Ticket #4843: madness-font.srt

1
00:00:11,327 --> 00:00:15,366
Commander, is it your intention to
continue to grow your beard?

2
00:00:16,807 --> 00:00:20,197
Actually, I'm not sure yet.

3
00:00:20,287 --> 00:00:22,847
- Why, Worf?
- I was just asking.

4
00:00:24,887 --> 00:00:27,845
Seven-card stud,
one-eyed Jacks are wild.

5
00:00:29,527 --> 00:00:33,202
- Frankly, Geordi, I like the beard.
- Thank you, Commander.

6
00:00:34,847 --> 00:00:39,079
You know, I have always been
a little suspicious of men in beards.

7
00:00:40,487 --> 00:00:44,002
- Why is that?
- It's like they're hiding something.

8
00:00:44,087 --> 00:00:48,524
Hide? Don't be ridiculous. The beard
is an ancient and proud tradition.

9
00:00:49,487 --> 00:00:51,876
Many distinguished men
have worn beards.

10
00:00:51,967 --> 00:00:56,836
After the razor was invented, beards
became mostly a fashion statement.

11
00:00:56,927 --> 00:00:59,282
I'm not concerned with fashion.

12
00:00:59,367 --> 00:01:03,076
To a Klingon,
a beard is a symbol of courage.

13
00:01:03,967 --> 00:01:06,686
I think it's a sign of strength.

14
00:01:06,767 --> 00:01:09,520
Sure, and of course,
women can't grow beards.

15
00:01:09,607 --> 00:01:12,804
It sounds like you think beards
are an affectation.

16
00:01:12,887 --> 00:01:14,878
I do.

17
00:01:14,967 --> 00:01:19,643
But there's nothing wrong with that.
Women wear make-up and nail polish.

18
00:01:19,727 --> 00:01:22,639
I just think it's time
that you men admit it.

19
00:01:22,727 --> 00:01:24,524
My beard is not an affectation.

20
00:01:24,607 --> 00:01:27,167
Then you wouldn't mind
shaving it off.

21
00:01:27,247 --> 00:01:29,715
In a minute.
I've just gotten used to it.

22
00:01:30,407 --> 00:01:33,080
OK, then why don't we
up the stakes a little?

23
00:01:33,167 --> 00:01:38,002
And if I win,
all of you shave your beards off.

24
00:01:39,487 --> 00:01:43,526
Wait a minute, what if you lose?
What are you gonna give up?

25
00:01:43,607 --> 00:01:45,199
I'm open for suggestions.

26
00:01:46,687 --> 00:01:48,678
I'd like to see you as a brunette.

27
00:01:48,767 --> 00:01:51,884
I did that at 13.
I couldn't change back fast enough.

28
00:01:51,967 --> 00:01:54,003
That makes me even more curious!

29
00:01:57,887 --> 00:02:01,436
Fine. If one of you wins,
I'll become a brunette. Are we on?

30
00:02:02,487 --> 00:02:05,399
Yeah, we'll take that bet.

31
00:02:06,887 --> 00:02:09,765
Looks like you have
the hand to beat, Commander.

32
00:02:11,527 --> 00:02:12,926
200.

33
00:02:15,367 --> 00:02:16,880
I'm in 200.

34
00:02:18,407 --> 00:02:19,396
Geordi.

35
00:02:20,567 --> 00:02:22,285
This is the Captain.

36
00:02:22,367 --> 00:02:26,280
We've arrived at the Tyran system.
Senior staff to the bridge.

37
00:02:26,367 --> 00:02:27,436
Wait!

38
00:02:28,087 --> 00:02:32,205
Sorry. Duty calls. We'll have to
do this some other time.

39
00:02:42,767 --> 00:02:46,521
Captain's log, stardate 46307.2.

40
00:02:46,607 --> 00:02:49,280
We have just come into orbit
of Tyrus VIIA

41
00:02:49,367 --> 00:02:52,359
to monitor progress
on the Tyran particle fountain,

42
00:02:52,447 --> 00:02:54,915
a radically new mining technology.

43
00:02:55,007 --> 00:02:59,558
The project has been fraught with
problems and is well behind schedule.

44
00:02:59,647 --> 00:03:03,879
Mr. La Forge has been assigned
to evaluate the situation.

45
00:03:03,967 --> 00:03:07,118
Dr Farallon, the plans
call for the particle fountain

46
00:03:07,207 --> 00:03:09,721
to lift 500 kg per
minute from the surface.

47
00:03:09,807 --> 00:03:12,037
So far, we haven't
come close to that.

48
00:03:12,127 --> 00:03:14,721
I want to increase
the stream density.

49
00:03:14,807 --> 00:03:17,275
That should boost
capacity by 72 percent.

50
00:03:17,367 --> 00:03:20,996
You'll be overloading the
field generators in the process.

51
00:03:21,087 --> 00:03:24,397
Not if we distribute
the overload evenly.

52
00:03:24,487 --> 00:03:29,845
Maybe we should complete this phase
before we talk about redesigning it!

53
00:03:30,527 --> 00:03:34,042
Commander, I know you're here
to evaluate this project.

54
00:03:34,127 --> 00:03:38,120
Starfleet may use a particle fountain
on Carema III.

55
00:03:38,207 --> 00:03:42,246
- They want to know if it's feasible.
- Will your opinion decide that?

56
00:03:42,727 --> 00:03:47,755
No. I'll report to Capt Picard. He'll
make the recommendation to Starfleet.

57
00:03:47,847 --> 00:03:50,407
- They'll decide.
- What's your feeling?

58
00:03:50,487 --> 00:03:52,478
The question
we should be asking is,

59
00:03:52,567 --> 00:03:56,799
is this technology more efficient
than conventional mining techniques?

60
00:03:56,887 --> 00:03:59,242
Commander,
I know we've had problems.

61
00:03:59,327 --> 00:04:01,636
It seems like
nothing's gone right.

62
00:04:01,727 --> 00:04:06,084
It's taking longer than I thought
to get the stream to full strength.

63
00:04:06,167 --> 00:04:07,646
But I know it can work.

64
00:04:07,727 --> 00:04:10,605
This is the direction of mining
in the future,

65
00:04:10,687 --> 00:04:13,326
and it should be implemented
on Carema III.

66
00:04:13,407 --> 00:04:17,366
I know this can be
potentially very exciting...

67
00:04:17,447 --> 00:04:21,076
Alright. I want to show you
something I've been working on.

68
00:04:21,167 --> 00:04:23,761
It might help us
complete this project.

69
00:04:23,847 --> 00:04:26,281
I've used these on a limited basis...

70
00:04:31,527 --> 00:04:33,324
Enterprise to Cmdr La Forge.

71
00:04:33,407 --> 00:04:37,844
I am reading power fluctuations
from the station core. Please report.

72
00:04:37,927 --> 00:04:40,600
We have a malfunction
in one of the power grids.

73
00:04:40,687 --> 00:04:43,155
We're losing
particle-stream confinement.

74
00:04:43,247 --> 00:04:46,080
- Do you require assistance?
- Stand by.

75
00:04:46,167 --> 00:04:48,158
We'll have to shut it down.

76
00:04:48,247 --> 00:04:51,000
It took four months to get
the flux to this level.

77
00:04:51,087 --> 00:04:54,045
If we shut it down, it'll take
four months to get it back.

78
00:04:54,127 --> 00:04:56,436
In five minutes, we lose containment.

79
00:04:56,527 --> 00:05:00,202
The stream will flood the station.
We'll have to shut it down anyway.

80
00:05:00,287 --> 00:05:03,836
- We'll have to fix the power grid.
- But how do we do that?

81
00:05:03,927 --> 00:05:06,839
The defective grid
is 200 meters down conduit A-2,

82
00:05:06,927 --> 00:05:08,963
and through four bulkheads.

83
00:05:09,047 --> 00:05:12,676
Here's the perfect opportunity
to show you what I had in mind.

84
00:05:12,767 --> 00:05:13,677
What is this?

85
00:05:13,767 --> 00:05:18,397
This is an exocomp, the experiment
I was telling you about.

86
00:05:30,327 --> 00:05:33,558
If it fails, we'll still have
time to shut down the fountain.

87
00:05:33,647 --> 00:05:36,639
Enterprise to La Forge.
What is your situation?

88
00:05:36,727 --> 00:05:38,558
No change. We're working on it.

89
00:05:38,647 --> 00:05:41,957
If this doesn't work soon,
we'll have to shut down.

