Object

Ten-Forward Bar Stool

A compact, well-worn bar stool anchored at the Ten-Forward serving rail: low profile, scuffed dark upholstery, a single metal central post and integrated footrest. The cushion carries faint indentations from frequent patrons and a polished sheen from constant contact. In the scene, Riker slides onto this stool and Lal, mimicking flirtation coached by Guinan, pulls him into a startling, literal kiss—the stool acting as the small stage that brings two bodies into intimate proximity amid the surrounding crew.

4 appearances

Purpose

Provide seating at the Ten-Forward serving rail, positioning patrons close to the bartender and enabling face-to-face social interaction.

Significance

Functions as a physical staging device that enables Lal's mimicry and the sudden kiss, creating a focal point for social disruption; by bringing Riker and Lal together at the bar, the stool helps precipitate Data's public declaration and shifts the ship's social dynamics.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

4 moments

S3E1 · Evolution

A Mother's Measure: Beverly and Guinan in Ten-Forward

The well-worn Ten-Forward bar stool functions as the immediate locus of the private exchange: Guinan perches, Beverly sits and leans in—its proximity facilitating whispered counsel and confidences. The stool's familiarity underscores intimacy and a continuity of counsel across time.

Before: Set at the bar, polished by frequent use; Guinan already perched or occupying the bar seating.

After: Still in place at the bar, occupied by Beverly and/or Guinan as their conversation concludes; unchanged physically but narratively charged as the site of counsel.

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S3E1 · Evolution

A Mother's Quiet Reassurance

The Ten-Forward bar stool functions as the physical anchor for Beverly and Guinan's exchange; they sit at the rail, making the conversation intimate and visible. The stool frames the moment, bringing two confidantes close enough for low-voiced counsel and shared observation of Wesley entering.

Before: Positioned at the Ten-Forward serving rail; worn but functional, already occupied by Guinan and available seating for Beverly.

After: Remains at the bar in the same condition and possession, continuing to serve as seating for Beverly and Guinan during their conversation.

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S3E16 · The Offspring

Lal's First Lesson in Affection — The Kiss

The Ten-Forward bar stool functions as the immediate physical platform where Riker seats himself and where Lal's sudden motion brings them into close proximity; it stages the kiss, making the act physically public and visually conspicuous to bystanders.

Before: Positioned at the bar; unoccupied until Riker slides onto it.

After: Occupied briefly by Riker during the kiss; remains at the bar after Lal releases him, unchanged but now the locus of an awkward social exchange.

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S3E16 · The Offspring

Public Claim: Data Declares Lal His Daughter

The bar stool provides the immediate stage for Riker's encounter: he slides onto it, which places him within Lal's reach and makes the sudden kiss physically possible. The stool concentrates the bodies into a small shared space, heightening the intimacy and comic surprise.

Before: Unoccupied until Riker approaches and slides onto it at the bar.

After: Occupied briefly by Riker who, after the awkward kiss and exchange, remains seated as the interaction resolves.

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