causing a disturbance in their devices. A reboot failed to produce a change.
"Most interesting," Data stated as he set it down on the sill of the window that looked out into space.
Data stepped over to the com and tried to access information on the situation.
However, the com was of little help. While life support and emergency lighting were functioning, there was no access to communications or the computer.
He spent 2 minutes and 8 seconds attempting to override the system before determining his effort would not be successful.
"The nature of this disruption will require a full system reboot of the computer that can only be instituted from Engineering or the Bridge," Data concluded aloud.
"So, we're stuck," Tasha said as she paced.
"It would appear so," Data replied as met her eyes.
Tasha stopped pacing and looked at Data.
"Data how long was the disruption last time? How long did it take to restore communications?" Tasha asked.
"I am unsure," he replied.
Confused, Tasha looked at him.
"I am unsure," he repeated.
"Data, you're the one person that tracks time down the second," Tasha said.
Data felt his pulse speed up. She had referred to him as a 'person.'
"During the last encounter, my processing was overcome with," he trailed off and dropped his eyes to the floor as he struggled to articulate his thoughts.
"Emotion?" Tasha prompted as she placed a hand on his shoulder.
He looked up and nodded.
"I can't imagine what you're going through right now," Tasha said. "But I can tell you that when I first escaped from Turkana IV, I tried to bury all of my emotions. I was afraid that if I allowed them to show, they would overrun me."
Tasha smiled.
"It took time, but I learned to accept that my emotions are a part of who I am. And that it doesn't make me weak or less competent to display them when appropriate. And with the help of counselling through Starfleet I was able to find ways to process strong emotions through healthy coping mechanisms," she explained.
Although her experience was different, Tasha hoped that her words were comforting. It had taken time, and counselling, and a lot of self-reflection for Tasha to learn to deal with her own emotions in a healthy manner.
"My emotions have caused me to malfunction at times. They have overwhelmed my neural net," Data explained honestly. "I am concerned that I am losing my ability to remain impartial and logical."
"Your emotions are not a malfunction," Tasha replied as a hint of anger rose in her voice.
"I have a responsibility to the Enterprise and-" he started to say but stopped when he saw Tasha's look.
"You're a Starfleet officer. And yes, you are stronger and smarter than the rest of us. But everyone experiences emotion. And everyone has instances in which those emotions can be overwhelming. Your best friend was seriously injured in a freak accident," she snapped.
She crossed her arms. Breathing deeply, she calmed herself before proceeding.
"You saved his life, Data. And Chief O'Brien. And mine," she said softly.
Data took a moment to reflect on her assessment.
"Geordi advised I should not focus on the 'how' or 'why' and instead focus on 'letting it happen'," Data said as he recounted Geordi's earlier advice.
"Well, Geordi is a pretty smart cookie," Tasha grinned.
Data cocked his head at the use of 'cookie.'
"It's an expression," she explained.
"Ah," Data nodded.
Tasha was about to try the com panel again, but the emergency lighting suddenly went out.
Looking around the room, Data observed the gentle hum of the emergency power system had ceased. Undetectable to humans, Data's audio receptors were always aware of the soft hum of the system that ran throughout the ship.
"Why do I have a sinking feeling that it's getting cold?" Tasha asked.
"You are correct. It appears that the emergency life support functions have also become affected," Data said as his bioplast registered a 3 degree drop in temperature.
Tasha shivered as her Starfleet training kicked in.
"You don't require oxygen but-" Tasha thought aloud.
"Humans do not 'run out of oxygen.' Carbon dioxide will continue to accumulate causing respiratory paralysis and then death," Data said finishing her thought.
"Well that's comforting," Tasha said wryly.
Data felt what he could best describe as panic.
"Lieutenant Commander Data to the Bridge," he said, trying his combadge again in hope that communication had been restored.
There was no response.
"I'm going to lay down and try to slow my breathing," Tasha explained.
Data nodded in understanding. Part of their Starfleet training had involved preparing for scenarios of life support system failures.
Placing her faith in that training, Tasha moved to her couch and laid back.
She closed her eyes and tried to slow her breathing.
She kept repeating in her mind 'You're just meditating with Worf.'
Data was attempting to divert his processing to finding a way to reactivate the life support systems. He considered for a moment that it may be possible for him to interface with the com and override the controls to reactive life support.
