Object
Data's Modified Phaser
A standard Starfleet issue phaser, visibly altered by Data's engineering adjustments, its emitter humming with modified energy frequencies specifically tuned to interact with holographic matter. The normally smooth casing now bears subtle tool marks where Data recalibrated its systems. As it vaporizes the holographic crate with precise efficiency, the modified phaser crackles with an unfamiliar resonance—both a scientific breakthrough and a tactical game-changer in their standoff with Moriarty. Picard studies the weapon with quiet intensity, recognizing its dual role as both experimental device and potential threat against their sentient holographic adversary.
2 appearances
Purpose
To operate as a functional energy weapon within environments of hyperonic radiation by substituting/augmenting its internal control systems, enabling Data to incapacitate opponents and physically destroy the colony aqueduct despite normally disabling ambient conditions.
Significance
Serves as the pivotal instrument of escalation: Data's bodily sacrifice to retrofit the phaser converts persuasion into coercion, forcing the colony's moral choice, triggering leadership change, and catalyzing evacuation. The altered phaser embodies ethical cost, the limits of argument, and the narrative shift from diplomacy to demonstrative action.
Appearances in the Narrative
When this object appears and how it's used