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

Data's Dreadful Diagnosis

In the Darwin Laboratory, Dr. Pulaski and Dr. Mandel observe as Commander Data performs a lightning-fast genetic analysis of the contagion, demonstrating his unique computational prowess. Data's discovery of the protein transposition reveals the horrifying truth: every cell in their bodies is now programmed for extinction, marking a turning point in their understanding of the deadly threat they face. Pulaski's faith in Data's abilities contrasts sharply with Mandel's initial skepticism, setting the stage for the desperate measures to follow. This moment crystallizes the scientific and emotional stakes of their battle against the contagion, as the team realizes they are all potential victims of the hyper-aggressive antibodies.

Plot Beats

The narrative micro-steps within this event

2

The shuttlecraft waits on the landing pad while Data works at a console and Pulaski and Mandel approach, establishing the lab perimeter and the team ready to diagnose the crisis.

neutral to focused ['landing pad outside the laboratory complex']

Pulaski frames the task—someone is isolating the altered genetic pattern—while Mandel warns a computer run could take months; Pulaski immediately bets on Data's computational skill, injecting urgency and guarded optimism into the effort.

caution to urgent hope

Who Was There

Characters present in this moment

3
Dr. Sara Mandel
Doctor
 primary

Progressing from professional doubt to existential panic

Initially skeptical about the speed of analysis, then utterly horrified as she comprehends Data's findings, staring at the readout with dawning terror.

Goals in this moment
  • • Verify the credibility of Data's rapid analysis
  • • Understand the full implications for station personnel
Active beliefs
  • • This level of genetic analysis should take much longer
  • • Their only hope lies in finding a scientific breakthrough
Character traits
Scientifically trained Emotionally vulnerable
Follow Dr. Sara …'s journey
Katherine Pulaski
Doctor (Chief Medical Officer)
 primary

Professionally composed but internally apprehensive

Confidently explaining Data's computational prowess to Mandel while monitoring his progress, her faint smile masking growing dread as the implications of the findings become clear.

Goals in this moment
  • • Demonstrate Data's analytical capabilities to Mandel
  • • Understand the mechanism of the contagion before it's too late
Active beliefs
  • • Data's unique android abilities are crucial for solving this crisis
  • • Scientific truth must be faced regardless of consequences
Character traits
Scientifically rigorous Trusting of Data's abilities
Follow Katherine Pulaski's journey
Data
Second Officer
 primary

Focused and clinically objective

Performing computations at superhuman speed, calmly pointing out the protein transposition on the display with precise efficiency before logically interpreting Mandel's alarmed reaction.

Goals in this moment
  • • Complete the genetic analysis with maximum speed
  • • Clearly communicate his findings to the doctors
Active beliefs
  • • His android capabilities make him uniquely suited for this task
  • • Factual accuracy is paramount regardless of emotional impact
Character traits
Analytically precise Emotionally detached
Follow Data's journey

Objects Involved

Significant items in this scene

2
Genetic Samples of Protein Transposition Mechanism

The genetic samples serve as the crucial evidence proving the protein transposition mechanism causing cellular self-destruction. Displayed on rapidly scrolling computer readouts that Data analyzes, these samples become the smoking gun confirming their biological time bomb hypothesis.

Before: Recently extracted from infected human cells
After: Analyzed with definitive conclusions drawn
Before: Recently extracted from infected human cells
After: Analyzed with definitive conclusions drawn
Starfleet Shuttlecraft

The shuttlecraft remains visible on the landing pad outside during this event, serving as both a reminder of Starfleet's presence and potential means of transportation/escape from the station as the crisis deepens.

Before: Parked and secured on landing pad
After: Remains available for potential immediate departure
Before: Parked and secured on landing pad
After: Remains available for potential immediate departure

Location Details

Places and their significance in this event

1
Darwin Laboratory

The secondary lab becomes the stage for this horrific scientific revelation, its stark lighting and sterile environment contrasting with the mortal dread sweeping through the characters as they realize the contagion has programmed their own cells for death.

Atmosphere Tense with impending doom masked by clinical efficiency
Function Emergency research space for critical analysis
Symbolism Represents the thin line between scientific detachment and human terror
Access Restricted to essential personnel due to biohazard
Glaring white lighting reflecting off equipment Constant hum of active computer systems

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

Key Dialogue

"PULASKI: Not necessarily. Commander Data... has a way with computers."
"DATA: Comparing genetic samples indicates a transposition of these two proteins."
"MANDEL: He's quite right. Every cell in our bodies is now programmed for extinction."