He didn't know how extensive the outage was. It was highly likely this outage extended to the other cabins on the same section of this deck. It was also possible the entire ship had been impacted.
But it didn't matter.
If his plan worked, Data would only have the ability to reactivate the quarters linked to this specific section of the com – meaning Tasha's quarters and three quarters adjacent to the right.
It was a significant risk.
Interfacing with the com would expose his positronic brain to contact with the energy disruption.
There was no way of knowing what effect it would have.
Based on the size of the room and the rate of Tasha' breathing, Data calculated when he would need to act, and it was soon.
For some reason, he felt an immense compulsion to say something to Tasha before proceeding.
He tried his combadge again, but communication remained offline.
He stepped over to Tasha and sat on the edge of her sofa.
"Tasha, I am going to attempt to reboot the emergency life support," Data said.
"Hmm?" She replied through half-lidded eyes.
"I am unsure if this will be successful," Data explained.
She blinked but was struggling to retain focus. The chill from the heat seeping into space was making her lethargic. She just wanted to sleep.
"If this is not successful or if the exposure to the entity should cause a malfunction, I feel compelled to tell you that you are special to me," he said softly.
He gave her hand a small squeeze and then made his way over to the com.
In a matter of seconds, he had opened the side of his head to access where he could interface. Opening the com panel, he routed a cable into his positronic brain and attempted to isolate and override the emergency life support system. It would require temporarily severing the connection to the main computer, bypassing the control that was subjected to the disruption, and rerouting it to a system that still had power.
Without warning, a flood of energy surged through his system and he dropped to the floor.
"Lieutenant Commander Data, this is Riker. I repeat, this is Riker. Come in," Riker's voice boomed from the combadge.
Full life support began to flood back into Tasha's quarters and the temperature in the room began to slowly increase to a safe level.
"Riker to Lieutenant Commander Data, do you read me?" Riker repeated.
Data sat up abruptly, blinking as he observed that the lights were on and the gentle hum of the life support system had returned.
Looking over at the sofa he noted Tasha was breathing. Relief washed over him. He got up from the floor and made his way over to her.
Kneeling next to the sofa, he placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Tasha?" he asked gently.
She blinked. She was still cold. Her eyes felt heavy and she felt a little nauseous.
"Life support has been restored," he said.
As her eyes regained focus, she took in his appearance.
The left side of his head was exposed, the small green and red lights blinking. A cable hung from his positronic brain. His typically well-groomed hair was dishevelled. The distinct smell of burnt polymer lingered in the air.
"What happened to you?" Tasha asked.
"There was some kind of energy surge," he replied simply.
Tasha propped herself on her elbows. For the first time ever, Data felt simultaneously uncomfortable about maintaining eye contact but unwilling to break away.
"I'm glad you were here," Tasha confessed as she reached out and cupped his cheek.
Data inhaled sharply.
"I should go," he replied softly as his hand moved to pull her hand away.
Tasha noted he did not let go of her hand.
"Data, I find myself struggling to reconcile the discrepancy between your words and your actions," she said, flipping his own prior statement back at him.
"I should go before I say something that would tread very close to violating Starfleet regulations," Data said in a voice barely above a whisper.
Simultaneously their combadges activated.
"Captain Picard for Lieutenant Yar. You're wanted on the Bridge," the Captain's voice ordered.
"Data this is Riker, where are you?" Riker said as his concern grew for the Second Officer.
Both acknowledged the orders and made their way to the nearest turbolift with haste.
As the turbolift opened, Tasha reached out and ran her hand through Data's tousled hair. His features softened - as if touch was both welcome and familiar.
The pair was not expecting Commander Riker to be waiting immediately on the opposite side of the door.
He said nothing as he observed the pair for a moment.
A brief, unmistakable look of affection passed between the two.
Riker cleared his throat.
Tasha pulled her hand away quickly and Data turned wide-eyed to his superior officer.
Riker raised an eyebrow at the pair but kept his observation to himself.
They shuffled past him and assumed their places on the Bridge. Riker was headed down to Engineering to check in with the progress on the system reboot.
"Mr Data," Picard said, taking note of his appearance. "What has happened to you?"