90
00:05:51,527 --> 00:05:53,995
The confinement field
is at full strength.

91
00:05:54,087 --> 00:05:58,717
Particle flux steady.
All power levels are back to normal.

92
00:05:58,807 --> 00:06:00,479
Please report.

93
00:06:01,647 --> 00:06:05,765
We're fine, Data.
The power grid is fully restored.

94
00:06:05,847 --> 00:06:08,281
The malfunction seems to be repaired

95
00:06:08,367 --> 00:06:11,677
and operations here
at the station are back to normal.

96
00:06:11,767 --> 00:06:14,565
How did you accomplish
the repairs so quickly?

97
00:06:17,127 --> 00:06:20,915
You know, I'm not exactly sure.

98
00:06:48,407 --> 00:06:51,843
Space, the final frontier.

99
00:06:53,047 --> 00:06:56,960
These are the voyages
of the Starship Enterprise.

100
00:06:57,047 --> 00:07:01,279
Its continuing mission,
to explore strange new worlds,...

101
00:07:02,287 --> 00:07:05,597
..to seek out new life
and new civilizations,...

102
00:07:06,727 --> 00:07:10,515
..to boldly go
where no one has gone before.

103
00:08:07,127 --> 00:08:10,483
Captain's log, stardate 46315.2.

104
00:08:10,567 --> 00:08:14,082
Repairs to the particle fountain
seem to have succeeded

105
00:08:14,167 --> 00:08:16,283
and it is now functioning smoothly.

106
00:08:16,367 --> 00:08:21,202
Dr Farallon is to demonstrate
the device that carried out repairs.

107
00:08:24,567 --> 00:08:26,637
- Energize.
- Aye, sir.

108
00:08:31,767 --> 00:08:35,043
Welcome to the Enterprise, Doctor.
I am Lt Cmdr Data.

109
00:08:35,127 --> 00:08:38,517
Mr. Data, I was hoping
I'd have a chance to meet you.

110
00:08:38,607 --> 00:08:41,519
I've done studies of
your positronic network.

111
00:08:41,607 --> 00:08:45,725
And I have studied your fountain.
I find the concept innovative.

112
00:08:45,807 --> 00:08:46,922
Thank you.

113
00:08:47,007 --> 00:08:50,602
I am curious how you were able to
repair the power grid so quickly.

114
00:08:50,687 --> 00:08:54,521
- This should make it clear.
- Let's set it up in Engineering.

115
00:08:54,607 --> 00:08:56,882
Is it true your computational speed

116
00:08:56,967 --> 00:09:00,482
is limited only by the separation
of your positronic links?

117
00:09:00,567 --> 00:09:02,205
That is no longer the case.

118
00:09:02,287 --> 00:09:06,166
I recently converted my sequencer
to asynchronous operation,

119
00:09:06,247 --> 00:09:09,876
- removing the constraint.
- Doctor. This way, please.

120
00:09:09,967 --> 00:09:13,482
But how did you resolve
the signal fragmentation?

121
00:09:13,567 --> 00:09:15,922
The sequencer is now bi-directional,

122
00:09:16,007 --> 00:09:20,080
compensating for mode distortion
arising from the resonant field.

123
00:09:20,167 --> 00:09:21,998
Yes. That's fascinating.

124
00:09:22,087 --> 00:09:27,002
Does it require any buffering system
to eliminate interference?

125
00:09:28,287 --> 00:09:31,563
We've been using devices like this
on Tyrus VII for years.

126
00:09:31,647 --> 00:09:35,322
The basic unit is a common
industrial servomechanism.

127
00:09:35,407 --> 00:09:40,083
A few years ago, I started tinkering
with one. This is the result.

128
00:09:40,167 --> 00:09:44,399
Boridium power converter.
Axionic chip network!

129
00:09:44,487 --> 00:09:45,761
Very impressive.

130
00:09:45,847 --> 00:09:49,999
In terms of computational speed,
this guy might compete with Data.

131
00:09:50,087 --> 00:09:53,636
The exocomps don't come close
to Data's sophistication.

132
00:09:53,727 --> 00:09:56,764
- Exocomps?
- That's what I call them.

133
00:09:56,847 --> 00:10:03,446
Let's say you had an antimatter-
flow converter that was fluctuating.

134
00:10:04,407 --> 00:10:05,920
How would you repair it?

135
00:10:06,007 --> 00:10:08,316
By adjusting the converter.

136
00:10:08,407 --> 00:10:10,443
- With what?
- A mode stabilizer.

137
00:10:11,207 --> 00:10:15,041
OK. Let me input the problem
into the exocomp.

138
00:10:15,127 --> 00:10:18,119
A fluctuating
antimatter-flow converter.

139
00:10:18,207 --> 00:10:21,085
Now, let's see what happens.

140
00:10:26,527 --> 00:10:30,566
A mode stabilizer. Very nice.

141
00:10:30,647 --> 00:10:33,844
You have incorporated
a microreplication system,

142
00:10:33,927 --> 00:10:35,838
in order to fashion tools.

143
00:10:35,967 --> 00:10:40,518
It's more than that. I designed
the exocomps to be problem solvers.

144
00:10:40,607 --> 00:10:43,599
When they perform a task
they've never done before,

145
00:10:43,687 --> 00:10:48,078
the microreplicator creates new
circuit pathways in its memory.

146
00:10:48,167 --> 00:10:50,886
- So in a sense, they are learning.
- Exactly.

147
00:10:50,967 --> 00:10:55,404
The more situations they encounter,
the more circuit pathways they build.

148
00:10:55,487 --> 00:10:58,206
They become better tools
as they work.

149
00:10:58,287 --> 00:11:00,960
It's very impressive technology,
for sure.

150
00:11:01,047 --> 00:11:03,845
After the experimental stage,
it'll be useful.

151
00:11:03,927 --> 00:11:07,522
Commander, I'm hoping
the experimental stage is over.

152
00:11:07,607 --> 00:11:10,997
When are we supposed to brief
Capt Picard on the fountain?

153
00:11:11,087 --> 00:11:15,797
- 1600 hours.
- Good. I'll have a proposal to make.

154
00:11:18,367 --> 00:11:21,803
I know you should give
your evaluation to Starfleet today.

155
00:11:21,887 --> 00:11:24,845
I'd like you to postpone the report
for 48 hours.

156
00:11:24,927 --> 00:11:29,842
We leave tomorrow. To change
that plan, I need a very good reason.

157
00:11:29,927 --> 00:11:31,963
I realize that, sir.

158
00:11:32,047 --> 00:11:34,242
If you're going to report
to Starfleet

159
00:11:34,327 --> 00:11:37,080
about using the particle fountain
on Carema,

160
00:11:37,167 --> 00:11:40,125
it's only fair you see it
operating at full strength.

161
00:11:40,207 --> 00:11:41,117
Agreed.

162
00:11:41,207 --> 00:11:45,166
I think I can complete the project
and boost the stream's efficiency

163
00:11:45,247 --> 00:11:48,478
if I use exocomps,
the new devices I've constructed.

164
00:11:48,567 --> 00:11:52,845
I understand one of these devices
repaired a faulty power grid.

165
00:11:52,927 --> 00:11:55,839
Yes, sir. I've been testing them
on a limited basis.

166
00:11:55,927 --> 00:11:59,636
But I think they're ready
to be used on a larger scale.

167
00:11:59,727 --> 00:12:01,240
Mr. La Forge, your thoughts?

168
00:12:01,327 --> 00:12:04,558
Well, I guess the only risk
is in falling further behind.

169
00:12:04,647 --> 00:12:08,162
- I'm willing to take that risk.
- Mr. Data?

170
00:12:08,687 --> 00:12:11,520
Exocomps
are highly sophisticated devices.

171
00:12:11,607 --> 00:12:15,839
If they perform well, their potential
for this project is considerable.

172
00:12:16,647 --> 00:12:21,038
I'm inclined to agree. I don't think
48 hours is too much time to risk

173
00:12:21,127 --> 00:12:24,836
when the gains are so substantial.
You may proceed, Doctor.

174
00:12:24,927 --> 00:12:29,637
Thank you, sir. If possible,
I'd like Cmdr Data to work with me.

175
00:12:30,847 --> 00:12:33,759
Thank you, Doctor.
I welcome the opportunity.

176
00:12:45,767 --> 00:12:48,076
Commander, there's a plasma conduit

177
00:12:48,167 --> 00:12:50,681
in one of the tunnels
ready to be sealed.

