Troi stopped by the captain's quarters a few days after the conclusion of the ship's encounter with the energy cloud.
"How are you feeling, Captain?" she asked after taking a seat across from his desk.
"Almost back to normal. Dr. Crusher has cleared me to return to the bridge tomorrow. Which is good timing, since we're set to rendezvous with the science vessel in the morning." He sighed, adding, "Something normal and low risk at last."
"Certainly something we've all been needing lately," Troi said. "Have you been resting?"
"As much as I can. I've had to collect and file reports both on the behavior of the Anticans and Selay and also our 'adventure' with the energy cloud." Picard shook his head. "And explain why I entered my formal resignation from Starfleet."
"Well, the Anticans and Selay are now in the hands of Parliment," Troi said reassuringly. "And the energy cloud has been quarantined until further notice."
"Yes." Picard got up to gaze out the window. "It is very difficult to take responsibility for actions you didn't take completely of your own volition. And I've been wondering something..."
"What have you been wondering?"
The captain turned back to face Troi. "If I'd been in full control of my mind, would I have done that? Left behind my command and ship to go exploring as a being of pure energy?"
"Of course not."
"Of course I wouldn't have," Picard repeated. "But I still have to wonder."