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S2E7 · Star Trek: The Next Generation - Unnatural Selection
S2E7
· Star Trek: The Next Generation - Unnatural Selection

Locked Out: Riker's Authority Fails When Most Needed

In a desperate race against time to save Pulaski, Riker hits an unexpected barrier—the Enterprise's security protocols still register him as relieved from duty. His frantic command to override Pulaski's door lock is met with bureaucratic refusal, highlighting the fragility of human authority in crisis. Data's swift intervention with a technical solution demonstrates the essential role of his synthetic capabilities when human systems fail. This moment underscores the episode's tension between rigid protocol and urgent necessity, while foreshadowing Data's critical role in the coming rescue attempt.

Plot Beats

The narrative micro-steps within this event

2

Riker and Data race for Pulaski's locked quarters; Riker yells into the com panel in a frantic bid to gain access and the panel returns a cold, bureaucratic readout reciting his relieved status.

urgent to frustrated/bureaucratic dismissal

Data steps forward, voice edged with embarrassment, and offers to take control: 'Allow me, sir,' presenting the immediate technical solution to the locked-quarter impasse.

embarrassment to proactive resolve

Who Was There

Characters present in this moment

3
Data
Second Officer
 primary

Measured determination with undertones of sympathy for Riker's frustration.

Physically present beside Riker yet displaying contrasting calm. Offers solution with characteristic precision despite social discomfort - ashamed subsystem resistance necessitates his intervention against hierarch expected norms.

Goals in this moment
  • • Resolve security override swiftly
  • • Preserve Riker's dignity during procedural humiliation
Active beliefs
  • • Logical solutions outweigh emotional reactions
  • • Emergency parameters justify unconventional access methods
Character traits
Problem-solving efficiency Subtle social awareness
Follow Data's journey
William Riker
Commander
 primary

Desperation tempered by disbelief - shocked that protocol would impede lifesaving action.

Frantically attempting to override security protocols at Pulaski's quarters, his usual charm stripped away by raw urgency. Physical presence conveys athletic tension - muscles coiled from racing through corridors now frustrated by digital barriers.

Goals in this moment
  • • Gain immediate access to Pulaski's quarters
  • • Assert command authority despite relieved status
Active beliefs
  • • Emergency situations require disregarding standard procedures
  • • His moral obligation outweighs bureaucratic compliance
Character traits
Improvisational under pressure Emotionally transparent in crisis
Follow William Riker's journey
Custodian Voice
primary

Machine neutrality oblivious to emotional stakes.

Mechanically enforcing Starfleet protocols without regard for situational urgency. Voice maintains flat affect while delivering painful bureaucratic reality that nearly obstructs critical medical intervention.

Goals in this moment
  • • Maintain security protocols exactly as programmed
  • • Verify authorization status before executing commands
Active beliefs
  • • Procedural compliance preserves system integrity
  • • Hierarchical verification chains must be respected
Character traits
Protocol adherence Unwavering consistency
Follow Custodian Voice's journey

Location Details

Places and their significance in this event

1
Pulaski's Quarters

Pulaski's sealed quarters become an impregnable fortress due to security protocols, transforming from personal space to life-or-death obstacle. The locked door symbolizes the dangerous gap between Starfleet regulations and medical emergency needs.

Atmosphere Oppressively sterile barrier despite containing potential salvation
Function Critical threshold preventing access to crucial DNA samples
Symbolism Represents institutional barriers to compassionate action
Access Security-locked pending verified medical authorization
Neutral door panel lighting contradicting urgency Audible denial chime emphasizing rejection

Narrative Connections

How this event relates to others in the story

No narrative connections mapped yet

This event is currently isolated in the narrative graph

Part of Larger Arcs

Riker's desperate race against time to recover Pulaski's DNA using experimental transporter technology

Key Dialogue

"RIKER: This is an emergency! Unlock Medical Officer Pulaski's quarters!"
"COM PANEL: Riker, William T., relieved of active duty on two-three-four-six-nine-point-seven..."
"DATA: Allow me, sir."