Data looked confused for a moment before he reached up and touched the exposed portion of his positronic brain. He realised the cable was still hanging from the connection.
"Ah!" A dark look flashed across his face as ran his hand along the cable he observed the burnt end where the energy surge had severed the connection to the com. "I attempted to interface with one of the com panels to reboot the emergency life support. It is fortunate the energy surge caused the cable to sever at this point of the connection. Had it reached my positronic brain at its full capacity, I am unsure of what may have happened."
"Mr Data, are you alright?" Picard asked sincerely.
"I will function sufficiently to perform my duties," Data replied as he turned back to face the main viewer.
Deciding the risk was too great, Picard ordered them on a new heading that would get them a safe distance from the planet's strange energy reading. They weren't giving up on understanding it, but they would need to break away until they could further devise what was causing the navigational and system failures.
They would send the information regarding the readings by an informational probe to the nearest Starbase and take up their heading in pursuit of a Ferengi vessel that stole an energy converter from an unmanned Federation outpost. They were on an intercept course and would arrive in six days and 18 hours.
After they were a safe distance from the strange energy signature, Picard retired to his ready room to read the briefing from Starfleet on their next assignment. He'd glanced at it shortly before the latest incident, but the power failures had interrupted him.
His door chimed. Picard sighed in frustration at the interruption but set down his PADD and called in the visitor.
Riker entered. Picard motioned for him to take a seat and Riker threw his leg over the nearest chair.
"Engineering has managed to get all of our systems back online and secured," Riker explained. "I noticed that Lieutenant Yar is in the Command chair?"
"Yes," Picard acknowledged.
After they'd reached a safe distance, he'd ordered Yar to return to the Bridge in uniform.
Although Commander Data was scheduled to serve on the night watch, Picard was concerned about his Second Officer. He had ordered him to Sickbay and Engineering for a full evaluation. Lieutenant Yar would take the first two hours of his night watch until she would be relieved by Lieutenant Worf.
"I've ordered Mr Data for a full evaluation following the incident earlier," Picard explained. "He attempted to interface with a com panel to restore life support. He was connected when the reboot energy surge occurred."
"Is he alright?" Riker asked.
"He said he felt fortunate the connection severed where it did or he may not be here," Picard explained.
Riker raised his eyebrows.
"Based on the specs of the com panel, interfacing to override would have only rebooted the four coms on the same master control switch," Riker surmised aloud. "That seems like an awfully big risk."
"Indeed, Number One," Picard agreed as he folded his hands in his lap.
He glanced over at the aquarium in the corner of his Ready Room.
"So, the mystery is what could have compelled our always logical and impartial Second Officer to take such an unusual risk," Picard pondered aloud.
"Maybe he was worried about those around him," Riker offered with a shrug thinking back to his earlier observation at the turbolift.
"Perhaps," Picard nodded. "We did observe he seemed to express genuine concern over Lieutenant La Forge's accident."
Picard trusted his Second Officer without question. But he was concerned that this strange energy signature could have impacted his functioning in some way.
"Number One, I want you to look into this," Picard ordered. "Discreetly."
The next day Geordi and Miles were sitting at Ten Forward over a synthesised pint. O'Brien's shoulder had healed and Geordi's leg had improved. Doctor Crusher said he was healing quickly. She suspected another two treatments with the osteogenic stimulator and he'd be right as rain. He could walk with almost no limp and most of his pain was gone.
Despite that, Geordi wasn't feeling great. His conversation with Data had stuck in his mind since. It had hit him hard seeing Data so affected like that. His best friend had somehow miraculously achieved his dream of experiencing emotion but was currently feeling blue. Knowing that didn't sit right with Geordi.
"Something on your mind?" Miles asked, noting Geordi's foul mood.
"Yeah," Geordi confessed. "I found out why Data's been acting so weird lately."
Miles raised his eyebrows and took a sip of his pint.
"He's got it bad for, well, you know," Geordi said quietly.
Miles nodded in understanding.
"So, what's the hang up?" Miles asked with a shrug. "She prefers blue eyes?"
"I wish it were that simple," Geordi sighed as he shook his head.
Miles cocked his head to the side in anticipation of Geordi's explanation.
"Regulations. I don't think anyone ever envisioned the regulations being a problem for an android Second Officer," Geordi explained.
