Fabula
Object
Object

Detention Cell Rim Forcefield

A narrow circumferential band of concentrated cool-blue illumination that anchors to the detention cell perimeter and marks the active edge of a localized forcefield. Flush emitters create a hard-edged, electrical shimmer that both visually signals the barrier and physically prevents passage or dematerialization across it; the rim is energized on Worf's order and foils Q's attempts to vanish. Registered and managed by the shipboard computer and security personnel, the rim converts the cell into two controlled zones and functions as a containment measure in the episode 'Deja Q.'
4 appearances

Purpose

To serve as an on‑scene containment and security barrier within the detention cell, preventing egress or contact and enabling the crew to confine a dangerous individual.

Significance

Acts as the decisive instrument that reduces Q’s omnipotence to a human-scale problem; its activation precipitates the moral bargain and plot shift that leads to Q’s reluctant cooperation and Data’s custodial assignment, crystallizing conflict and trust fractures among the crew.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

4 moments
S3E13 · Deja Q
Containment: Worf's Verdict on Q

The Forcefield Rim of Lights is energized on Worf's order, creating a visible circumferential barrier that divides the cell. It functions as both a practical containment device preventing passage or disappearance and a theatrical indicator of Q's humiliation and new limits.

Before: Dormant and unlit, integrated into the cell perimeter but inactive.
After: Energized and lit — forming a continuous band of cool-blue light that slices the room into two enforced zones and emits a low electrical thrum.
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S3E13 · Deja Q
Rim of Lights — Q Contained

The rim of lights is energized on command, physically dividing the detention cell into sectors and preventing passage or disappearance; it functions both as a practical security barrier and a visible humiliation of Q's former omnipotence.

Before: Dormant/deactivated; cell unpartitioned and porous to metaphysical escape (in prior circumstances).
After: Energized and active; forms a hard-edged illuminated barrier across the cell, preventing movement and phasing through it.
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S3E13 · Deja Q
Bargain with a Fallen God

The detention cell rim forcefield functions as the physical and symbolic barrier between Q and the crew. Picard orders its removal via command to the computer; its deactivation permits Q's tentative physical crossing and initiates the negotiated exchange of service for liberty.

Before: Active — engaged as an energy rim sealing Q into the cell and preventing passage.
After: Deactivated — cleared on Picard's order, allowing Q to cross freely into supervised ship space.
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S3E13 · Deja Q
Reluctant Release — Q's Fall and Data's Guard

The detention cell rim forcefield functions as the immediate physical barrier keeping Q isolated; Picard orders it removed as a tactical concession, and its deactivation transforms the space and the power dynamic, allowing Q to cross from prisoner to potential collaborator.

Before: Active, forming a barrier across the cell interior and preventing Q from leaving the bunk area.
After: Deactivated on Picard's command, removed as an impediment and allowing Q to move freely within the cell.
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