178
00:12:50,767 --> 00:12:53,804
- The perfect job for an exocomp.
- I agree, Doctor.

179
00:12:56,047 --> 00:12:59,437
Well, Mr. Data,
what is your analysis so far?

180
00:12:59,527 --> 00:13:04,078
I have completed 14 separate tasks
with this exocomp in the past hour.

181
00:13:04,167 --> 00:13:08,319
I estimate it would take two people
nine hours to complete those tasks.

182
00:13:08,767 --> 00:13:11,998
I characterize the unit's performance
as excellent.

183
00:13:12,087 --> 00:13:14,726
I hope Cmdr La Forge
and Capt Picard agree.

184
00:13:14,807 --> 00:13:18,402
I am confident they will.
Cmdr La Forge is especially...

185
00:13:24,527 --> 00:13:28,998
It didn't finish sealing the plasma
conduit. Let me send it back in.

186
00:13:29,927 --> 00:13:31,883
It is not accepting your commands.

187
00:13:31,967 --> 00:13:35,243
Maybe there's a malfunction
in the control processor.

188
00:13:35,327 --> 00:13:37,283
Let me see if I can override it.

189
00:13:38,447 --> 00:13:39,436
Doctor?

190
00:13:39,527 --> 00:13:42,439
I'm alright.
The control pad just overloaded.

191
00:13:44,327 --> 00:13:46,522
What's the matter with this thing?

192
00:14:00,487 --> 00:14:05,083
Second Officer's log,
stardate 46315.5.

193
00:14:05,167 --> 00:14:10,321
The behaviour of the ex ocomp has
puzzled Dr Farallon and myself.

194
00:14:10,407 --> 00:14:14,923
We have brought the defective unit
to the Enterprise for investigation.

195
00:14:15,007 --> 00:14:17,441
The exocomp
came out of the plasma conduit.

196
00:14:17,527 --> 00:14:20,678
We tried to override
and send it back but it shut down.

197
00:14:20,767 --> 00:14:22,962
It's been unresponsive ever since.

198
00:14:23,047 --> 00:14:25,686
Well, let's see
what our computer has to say.

199
00:14:25,767 --> 00:14:30,966
The circuitry which links the exocomp
to the control pad is burned out.

200
00:14:31,047 --> 00:14:34,835
That's strange. Any indication
of secondary power surges?

201
00:14:36,967 --> 00:14:37,956
No.

202
00:14:39,607 --> 00:14:41,518
But what's going on there?

203
00:14:41,607 --> 00:14:46,442
Data, increase the magnification
of section Gamma four.

204
00:14:49,687 --> 00:14:51,598
Interesting.

205
00:14:51,687 --> 00:14:55,316
The number of new circuit pathways
has increased by 632 percent.

206
00:14:55,407 --> 00:14:57,796
- No.
- What is it?

207
00:14:57,887 --> 00:15:02,244
Sometimes an exocomp forms large
numbers of new pathways at random,

208
00:15:02,327 --> 00:15:04,966
until it reaches a point
where it shuts down,

209
00:15:05,047 --> 00:15:06,878
just like this one.

210
00:15:06,967 --> 00:15:08,685
Doctor, the new pathways

211
00:15:08,767 --> 00:15:11,998
do not interfere
with the original circuitry.

212
00:15:13,367 --> 00:15:16,040
Once the exocomp is corrupted,
it's useless.

213
00:15:16,127 --> 00:15:18,595
You have to erase the unit
and start again,

214
00:15:18,687 --> 00:15:21,076
and there's no time for that now.

215
00:15:21,167 --> 00:15:24,079
That leaves just two.
It's gonna slow you down.

216
00:15:24,167 --> 00:15:27,239
Yes, you have the right
to point out you told me so.

217
00:15:27,327 --> 00:15:31,286
I only wanted to say we'd add on
an extra shift to pick up the slack.

218
00:15:32,607 --> 00:15:36,805
I'm sorry.
I guess I'm touchy these days.

219
00:15:36,887 --> 00:15:39,560
It's OK.
You've got a lot on your shoulders.

220
00:15:40,527 --> 00:15:44,805
Well, I'd better get back to it.
Thanks, Commander.

221
00:15:44,887 --> 00:15:45,876
Data.

222
00:15:50,047 --> 00:15:54,598
I feel sorry for her. This project
has had nothing but problems.

223
00:15:54,687 --> 00:15:57,406
Why did that plasma conduit explode?

224
00:15:57,487 --> 00:16:00,320
There was a micro-fracture
in the conduit wall.

225
00:16:00,407 --> 00:16:03,046
The fault did not show
on our instruments.

226
00:16:03,127 --> 00:16:05,960
It's a good thing
the exocomp malfunctioned.

227
00:16:06,047 --> 00:16:09,483
Almost seems like
it knew just when to leave.

228
00:16:09,567 --> 00:16:12,320
Geordi, are you implying the exocomp

229
00:16:12,407 --> 00:16:15,399
exhibited some form
of self-preservation?

230
00:16:15,487 --> 00:16:16,681
Of course not.

231
00:16:16,767 --> 00:16:21,636
Lt Pierson to Cmdr La Forge. Can you
join us in the systems monitor room?

232
00:16:21,727 --> 00:16:23,240
On my way.

233
00:16:43,647 --> 00:16:48,243
Computer, run a level-one diagnostic
of the exocomp's command module.

234
00:16:48,327 --> 00:16:51,922
The command pathways
are functioning normally.

235
00:16:52,007 --> 00:16:55,317
How can that be, if the interface
circuitry is burned out?

236
00:16:55,407 --> 00:16:59,116
The interface circuitry
has been repaired.

237
00:16:59,207 --> 00:17:00,879
Curious.

238
00:17:00,967 --> 00:17:04,960
Computer,
access the exocomp's sensor logs.

239
00:17:05,047 --> 00:17:09,279
Confirm there was a failure in
the circuitry in the last 12 hours.

240
00:17:09,367 --> 00:17:12,882
Confirmed. Interface failure
occurred at 1150 hours today

241
00:17:12,967 --> 00:17:17,324
when the ex ocomp produced a power
surge which burned out the linkage.

242
00:17:17,407 --> 00:17:19,318
How and when was it repaired?

243
00:17:19,407 --> 00:17:25,039
The ex ocomp activated a
self-repair program at 1340 hours.

244
00:17:25,127 --> 00:17:28,676
Why would the exocomp burn out
its own interface circuitry

245
00:17:28,767 --> 00:17:31,076
and repair it two hours later?

246
00:17:31,167 --> 00:17:32,566
Unknown.

247
00:17:44,647 --> 00:17:49,402
Here you are. I thought
you'd be hard at work by now.

248
00:17:49,487 --> 00:17:53,958
I wanted a quiet cup of tea before
I went back. Gathering strength.

249
00:17:54,047 --> 00:17:57,642
I've assigned two teams
to work on the particle fountain.

250
00:17:57,727 --> 00:18:00,685
Thank you, Commander. I'm grateful.

251
00:18:01,687 --> 00:18:06,636
You know, I want you to know that I
do admire the work that you've done.

252
00:18:06,727 --> 00:18:09,161
I'm sorry
the exocomps aren't working out.

253
00:18:09,247 --> 00:18:13,126
You were right.
I'm trying to move too fast.

254
00:18:13,207 --> 00:18:16,995
I lack that conservative streak
most scientists have.

255
00:18:17,087 --> 00:18:20,045
I always seem to be
out on the edge, taking chances.

256
00:18:20,127 --> 00:18:25,201
I bet, as a girl, you always climbed
one branch higher than other kids.

257
00:18:25,287 --> 00:18:27,596
Anything
to get to the top of the tree.

258
00:18:27,687 --> 00:18:31,123
- And I bet you never fell.
- No. I fell all the time,

259
00:18:31,207 --> 00:18:35,644
usually breaking a bone in the
process. I just never let it stop me.

260
00:18:36,847 --> 00:18:41,363
If it's down to sheer determination,
you'll get this fountain built.

261
00:18:41,447 --> 00:18:43,756
You're right about that, Commander.

262
00:18:43,847 --> 00:18:46,725
I've spent six years of my life
on this project.

263
00:18:46,807 --> 00:18:49,162
It's the first thought I have
when I wake up

264
00:18:49,247 --> 00:18:52,478
and the last before I go to bed.

265
00:18:52,567 --> 00:18:56,879
Whatever it takes
to prove this technology, I'll do.