"Ach," Miles scoffed.
He set down his pint, crossed his arms, and leaned into the table.
"Commander Data doesn't understand nuance. And Tasha's by the book. I've got a plan, but I'm going to need your help," Miles explained.
Quietly, Miles filled Geordi in on his plan. In Geordi's opinion, it was good. But Geordi was concerned that Data may not pick up on their message.
"And that's where you'll come in," Miles explained.
"You really think this will work?" Geordi asked.
"Aye, sure why nat?" Miles said with a grin as they toasted their plan.
The next day they set about putting their plan into motion. Geordi had invited Data to a spontaneous poker game that evening. O'Brien's extensive experience aboard several starships had left him with plenty of material to work with and he knew just the man to ask help.
Miles approached Commander Riker in the small canteen near Main Engineering.
"Commander, could I interest you in a poker game later tonight?" Miles asked as he replicated a cuppa.
Riker's eyes lit up.
"Sure, do you want me to spread the word?" Riker asked.
"Commander you served on the Potemkin with Commander Green?" Miles asked quietly.
"Yes," Riker said as he looked questioningly at the Chief Engineer.
"So hypothetically speaking, if I were to ask for your interpretation on Starfleet regulations what would your answer be?" Miles said.
Riker knew instantly what regulation Miles was asking about.
"Strictly hypothetically, I would say that Starfleet has a long history of interpreting regulation 1138 from prohibiting fraternisation when it becomes harmful to the structure of command," Riker replied. "And what my officers do in their spare time is none of my business."
"And if I ask you that same question later tonight will you answer the same?" Miles asked in earnest.
Riker smiled, something in his gut told him he knew what this impromptu poker game was all about.
At 19:00, Data joined Miles, Geordi, Commander Riker, and Worf on the holodeck for the impromptu poker night. He was wearing his traditional green visor and was eagerly anticipating an 'evening with the boys' as Geordi had called it.
He took a seat between Commander Riker and Geordi and took up his customary role as the first dealer. Shuffling the cards with pristine efficiency, he had Riker cut the deck and then began to deal.
"Gentleman, the game is Omaha-Hi," Data said as he passed the cards out around the table.
"Have your injuries healed, Lieutenant La Forge?" Worf asked as he glanced at his hand.
"Absolutely!" Geordi said enthusiastically.
Miles took a sip of his pint as they began the game. He'd let it play out for a bit to ease into the conversation.
After the first round, Miles gave Geordi and Riker a look. It was time.
"How's your shoulder, Chief?" Riker asked as he drew a card.
"It's great," Miles said with a sly grin before adding, "in fact, I wouldn't mind doing it again."
"Inquiry, is this a human euphemism for explaining that you would like to repeat our holodeck climb or that you wish to repeat your injury?" Data asked.
Miles laughed.
"No, Commander," he explained. "I mean I was glad it happened because it led to summat good."
"Oh really?" Geordi prompted.
"Aye. Since I had a few extra hours I decided to check out the arboretum," Miles said. "And I saw a real lovely bird."
"I was not aware we had introduced an avian species to the arboretum. Fascinating," Data said in wonder.
Geordi raised the bet. Miles took a swig before continuing. This may take more explaining that he had anticipated.
"A 'bird' is a woman, Data," Riker said, filling in his Second Officer.
"Ah! Are you referring to Professor Ishikawa?" Data asked.
Geordi's eyebrows shot up. He knew Miles hadn't been in the Arboretum. Miles had told him he would plan to say he had met some lovely lady.
He'd never expected Miles to say the Arboretum. Geordi knew Keiko and Data were friends and they might be opening a metaphorical can of worms.
"I'm not sure," Miles recovered. "I'd like to go back and chat her up. I'll…uh… ask fer her name then."
"If it is, in fact Professor Keiko Ishikawa, she is a wonderful friend," Data said genuinely. "And a most excellent botanist."
"Ehr, right," Geordi jumped in. "Too bad that fraternisation regulations prohibit that."
"That is incorrect," Data stated as he drew a card. "Professor Ishikawa and Chief O'Brien do not report to the same chain of command."
"Oh!" Geordi said awkwardly.
Their plan was falling apart before their eyes.
