Lt. Cmdr Data

Doctor Crusher enters the holodeck proper. Gazing upon hir eyes is a well-kept garden during a pleasantly warm summer day. In the garden's plaza is a fountain, the sound of running, bubbling water providing the ambiance to a series of games running at a few static chess tables.

Seated at one is none other then commander Data. He is playing none other than the classic Grand Master, Gary Kasparov. And winning. Data looks up as you approach his table. "Greetings Doctor." Data calls out. "I was just about finished here. Would you like to join me?"

Crusher looks at Data quickly defeating the famous Grand Master. "What level are you playing at?" Shi asks. "The maximum difficulty. This will be my tenth straight victory." Data states, not missing a beat.

Crusher smiles coyly at Data. "I'm not that good, sorry. I really only know the rules." Data looks back up from the chessbot after defeating Kasparov for the tenth time. "Do not worry, Doctor. I will adjust my programming to provide adequate challenge, yet remain fair. It would be possible to defeat me."

"Well, alright." Crusher replies. Data looks up. "Computer." *Beep* "Halt chess program Kasparov." *Bee-bebop* The holographic projection of Kasparov vanishes. Crusher takes a seat as Data cocks his head, then returns it. "Skill level adjusted." "Go ahead, Commander." Crusher says.

"Thank you." Data replies and makes the first move of the game. Crusher's remaining nanoprobes go to work in hir brain, analyzing the previous doctor's chess skill. It's about an average chess player, nothing special. Hir nanoprobes decide on a chess level that approximates Crusher's previous skill level, with marginal improvement.

The time passes quickly. Commander Data wins, of course. "An excellent game, Doctor. It appears you have improved a bit since the last time we played." Data goes on to explain how if Crusher had made certain moves, shi would have bested him.

Data extends a hand, which Crusher takes as shi stands up. After the handshake, Commander Data speaks again. "Doctor, your hand feels much colder than normal. Are you well?" "Of course, Data, I should have bundled up more, that is all." Crusher replies. "I could check if you allow me to run a quick scan.", states Data.

"That won't be necessary, thanks. I have to head back to Sickbay to begin my shift now anyway. I can scan myself there." Crusher replies. "As you wish. Computer, please resume chess program Kasparov." Data intones. *Bee-beeep!* The computer chimes it's response as the holographic image of the grand master reappears in the chair. "Until next time, Doctor." "Until next time." Crusher bids farewell and exits the holodeck.

That was too close.