A/N: I just went through and fixed a minor formatting error; there isn't actually any new content. I have started a short companion piece for this story, however, called Sweet Sorrow.

Disclaimer: Data and Geordi belong to Gene Roddenberry and Desilu studios. I don't own Star Trek.

Chapter 1: Data
Movement: raise right leg 6.5 inches up. Activate motor 38.
Movement: extend lower leg 8.0 inches forward. Activate motor 40.
Movement: Lower foot to ground level, push off. Motors 38, 40, 42. Simultaneously lift other leg-
Path blocked. Obstacle is a life form. Identify: Seth Taylor, human male, fellow 1st year cadet, fellow engineering student. Relations: not established.
Position suggests that Seth wishes to confront me.
Override movement program in favor of communicating. Incentive: attempt to establish positive relations with Seth.
Override accepted. Halt.
A tall, suave young man stood in front of the android. He smirked and ran his hands through his short light hair.
"Hey there. 'Dahta,' right?"
"My name is pronounced 'Dayta.'"
The blond smirked again. Long, wiry black hair, chalky white skin, oversized nose, bright yellow eyes, meek disposition—Seth's new classmate would be an easy target.
"Tell me, how's it feel to be the only toaster on campus?"
Data heard laughter all around him. His white eyebrows turned down very slightly.
"I do not-"
"You looking for a date? I could fix you up with the little replicator in the teacher's lounge!"
Attempt to identify the nature of these comments. Specifically: is this "friendly humor," or do these words meant to be unkind?
Insufficient data for answer. Obtain more information. Extend conversation. Constructing appropriate response.
"Your offer is appreciated, but I am not interested in obtaining a dried fruit, for I do not require nutritional sustenance."
More laughter rang out.
Search files for information on human voice patterns. Specifically, research the meaning behind certain tones.
The tone of Seth's voice is generally viewed as mocking. Paired with his comments, it is logical to assume that Seth's intent is to insult me. It is be preferable not to be in a situation in which I am being mocked, for I would be establishing negative relations.
Ideal solution: end conversation and depart.
Override goal to establish positive relations. Incentive: Seth is unwilling.
Override accepted. Attempt to maintain neutral relations by politely ending the conversation. Constructing appropriate response.
"I apologize for departing abruptly, but I would like to return to my dormitory."
Seth is advancing toward me. The context of the movement suggests that he is attempting to intimidate me. Attempt to avoid conflict. Back away and depart.
Speed 3. Movement: raise right leg-
"Going somewhere, freak?"
Seth's largest crony, Kaav, and the voluptuous-but-tough Hayden, had snuck up behind Data. They shoved him forward, catching the android off guard.
Impact occurring in 1.2 seconds.
Data fell flat on his face, arms bent in an unnatural-looking position.
"Ha! Stupid robot!"
Seth and his companions walked away, laughing.
Dusting off his cadet uniform as best he could, Data gathered his school supplies, and stood up. He glanced back at the retreating forms of Seth, Kaav, and Hayden for a fraction of a second before departing himself.
Almost imperceptibly, the corners of Data's mouth turned down.