"Good to know," Miles said coolly. "But what about Lieutenant Quinn? If this Professor wasn't interested in a date then I was thinking about asking the Lieutenant."
As he watched Miles's flawless recovery, Riker had to admit it – Miles O'Brien was probably the only smoother man in this quadrant than himself.
"Yeah, they're both in the same chain of command," Geordi played along as he said a silent prayer to whoever was listening for Miles's brilliant recovery.
"If only there were some way," Miles sighed as he trailed off.
The awkwardness of their conversation was largely lost on Data. But Worf had taken note of what was happening and had a suspicion this was about Tasha.
Although she had never spoken openly of her affection for the Second Officer, it hadn't missed Worf's keen sense. He'd seen the way she looked at him. He'd also observed how unhappy she had been the last few weeks. Worf had been on the Bridge when Data had returned from her quarters during the polywater incident and he'd put two and two together.
"Klingons have found such regulations to be unnecessary. There is honour in being happy at home," Worf said wisely.
Miles raised his pint to the Klingon.
"Now I'm curious. I've been around enough starships to know that there are plenty of relationships behind closed doors between folks in the same department," Miles said. "And they're good people. They wouldn't break Starfleet regulations."
"Did regulations change?" Geordi asked with faux curiosity.
Worf gave him a stern look that read 'don't quit your day job.'
"Commander, hypothetically speaking if I wanted to pursue a relationship with the Lieutenant would I be violating the regulations?" Miles asked.
"If this situation were to arise, I would say that Starfleet has a long history of interpreting regulation 1138 from prohibiting fraternisation when it becomes harmful to the structure of command. Otherwise, what my officers do in their spare time is none of my business," Commander Riker said as he delivered his line with a straight face.
Data's positronic brain was firing on all cylinders.
"Commander, may I ask you a personal question?" Data said as he stared intently at nothing.
Geordi could hear him thinking. Miles suppressed a grin. Data had taken the bait.
"Of course, Mr Data," Riker replied as he eyed the android.
"Have you ever engaged in a romantic relationship with a subordinate?" Data asked bluntly.
Data had to know - there were only four officers on the Enterprise under which everyone was technically within their chain of command: The Captain, First Officer, Data, and the Chief Medical Officer.
"Of course," Riker replied.
"And you know that your duty to the Enterprise comes first," Geordi said to explain it in terms he hoped Data would understand. "You balance your personal and professional life so that there is no conflict of interest."
"Exactly," Riker went on.
He turned to face Data eye-to-to and hoped he was conveying his message clearly.
"And I think you'll find Chief O'Brien," he said as he maintained eye contact with Data, "that you should pursue the relationship. The rewards of a healthy, loving connection can do wonders for a person."
Data turned back to the table. He blinked twice. He laid down his hand and folded his cards.
"Chief, please let me know if you would like me to introduce you to Professor Ishikawa," Data said.
"Ugh, sure," Miles said.
"Excuse me," Data said as he stood abruptly.
The gentlemen at the table exchanged looks. No one said anything, they didn't want to stop him.
Riker was unable to suppress his smile. Miles and Worf shared a glance. Geordi bit is lip to keep from cheering.
"I must attend to something," Data said to the other officers before he made his way to the arch and exited the holodeck.
"Wooo-eee!" Geordi hollered as soon as Data had left the holodeck.
The four men raised their glasses in a toast.
"Well done, Chief," Geordi commented with a grin.
Four minutes and twelve seconds later Data was outside Tasha's door.
He chimed, but there was no response. Data realised tonight was one of the evenings she spent time with Counsellor Troi and Doctor Crusher.
"Computer, locate Lieutenant Yar," Data instructed.
"Lieutenant Yar is on Deck nine in room 0910," the computer stated.
His positronic brain counted every step between Tasha's quarters and Deanna's door.
He pinged the door and after a moment Deanna called for whomever it was to enter.
Data stepped into the doorframe and observed the three women were seated around the table playing a dice game.
"Hello, Data," Doctor Crusher said.
"Has something happened?" Tasha asked.
Counsellor Troi's face registered shock as she could sense a mixture of strong emotions coming from Data.
"Data, are you alright?" she asked as her empathic skills could sense excitement, relief, and a hint of desire.
"Lieutenant Yar, may I speak with you?" Data asked.
