Fortune's Light - Michael Jan Friedman [107]
“But given your affinity for the Icebreakers,” said Data, “why would you wish to experience their most crushing defeat?”
Riker looked at him. “That’s simple, Data. When they lost that playoff game by a single run, it cast a pall over the state for years to come. It always seemed to me that it was some kind of injustice, and I wished I could do something about it. Or at least try. I guess it was an exercise in”—he seemed to search for a phrase, and find it—”in the art of the possible. In short, a challenge. Humans thrive on them, you know.”
“A challenge,” repeated the android. He found yet another source of discomfort. “Then … did I ruin the program for you? By finding a way to beat the Sunsets?” Riker shook his head. “Not at all. I’ll just have to find a different way.”
He would, too. Data could tell by the set of his jaw. Somehow Riker would give the Icebreakers a reason to celebrate again.
“If I may be present,” said the android, “I would like to see that.”
The first officer laughed. Reaching across the table, he clapped Data on the shoulder. “That’s a promise, my friend. And from now on, Will Riker keeps all his promises.”
Table of Contents
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Epilogue