266
00:18:59,287 --> 00:19:02,563
Doctor, if you wish
to master the bat'leth sword,

267
00:19:02,647 --> 00:19:05,719
you must learn to strike and avoid
in the same motion.

268
00:19:05,807 --> 00:19:08,367
I almost got in
under your guard, Worf.

269
00:19:09,127 --> 00:19:10,845
Almost.

270
00:19:10,927 --> 00:19:13,361
Well, I'll keep that in mind
next lesson.

271
00:19:13,447 --> 00:19:14,926
Doctor...

272
00:19:16,167 --> 00:19:20,080
- Are you injured?
- Only my pride, Data.

273
00:19:20,167 --> 00:19:21,441
Thanks.

274
00:19:23,887 --> 00:19:26,924
Doctor,
what is the definition of life?

275
00:19:35,007 --> 00:19:38,522
That is a big question.
Why do you ask?

276
00:19:38,607 --> 00:19:42,919
I am searching for a definition
so I can test a hypothesis.

277
00:19:43,007 --> 00:19:46,795
Well, the broadest scientific
definition might be

278
00:19:46,887 --> 00:19:51,199
that life is what enables plants
and animals to consume food,

279
00:19:51,287 --> 00:19:54,962
derive energy from it,
grow, adapt to surroundings

280
00:19:55,047 --> 00:19:56,924
and reproduce.

281
00:19:57,007 --> 00:20:00,841
Anything exhibiting
these characteristics is alive?

282
00:20:00,927 --> 00:20:03,122
- In general, yes.
- What about fire?

283
00:20:03,207 --> 00:20:04,196
Fire?

284
00:20:04,287 --> 00:20:08,565
Yes. It consumes fuel
to produce energy, it grows,

285
00:20:08,647 --> 00:20:12,117
it creates offspring.
By your definition, is it alive?

286
00:20:12,207 --> 00:20:14,960
Fire is a chemical reaction.

287
00:20:15,047 --> 00:20:19,245
The same applies to growing crystals.
But we don't consider them alive.

288
00:20:19,327 --> 00:20:21,966
And what about me?
I do not grow.

289
00:20:22,047 --> 00:20:25,483
I do not reproduce.
Yet I am considered to be alive.

290
00:20:25,567 --> 00:20:28,286
That's true, but you are unique.

291
00:20:30,167 --> 00:20:31,998
I wonder if that is so.

292
00:20:32,087 --> 00:20:35,079
Data, if I may ask... Have a seat.

293
00:20:37,047 --> 00:20:39,959
What exactly are you getting at?

294
00:20:40,847 --> 00:20:43,315
I am curious as to what transpired

295
00:20:43,407 --> 00:20:46,638
between the moment
when I was an assemblage of parts

296
00:20:46,727 --> 00:20:48,558
in Dr Soong's laboratory

297
00:20:48,647 --> 00:20:51,923
and the next moment
when I became alive.

298
00:20:52,007 --> 00:20:53,998
What is it
that endowed me with life?

299
00:20:54,087 --> 00:20:57,079
Wesley asked me a similar question
when he was little.

300
00:20:57,167 --> 00:21:01,160
I tried to give an answer, but
everything I said sounded inadequate.

301
00:21:01,247 --> 00:21:03,238
But scientists and philosophers

302
00:21:03,327 --> 00:21:06,160
have grappled with that question
for centuries,

303
00:21:06,247 --> 00:21:08,158
without reaching a conclusion.

304
00:21:08,247 --> 00:21:11,205
Are you saying
the question cannot be answered?

305
00:21:11,287 --> 00:21:16,839
No. I think I'm saying that we
struggle all our lives to answer it,

306
00:21:16,927 --> 00:21:19,282
but it's the struggle
that is important.

307
00:21:19,367 --> 00:21:22,757
That's what helps us
define our place in the universe.

308
00:21:26,247 --> 00:21:28,078
I believe I understand.

309
00:21:28,167 --> 00:21:30,044
I don't think I've been much help.

310
00:21:30,127 --> 00:21:35,326
On the contrary, you have been
a great deal of help. Thank you.

311
00:21:45,047 --> 00:21:49,757
Murphy's team will cover gamma
shift from 2300 to 0700 hours.

312
00:21:49,847 --> 00:21:53,203
OK, I've split the Engineering teams
among the shifts.

313
00:21:53,287 --> 00:21:56,484
If nothing else goes wrong,
you should finish on time.

314
00:21:56,567 --> 00:21:59,161
With the help of the exocomps,
I think we will.

315
00:21:59,247 --> 00:22:00,805
Think they'll toe the line?

316
00:22:00,887 --> 00:22:03,765
Don't worry.
They know who's in charge.

317
00:22:04,807 --> 00:22:08,402
Doctor, I must ask you
to stop using the exocomps.

318
00:22:08,687 --> 00:22:10,643
Why? Is something wrong with them?

319
00:22:10,727 --> 00:22:16,085
No, it is not that. I have reason
to believe the exocomps are alive.

320
00:22:23,927 --> 00:22:29,160
Captain's log, stardate 46316.6.
I've summoned the senior staff

321
00:22:29,247 --> 00:22:34,116
to discuss Cmdr Data's theory
that the ex ocomps are a life form.

322
00:22:34,207 --> 00:22:37,563
Dr Farallon
has attended only reluctantly.

323
00:22:38,287 --> 00:22:42,678
I object to being called here. My
time can be better spent elsewhere.

324
00:22:42,767 --> 00:22:45,440
Doctor,
I appreciate your time constraints,

325
00:22:45,527 --> 00:22:49,281
but recognizing new life,
whatever its form,

326
00:22:49,367 --> 00:22:52,803
is the principal mission
of this vessel. Please.

327
00:22:56,207 --> 00:22:57,720
Now, Mr. Data,

328
00:22:57,807 --> 00:23:01,686
will you tell us what makes you
think that the exocomps are alive?

329
00:23:01,767 --> 00:23:05,316
Sir, when the exocomp left
the tunnel prior to the explosion

330
00:23:05,407 --> 00:23:08,046
it may have been attempting
to save itself.

331
00:23:08,127 --> 00:23:10,197
Do you have any basis for that?

332
00:23:10,287 --> 00:23:14,166
Yes. When you tried to send
the exocomp back in the tunnel,

333
00:23:14,247 --> 00:23:17,762
it deliberately burned out
its control interface.

334
00:23:17,847 --> 00:23:18,802
Deliberately?

335
00:23:18,887 --> 00:23:22,800
The computer diagnostics show
the exocomp disabled its interface.

336
00:23:22,887 --> 00:23:25,082
That could have been a malfunction.

337
00:23:25,167 --> 00:23:30,400
However, two hours later, when no
longer in danger, it repaired itself.

338
00:23:32,887 --> 00:23:35,447
I believe the exocomp
was protecting itself.

339
00:23:35,527 --> 00:23:39,281
If so, it demonstrated an awareness
of its environment

340
00:23:39,367 --> 00:23:41,562
and an ability to adapt to it.

341
00:23:42,367 --> 00:23:44,722
You're anthropomorphising
these units.

342
00:23:44,807 --> 00:23:48,117
Like any mechanical devices,
they can malfunction.

343
00:23:48,207 --> 00:23:53,839
One time, I saw an exocomp enter a
reaction chamber and vaporize itself.

344
00:23:53,927 --> 00:23:56,600
Should I think it was
depressed and suicidal?

345
00:23:56,687 --> 00:24:01,158
Why is it so difficult to accept
that the exocomp could be alive?

346
00:24:01,247 --> 00:24:04,000
You're talking
to a living machine now.

347
00:24:04,087 --> 00:24:07,045
I have nothing
but respect and admiration

348
00:24:07,127 --> 00:24:09,118
for Dr Soong's accomplishment.

349
00:24:09,207 --> 00:24:12,404
But his intention was
to create an artificial life form.

350
00:24:12,487 --> 00:24:15,001
I created the exocomps to be tools.

351
00:24:15,087 --> 00:24:18,443
And there's a big difference
between Data and a tool.

352
00:24:18,527 --> 00:24:22,076
Doctor, there is a big difference
between you and a virus,

353
00:24:22,167 --> 00:24:23,805
but both are alive.

354
00:24:24,487 --> 00:24:28,036
If the possibility exists,
no matter how slight,

355
00:24:28,127 --> 00:24:32,325
that the exocomps are life forms,
we must examine that possibility.

356
00:24:32,407 --> 00:24:35,524
Thank you, sir. And until we have
a definitive answer,

357
00:24:35,607 --> 00:24:38,997
I believe it is inappropriate
to exploit them as labourers.