Tasha got up from the table and made her way over to the doorframe.
"Alone," he said quietly.
"I'll be back," Tasha told Beverly and Deanna.
The door closed and Beverly looked at Deanna for an explanation.
"No, she won't be," Deanna said with a knowing smile.
Once they were alone outside the Counsellor's quarters, Data took Tasha's hand and whisked her along the corridor.
"Data, what's going on?" Tasha questioned as they stepped on the turbolift.
"I need to speak with you in your quarters," he replied.
She couldn't put her finger on it, but if she had to describe his behaviour, she would call it 'eagerness.'
A moment later they were outside her quarters.
She opened the door and he waited for her to step inside before following after her.
Tasha turned and looked at Data.
"What's this all about?" she asked with a shrug.
He didn't respond verbally. Instead, he stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close to his chest.
Tasha closed her eyes and leaned into it. Breathing deeply, she let herself melt into the embrace.
The part of her brain that was screaming about regulations was battling the part of her brain that wanted to savour the feel of Data's long arms and tight embrace.
They stayed like that for a moment, silently. Tasha felt safe. And warm. And desirable.
Data smiled as he felt her arms snake around his lean frame, her hands resting against his back.
As much as she wanted to stay like that, the Starfleet officer portion of Tasha's brain was gnawing away at her. She moved to pull away and Data released her immediately.
"Commander," she said. She took a step backward and addressed him by his rank in an effort to put some distance between the two.
"The more we do this the harder it becomes for me to pretend," she said. "The more I touch you the more difficult it becomes to stop thinking about your hands."
"My hands?" Data inquired.
Tasha pursed her lips in frustration.
"I can't go on like this, Data. Not with you dropping in here with your head tilts and your damn hands," Tasha said frustrated.
"Head tilts?" Data inquired as his head characteristically titled to the left and looked down at his hands.
Had it been anyone else, she'd have suspected they were doing it to annoy her.
"You really don't know how cute you can be," she said, shaking her head.
Data was taken aback as his processing was overwhelmed with an unknown sense. She had called him 'cute.'
'Is this vanity?' Data pondered.
"I don't want to pretend anymore but I can't go on like this," she confessed.
Data stepped forward. Raising his hands, he placed them gently on the sides of her face.
"Then do not," he replied brightly.
He leaned down and planted a kiss on her lips.
After a moment, he pulled back and looked at her.
To her confusion, Data was staring at her - lips parted, wonder in his eyes, and the corner of his mouth curved upward like he'd just discovered the meaning of a human idiom.
"Starfleet regulations do not prohibit us from pursuing a relationship," he explained.
It was clear from her expression that his explanation had been insufficient.
"Starfleet regulations only prohibit fraternisation when it becomes harmful to the structure of command," Data said. "Even Commander Riker has engaged in romantic relationships with subordinates."
Tasha took a minute to absorb his words.
"During the 1,435 steps between the holodeck and your quarters I accessed and analysed over thirty years of Starfleet disciplinary hearings regarding regulation 1138. It is exceedingly rare for Starfleet to pursue disciplinary action against officers. In fact, I could only find two cases during that time frame, both of which involved situations in which the crewmembers' actions led to a harmful command structure," Data explained.
Tasha knew what he was getting at. She knew that there were officers out there that technically 'broke' the regs. However, she had never considered the possibility that a technicality in the interpretation of that regulation was used for such widespread justification.
"Do you think you can sufficiently separate your duty as Chief Security Officer from the feelings experienced in a relationship?" he asked.
Tasha didn't respond immediately. She took his hands in her own and placed a gentle kiss on them.
Data left Tasha's quarters at 22:35. He was feeling more at ease than he had in the last three weeks. They had developed a set of parameters to 'test the waters' about their relationship. They would maintain a strictly professional relationship outside of their quarters.
Data had inquired if Tasha would be interested in attending an upcoming performance of The Cherry Orchard that Doctor Crushing was directing. Tasha had declined.
She explained that it wasn't that she felt uncomfortable being with him in public. She felt no shame about this newfound relationship. Tasha was a private person in general. In time, they would be able to slowly introduce their relationship more publicly.
But first they had to establish their relationship wasn't going to be a problem.
