"The Ultimate Man"
From rob4654@webtv.net Sun May 02 00:50:33 1999
Premise : Remember, it's called The Richard Daystrom 'Institute'......
Even James T. Kirk, the man most threatened by Doctor Daystrom's new
development, couldn't help but be impressed by the man's considerable
presence. He conveyed manic energy and genius all at once. And if there
was just a hint of madness behind those brilliant eyes? Well, in times
past that madness had created the duotronic computer that ran the
Enterprise.
"Doctor, despite everything, I can't wait to see what M5 can really do.
When will you install it?"
"Oh, Kirk. M5 is no mere computer. No, the duotronic processor is more
than sufficient to run the ship---if the right man is there to run it."
"I thank you for your vote of confidence, Doctor."
"Heh. Captain, don't flatter yourself. No disrespect, but I hardly
meant you! M5, you see, was far too complex to put in a series of chips
and such. But imagine, if you will, two crewmembers who do the work of
1000. Meet---the Ultimate Men!"
Two humanoids then emerged onto the Bridge. Except for their pale skin
and yellow eyes, they looked remarkably like Daystrom himself. Spock
arched an eyebrow.
"Congratulations are in order, Doctor Daystrom. Captain, these two
individuals posess Asimov's theorized positronic brain. They are
sentient androids."
Daystrom clapped.
"EXCELLENT deduction, Mister Spock. Gentlemen, meet Lore, and--- Data."
The cocky, self-assured one called Lore spoke first.
"Hey, people! I look forward to replacing each and every one of you."
The one called Data was Spock-like in his restraint.
"We shall endeavor to work well with your crew, and hope that we are
an asset that you will be able to use well."
Lore chuckled.
"Sorry, folks. Dad had only one personality chip available, if you know
what I mean."
McCoy stepped in.
"That so, Lore? Well, don't feel bad. You'll get one, next upgrade."
A look passed between the two. Lore did not like being made light of.
As the trip continued, Doctor McCoy felt like he was on a list. As time
went by, the entire remaining crew questioned the wisdom of using these
'Ultimate Men'. There would be yet more questions.
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