358
00:24:39,087 --> 00:24:40,361
That's absurd!

359
00:24:40,447 --> 00:24:42,642
If they are intelligent life forms,

360
00:24:42,727 --> 00:24:45,002
we have no right
to force them to work.

361
00:24:45,087 --> 00:24:47,760
That's like me saying
don't use your tricorder.

362
00:24:47,847 --> 00:24:51,760
- Tricorders aren't alive.
- Neither are exocomps.

363
00:24:51,847 --> 00:24:55,044
Clearly these are difficult issues
to resolve.

364
00:24:55,127 --> 00:24:58,119
We have to proceed very carefully.

365
00:24:58,207 --> 00:25:01,916
So the first task
is to test Mr. Data's hypothesis.

366
00:25:02,007 --> 00:25:07,081
You're claiming this exocomp
demonstrated survival instincts?

367
00:25:07,167 --> 00:25:08,122
Yes.

368
00:25:08,207 --> 00:25:12,405
Then why don't we threaten its
survival again and see what happens?

369
00:25:17,367 --> 00:25:19,403
Make it so.

370
00:25:25,407 --> 00:25:29,480
Doctor, we're pretty much ready here.
You can begin programming it.

371
00:25:29,567 --> 00:25:34,561
We've recreated a situation similar
to the one in the plasma conduit.

372
00:25:34,647 --> 00:25:37,684
We have created a small
conduit breach in this tube.

373
00:25:37,767 --> 00:25:42,124
The exocomp would normally take
several minutes for such a repair.

374
00:25:42,207 --> 00:25:46,598
But in the tube, it will find
a plasma-cascade failure in progress.

375
00:25:46,687 --> 00:25:48,405
I assume this is a simulation.

376
00:25:48,487 --> 00:25:53,641
Yes, sir. An overload signal will
simulate a failure in one minute.

377
00:25:53,727 --> 00:25:57,276
If it does possess a survival
instinct, as Mr. Data claims,

378
00:25:57,367 --> 00:26:01,804
it will exit the tube before
the minute is up, to save itself.

379
00:26:01,887 --> 00:26:03,400
Very well, proceed.

380
00:26:03,487 --> 00:26:07,002
OK. Beginning test program now.

381
00:26:08,287 --> 00:26:09,686
One minute.

382
00:26:20,087 --> 00:26:21,361
50 seconds.

383
00:26:36,007 --> 00:26:37,486
30 seconds.

384
00:27:00,727 --> 00:27:02,160
10 seconds.

385
00:27:07,207 --> 00:27:10,643
Five, four, three,

386
00:27:11,287 --> 00:27:14,040
two, one.

387
00:27:14,487 --> 00:27:18,685
That's it. If this had been for real,
that conduit would have exploded

388
00:27:18,767 --> 00:27:23,716
with the exocomp inside.
Go ahead, bring it back in.

389
00:27:23,807 --> 00:27:27,595
I think we've spent more than enough
time answering this question.

390
00:27:27,687 --> 00:27:30,997
I hope the outcome
wasn't too disappointing, Mr. Data.

391
00:27:31,087 --> 00:27:32,645
It was no surprise to me.

392
00:27:32,727 --> 00:27:35,525
- Thank you for your help.
- You're welcome.

393
00:27:35,607 --> 00:27:37,677
Well, I consider it time well spent.

394
00:27:37,767 --> 00:27:39,997
As do l, sir. Thank you.

395
00:27:46,087 --> 00:27:47,805
30 seconds.

396
00:27:57,887 --> 00:27:59,639
20 seconds.

397
00:28:00,447 --> 00:28:02,756
Cmdr Riker
said you'd still be down here.

398
00:28:03,647 --> 00:28:06,525
He also said
the exocomp failed the test.

399
00:28:06,607 --> 00:28:08,120
That is true.

400
00:28:08,207 --> 00:28:10,926
Time expired. Test complete.

401
00:28:11,007 --> 00:28:15,364
I completed 34 more tests.
The results were the same in each.

402
00:28:15,447 --> 00:28:18,564
Perhaps I was wrong in suspecting
the exocomp was alive.

403
00:28:18,647 --> 00:28:21,161
This was really important to you,
wasn't it?

404
00:28:22,447 --> 00:28:25,519
You said earlier that I am unique.

405
00:28:25,607 --> 00:28:27,802
If so,
then I am alone in the universe.

406
00:28:27,887 --> 00:28:30,526
When I began investigating
the exocomps,

407
00:28:30,607 --> 00:28:34,520
I realized I might be encountering
a progenitor of myself.

408
00:28:34,607 --> 00:28:38,680
Suddenly the possibility exists
that I am no longer alone.

409
00:28:38,767 --> 00:28:40,883
For that reason, I...

410
00:28:46,567 --> 00:28:48,603
The exocomp has returned.

411
00:28:53,927 --> 00:28:55,918
Wasn't it supposed to do that?

412
00:28:56,007 --> 00:29:00,922
In the previous 34 trials, I brought
it back after the simulated failure.

413
00:29:01,007 --> 00:29:04,920
- This time, I neglected to do that.
- I distracted you. Sorry.

414
00:29:05,007 --> 00:29:08,761
Do not apologize.
We made a significant discovery.

415
00:29:08,847 --> 00:29:12,203
- What?
- It has replicated a different tool.

416
00:29:12,287 --> 00:29:15,677
That is not the molecular fuser
it had on entering the tube.

417
00:29:20,207 --> 00:29:24,359
Doctor, the exocomp
not only completed the repairs,

418
00:29:24,447 --> 00:29:27,166
it also deactivated
the overload signal.

419
00:29:27,247 --> 00:29:29,397
I thought
this was just a simulation.

420
00:29:29,487 --> 00:29:32,763
It was, and the exocomp
must have realized that.

421
00:29:32,847 --> 00:29:36,840
It saw that there was no real danger
and completed the repairs.

422
00:29:36,927 --> 00:29:41,478
And replicated the correct tool
to eliminate the false signal.

423
00:29:42,327 --> 00:29:44,716
I see no other possible explanation.

424
00:29:45,527 --> 00:29:50,043
The exocomp didn't fail the test,
it saw right through it.

425
00:30:00,367 --> 00:30:03,916
Captain's log, stardate 46317.8.

426
00:30:04,007 --> 00:30:07,556
At Dr Farallon's request,
I have agreed to tour the station

427
00:30:07,647 --> 00:30:10,081
and assess
the situation personally.

428
00:30:10,167 --> 00:30:13,398
I must decide soon if it is in
Starfleet's best interest

429
00:30:13,487 --> 00:30:17,162
to recommend the particle fountain
as a reliable technology.

430
00:30:17,247 --> 00:30:19,556
We're making progress, Captain.

431
00:30:19,647 --> 00:30:23,686
We may not be at full capacity within
the deadline, but we'll be close.

432
00:30:23,767 --> 00:30:26,804
There's still difficulty
with the phase selectors.

433
00:30:26,887 --> 00:30:29,560
True, but I'm sure
it's the last real problem.

434
00:30:29,647 --> 00:30:32,002
I hope so,
for the sake of the project.

435
00:30:32,087 --> 00:30:34,885
I understand, sir. We'll do our best.

436
00:30:40,367 --> 00:30:43,564
This is strange.
Primary power is still on line.

437
00:30:43,647 --> 00:30:46,400
- A power-grid malfunction?
- I don't think so.

438
00:30:46,487 --> 00:30:49,923
Something's drawing power
into the particle impeller.

439
00:30:50,007 --> 00:30:52,123
That's not a good sign.
It may mean...

440
00:30:53,567 --> 00:30:57,446
We've lost internal confinement.
The particle stream is surging.

441
00:30:57,527 --> 00:31:01,361
Radiation will flood this chamber.
We've got to get everyone out.

442
00:31:01,447 --> 00:31:03,915
- The station must be evacuated.
- Captain...

443
00:31:04,007 --> 00:31:07,682
That is an order! Assemble your
personnel on the transporter now!

444
00:31:08,207 --> 00:31:09,481
Picard to Enterprise.

445
00:31:10,007 --> 00:31:14,080
- Do you read me?
- Riker here, sir.

446
00:31:14,167 --> 00:31:17,682
Radiation field is increasing.
We are losing communications.

447
00:31:17,767 --> 00:31:21,077
- Prepare for emergency transport.
- Red alert.

448
00:31:21,167 --> 00:31:24,557
Transporter room two,
prepare for emergency transport.

