DREAMS
Dreams… Such a confusing subject for a droid.
HAL-1138 had researched some files on the subject before. He had never been interested until he came into the service of the Master. Dreams for organics were usually deemed as an abstract method of the subconscious mind to "work things out". This is what confused him the most. Wouldn't the soft bodies benefit by addressing a problem in a direct and conscious state? But then again, when did they ever make any sense? They were a constant conundrum.
The files that HAL accessed stated that most dreams of carbon creatures were pleasant things. It was only when they were overly stressed or psychologically damaged in some way that the subconscious events were violently accepted by the mind. Master was probably both scenarios. His dreams were never pleasant. Normally he seemed to control them rather well, but there were moments when that control would slip and the outcome was all but desirable. Some of the dreams were repetitive. The sequence of progression fluctuated slightly, but there were key moments that remained the same. A name being called out, the indication of a long battle, the exasperated moan of despair, even his continuing exclamation of pure hatred for someone. Yes… the Master was damaged.
He had discovered after years of monitoring the Masters vital signs that control in the reaction to the dream could be obtained to a certain point. By altering the life support systems of the Master, a regulated deeper sleep cycle could be obtained and thus end the danger. This however didn't always work, and the only alternative was to leave the general vicinity or risk being damaged. Master sometimes used his unique abilities in uncontrolled sleep cycles and the result was usually unsettling.
This was one of those times…
HAL waited patiently outside the Master's quarters while the dream sequence played out. By his estimation, Master was most likely near the final stage of the dream. He activated his more sensitive external sensor to detect any of the more critical energy releases. On the first sign of the Master's energy raging further than his quarters and HAL would remove himself for the danger zone. So far… so good.
The approach of a protocol droid caught HAL's attention, and he swiveled his dome to regard it. The droid was grasping a tech cylinder in its hand and appeared to be on a direct route to the entrance to the Master's chambers. Sure enough, it stopped in front of the door and raised its hand to the control panel.
"It would be most unfortunate for you to enter now". HAL's smooth voice resonated through the empty corridor.
The protocol droid turned to face HAL-1138 and tilted it head in confusion. "I beg your pardon? Why ever is the reason?"
"The Master is dreaming", was the simple reply.
The taller droid stared for a moment, seeming to contemplate its next move. "That's positively absurd!" It finally exclaimed. "I am under strict orders to deliver these reports immediately, and I am not to be stopped by you or some silly excuse of your Master's sleeping habits!" The protocol droid announced while entering the code to the door latch.
"I'd make a suggestion" HAL warned "but you wouldn't listen. No one ever does"
The slender droid didn't bother with a reply, and entered the Master's chambers unscathed by the comment. HAL watched as the doors closed, and patiently waited in the now quiet hallway. 'It should not be too much longer now' He thought.
All too quickly, his sensors registered a tremendous energy burst, followed by the very distinct sound of metal being crushed and thrown against a wall. 'Should have waited…' HAL silently reflected. He then made a mental note to check the condition of the Tech cylinder when the Master's dream cycle was completed. If it was damaged, he would need to order a copy.