He'd asked her thoughts on informing the captain. Tasha said she understood his reasoning. Data offered that he would speak with Captain Picard tomorrow and inform him of the situation.
Halfway back to his quarters his combadge pinged.
"Captain Picard for Lieutenant Commander Data," Picard's voice said.
"Acknowledged," Data said as he stopped walking.
"May I see you in my ready room?" Picard asked.
"On my way," Data replied, tapping his combadge and turning into the nearest turbolift.
Data found Captain Picard behind his desk with a steaming cuppa Earl Grey.
"Please have a seat," Picard instructed.
"How can I be of assistance?" Data asked as he sat down, his perfect posture maintained at all hours.
"I am unsure of how to put this, Mr Data," Picard said as a heavy sigh escaped the Captain. "Are you alright? As of late, I have observed some unusual behaviour."
"I am functioning within normal parameters," Data replied.
"Mr Data, may I ask why you attempted to interface with the com to override the life support shutdown? That was quite a risk. If your plan had succeeded, you may have been able to restart the life support in four rooms. And if it had failed," Picard trailed off. "I don't care to think about the other possible outcomes."
"At the time of the outage I was trapped in a room with a crewmember and concerned for their safety," Data explained. "I calculated when the carbon dioxide production would reach a critical level and waited as long as possible before I made the decision to proceed."
"And may I ask if you would have made the same call for any other crewmember on this ship?" Picard asked.
"I am unsure," Data replied.
"If it had been Commander Riker?" Picard questioned.
"Yes, I believe I would have made the same decision under those circumstances," Data answered.
"Why?" Picard pressed.
"Commander Riker is essential to the Enterprise command structure. As Second Officer, it would be my duty to protect him," Data stated.
"What if this had been Lieutenant La Forge?" Picard inquired.
Data nodded.
"And what about Lieutenant Dean?" Picard pushed.
"The anthropologist?" Data asked in response.
Picard nodded in the affirmative.
"Perhaps, sir," Data said. "I had concerns about what may happen. Specifically, I was concerned that the exposure could lead to malfunctions or pose a danger to my programming and memories."
Picard took a sip from the saucer and set it back down on his desk.
"Yet you proceeded because you wanted to save Lieutenant Yar?" Picard said having finally reached the point of his questions.
Data moved to respond but stopped. He was taken aback by the Captain's statement.
"Yes, sir," he replied after a moment.
"Why?" Picard said as he leaned back.
"Because I care about her a lot more than I am supposed to," Data said honestly.
"There are 1,478 people onboard this starship, Data," Picard said. "Why did you have to develop feelings for another senior officer?"
"I am unable to explain my feelings other than to say that when I am not around her, I find that I miss her presence. I experience a fluttering sensation in the abdominal portion of my endoskeleton when our lips make contact. I have also observed that at the moment of orgasm she bites her lower lip in a manner that I find most aesthetically pleasing. Her soap has a soft scent of-," Data had said as if her were describing a control chip in Engineering.
The android stopped babbling as Picard slammed his saucer down harder than intended. Calming himself, Picard decided to respond with compassion rather than frustration.
Jean-Luc felt conflicted.
On the one hand, he was pleased that Data was experiencing a relationship with a remarkable woman.
Yet on the other hand, he was concerned by Data's sudden development of feelings.
Furthermore, Picard felt his thoughts drift briefly to his Chief Medical Officer and his inability to act upon his own feelings due to Starfleet regulation.
"It was my intention to inform you of my relationship tomorrow," Data explained.
"I appreciate that notion," Picard replied. "But the less I know the better. I only wanted to ascertain that this will not impact your role as Second Officer nor her responsibility as Chief Security Officer."
"We assure you this will not impact our duty to the Enterprise," Data said confidently.
"See that it does not," Picard responded sternly.
"Sir, you are one 'smart cookie'," Data said fondly before exiting.
Data returned to his quarters and carefully watered his Himalayan Blue Poppy. He sat down at his workstation and pulled out his PADD. Ships stores should make it possible to fulfil his requisition request tomorrow.
"Computer, play music program Data 472," he instructed.
The sound of the upbeat music filled his quarters as he leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes. Slowing his processing, he focused on the feeling of warmth that had overtaken his body.
Blue days, all of them gone. Nothing but blue skies from now on.