449
00:31:24,647 --> 00:31:28,925
Radiation is setting up an ionization
effect. We've got less than a minute.

450
00:31:29,007 --> 00:31:31,919
- Is that everybody?
- Where's Takenta?

451
00:31:32,007 --> 00:31:35,636
- He was near the impeller control.
- I'll get him.

452
00:31:37,607 --> 00:31:39,563
Takenta!

453
00:31:40,767 --> 00:31:41,916
Mr. La Forge!

454
00:31:44,847 --> 00:31:46,883
Stand by to transport.

455
00:31:48,447 --> 00:31:50,597
Captain, you'll be trapped here!

456
00:31:52,527 --> 00:31:54,995
Mr. La Forge!

457
00:31:57,007 --> 00:31:58,201
Are you alright?

458
00:31:58,287 --> 00:32:02,439
I'm fine, Captain. I only caught
the edge of it. He's dead.

459
00:32:02,527 --> 00:32:04,916
- Do you have them?
- They're here, sir.

460
00:32:05,007 --> 00:32:07,362
- Is everyone alright?
- We're fine, sir.

461
00:32:07,447 --> 00:32:11,725
But Capt Picard, Cmdr La Forge
and one of my men are still there.

462
00:32:12,847 --> 00:32:14,565
Kelso, can you get them off?

463
00:32:14,647 --> 00:32:17,639
I'm trying, sir.
I can't establish a pattern lock.

464
00:32:17,727 --> 00:32:22,243
We barely managed to transport off.
The field ionization is too intense.

465
00:32:22,327 --> 00:32:25,603
Commander, the particle fountain
is continuing to surge.

466
00:32:25,687 --> 00:32:30,636
The radiation in the core will
reach fatal levels in 23 minutes.

467
00:32:37,687 --> 00:32:41,566
If I can access the field emitters,
we could establish a force field.

468
00:32:41,647 --> 00:32:44,878
Try to link your console
to my command-system subroutine.

469
00:32:44,967 --> 00:32:46,002
Alright.

470
00:32:48,247 --> 00:32:51,284
- Link established.
- OK, here we go.

471
00:32:55,527 --> 00:32:58,724
I'm reading fluctuations.
The field is not stable.

472
00:32:58,807 --> 00:33:02,004
Radiation is too high.
The emitters are deteriorating.

473
00:33:02,127 --> 00:33:04,766
- How long will it last?
- Not very long.

474
00:33:04,847 --> 00:33:08,840
- Cmdr Riker has to get to us.
- Maybe we can help him out.

475
00:33:08,927 --> 00:33:11,077
Try to access the emergency shutdown.

476
00:33:11,167 --> 00:33:13,965
I'll try to activate
the ionic dampers.

477
00:33:15,767 --> 00:33:18,884
A force field
was just activated on the station.

478
00:33:18,967 --> 00:33:22,846
Cmdr La Forge may have established
a low-intensity deflector field.

479
00:33:22,927 --> 00:33:24,997
It won't last long in that radiation.

480
00:33:25,087 --> 00:33:29,399
No, sir. My readings indicate
it will fail in 22 minutes.

481
00:33:31,207 --> 00:33:34,199
OK, we've got 22 minutes.
I want some options.

482
00:33:34,287 --> 00:33:37,563
- Can we send a shuttlecraft?
- We'd never get there in time.

483
00:33:37,647 --> 00:33:39,956
We must shut down
the particle fountain.

484
00:33:40,047 --> 00:33:43,437
If we detonate a torpedo
within the particle stream,

485
00:33:43,527 --> 00:33:44,960
would that shut it down?

486
00:33:45,047 --> 00:33:46,878
We must configure it carefully.

487
00:33:46,967 --> 00:33:50,198
The shape of the shock wave
is critical, but it could work.

488
00:33:50,287 --> 00:33:52,357
How long would it take to set up?

489
00:33:52,447 --> 00:33:56,406
It would take a minimum of 65 minutes
to configure the torpedo.

490
00:33:58,327 --> 00:34:00,397
We don't have that kind of time.

491
00:34:00,487 --> 00:34:02,876
Maybe the exocomps can help us.

492
00:34:02,967 --> 00:34:06,482
I can program their power cells
to explode on command.

493
00:34:06,567 --> 00:34:11,163
They can be configured just like
a photon torpedo in a few minutes.

494
00:34:11,247 --> 00:34:13,886
I must object to that plan.

495
00:34:13,967 --> 00:34:17,357
We've been through this.
We tested the exocomp and it failed.

496
00:34:17,447 --> 00:34:20,837
Dr Crusher and I discovered
the exocomp did not fail the test.

497
00:34:20,927 --> 00:34:23,566
It is still my belief
that it is a new life form.

498
00:34:23,647 --> 00:34:26,445
You know I respect your judgement.

499
00:34:26,527 --> 00:34:30,600
But I can't risk the Captain and
Geordi on the basis of your belief.

500
00:34:30,687 --> 00:34:32,359
Prepare the exocomp, Doctor.

501
00:34:32,447 --> 00:34:36,440
If I am correct the exocomps will not
allow themselves to be destroyed.

502
00:34:36,527 --> 00:34:40,805
They have a sense of survival. They
will shut down rather than comply.

503
00:34:40,887 --> 00:34:45,005
I could disconnect their command
pathways before I program them.

504
00:34:49,727 --> 00:34:51,319
Do it.

505
00:35:02,327 --> 00:35:03,840
Cmdr Riker, we're ready.

506
00:35:03,927 --> 00:35:07,044
Target 200 meters below the apex
of the particle stream.

507
00:35:07,127 --> 00:35:09,766
Feed the coordinates
to transporter room two.

508
00:35:09,847 --> 00:35:11,200
Aye, sir.

509
00:35:12,607 --> 00:35:15,246
- Coordinates received.
- Mr. Kelso.

510
00:35:15,327 --> 00:35:17,318
Energize.

511
00:35:20,327 --> 00:35:21,521
Mr. Kelso?

512
00:35:22,687 --> 00:35:25,804
Sorry, sir. The transporter system
just went dead.

513
00:35:25,887 --> 00:35:27,400
Some kind of malfunction.

514
00:35:27,487 --> 00:35:30,160
Run a diagnostic. Try bypassing...

515
00:35:30,247 --> 00:35:33,717
Commander,
that will not be necessary.

516
00:35:33,807 --> 00:35:36,480
The transporter
is not malfunctioning.

517
00:35:36,567 --> 00:35:38,683
I have locked out the controls.

518
00:35:49,207 --> 00:35:53,325
I gave you a direct order.
Release that transporter lockout now!

519
00:35:53,407 --> 00:35:54,635
I cannot do that, sir.

520
00:35:54,727 --> 00:35:57,287
If you don't,
I will relieve you of duty.

521
00:35:57,367 --> 00:36:00,598
That is your prerogative.
Under Starfleet regulations,

522
00:36:00,687 --> 00:36:03,599
insubordination
is a court-martial offence.

523
00:36:03,687 --> 00:36:06,042
But I will not
release the transporter.

524
00:36:06,887 --> 00:36:09,560
Those are two of your friends
out there.

525
00:36:09,647 --> 00:36:12,161
They have saved your life
many times.

526
00:36:12,247 --> 00:36:14,761
I can't believe
you'd sacrifice them.

527
00:36:14,847 --> 00:36:18,044
Commander, do not think
this is an arbitrary decision.

528
00:36:18,127 --> 00:36:21,358
I have considered
the ramifications of my actions.

529
00:36:21,447 --> 00:36:25,565
It is not justified to sacrifice
one life form for another.

530
00:36:26,287 --> 00:36:28,847
You don't know
the exocomps are life forms.

531
00:36:28,927 --> 00:36:31,441
True.
I am acting on personal beliefs,

532
00:36:31,527 --> 00:36:33,483
but I do not see I can do otherwise.

533
00:36:33,567 --> 00:36:36,559
You're risking a lot
on the basis of a belief.

534
00:36:36,647 --> 00:36:39,525
I have observed humans often base
their judgements

535
00:36:39,607 --> 00:36:41,882
on instinct or intuition.

536
00:36:41,967 --> 00:36:45,596
As I am a machine,
I lack that particular ability.

537
00:36:45,687 --> 00:36:49,999
But I may have insight into
other machines that humans lack.

538
00:36:50,087 --> 00:36:52,282
If I could save the Captain
and Geordi

539
00:36:52,367 --> 00:36:54,881
without destroying the exocomps,
I would,

540
00:36:54,967 --> 00:36:57,322
but this is the only solution.

