Lorian's heart was pounding, his grip on the phaser at his side unusually tight, jaw clenched. “Please” He managed, meeting Data's eyes with something that could almost be classified as fear discernible in his gaze. “Please sir, do not let them do this to me.” The Vulcan normally showed only the slightest signs of vulnerability, carefully concealed beneath layers of control — layers which appeared to have at least temporarily dissolved. He was pale, his deathly grip on his weapon the only indication that he was not paralysed where he stood, paralysed by that uncharacteristic fear.
Data did not know the man well, aside from the information he was given when they were briefed for this mission, and that was not much to go on. He was a specialist, someone needed for this time of assignment. Data did not pry, aside from the typical small talk that occurs during shuttle trips. He found the presence of Vulcans to be equal parts fascinating and efficient. Conversations were more of an information exchange rather than a game of following social rules and regulations. In the few days they had traveled together, Data had become somewhat fond of him - a typical occurrence for the android as he was often eager to make new friends.
Seeing anyone in pain or fear made Data uncomfortable. For so many years seeking the sensation of emotion and feeling, he had never anticipated anxiety or empathy as part of the package. It did, however, allow Data to pick up on nuances of muted emotional reaction. He had become accustomed to Lorian’s sensory input patterns, and the look in his eye and the tone of his voice varied from the typical pattern. He was frightened, clearly.
He felt anxious. The sensation burned through him suddenly, bubbling up into his throat so quickly it made his head spin. Data might not have understood the reason for his fear, but he knew enough to remove them from the situation immediately.
He spoke calmly but with undeniable authority. “Fall back, agent.” He tapped his combadge. “Commander Data to shuttle computer. Two to beam up.” They were not so far along in their task to pull out. They had time to regroup and to try again.
