Object

Riker's Portable Hot Plate

A compact, single-burner portable hot plate with a low, squat metal housing and a circular ceramic heating surface. A small temperature dial and a warming indicator light sit on the front face; the appliance bears faint scorch marks and food splatter, evidence of repeated in‑quarters use. Riker sets a modest pot atop it, stirs the improvised Alaskan stew, and uses its steady heat to serve the crew while conversation tightens around the meal.

4 appearances

Purpose

Countertop cooking appliance used to heat and simmer food in a private living quarter.

Significance

Functions as the physical instrument of Riker’s domestic ritual and apology: the hot plate enables the improvised Alaskan stew that anchors a scene of repair, sacrifice, and fragile morale‑building. Its presence transforms a simple meal into a ceremonial act that exposes character vulnerabilities and interpersonal fissures (notably Worf’s refusal).

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

4 moments

S2E13 · Time Squared

Riker's Domestic Reckoning

Riker’s portable hot plate provides the steady heat source for the stew pot; it anchors the domestic tableau, emitting warmth and steam and signaling an improvised, in‑quarters cooking practice.

Before: Placed and switched on with a pot warming on it.

After: Still in use at low heat as plates are filled; remains in Riker's quarters possession.

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S2E13 · Time Squared

Riker's Redemption Stew and Quiet Confession

The portable hot plate provides the immediate heat source for the stew, creating steam and aroma that draw Pulaski and Geordi in; its presence emphasizes the improvised, in‑quarters nature of the ritual.

Before: Clean but scorched from prior use, set up and heating the stew on Riker's counter.

After: Still on the counter with a warm pot atop it, showing signs of recent use (heat glow, possible splatter).

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S2E13 · Time Squared

Riker's Stew: A Small Ritual of Repair

The single‑burner portable hot plate provides the steady heat for the Alaskan stew, physically enabling the warm, comforting food that becomes the evening's emotional currency.

Before: Set up and heated underneath the stew pot, ready for cooking.

After: Still warming the pot as bowls are served; remains in Riker's quarters.

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S2E13 · Time Squared

Riker's Stew and Worf's Refusal

A compact portable hot plate provides the sole cooking heat for Riker's improvised stew; it anchors the domestic ritual, keeps steam rising to stimulate appetite, and visually emphasizes the makeshift, intimate nature of the meal.

Before: Set up on Riker's counter with a pot already heating and ingredients assembled.

After: Still in place in Riker's quarters, pot removed or ladled into plates; remains as evidence of the shared meal.

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