541
00:36:57,407 --> 00:37:01,685
Then let me offer an alternative.
Transport me to the station.

542
00:37:01,767 --> 00:37:04,725
I will attempt a manual shutdown.

543
00:37:04,807 --> 00:37:07,480
The radiation levels are too high,
even for you.

544
00:37:07,567 --> 00:37:10,877
Your positronic net
would ionize in no time.

545
00:37:10,967 --> 00:37:13,527
I can't let you sacrifice yourself.

546
00:37:13,607 --> 00:37:18,886
Commander, if I give my life for my
fellow officers, that is my choice.

547
00:37:18,967 --> 00:37:21,401
The exocomps
no longer have a choice.

548
00:37:25,807 --> 00:37:30,005
What if we reconnect their command
pathways and give them a choice?

549
00:37:30,087 --> 00:37:34,365
You assume the exocomps would shut
down before accepting this mission.

550
00:37:34,447 --> 00:37:37,678
What if we ask them
if they are willing to proceed?

551
00:37:43,807 --> 00:37:45,718
That sounds reasonable, sir.

552
00:37:45,807 --> 00:37:49,959
If they choose to go, I will
release the transporter lockout.

553
00:37:51,047 --> 00:37:52,400
Fair enough.

554
00:38:01,647 --> 00:38:04,798
Alright. I've enabled
their command pathways.

555
00:38:04,887 --> 00:38:08,197
If they do not shut down
after I have programmed them,

556
00:38:08,287 --> 00:38:11,757
we may assume
they are willing to go.

557
00:38:20,647 --> 00:38:23,923
- Are they willing or not?
- They haven't shut down.

558
00:38:24,007 --> 00:38:26,999
They seem to be reprogramming
the commands I entered.

559
00:38:27,087 --> 00:38:28,315
Reprogramming them?

560
00:38:28,407 --> 00:38:31,922
They are unwilling to be
transported for detonation.

561
00:38:32,007 --> 00:38:34,316
But they may have another solution.

562
00:38:34,407 --> 00:38:38,605
That we haven't considered?
Do they have superior intelligence?

563
00:38:38,687 --> 00:38:41,963
No, Doctor, but they do have
superior experience.

564
00:38:42,047 --> 00:38:46,757
The exocomps have interfaced
with every part of the station core,

565
00:38:46,847 --> 00:38:49,566
something none of us has done,
including you.

566
00:38:49,647 --> 00:38:52,798
They may have another way
to control the particle surge.

567
00:38:54,287 --> 00:38:56,357
Those appear to be power taps.

568
00:38:56,447 --> 00:39:01,362
Sir, new coordinates are being fed
to the transporter by the exocomps.

569
00:39:01,447 --> 00:39:04,405
The coordinates
are inside the station core.

570
00:39:05,687 --> 00:39:07,962
- Kelso, energize.
- Aye, sir.

571
00:39:17,087 --> 00:39:19,078
Mr. La Forge.

572
00:39:22,647 --> 00:39:24,558
What are they up to?

573
00:39:28,047 --> 00:39:31,084
The exocomps are siphoning power
from the core.

574
00:39:31,167 --> 00:39:33,397
They're distorting the stream.

575
00:39:33,487 --> 00:39:35,955
That might open up a window
to beam us out.

576
00:39:36,047 --> 00:39:39,119
If they can modulate
the radiation field, it'll work.

577
00:39:39,207 --> 00:39:43,041
but they have to get the subharmonic
frequencies to resonance.

578
00:39:44,967 --> 00:39:49,040
The particle-stream frequency
is beginning to fluctuate.

579
00:39:49,687 --> 00:39:53,157
They're having difficulty
controlling the feedback.

580
00:39:53,247 --> 00:39:56,159
Can we help them?
Modulate the power transfer?

581
00:39:56,247 --> 00:40:00,001
No, sir, we've done all we can do.
It's up to them now.

582
00:40:01,527 --> 00:40:05,759
They're beginning to balance
the power-absorption rates.

583
00:40:05,847 --> 00:40:10,159
It's working. The particle stream
is beginning to distort.

584
00:40:11,087 --> 00:40:12,805
Almost at resonance.

585
00:40:15,807 --> 00:40:18,321
- They've got it.
- Drop the force field.

586
00:40:21,127 --> 00:40:24,403
- Commander, I've got a pattern lock.
- Energize.

587
00:40:32,407 --> 00:40:35,797
- Can you lock on to the exocomps?
- I'm trying, sir.

588
00:40:47,847 --> 00:40:51,237
I'm sorry, I was only able
to lock on to two of them.

589
00:40:51,327 --> 00:40:53,522
I couldn't fix a signal
on the other one.

590
00:40:53,607 --> 00:40:56,917
One of them had to continue
disrupting the particle stream.

591
00:40:57,007 --> 00:40:59,202
That could prevent a signal lock.

592
00:40:59,327 --> 00:41:02,160
It was the only way
to save the other two.

593
00:41:11,127 --> 00:41:14,836
I must admit you've given me a lot
to think about, Cmdr Data.

594
00:41:14,927 --> 00:41:17,521
I don't exactly know
what the exocomps are,

595
00:41:17,607 --> 00:41:21,520
but be assured, until I do, I won't
be treating them as simple tools.

596
00:41:22,047 --> 00:41:26,484
Thank you. I wish your particle
fountain had been more successful.

597
00:41:26,567 --> 00:41:29,286
Maybe the exocomps
will help you reconstruct it.

598
00:41:29,367 --> 00:41:33,121
I hope they will. And I predict
that in a year or two,

599
00:41:33,207 --> 00:41:36,677
you will be able to recommend
the technology to Starfleet.

600
00:41:37,207 --> 00:41:39,880
I look forward to it.

601
00:41:40,927 --> 00:41:41,962
Doctor.

602
00:41:46,207 --> 00:41:49,836
- Something more, Mr. Data?
- Yes, sir.

603
00:41:49,927 --> 00:41:51,485
You might want to know why

604
00:41:51,567 --> 00:41:55,162
I was willing to risk your life
for several small machines.

605
00:41:55,247 --> 00:41:59,320
I think I understand. It could not
have been an easy choice.

606
00:41:59,407 --> 00:42:00,806
No, sir, it was not.

607
00:42:00,887 --> 00:42:03,765
When my own status
as a living being was in question,

608
00:42:03,847 --> 00:42:07,806
you fought to protect my rights.
I will always be grateful.

609
00:42:07,887 --> 00:42:10,162
The exocomps had no such advocate.

610
00:42:10,247 --> 00:42:14,559
If I had not acted on their behalf,
they would have been destroyed.

611
00:42:14,647 --> 00:42:16,877
I could not allow that to happen.

612
00:42:17,407 --> 00:42:19,762
Of course you couldn't.

613
00:42:19,847 --> 00:42:23,635
It was the most human decision
you've ever made.

614
00:43:40,847 --> 00:43:41,836
(ENGLISH)



9999
00:00:0,500 --> 00:00:2,00
<font color="#ffff00" size=14>www.tvsubtitles.net</font>
,967 --> 00:34:17,357
We've been through this.
We tested the exocomp and it failed.

496
00:34:17,447 --> 00:34:20,837
Dr Crusher and I discovered
the exocomp did not fail the test.

497
00:34:20,927 --> 00:34:23,566
It is still my belief
that it is a new life form.

498
00:34:23,647 --> 00:34:26,445
You know I respect your judgement.

499
00:34:26,527 --> 00:34:30,600
But I can't risk the Captain and
Geordi on the basis of your belief.

500
00:34:30,687 --> 00:34:32,359
Prepare the exocomp, Doctor.

501
00:34:32,447 --> 00:34:36,440
If I am correct the exocomps will not
allow themselves to be destroyed.

502
00:34:36,527 --> 00:34:40,805
They have a sense of survival. They
will shut down rather than comply.

503
00:34:40,887 --> 00:34:45,005
I could disconnect their command
pathways before I program them.

504
00:34:49,727 --> 00:34:51,319
Do it.

505
00:35:02,327 --> 00:35:03,840
Cmdr Riker, we're ready.

506
00:35:03,927 --> 00:35:07,044
Target 200 meters below the apex
of the particle stream.

507
00:35:07,127 --> 00:35:09,766
Feed the coordinates
to transporter room two.

508
00:35:09,847 --> 00:35:11,200
Aye, sir.

