Chapter 8: Geordi
"What is the fastest warp considered safe for a galaxy-class starship?"
"Warp 9.9!"
"That is correct. Though in theory, with use of different materials, the speed could be raised to warp 9.900000000001..."
"Uh, Data?"
"I apologize. The next question is, after what amount of time will the engines of a galaxy-class starship traveling at warp 9.9 automatically shut down?"
Geordi reached up to brush a leaf out of Data's wiry hair before answering.
"10 minutes!"
"That is also correct. Now, what is the-"
"...hang on a moment, Data."
In his VISOR, Geordi could see three humanoid shapes approaching the oak tree that shaded him and Data.
Is that...
"Well, well, well. If it isn't the robot freak and the eyeless wonder?"
Yep. Definitely Seth. And friends.
Seth, Kaav, and Hayden planted themselves in front of their two fellow cadets.
"So, Data? You still going to the academy, or are they just using you for making paninis in the cafeteria?"
Geordi snuck a glance at Data, who was staring down at his feet.
Why won't Seth just leave him alone?
"Shut up, guys."
Seth spun around and smirked at Geordi. Kaav and Hayden stood, snickering, behind him.
"Don't tell me you're hanging out with IT, now? I thought you had better taste."
Seth loomed over Geordi.
"Well, I suppose you metal freaks should stick together."
The bully made a fist, and pulled back his arm.
In a flash, Data was on his feet, and had his pale fingers curled around Seth's arm. Seth's trademark smirk disappeared, and was replaced with a scowl.
"Let go of me, you rusty pile of scraps!"
Data's other hand shot out, and grabbed the taller man's collar. He lifted Seth off the ground as if he were a feather. Both of Kaav and Hayden took a step back as their leader twisted his head around, and looked at the android's face.
Yellow eyes met blue.
"Seth... beat it!"
Data dropped Seth, who hit the ground running. His cronies weren't far behind.
Data then turned to Geordi, who was still sitting, open-mouthed, by the trunk of the tree.
"What is it that I told Seth to beat?"
After a moment's pause, Geordi's shocked expression faded, and he shook his head in wonder.
"Geordi?"
Geordi just smiled at his friend.