"Thank you, father," Roj said, grinning and looking decidedly pleased with himself. Not matching the expressions of the other, more formal avatars at all. Data wasn't noticing so much, and hadn't realized how much like his father he sounded until he spoke.

"Are you... sure you want to do this?" He stepped up closer behind Avon, tensed with worry.

"Neither of you should worry. I would still have the chance to explore. Though it seemed the preferable option to do so armed. It's not exactly a set of peaceful galaxies."

Data licked his lips, recalling something, but not saying it out loud. Instead, he just strained a smile of his own. "Congratulations. I am sure you would use your resources to everyone's best benefit."

"You're not angry?"