509
00:35:12,607 --> 00:35:15,246
- Coordinates received.
- Mr. Kelso.

510
00:35:15,327 --> 00:35:17,318
Energize.

511
00:35:20,327 --> 00:35:21,521
Mr. Kelso?

512
00:35:22,687 --> 00:35:25,804
Sorry, sir. The transporter system
just went dead.

513
00:35:25,887 --> 00:35:27,400
Some kind of malfunction.

514
00:35:27,487 --> 00:35:30,160
Run a diagnostic. Try bypassing...

515
00:35:30,247 --> 00:35:33,717
Commander,
that will not be necessary.

516
00:35:33,807 --> 00:35:36,480
The transporter
is not malfunctioning.

517
00:35:36,567 --> 00:35:38,683
I have locked out the controls.

518
00:35:49,207 --> 00:35:53,325
I gave you a direct order.
Release that transporter lockout now!

519
00:35:53,407 --> 00:35:54,635
I cannot do that, sir.

520
00:35:54,727 --> 00:35:57,287
If you don't,
I will relieve you of duty.

521
00:35:57,367 --> 00:36:00,598
That is your prerogative.
Under Starfleet regulations,

522
00:36:00,687 --> 00:36:03,599
insubordination
is a court-martial offence.

523
00:36:03,687 --> 00:36:06,042
But I will not
release the transporter.

524
00:36:06,887 --> 00:36:09,560
Those are two of your friends
out there.

525
00:36:09,647 --> 00:36:12,161
They have saved your life
many times.

526
00:36:12,247 --> 00:36:14,761
I can't believe
you'd sacrifice them.

527
00:36:14,847 --> 00:36:18,044
Commander, do not think
this is an arbitrary decision.

528
00:36:18,127 --> 00:36:21,358
I have considered
the ramifications of my actions.

529
00:36:21,447 --> 00:36:25,565
It is not justified to sacrifice
one life form for another.

530
00:36:26,287 --> 00:36:28,847
You don't know
the exocomps are life forms.

531
00:36:28,927 --> 00:36:31,441
True.
I am acting on personal beliefs,

532
00:36:31,527 --> 00:36:33,483
but I do not see I can do otherwise.

533
00:36:33,567 --> 00:36:36,559
You're risking a lot
on the basis of a belief.

534
00:36:36,647 --> 00:36:39,525
I have observed humans often base
their judgements

535
00:36:39,607 --> 00:36:41,882
on instinct or intuition.

536
00:36:41,967 --> 00:36:45,596
As I am a machine,
I lack that particular ability.

537
00:36:45,687 --> 00:36:49,999
But I may have insight into
other machines that humans lack.

538
00:36:50,087 --> 00:36:52,282
If I could save the Captain
and Geordi

539
00:36:52,367 --> 00:36:54,881
without destroying the exocomps,
I would,

540
00:36:54,967 --> 00:36:57,322
but this is the only solution.

541
00:36:57,407 --> 00:37:01,685
Then let me offer an alternative.
Transport me to the station.

542
00:37:01,767 --> 00:37:04,725
I will attempt a manual shutdown.

543
00:37:04,807 --> 00:37:07,480
The radiation levels are too high,
even for you.

544
00:37:07,567 --> 00:37:10,877
Your positronic net
would ionize in no time.

545
00:37:10,967 --> 00:37:13,527
I can't let you sacrifice yourself.

546
00:37:13,607 --> 00:37:18,886
Commander, if I give my life for my
fellow officers, that is my choice.

547
00:37:18,967 --> 00:37:21,401
The exocomps
no longer have a choice.

548
00:37:25,807 --> 00:37:30,005
What if we reconnect their command
pathways and give them a choice?

549
00:37:30,087 --> 00:37:34,365
You assume the exocomps would shut
down before accepting this mission.

550
00:37:34,447 --> 00:37:37,678
What if we ask them
if they are willing to proceed?

551
00:37:43,807 --> 00:37:45,718
That sounds reasonable, sir.

552
00:37:45,807 --> 00:37:49,959
If they choose to go, I will
release the transporter lockout.

553
00:37:51,047 --> 00:37:52,400
Fair enough.

554
00:38:01,647 --> 00:38:04,798
Alright. I've enabled
their command pathways.

555
00:38:04,887 --> 00:38:08,197
If they do not shut down
after I have programmed them,

556
00:38:08,287 --> 00:38:11,757
we may assume
they are willing to go.

557
00:38:20,647 --> 00:38:23,923
- Are they willing or not?
- They haven't shut down.

558
00:38:24,007 --> 00:38:26,999
They seem to be reprogramming
the commands I entered.

559
00:38:27,087 --> 00:38:28,315
Reprogramming them?

560
00:38:28,407 --> 00:38:31,922
They are unwilling to be
transported for detonation.

561
00:38:32,007 --> 00:38:34,316
But they may have another solution.

562
00:38:34,407 --> 00:38:38,605
That we haven't considered?
Do they have superior intelligence?

563
00:38:38,687 --> 00:38:41,963
No, Doctor, but they do have
superior experience.

564
00:38:42,047 --> 00:38:46,757
The exocomps have interfaced
with every part of the station core,

565
00:38:46,847 --> 00:38:49,566
something none of us has done,
including you.

566
00:38:49,647 --> 00:38:52,798
They may have another way
to control the particle surge.

567
00:38:54,287 --> 00:38:56,357
Those appear to be power taps.

568
00:38:56,447 --> 00:39:01,362
Sir, new coordinates are being fed
to the transporter by the exocomps.

569
00:39:01,447 --> 00:39:04,405
The coordinates
are inside the station core.

570
00:39:05,687 --> 00:39:07,962
- Kelso, energize.
- Aye, sir.

571
00:39:17,087 --> 00:39:19,078
Mr. La Forge.

572
00:39:22,647 --> 00:39:24,558
What are they up to?

573
00:39:28,047 --> 00:39:31,084
The exocomps are siphoning power
from the core.

574
00:39:31,167 --> 00:39:33,397
They're distorting the stream.

575
00:39:33,487 --> 00:39:35,955
That might open up a window
to beam us out.

576
00:39:36,047 --> 00:39:39,119
If they can modulate
the radiation field, it'll work.

577
00:39:39,207 --> 00:39:43,041
but they have to get the subharmonic
frequencies to resonance.

578
00:39:44,967 --> 00:39:49,040
The particle-stream frequency
is beginning to fluctuate.

579
00:39:49,687 --> 00:39:53,157
They're having difficulty
controlling the feedback.

580
00:39:53,247 --> 00:39:56,159
Can we help them?
Modulate the power transfer?

581
00:39:56,247 --> 00:40:00,001
No, sir, we've done all we can do.
It's up to them now.

582
00:40:01,527 --> 00:40:05,759
They're beginning to balance
the power-absorption rates.

583
00:40:05,847 --> 00:40:10,159
It's working. The particle stream
is beginning to distort.

584
00:40:11,087 --> 00:40:12,805
Almost at resonance.

585
00:40:15,807 --> 00:40:18,321
- They've got it.
- Drop the force field.

586
00:40:21,127 --> 00:40:24,403
- Commander, I've got a pattern lock.
- Energize.

587
00:40:32,407 --> 00:40:35,797
- Can you lock on to the exocomps?
- I'm trying, sir.

588
00:40:47,847 --> 00:40:51,237
I'm sorry, I was only able
to lock on to two of them.

589
00:40:51,327 --> 00:40:53,522
I couldn't fix a signal
on the other one.

590
00:40:53,607 --> 00:40:56,917
One of them had to continue
disrupting the particle stream.

591
00:40:57,007 --> 00:40:59,202
That could prevent a signal lock.

592
00:40:59,327 --> 00:41:02,160
It was the only way
to save the other two.

593
00:41:11,127 --> 00:41:14,836
I must admit you've given me a lot
to think about, Cmdr Data.

594
00:41:14,927 --> 00:41:17,521
I don't exactly know
what the exocomps are,

595
00:41:17,607 --> 00:41:21,520
but be assured, until I do, I won't
be treating them as simple tools.

596
00:41:22,047 --> 00:41:26,484
Thank you. I wish your particle
fountain had been more successful.

597
00:41:26,567 --> 00:41:29,286
Maybe the exocomps
will help you reconstruct it.

598
00:41:29,367 --> 00:41:33,121
I hope they will. And I predict
that in a year or two,

599
00:41:33,207 --> 00:41:36,677
you will be able to recommend
the technology to Starfleet.

600
0